Reducing copper in an aquarium?

Question

How do you reduce copper in an aquarium. Also, are there testing kits for it? I haven't found any.

Answer 1

The first answerer gave you what I use for testing copper. If you're having trouble finding the test, try fish stores that do a good volume of their sales in saltwater fish. I don't know why that's the case, because copper is used to treat freshwater parasites as well, and the effectiveness of the treatment is related to the concentration in the water (not how much you add to the tank, because copper will bind to organics). I'll also vouch for That Pet Place. I've done business with them for several years, and have never had any problems ordering from them and their representatives are helpful and actually know what they're talking about.

For removing copper, I'd recommend one of two products. Activated carbon will remove copper (why you need to take carbon out when using copper-based medications) or using polyfilter in your filter. This works like a deionizer or activated carbon, but the media changes color to indicate what substances are being removed. This is good for diagnosisng "mystery ailments", especially if the usual suspects (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH) can be ruled out. It comes in two sizes a 4 x8 pad for smaller hang-on filters, and a 12 x 12 pad for canisters. I was a bit skeptical of these when I first heard of them, but after checking out some third party tests and trying them myself, I have to say they work! A bit on the high-priced side for everyday filtration if you don't need them.

Answer 2

You can add aquarium carbon to your filter to help rid your tank of carbon and other toxins.

There are copper test kits, but it depends on whether you have freshwater or saltwater. I did find one that can be used for freshwater or saltwater. It's a brand that my friend uses on his marine tanks and he has no problems with it. It's by Aquarium Pharmaceuticals, and I found a link here:
http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/group/11387/product.web
I've ordered from that site and have gone to that store before--they're legit. Also, here are a few more copper test kits from their site, but I believe all the rest are for saltwater:
http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/cat/infoL3/23633/category.web

If you do have saltwater though, get the Salifert kit. Salifert test kits are the best kits any marine hobbyist can buy! =)

Answer 3

A comapny called Seachem makes a filtration product called Cuprisorb which is excellent at removing copper from water especially after the use of a copper based medication