Anyone using lava rocks?

[rachel]

Is it a bad idea to use lava rocks in tank? Not referring to the filtration system.

[Draka]

Had them in my tanks previously. They seemed fine.

[thebaldingaquarist]

if its quality lava rocks, i don't see a harm in using them.
if its low quality ones or those rocks that look like lava rocks... i would not put them in my tank..

[Urban Aquaria]

If you know where the lava rocks are from and they have been previously used in another aquarium without problems, then they are usually safe to use.

But if the lava rocks are from unknown sources or previously used in landscaping, due to their highly porous nature, they they might store pesticides or minerals which may release back into the aquarium. In those cases, wash and brush the rocks throughly, boil them for a while to kill off critters, and then soak in water for an extended period of time to allow the excess chemicals to leach out.

[fishman1381]

Don't they trap a lot of dirt.

[bennyc]

Bucephalandra owners mostly use lava stone to anchor their buce. So an avid collector has many lava rock in his/her tank. Like what other bros mention, the source of it is important. If it is sold in the lfs, chances are they are should be safe.

[jamesneo]

I'm using them in shrimps tank. No issue.
On the safe side, I do soak them in water for a day or two before introducing them into the tank.

[rachel]

I shall soak these rocks for a week or so!!!

[blu3her0]

Yes, I have more 20 pieces big to small to secure buces in my 4 footer. The fishes seems fine, and water test doesn't surface abnormalities for the past few months. Yeah, just clean them thoroughly(soak) before use!


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