Driftwood

[llamabob]

Just went and picked out some rocks and driftwood for my tanks.

Question is, the wood seems to be hardwood, but 1-2 pieces were still damp in a few spots and the wood was fairly soft and squishy, as if partially rotted. I've never ordered driftwood so I don't know what to expect when it gets wet as compared to finding driftwood.

Is the wood ok or should I get a knife and carve out any soft spots?

Going to scrub then boil them a few hours and soak them before adding.

 

[Mgamer20o0]

if i thought it was rotted i would never add it to my tank.

 

[llamabob]

Yeah, I looked over it after my "Ooo what a cool looking piece of driftwood!" aura faded, and it is too soft and rotted in some spots. Scrapping it, hunting again tomorrow.


Found one beautiful piece of wood a beaver gnawed off a tree, bark is off, nice white/yellowish tint, fresh, dry, not a hint of rotting or discoloration, god I hope I can find a bent/gnarly piece of similar wood!

I'll take pics of what I find for anyone who cares

 

[Shocker6966]

I had a similar issue recently on my big piece of DW, except in my case the rot was too extensive to save the beauty of it. Someone came up with a dynamite idea that I am entertaining now, seal the wood in a clear acrylic. All the beauty, none of the rot!

 

[llamabob]

I had a similar issue recently on my big piece of DW, except in my case the rot was too extensive to save the beauty of it. Someone came up with a dynamite idea that I am entertaining now, seal the wood in a clear acrylic. All the beauty, none of the rot!

Interesting idea! Because it is not an aquarium brand, is it safe?

I did a search and it's rather tough to find what you mention, I did find spray on's but not sure if its the same.

Lowe's only has acrylic paints.

Could you give more info, I'd love to hear it!

Thanks.

 

[Star_Rider]

if you look in the 'stain
' section you should be able to find acrylic (clear) used to seal wood finishes.