Pleco and salt

[rob_hoosier]

I think I've read somewhere before that common plecos are very intolerant of salt in water. Although I have some fish (e.g. rainbows) which would probably benefit from some salt added to my tank, I'm afraid to add any because it would harm my pleco. I've had him for 7 or 8 yrs now and became very attached to my 18" monster. Can anybody comment on their experiences with plecos and salt in the water?

[VoodooChild]

A tbsp per 5 gallons shouldn't hurt him. I actually knew a guy, who still takes the trophy as to being the dumbest customer I've ever had, put a pleco in his sw 5 gallon. He said that he just followed the mixing instructions on the back of the bag, so I'm sure he only had a decently brackish tank, but nonetheless. He had it in there for a day when he came in and asked me why all of his fish were dying.

[rob_hoosier]

I have never used salt in any of my tanks. I don't know much about the ratios or kinds of salt to be used. Would regular table salt do it or do I need to look for something else?

[VoodooChild]

There's specific aquarium salt. There's some debate here over whether or not table salt is ok, specifically inonized salt. I'd get the aquarium salt.

[rob_hoosier]

I'll give it a try. Hopefully I won't have to go back to you and ask you for a new pleco. lol

[VoodooChild]

Lol. Wait a sec now. I should have some disclaimer. Try adding slow if you're worried. Maybe just a tbsp per 10 gallons. Then see how he does. Give the guy some cucumber to make him feel better.

[rob_hoosier]

Maybe I can sprinkle some salt on the cucumber. I bet it will taste better and make the transition easier as well. LMAO

[thalassic park]

Hi,
Maybe read the label of table salts. If there is Anti-caking Agent or similar don't use it on fish.

Sodium Chloride + Tanganyikan Buffer & Salt is excellent for secondary division freshwater fish.

Catfish & Tetra's(?) are primary division freshwater fish i.e entire evolution in freshwater. So they wouldn't tolerate salts well.

[wetmanNY]

:rolleyes: salt.
freshwater salt :rolleyes:
.
.
.
zzzzz....:o

[rob_hoosier]

Not sure what this reply is suppose to mean, Wetman. Can you try to be more constructive?