Is putting salt in an aquarium helpful?

[beefsteak]

salt may be good for the tank if there IS an infection. If there isn't, using salt as a preventative IMO is a bad idea. For instance, plecos. Plecos are fine with salt if used temporarily for curing something. If it is used long term, you will notice this scaleless fish begin to fade in color and eventually die.

I realize that and am not for the use of salt as a preventative. I was referring to his statement that at his store he sees a difference when they add salt vs. not. At my store, I've never seen a difference. There are still dead fish in the tanks when I start my shift every morning.

 

[xpmr5]

Nothing has been scientifically proven. It's based solely on the opinion of who you talk to. Lot of people say it treats ich and helps build a slime coat. Some might say it even helps gill function by adding electrolytes. I really think its useless unless your trying to treat ich. But adding some won't hurt most fish.

 

[Dangerdoll]

I realize that and am not for the use of salt as a preventative. I was referring to his statement that at his store he sees a difference when they add salt vs. not. At my store, I've never seen a difference. There are still dead fish in the tanks when I start my shift every morning.

ah, sorry.... didn't mean to point you out there Fluke of the board is all, I was just making a point for the entire conversation. Sorry to seemingly single you out

 

[Mgamer20o0]

I have seen the light, and that light is:

salt qualifies as a medication, ie something that eases symptoms (nitrite poisoning) and cures illnesses (great against ich). Short term stuff like introducing into a new aquarium easing stress may help as well. But once again, its a medication. Used only when stressed/sick. I don't go around taking penicillin or amoxicillin all the time to improve my health. In fact, it would damage my liver long term. Apply that analogy to salt.

sounds great. good job.