I would like to know if I can use craft store plastic only (no metal wires or other material on/in them) is ok for a tank. The ones at the pet store are limited and expensive, small too. I have some beautiful all plastic plants that I'd like to use in my tank but would like to know the details of if it would harm the tank. I'm sure there 'might' be a different plastic chemical makeup for them than aquarium ones, but could I? I have a large tank (150 gal bow front). I have silk plants I've used for years by light bleach washing to rejuventate them (process does not remove color!!!) and a mix of live, but I need some tall fillers. Anyone tried this before? Serious answers by serious fish gurus requested.
2007-06-18 07:22:45 · 5 answers · asked by M&M 2 in Pets ➔ Fish
Just a reminder, these do not have glue, nor do they have fabric or painted markings for decorative purpose. They will be bleach solution washed and well rinsed and soaked in declorination solution prior to use.
2007-06-18 07:36:32 · update #1
I personally would not use anything not labeled for aquarium use. You never know what kind of dyes, glues or chemicles are used in their making.
2007-06-18 07:29:46 · answer #1 · answered by ph0tobuggy 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's up to you, but I would recommend a mix of both, with slightly more plastic if you're feeling lazy :P I've found that plastic plants sometimes fall apart, and unlike real plants, they don't grow back. Plus, algae grows on them and it can be torture to clean off. On the other hand, real plants provide oxygen, but it sounds like that wouldn't be a problem with a "strong air pump". Believe it or not, the more real plants in your tank, the less algae you'll have. You don't have any big plant-eaters, so you might have to spend some extra time trimming unless you get some. Oh by the way you shouldn't keep that many fish in such a small tank.
2016-05-18 22:17:35 · answer #2 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There should be no problem with plastic plants, they are made of simply plastic, and will not affect the water chemistry. However, make sure they have no sharp edges which could cut the fish, and wash the plants before you put them in the tank.
2007-06-18 07:28:43 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would recommend you using plants that are already approved for aquarium use, the ones you want to use might harm your fish
2007-06-18 07:41:01 · answer #4 · answered by Kribensis lover 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yup, fine, soak in HOT water or run the dishwasher w/no soap before placing in your tank.
2007-06-18 07:26:18 · answer #5 · answered by TRboi 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋