Shed stinger....

[flukekiller]

So I just found this in the tank, must have shed sometime today as it was not there this morning... my question is how do I need to prep this so I can keep it?

 

[JK47]

You can boil it so the skin comes off. Then it's just a pokey bone.. I don't even clean them anymore. In a Tupperware bowl they go

 

[alecrromine]

you shouldn't have to do anything to them. i don't think vasodentin will deteriorate. but hopefully someone else with more experience will help

 

[Peckoltia]

I have never seen one with the 'skin' still on it. I don't do anything to mine. Have had some for 5 or so years, still look the same as the day they were shed.

 

[spotfin]

If you soak it in a small container with water, the rest of the skin will come off. Or you can just dry it out as is.

 

[flukekiller]

Thanks, appreciate the info

 

[JK47]

Thanks, appreciate the info

If you come up with any creative ideas on what to do with shed barbs let me know please. I have a few saved up and would live to do something with them

 

[Jez1992]

I boil mine if they have skin on like said above.

Do you guys sift the sand to get them out asap after been shed or just leave them until you can see them?

 

[flukekiller]

i do not have any plans, just happy to find it in one piece, plus its the first complete barb i have found.
I did not sift the sand it was right on top

 

[JK47]

i do not have any plans, just happy to find it in one piece, plus its the first complete barb i have found.
I did not sift the sand it was right on top

Congrats! That's always a fun first. You'll likely have a pile in the future. Keep them all in separate containers and you can visually track their growth. The barbs increase in size as they age as well. I wish I had kept mine separated.