Banana leaves for aquarium use.

[gmh]

I read much about the uses of Indian Almond leaf to help condition water and help in breeding Bettas and other soft water fish.
What about using dried banana leaf? I understand they can also be used for this pupose? We have a huge banana tree growing in our back yard so we would have a bountifull supply.

 

[chickenlady]

I personaly use all types of leaves in my tanks. I don't have banana leaves handy, but see no reason why they wont work. Just not sure how long it will take to melt down. You might want to put one in an empty tank and see what happens to it first.

 

[gmh]

Yeah, and I'm not clear on how much I should dry them out first. There is not much info out there although some people do use them in Asia.

 

[MChambers]

I would only use leaves that have fallen from the tree. I'd make sure they are dry before using.

They don't appear to be toxic, so I'd say to give it a try: http://www.wildflower.org/expert/show.php?id=2779

Start with one or two and see how your fish do.

i use magnolia leaves in my tanks to good effect.