customdrum. in regard to what type of wood. all of the wood is hardwood native to the southern appalachians and it has all been submerged for 30-40yrs in 30-60 feet of water. after being harvested it is pressure washed & cleaned using highpressure steam. as to it being used in aquariums, not only have i used it in my own for years but i have also supplied pieces to many other hobbyists as well as tanks on display in the natural history museum, nature centers and in commercial & educational displays across the country. so yes its aquarium safe and about as tannin free as any wood your ever going to find due to the length of time its been submerged.