Is it safe?

[shayfish]

I got this... thing from an ex a long time ago. I think it was from a garage sale (thanks sweetie). It is so tacky, I would really like to put it in the 10 gallon breeding tank I'm about to set up. It's terra cotta, but its painted... I have no way of knowing what type of paint was used. Is there any way to know if it's safe to put in a tank? Or any way to proof it? I would be real ticked if I killed my GBR pair with this ugly thing. (ugly in a good way...)

 

[GouramiFanatic]

I don't know the answer to your question, but I personally wouldn't risk it. Besides the threat from the paint, I'd also be worried about the fish getting stuck in the holes!

 

[shayfish]

Oo, good point. Darn, I guess I will never find a use for this awful thing. If there was a way I could know the paint was okay, I would fill the holes.

 

[Fish Kid]

if it is painted using a TOXIC paint then you could always coat it with a clear gloss of....... well basicly anything!!!!!!

oh... and it would add a nice touch to the... uh... flat colors.......... (however bright they may be)

 

[joannde]

Ok, maybe I'm weird, but I like that piece !!! I may make something up like that in ceramics tomorrow ... seriously ! its cute

I do think the holes may be too small unless you did just neon tetras or something a similar size.

But because its painted I really wouldn't risk it. I'm not sure that clearcoating would completely protect it from leaching, but I could be wrong about that.

 

[Fish Kid]

i guess there is a small chance it could be something that could leach though....... but if it is (the most common toxin in paint) lead then a clearcoating would seal... quite nicely!