Rocks that fizzles

**GuppyLover** · 10th Oct 2011, 15:02

Is it okay to add in rocks that produce effervescence when mixed with vinegar? I've read up online and some forums that it is okay to add in the rocks as long as it had been boiled and is clean but some says it's not save for the livestock inside the tank and may cause them to die.

Anyone mind sharing their personal opinions / experiences?

**Shadow** · 10th Oct 2011, 15:07

it will increase your water parameter, so depend on your live stock can take it or not. What rocks and live stock do you have?

**GuppyLover** · 10th Oct 2011, 15:13

I found this rock on the way home and it looked pretty. No clue what rock it is. I have guppies , angels , glassfish , zebra danios , pleco and platies in my 35gallon.

**marimo** · 10th Oct 2011, 15:21

i think its fine .. and maybe you should also consider dip in potassium permanganate or equivalent to be safe

but again glassfish or glass catfish?

**GuppyLover** · 10th Oct 2011, 15:23

Hmm where can I get potassium permanganate? Is it used to neutralize the rock? Indian glassfish.

**hardric** · 10th Oct 2011, 16:23

U can get potassium permanganate at pharmacies. Personally I wouldnt put such rocks from unknown sources in my tank. And I think boiling it would be better.

**marimo** · 10th Oct 2011, 16:42

at LFS .. they sell in crystal form
or you can get hydrogen peroxide from guardian bottle liquid

i am not sure what ur definition of neutralise.
because you cannot neutralise the properties of a rock

but the 1st thing before adding into the tank is to totally clean the micro parasite/ bacteria before introducing into the water. of coz boiling kills eggs and critters.

I will sterilize with bleach diluted then flush with water and anti chlorine, then later to cook soup.

the theory with the vinegar fizzle is , rocks that has calcium carbonate(alkaline) will react with vinegar (acid). this rock will buffer water to higher gH and pH.
It will not suit livestock that prefers soft and acidic water.. like .. sulawesi shrimps.
however for fish that prefers higher pH and harder water will be suitable

end of day i still think its a risk, if you are patience, put the treated rock in a pail of water and test pH and gH before and after for 1-2weeks

**GuppyLover** · 10th Oct 2011, 16:42

I boiled it 4 times just to make sure. Okay thanks. So I decide not to put in the rocks. Will get some for rocks in LFS instead. Thanks =D

**Neondagger** · 12th Oct 2011, 22:11

will pebble increase gh and kh?

**stormhawk** · 14th Oct 2011, 10:35

If the pebbles contain traces of limestone or some other alkaline minerals, then yes it will affect your water.

If the rocks bubble when in contact with vinegar, they are not aquarium safe. I only trust granite/slate/lava rock in a home aquarium.