Using Cedar as driftwod

[O]

Can Cedar wood be used as decoration in a discus tank?
http://www.aquabid.com/cgi-bin/auction/auction.cgi?decorations&1056188401

Thanks
O.

[ronrca]

I cant see why not! Cedar is used in applications where there is a lot of moisture because of its resistance to rotting. This resistance to rotting is aromatic plicatic acid. I do not know if this acid can or will leak into the water. Best to test or find out! ;)

[ChloroPhil]

I wouldn't use Cedar because of the oils and acids in it. While great for shingles and decks, sustained submergence will cause problems with a closed aquatic environment. While aromatic to us the leech will wreak havoc with your fishes' gills and circulatory systems.

[Debbie]

Don't do it! I know someone that tried it a long time ago and all his fish died. I think the oils and other substances in the cedar burn the gills. The fish started breathing heavy almost at once and my friend tried doing a large water change and took the cedar out, but the damage was already done. The fish were dead the next day.

[jeep]

I agree with Debbie!

If bugs don't like cedar then I doubt fish will like it...

Brian

[Serpae]

Yeah, stay clear.

[O]

Yes, i figured as much. I know that cedar oils are toxic to most bugs. I'm sure would have the same effect on fish.

O.

[Paulio]

If you have any family or friends in FL get em to collect some Cypress roots and root knees. I have used it with Discus and plants for a long time now with no trouble. The last time I didnt soak it or anything. Just weighted it down and put it in bark and all. No trouble at all. Smaller fish love to pick at the bark ;D

[O]

hmmm...that's an idea. I'll be in Miami in two weeks. Not what Cypress tree looks like, tho.

O.

[Paulio]

Do an image search on the web. ;D

[Serpae]

How you gunna fit that in your tank.............................. :o

[Paulio]

Haha! that would be cool!
You have to hunt out the sizes you want.