Sea Shells

[Trevlev]

Well im on vacation in florida and walking the beach today i collected a pile of shells. I was wondering if it's possible to use shells instead of rocks in an aquarium that holds piranhas. Would they have to cleaned or washed before hand? Anything else i should take into consideration? thanks

 

[Jkoziatek]

sea shells are okay after being washed, but be careful because i believe they r made of calcium and if you have a highly acidic tank they might break down... anyone to second that?

 

[toehead11183]

acidic water+ shells= higher pH. only africans and saltwater require high pH. If you do add it, do it in moderation, have some driftwood and test your water to make sure the pH doesnt rise too high. if it does, remove the shells. If you have enough driftwood, it should counter act the shells and leave you neutral.

 

[Nic]

acidic water+ shells= higher pH. only africans and saltwater require high pH. If you do add it, do it in moderation, have some driftwood and test your water to make sure the pH doesnt rise too high. if it does, remove the shells. If you have enough driftwood, it should counter act the shells and leave you neutral.

i tryed that experiment before causes to many ph swings and i dont recomend it... i wouldnt use the shells in the tank....