Getting rid of carpenter ants in driftwood

fishfreak2009

Candiru
MFK Member
Sep 25, 2009
694
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Michigan
So I found this awesome super dense and heavy 5 foot log today that a tree removal service cut out of a tree down the road from me today. I want to use in my aquarium. Problem is it has two holes in it. Upon pouring boiling water down the first hole, 2 carpenter ants came out dead. Before I bring it in I want to make sure it is ant free. Anyone have any ideas?
 

cyberhog05

Gambusia
MFK Member
Jan 29, 2009
805
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Western Montucky
Will it fit in your oven? I have a 55 gallon steel drum I boil large driftwood in. I use landscaping bricks to build up around the drum so the heat goes 3/4 way up. Then build a fire under it in my yard. Neighbors look at me like I'm a bum but....... Who cares lol

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fishfreak2009

Candiru
MFK Member
Sep 25, 2009
694
14
48
Michigan
Will it fit in your oven? I have a 55 gallon steel drum I boil large driftwood in. I use landscaping bricks to build up around the drum so the heat goes 3/4 way up. Then build a fire under it in my yard. Neighbors look at me like I'm a bum but....... Who cares lol

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Currently have it in a 50 gallon brute drum filled with boiling water and 3 bottles of bleach.About 2 feet of it sticks out. I submerged both holes at least a foot underwater. Heres hoping the ants will die. I'm thinking I should let it soak at least two weeks. I guess I should figure out whether it is safe to use or not though. It is either kousa dogwood or stewartia.
 

spiff44

Bronze Tier VIP
MFK Member
Dec 20, 2007
924
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Midwest
bleach does work well to disinfect driftwood.. just soak an extra day in plain water to dissipate the bleach.

But really, why bother? I would put it in the tank as is and watch your fish feast on the ants as they come out.
 
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