Though I actually haven't confirmed its presence yet, is there anyway to get rid of it? Carbon? Neutralizers? Thank you
Removing copper
- Thread starter VoodooChild
- Start date
Why do you think there is more than the normal trace of copper in the water? Did you use any copper based medications? Unless you have inverts, a little residual copper is not going to cause problems. Some copper can be chemically bound up in coral rock, and released when ph drops, but this is generally a small issue, and insignificant in a fish-only aquarium.
Carbon will strip copper out pretty quickly. Polyfilter pads also remove copper very effectively, and can be used to measure the residual presence of copper. As long as there is any significant level of copper, the Polyfilter pad will take on a blue cast.
Carbon will strip copper out pretty quickly. Polyfilter pads also remove copper very effectively, and can be used to measure the residual presence of copper. As long as there is any significant level of copper, the Polyfilter pad will take on a blue cast.
I agree with agilis. I'm gathering from your sig that this tank is just starting? Any fish? If not, just lower your pH to about 7.4 and run a polyfilter. This should help get most of any unwanted copper. I asked Ron Shimek once about this very thing after treating my tank with a suspected copper-containing treatment (Greenex). I was told that the fish would be fine but it could have some negative effects on my rock/sand fauna. I never nuked my tank like he suggested and didn't have any trouble, but I don't think the med contained any copper to begin with.
Thanks guys for the reply. I have copper pipes, but I've been told that that shouldn't leach off. I do plan on having inverts, that's why I'm worried. Shrimp and hermits. I used Red Sea's test kit, which I've been told is pretty poor, so I ordered the one from SeaChem (whom I've had good luck with in the past) and I should have it re-tested by the weekend. I'll test the tap water to, just in case it is that. I added carbon to the filter, which I will be removing today after a three day run. If it still tests positive for Cu, I'll try that ph drop method. Thanks alot.
Is it important to know how much copper is in the water? And if so what kit should I get I've had my tank for two years and never tested the copper is that so Bad? thanks
It's only important to know if you plan on keeping inverts in your tank. Different fish have differenct tolerances for Cu, but most are just fine with it (albiet not too high). The only way it should be in your tank is if you have really soft water and copper pipes or you have medicated. Otherwise you should be fine, though it never hurts to test. I've had good luck with SeaChem's test kit, though if you can spring the $$ for it, the LaMott's are true professional grade.