Living right between the Willamette and McKenzie rivers here in Eugene, OR, I have the opportunity to collect some really great rocks to use in my aquarium from very clean water sources. However, I still have my concerns over the safety of using them.
The rocks would all be similar to those pictured below:
Wow! What a beaaautiful place to get away from all.Wouldnt mind spending days with my boys in such peaceful creek, exploring every rocks & nooks and crannies.
Consider yourself blessed living so close to such scenery.:fairy:tale for me at least for now.
From what I've gathered so far, here is my plan:
1. Collect a few 5g buckets worth of top quality medium to large sized river rocks.
2. Boil the rocks. While I've heard that the rocks could potentially explode when boiled if they have any water trapped inside, I've also heard that this only takes place in 1000 degree temperatures. If anyone has personal experience otherwise, please let me know!
3. Bleach the rocks in a water/bleach mixture. While the boiling should kill off anything, it may not take place. Also, I like to be extra careful when it comes to the health of my fish.
I wouldnt bleach any rocks period. Totally unnecessary as I have no issues using rocks form wild w/o bleaching.
4. Pour vinegar on each of the rocks. Don't use any that fizz.
Why as fizzing rocks would be perfect for Malawi provided rocks are not composed of any toxic substances to fish.
Understand what fizzing may mean in order to appropriately incorporate into its use.
5. Soak for a week or so in water treated with dechlorinator to remove bleach.
6. Let dry outside in the sun.
7. Take out old decor, replace with new rocks.
8. Enjoy watching my Malawis in their new digs!
Just make sure such smooth rock dont slip/slide causing avalanche (lost few :angryfire: here and there) if you are piling them up. Could use silicone or even small amt of epoxy (fish tank safe of course if ther are any diff) to secured them.
Is this a wise way of going about this? Have I missed anything? Anyone have any suggestions or personal experiences with using locally gathered river rocks?
Good Luck & Looking forward to fully renovated Aquarium!
