Tree roots??

[lokobreed]

I have seen people use tree roots in their tanks...

Is there special caustions I must tkae before doing it myself?

If not Id like to do it myself and pull out a tree root and then wash it off with water and then if thats all I need to do put it in my tank?

Can anyone apply me with the proper information

 

[Unome]

You have to be very careful with just digging something out of the ground and plunking it into your tank. Certain woods can release tannins(sp) into your water and cause problems in your tank. I've even bought a couple of pieces from a LFS that were supposed to be okay for freshwater tanks. I had to remove both because the water discolored and looked bad.

 

[sumoschro]

You should boil it first, it will get rid of some of the tannins in the wood and also kill any organisms living on the wood, boil for a while too, to make sure tyouve cleaned it thoroughly