Blackwater extract

[easilyconfused]

I've read a bit on homemade blackwater extract from peat moss and oak leaves. Are there any leaves to watch out for, or you you use some from the front yard? And does it help with plant growth or just with the fish environment?

[ronw007]

Here is a product sold in LFS, sounds like it is more for the fish than the plants.


http://pet.imageg.net/images/prodTab_hdr_ProductFeatures.gif

Blackwater Extract contains trace elements, vitamins and extract of peat. It replicates blackwater conditions by creating clear, "natural", Amazon-biotope conditions in the aquarium. Blackwater Extract promotes fish activity levels and is an excellent conditioner for all soft-water fish including Discus, Angelfish, Tetras and Killifish.
Principal ingredients include vitamins B2, B6, B12, nicotinic amide, panthenol, biotin, and peat extract.

Add 2 teaspoons (10 ml) for every 10 gallons (38 liters) of water. Replenish monthly or with every water change. In areas with very hard water, double the amount used.

8.45 oz. (250 ml) treats up to 250 gallons (945 liters).

[midiamin]

WATCH OUT FOR PESTISIDES!

[easilyconfused]

another question, does anyone know what vitamins and minerals Blackwater extract adds? Any iron?

[Lupin]

Blackwater extract is meant to replicate the fish's environment.;)

[easilyconfused]

Ah, so all that talk about adding vitamins and such in their advertising is bunk eh?

[echoofformless]

Blackwater extract is the big waste of money inspired by the simple, far less expensive, and far more effective method of replicating certain native conditions by use of filtering a tank with peat.

[tjr635]

Well said, i would not use it in my Tank, Driftwood an peat does a far better job. And i like the effects of the True Blackwter conditions.

[nickmcmechan]

the driftwood and peat in my tank brings my pH down to 6.4

the tap water is 7.2, i use the extract in the new water to match conditions before adding

[easilyconfused]

If I filter peat in my tank, should I remove the carbon filter? I read that you should to maintain the tanins. Also, how much of an effect does the carbon filter in a hagen aqua-clear have on micronutrients such as iron? I read somewhere that it will remove some but only one article so I'd like some more info before removing it.

[phanmc]

Carbon will remove tannin so it should be removed if you're simulating blackwater. Carbon is not effective in removing minerals so you can use carbon filters while fertilizing and not lose any significant amount.