switching gravel

[jermad2011]

If I want to switch gravel in my tank, how would I go about that. It has been setup for about 6 months. I'm sick of the pink gravel that came with it.

 

[jermad2011]

I just need to know if I should scoop it out and put new stuff in with the fish in or take them out .

 

[Fishman87]

IMO I would take them out as to not stress them but if you don't have another tank,container you could put them in just be very careful and try not to make a lot of racket and it should be fine.

 

[jermad2011]

IMO I would take them out as to not stress them but if you don't have another tank,container you could put them in just be very careful and try not to make a lot of racket and it should be fine.

One more thing, can I just get a piece of driftwood by the local river or should I get it from the lfs?

 

[Fishman87]

Ive seen people do it but I've never done it myself, I'm just about to put some rocks in my tank that I got from my river. That's really an up to you kind of thing, you could wash it in vinegar and soak it in really hot water, not boiling, and give it a good scrub with a non detergent scrubber. I can't give professional advice though on that. Never done driftwood before.

 

[jermad2011]

Ive seen people do it but I've never done it myself, I'm just about to put some rocks in my tank that I got from my river. That's really an up to you kind of thing, you could wash it in vinegar and soak it in really hot water, not boiling, and give it a good scrub with a non detergent scrubber. I can't give professional advice though on that. Never done driftwood before.

I guess collecting driftwood is illegal in WI, which is where I'm from.

 

[Fishman87]

Well that's different? What's the reason behind that?

 

[jermad2011]

Well that's different? What's the reason behind that?

I checked it out on the DNR website and they said it is to protect the habitat and the shoreline

 

[jermad2011]

But it's not illegal til you get caught, right? LOL

 

[Fishman87]

Right, nothings illegal unless you get caught lol and If anything they should pay you to collect, your cleaning the shoreline after all.

 

[jermad2011]

Put all those poor little critters would lose their homes.....LOL

 

[Fishman87]

I guess it just depends on how you look at it, well keep me updated on your gravel and tell me what you do!! Good luck to ya'!