how to make your own driftwood for aquarium

Sometimes driftwood is too buoyant and will float up to the surface; waterlogging will hopefully ensure that it stays on the substrate.Another benefit of soaking the wood is that it allows time for tannins to be released. This allows you to experiment with the design of your aquarium without having to physically move everything around, which would stress your fish if your tank is already established. This is an important step because if you pick a bad piece of wood then youll either cause problems in your tank or the rest of the method wont work very well. Coldwater would be less effective at dispersing the tea. They may even use it as a place to mate and raise their young. Its worth putting in the time for the sake of your fish.Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'fishkeepingworld_com-narrow-sky-2','ezslot_20',121,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-narrow-sky-2-0')};if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'fishkeepingworld_com-narrow-sky-2','ezslot_21',121,'0','1'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-narrow-sky-2-0_1')};.narrow-sky-2-multi-121{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:0!important;margin-right:0!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding-bottom:10px!important;padding-top:10px!important;text-align:center!important}An aquarium environment can be incredibly fragile, so you dont want to throw it into chaos by introducing some poorly treated driftwood.Making driftwood is easy; anyone can give it a go. Algae is an important source of food for certain fish and invertebrates. Some people might not have a store near to them to buy some, others might not want to part with the money. Let us know how it went in the comments below. Scrubbing the driftwood is great for cleaning the outside or your driftwood, but nobody knows what could be lurking within. The water will be lighter each time. Check your driftwood each day as it soaks. Boiling water encourages the tannins in the wood to be released faster, which speeds up the curing process.This is similar to pouring boiling water on a teabag. If you live near a beach, you may have found some naturally developed driftwood. This means it can have lots of different uses in an aquarium.Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'fishkeepingworld_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_8',155,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-large-leaderboard-2-0')};Everyones needs are different, so you may not be using them for the same reason as other aquarists.However, there are a few common uses that driftwood is added to a tank for.Tank DesignDriftwood is great for creating a natural aesthetic in your aquarium.Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'fishkeepingworld_com-leader-1','ezslot_7',156,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-leader-1-0')};There are many ways to design an aquarium, but recreating a natural habitat is the best way to make your pets feel at home. After that, use a brush with firm bristles to thoroughly scrub the exterior of the wood. Only buy pieces that are specifically advertised as being for aquariums. Do not use any soaps or chemicals to help you because they will eventually find their way into your aquarium and could kill your fish. There are many reasons to add driftwood to an aquarium. You must soak your driftwood in dechlorinated water, making sure it is always fully submerged. Store-bought driftwood can still release tannins and stain your water. Some pieces are called drift lumber; these pieces come from the remains of man-made objects. You get a sense of accomplishment upon completion; every time you see the driftwood in your tank you can feel a certain pride with the knowledge that you made it.When shopping for driftwood, it can be difficult to find a piece that perfectly fits your aquarium. As you clean, look out for any sharp edges. Let us know how it went in the comments below.embed-container{position:relative;padding-bottom:56.25%;height:0;overflow:hidden;max-width:100%}.embed-container iframe,.embed-container object,.embed-container embed{position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%}Related ArticlesFish Care & BreedingBest Ich Treatment For 2022 [Our Reviews and Comparisons]April 20, 2020 If you are keeping colorful fish, there is still plenty to see even in the darker water.The release of tannins also causes a reduction in pH. Consider if the driftwood has come from a body of water that you know to be polluted, such as those next to industry, as wood can pick up chemicals from the environment too. It is recommended that you remove any bark at this stage too. You dont want to accidentally introduce salt to your freshwater setup.Cleaning the DriftwoodThe wood you find will be dirty. You can do this before or after the curing process, some people even do it twice.The boiling process can be difficult if you have a large piece of driftwood. These tea-stain the water, which replicates Amazonian Black Water. The curing process will help to remove salt that may be in/on the wood. There are a number of things that you could be introducing to your tanks, such as bacteria, animals, or chemicals. Algal blooms can be problematic, but allowing small amounts of algae to grow isnt necessarily a bad thing, you just need to keep it under control during your regular tank maintenance. There are many types of good bacteria that grow in colonies around your aquarium. All information, content, materials on this site, or obtained from a website to which the site is linked are provided to you as is without warranty of any kind either express or implied. Larger pieces will cost you more.Only buy pieces that are specifically advertised as being for aquariums.Driftwood is sold for many purposes, for example as ornaments or for reptiles, but these might be treated with chemicals, which would be toxic for your fish and lead to health problems.Store-bought driftwood can still release tannins and stain your water. Some types are prized for their ability to stay sat on the substrate without being weighed down, such as African or Malaysian driftwood. You can use a fishing line to attach Java Moss or Java Fern directly to the driftwood; it can be removed once the plants have secured themselves naturally. In a marine aquarium, pH usually needs to be much higher. If you cant do this, its probably hardwood.There are many different types of hardwood; some are desired over others for various reasons. Think about the size that you need it to be and which way you will position it when sat on the substrate. Firstly, it helps with curing. Coldwater would be less effective at dispersing the tea.The main reason to boil your driftwood is for sterilization. Be sure to clean the whole piece; try to get into every crack and crevice possible.Do not use any soaps or chemicals to help you because they will eventually find their way into your aquarium and could kill your fish. This step takes a long time, but it is crucial, especially if you dont want tannins to be released into your water. How to Make Aquarium Driftwood in 5-Easy Steps. You cant just put random sticks from outside your house into your aquarium, this could introduce something nasty to the water like bacteria or chemicals. The easiest time to add your driftwood is during a partial water change, which you should be doing regularly anyway to keep your water clean. They are also more prone to rotting. If you would rather save yourself some time and are willing to part with the cash, there is plenty of driftwood available in pet stores. If you are keeping colorful fish, there is still plenty to see even in the darker water. If found in water, it could be full of tiny aquatic creatures. If you dont have trouble maintaining a high pH, then driftwood should be fine for your marine setup. You probably wont have the luxury of finding these wood species around your local area, so stick to searching for hardwood of an appropriate size for your tank. Being thorough when curing your driftwood will reduce the leaching of tannins and help to maintain your pH. In an aquarium, driftwood makes an excellent decorative piece, while also providing shelter for tank occupants. Driftwood is sold for many purposes, for example as ornaments or for reptiles, but these might be treated with chemicals, which would be toxic for your fish and lead to health problems. If your driftwood is particularly buoyant, you may have to tie/weigh it down so that it stays in place on the substrate. Have you tried making driftwood before? RobertTanks & AquariumsAutomatic Fish Feeder: Complete Guide To Picking The Best OneJune 20, 2019 Once the water remains clear for a few days in a row, the curing stage is over. Driftwood creates caves and shaded areas which fish will retreat to when they become stressed by tank mates or bright lights. You will need to boil the wood for at least 1-2 hours to properly sterilize it. It often looks gray and twisted after years of being worn down.In an aquarium, driftwood makes an excellent decorative piece, while also providing shelter for tank occupants.Outside of the aquarium trade, driftwood is often used as firewood, turned into furniture, or even used as a material for sculpting.Why Make Your Own Driftwood?The easiest thing you could do is buy some ready-made driftwood, but where is the fun in that?If you have some spare time on your hands, you might be tempted to make some yourself. Most people dont have massive pans that can submerge their entire piece.You can buy large pots that will be able to hold most pieces of driftwood.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'fishkeepingworld_com-sky-1','ezslot_26',139,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-sky-1-0')};If you cant find a suitable spot, or just dont want to buy one, then you may have to make a smaller piece.Placing the DriftwoodBy following the previous steps, you should now have your own driftwood that is ready to be placed into your aquarium.If you made sketches before starting the process, look back at these to see if theyre still what you want.The easiest time to add your driftwood is during a partial water change, which you should be doing regularly anyway to keep your water clean.If your driftwood is particularly buoyant, you may have to tie/weigh it down so that it stays in place on the substrate. This means it can have lots of different uses in an aquarium. Softwoods often contain sap and resin that can slowly leach into your aquarium water. Another way that driftwood can create a natural look in your aquarium is by releasing tannins. If the wood you choose is from the sea, make sure you follow the rest of the steps carefully. RobertTanks & Aquariums10 Best Aquarium Sands For 2022 [Our Reviews & Comparisons]April 26, 2020 It might be tempting to put this straight into your fish tank, but this could cause problems. In terms of the wood itself, driftwood can go in both freshwater and saltwater. I hope they work and I dont have to spend money on commercial driftwood. Your email address will not be published. It isnt difficult to do, but you need to be prepared to wait up to 4 weeks to complete the process. If found on the shore, there could be insects inside. The boiling process can be difficult if you have a large piece of driftwood. Over time, tannins will leach into the water.Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'fishkeepingworld_com-netboard-1','ezslot_22',127,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-netboard-1-0')};If you dont put the time in to let all the tannins be released during soaking, then they will be released into your aquarium instead.This will cause your water to darken and decrease in pH, which many aquarists dont want.Check your driftwood each day as it soaks. The easiest thing you could do is buy some ready-made driftwood, but where is the fun in that? Keep repeating this process. Fishkeeping World is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and any other affiliated sites. Being thorough when curing your driftwood will reduce the leaching of tannins and help to maintain your pH.Using Driftwood That You Have FoundIf you live near a beach, you may have found some naturally developed driftwood. Letting some grow in the tank can reduce the amount of food you need to supply at feeding times.Algal blooms can be problematic, but allowing small amounts of algae to grow isnt necessarily a bad thing, you just need to keep it under control during your regular tank maintenance.Freshwater VS SaltwaterThere are mixed opinions about whether driftwood should be kept in marine aquariums.Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'fishkeepingworld_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_12',136,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0')};In terms of the wood itself, driftwood can go in both freshwater and saltwater. There are many other reasons why making your own driftwood might appeal. Rushing the process could cause problems down the road. There are many different types of hardwood; some are desired over others for various reasons. Hopefully, your piece will become waterlogged over time. Look out for any unwanted darkening of the water due to tannin release. The boiling water will kill algal or fungal spores living inside the piece of wood, as well as any living things you wouldnt want to be introduced to your aquarium. Do this for as long as possible. Its worth putting in the time for the sake of your fish. All you need is your wood, a pan big enough to hold the wood, a bucket, a brush, and some dechlorinated water.Designing Your AquariumBefore getting started on making some driftwood you should have already given some thought to where it will go in your tank.You dont want to put all of the time into making some driftwood, only to find at the end that it doesnt compliment your aquarium as well as you wanted.Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'fishkeepingworld_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_17',137,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0')};Think about the size that you need it to be and which way you will position it when sat on the substrate.It is often recommended that you draw a sketch of your ideal aquarium. Pieces can vary in size, shape, and type of wood. The release of tannins also causes a reduction in pH. Boiling water encourages the tannins in the wood to be released faster, which speeds up the curing process.This is similar to pouring boiling water on a teabag. Either way, the piece will need a good clean. All you need is your wood, a pan big enough to hold the wood, a bucket, a brush, and some dechlorinated water. Resources Tanks & Aquariums Driftwood For Your AquariumHow to Make Driftwood for Your AquariumApril 26, 2021 This allows you to experiment with the design of your aquarium without having to physically move everything around, which would stress your fish if your tank is already established.Your sketch doesnt need to be a work of art, it just needs to help you to visualize each of your ideas so you can pick a favorite.Once you know what you want, you can get started on making it a reality.Choosing the DriftwoodThis is an important step because if you pick a bad piece of wood then youll either cause problems in your tank or the rest of the method wont work very well.You cant just put random sticks from outside your house into your aquarium, this could introduce something nasty to the water like bacteria or chemicals.Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'fishkeepingworld_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_18',123,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0')};Pick pieces of hardwood. The release of tannins causes pH to drop. Boiling the driftwood is useful for a couple of reasons. Empty the water and rinse the driftwood, then add new water and leave it to soak again. This is primarily as shelter. Amazonian fish species (like Neon Tetras) enjoy the darker water and stand out with their bright colors. All it takes is patience, as there is quite a lot of waiting involved.Read on if youre tempted to make your own driftwood. Soaking the wood in this way helps to waterlog it. They sink to the riverbed, settling amongst plants and rocks. Boiling store-bought driftwood will help to prevent any issues. The boiling water will kill algal or fungal spores living inside the piece of wood, as well as any living things you wouldnt want to be introduced to your aquarium.You will need to boil the wood for at least 1-2 hours to properly sterilize it. It may need curing for longer. You can usually tell if a tree is softwood because it wont shed its leaves. Dont worry, there are ways to remove the tannins before you add your driftwood, to maintain clear water and a constant pH.Uses for Tank MatesDriftwood isnt just for decorative purposes; it provides plenty of value to the inhabitants of your tank too.This is primarily as shelter. This definition means that one piece of driftwood can be very different from another. Always treat your wood first.How to Make Your Own DriftwoodThere arent many steps in the driftwood-making process, but it will take a few weeks. Only use hot water.As you clean, look out for any sharp edges. Designing an aquarium is one of the most fun parts of keeping fish. Your subscription could not be saved. Pieces can vary in size, shape, and type of wood.Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'fishkeepingworld_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_10',109,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-medrectangle-4-0')};if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'fishkeepingworld_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_11',109,'0','1'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-medrectangle-4-0_1')};.medrectangle-4-multi-109{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:0!important;margin-right:0!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding-bottom:10px!important;padding-top:10px!important;text-align:center!important}Most driftwood starts as broken pieces of trees that have been washed away by rain and flooding. The main reason to boil your driftwood is for sterilization. It can be tough to maintain a high pH, so the reduction caused by tannins can be very frustrating and potentially fatal.If you dont have trouble maintaining a high pH, then driftwood should be fine for your marine setup. Some species can even grow attached to it.You can use a fishing line to attach Java Moss or Java Fern directly to the driftwood; it can be removed once the plants have secured themselves naturally.Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'fishkeepingworld_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_9',115,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0')};This could be a great addition to a paludarium, raising plants up in the water column and creating an interesting centerpiece.Another way that driftwood can create a natural look in your aquarium is by releasing tannins. There are mixed opinions about whether driftwood should be kept in marine aquariums. Most driftwood starts as broken pieces of trees that have been washed away by rain and flooding. Letting some grow in the tank can reduce the amount of food you need to supply at feeding times. You will notice the water gradually darken as the tannins are released. The chemicals probably wouldnt be natural, theyd be on wood that had previously been treated when used for another, artificial purpose.Consider if the driftwood has come from a body of water that you know to be polluted, such as those next to industry, as wood can pick up chemicals from the environment too.Driftwood you find will also be more prone to releasing tannins, which many aquarists dont want.There are lots of ways that putting driftwood from outside straight into your tank could be detrimental to your aquarium. It should take at least a week, but aim for 4 weeks. These will break down harmful chemicals into less toxic forms, helping with filtration.Algae is an important source of food for certain fish and invertebrates. This can be fine in a freshwater aquarium (if you have prepared for it) because there are many freshwater species that prefer a lower pH. By searching for your own wood in the wilderness, you can pick a piece that is right for you (it will need treating of course).Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'fishkeepingworld_com-banner-1','ezslot_6',145,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-banner-1-0')};There are many other reasons why making your own driftwood might appeal.Some people might not have a store near to them to buy some, others might not want to part with the money. Some pieces are called drift lumber; these pieces come from the remains of man-made objects.Overtime in the ocean, wave action weathers the driftwood, eroding it down to smooth, hardwood. An added bonus is that you will save some money along the way. These will break down harmful chemicals into less toxic forms, helping with filtration. It often looks gray and twisted after years of being worn down. However, you wont always know what tree a piece of wood has come from, so youll have to test it by trying to dig your fingernail in. Some people dont like the effects of tannins. We will move on to sterilizing the inside later.Curing the DriftwoodThis step takes a long time, but it is crucial, especially if you dont want tannins to be released into your water.You must soak your driftwood in dechlorinated water, making sure it is always fully submerged. Some species can even grow attached to it. The information, content, and material contained on the site is intended to be of a general nature only and is not intended to constitute professional/medical advice. The curing process will help to remove salt that may be in/on the wood. You do not want to accidentally introduce creatures that could harm the inhabitants of your tank. Smaller pieces are less likely to rot or contain creatures/fungus inside. Whatever your motive, making driftwood is easy to do, it just takes time. To remove large bits of debris, spray it outside with a hose, or simply agitate it under running water. If something goes wrong, remove the driftwood. This isnt always a benefit, but some aquarists find it a very useful way to artificially lower the pH of their water, for fish preferring an acidic environment.Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'fishkeepingworld_com-leader-2','ezslot_13',116,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-leader-2-0')};if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'fishkeepingworld_com-leader-2','ezslot_14',116,'0','1'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-leader-2-0_1')};.leader-2-multi-116{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:0!important;margin-right:0!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding-bottom:10px!important;padding-top:10px!important;text-align:center!important}Some people dont like the effects of tannins. It should take at least a week, but aim for 4 weeks.Soaking the wood in this way helps to waterlog it. Some people like that this produces an Amazonian Black Water effect, but you can use chemical filter media like activated carbon to improve water clarity if not.Boiling store-bought driftwood will help to prevent any issues.SummaryThere are many reasons to add driftwood to an aquarium. It is often recommended that you draw a sketch of your ideal aquarium. For example, Manzanita is a wood that contains fewer tannins, so it is sought after by aquarists who are worried about the clarity or pH of their water.Some types are prized for their ability to stay sat on the substrate without being weighed down, such as African or Malaysian driftwood.Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'fishkeepingworld_com-narrow-sky-1','ezslot_19',124,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-narrow-sky-1-0')};You probably wont have the luxury of finding these wood species around your local area, so stick to searching for hardwood of an appropriate size for your tank.Smaller pieces are less likely to rot or contain creatures/fungus inside.Most aquarists head to a local beach or lake looking for driftwood, but you can find suitable pieces in the general wilderness.If the wood you choose is from the sea, make sure you follow the rest of the steps carefully. All it takes is patience, as there is quite a lot of waiting involved.Read on if youre tempted to make your own driftwood. This isnt always a benefit, but some aquarists find it a very useful way to artificially lower the pH of their water, for fish preferring an acidic environment. RobertTanks & Aquariums10 Best Refugium Lights for 2022 [Our Reviews & Comparisons]April 26, 2020 Softwoods often contain sap and resin that can slowly leach into your aquarium water. We will move on to sterilizing the inside later. It is basically any wood that has been washed up on a shore or bank. Most aquarists head to a local beach or lake looking for driftwood, but you can find suitable pieces in the general wilderness. Problems arise when you consider pH. If the wood species is safe for one, its safe for the other. Once the water remains clear for a few days in a row, the curing stage is over.Boiling the DriftwoodBoiling the driftwood is useful for a couple of reasons.Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'fishkeepingworld_com-portrait-2','ezslot_25',138,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-portrait-2-0')};Firstly, it helps with curing. If you made sketches before starting the process, look back at these to see if theyre still what you want. There are infinite possibilities and everyones tank will look different. By searching for your own wood in the wilderness, you can pick a piece that is right for you (it will need treating of course). Some species will use these caves as a territory, claiming them as their own and defending them from other individuals. Please try again. Making driftwood is easy; anyone can give it a go. Check the water parameters closely too, to identify any associated change in pH. Most people dont have massive pans that can submerge their entire piece. The chemicals probably wouldnt be natural, theyd be on wood that had previously been treated when used for another, artificial purpose. An aquarium environment can be incredibly fragile, so you dont want to throw it into chaos by introducing some poorly treated driftwood. Do this for as long as possible. You dont want to put all of the time into making some driftwood, only to find at the end that it doesnt compliment your aquarium as well as you wanted. This can be fine in a freshwater aquarium (if you have prepared for it) because there are many freshwater species that prefer a lower pH.In a marine aquarium, pH usually needs to be much higher. For example, Manzanita is a wood that contains fewer tannins, so it is sought after by aquarists who are worried about the clarity or pH of their water. This might be obvious if its covered in mud, but dirt can be less apparent too. Driftwood you find will also be more prone to releasing tannins, which many aquarists dont want. Robert. Keep a closer eye on your aquarium over the next couple of months. This could be a great addition to a paludarium, raising plants up in the water column and creating an interesting centerpiece. If found in water, it could be full of tiny aquatic creatures.You do not want to accidentally introduce creatures that could harm the inhabitants of your tank.Advertisementsif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'fishkeepingworld_com-leader-4','ezslot_16',120,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fishkeepingworld_com-leader-4-0')};The driftwood could have traces of chemicals on it, which will be toxic to your fish. This will help them to stay stress-free and healthy, potentially living longer. Over time, tannins will leach into the water. This might be obvious if its covered in mud, but dirt can be less apparent too. These tea-stain the water, which replicates Amazonian Black Water.Amazonian fish species (like Neon Tetras) enjoy the darker water and stand out with their bright colors. In the wild, branches and other debris often fall from trees growing above rivers and lakes. It will be very difficult to know specifically which bacteria the wood is covered in, but there will probably be some that could mess up the balance of your aquarium and possibly kill your fish. There arent many steps in the driftwood-making process, but it will take a few weeks. Everyones needs are different, so you may not be using them for the same reason as other aquarists.

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how to make your own driftwood for aquarium