Any way of neturalising shells to put as tank decoration in a freshwater tank?

  • Get the NEW AquariaCentral iOS app --> http://itunes.apple.com/app/id1227181058 // Android version will be out soon!

jo_forest_queen

AC Members
Mar 19, 2007
7
0
0
I have been an avid collector of shells for a long time, I would like to put some in my tank but want to neturalise there salt content, can I boil them then put them in my freshwater tank? Thanks!

Jo
 

J double R

The Devil
Jan 13, 2007
6,071
2
62
38
Louisiana
Real Name
Jon
if you boil them, they'll most likely crack and/or break...

something else to remember that you CANT get off of shells is that they will raise your pH.. too much could be detrimental depending on your setup.
 

ct-death

Fish & Visitors Smell in 3 Days...
Feb 27, 2007
2,043
0
36
New Hampshire
I soak mine in 10% bleach for 8-10 hours and rinse well. FYI - Too much will turn your shells white!
 

Chele&Luke

Confused Mostly...
May 18, 2007
133
0
0
Auckland, New Zealand
What would you coat them with?

Thanks :)
 

ct-death

Fish & Visitors Smell in 3 Days...
Feb 27, 2007
2,043
0
36
New Hampshire
you can coat them so they wont break down in the tank and mess with the ph.
Fantastic idea Mgamer!

I suspect a clear epoxy or acrylic.
 

DarkSoul

Mad Scientist
Mar 12, 2007
1,227
2
38
41
London, Ontario
marine epoxy...

MaxBond LV A/B, and some M.E.K. (to make the epoxy thinner.... trust me on this one, seriously)
 
zoomed.com
hikariusa.com
aqaimports.com
Store