Preparing collected branches for an aquarium.

jentralala

I've been doing a lot of research on the subject but I've come across a lot of different opinions as to how to go about it. Can anyone share a detailed account of how they prepared dried branches for their tank and results from doing so? Negative or positive?

Quantum

I collected branches, let them dry to the point that the bark could be easily removed, removed most of the bark and placed them in my tank, nothing more than that and have noticed no adverse effects - used beech branches

rexpepper651

id be careful doing this as softer wood tends to rot faster

Byron

It must be hard woods, like the beech Quantum mentioned, or oak. These two I know of, but there are obviously other hardwoods. Avoid any soft woods, conifers, etc.

Make sure they are completely dry. Collecting dead wood that has been broken off the tree for quite a while is easier. Break a pice off at the thickest point and ensure it is completely dry throughout. And all bark removed.

I collected branches like this and put them in my plant tank with no fish (the tank I use to QT new fish) for several months, watching for any signs of fungus, growth shoots, critters, etc. Nothing appeared, so they went in the main tank. They were also waterlogged by then so they sank.

Byron.