lava rock

[barracuda]

is it ok to use lava rock in my tank, I have alot of lava rock from a cichlid tank that I just closed up, and I am thinking of using it in my 130g that i am setting up. I am wondering if anyone has used it and if its safe?

 

[phases99]

Lava rock can leach minerals into your tank, its not worth the risk IMO.

 

[foma2000]

ive heard that cleaned lava rock can be really good. it has tons of tiny holes for backteria

 

[JG]

The chemical composition of volcanic rock is very different than the dolomite or crushed coral. Volcanics are very rich in metals and silica and very low in carbonates. The Carbonates help to maintan the pH level in a salt tank since the are soluable. You will not get this benefit from the volcanics. As for holes for bacteria - carbonates are very porous and will continue to become porous as the rock dissolves in reaction to the carbon dioxide in the water.

In short and IMO the carbonate substrates are a much better choice.

JG