Two Questions

[xxfoxmtbxx]

Ok, as my title states, I have to two questions to ask. I have some plants I bought at an Arts and Crafts store.

At the base there plant there is a metal rod and the rod is coated with plastic. The plastic portrays a steam and it has more leaves coming off it which are made solely of plastic. The only visual place the metal rod was exposed was at the very tip on the bottom I just took a lighter melted some of the plastic down covered the metal rod. Would this be a risk to keep in my fish tank?

How would you know if your rocks are emiting metals into your water?

 

[Needeles]

Well if by change there is a small hole in the plastic then yes it can be bad. The metel will begin to rust and have some bad effects on the water and fish. Is there any type of glue on the plant? If there is make sure it is safe for the fish as some types of glue can hurt or kill fish. Also make sure it is tough plastic as some fish like to nip at plants and you don't realy want them to be eating plastic.

I know there is a way to tests rocks to see it they will effect water levels but I'm not sure what it is. I'm sure someone else can better help you there. Limestone & Coral rock though I beleive will make pH levels rise.

 

[rosita]

Rock Testing: Drop a few bits of vinegar onto the rock; if there is any kind of reaction, you don't want it in your tank (apple cider or white vinegar are fine).