Foam when aerating Dennerle Gravel

[wasabi8888]

Hi all

As I am preparing my scape this Saturday, I just washed my gravel. I am leaving the gravel in the pail for a few days before I scape.

The pail (big red one) is filled with half a pail of gravel and filled with water almost up to the brim. I am aerating with an air bar (I am not sure what is the right name for this but is an air stone but longish type). I am using quite a strong air pump Eheim 200.

I have been bubbling for 6 hours and there is a big layer of foam on top. It's almost like a bubble bath. Is this common? Unfortunately, I took the wrong pail when i was washing the gravel. I took one that was used for washing clothes although my maid is quite convinced that she has washed the pail rather clean. I have also washed the gravel rather thoroughly.

Does anyone has any experience bubbling with Dennerle gravel?

[ranmasatome]

i have a feeling its the pail. If not then the gravel might have accumulated more scum that you imagined.

Dennerle gravel is supposed to be inert or thats what i heard.

[Savant]

Yes. I have the same experience...

[wasabi8888]

Yes. I have the same experience...

Savant

Can you please elaborate?

Are you saying that yours had thick foam as well? were the fishes ok?

[Savant]

In my case, I poured them direct into my new 4 ft tank and started the cycling process (old media + fish food)... no fishes yet...

A thick layer of foamy stuff developed soon after... This was removed through partial water change... to date there is still a thin layer of foam, but I will only do my next WC during the weekend...

[wasabi8888]

In my case, I poured them direct into my new 4 ft tank and started the cycling process (old media + fish food)... no fishes yet...

A thick layer of foamy stuff developed soon after... This was removed through partial water change... to date there is still a thin layer of foam, but I will only do my next WC during the weekend...

How long has it been since you poured the gravel in? Interesting, i have used Dennerle gravel for so long and this has never happened