How can I identify my driftwood?

[NJ Devils Fan]

I have been wondering for a long time. How can I find out what kind of driftwood I have?

[Raithan Ellis]

Does it look like a branch or like a trunk?

If it looks like a branch, it's probably branch wood, if it looks like a trunk, it's probably trunk wood. :laugh:

But seriously, did you pick it up locally or at a store? Most of mine are found in the local Susquehanna River, and the best I have been able to do is figure out what the native species are in the area and go from there.

If it's from the store, hopefully someone here can point out the commonly sold types, as that's probably the closest you will get to an identification.

While we are on the subject, can anyone also point out what species of wood are not suitable for use in aquaria? I would presume evergreens of any kind to be a bad choice... any others?

Cheers,
Raithan O. Ellis