Leaves - Adding, using and experiences...

[Phillydubs]

A while back I had ordered some almond leaves, giant catappa leaves and mini catappa leaves... I never did a thing with them...

I heard mixed reviews. Some swear by them or just adding robios... some say it is fools gold or if you like the look of the stained water or the leafy look go for it but they don't buy the antibodies argument and see it as snake oil...?

I was hoping some of you would chime in with your uses and experiences.

Today I added some of the giant and mini catappa... Going to give it a go and see if I notice anything or like the look...

Thanks all

[Ewhonest]

I use almond leaves all the time in my 3.7-5 gallon betta tanks. They have always been healthy so no complaints there. Even if it is snake oil the fish seem to just like them as a play toy to make bubble nests under. Unfortunately I can't speak to other fish.

[Mattgoanna]

I have used them for both Discus, angels and fighting fish. The fish do seem to like them and they create a nice tea like water colour. You should notice greater clarity in your water.

[gators111]

I've used them in the past. At first they look good, but as they break down they get to be a mess. I stopped using them and went back to a large fine mesh bag filled with organic peat in my sump. Lasts a lot longer, and keeps my ph down.

[Phillydubs]

Thanks! They do look rather cool now, but I can see how they may become an issue... I'll play with them a bit and may just remove all together we shall see

[Second Hand Pat]

You can easily remove them once they start to fall apart and replace with new ones. They will last about three weeks or so.
Pat

[Phillydubs]

Thanks Pat! I am going to give it a go for a bit, I know you love your colored water!