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Fish tank rocks are great as an additional decorative item for your fish tank that also doubles as a possible hiding place or nesting grounds for your fish. Today, fish tank rocks are available in a wide variety of colors and style to suit every occasion and theme. There are plenty of interesting shapes and structures which can add life and excitement your fish tanks. It is important that you get to know the many different types of rocks that are available as not all rocks are created equal and some may not be safe for your marine friends.
The best types of rocks for the fish tank should not crumble under pressure, dissolve, erode or emit harmful gaseous materials to the environment. As the aquarium is a complete ecosystem its own, it is important that those rocks be totally safe for your fish. If they leak out harmful substances such as paint, then this should be avoided all cost, if you don’t want your fish to die a slow and painful death. Slate, quartz and granite all make great examples of good fish tank rocks to invest in. Avoid lava rocks as it is full of sharp edges that can scratch the body of the fish if it comes to close. Marble should avoided too as it can later the chemical component of the water. Always test the rock before you place it into the aquarium.
Let’s look at other types of fish tank rock.
Aquarium Gravel
Aquarium gravel covers the bottom of the tanks to create an effect that mimics the natural surrounding of the river or the sea. This really helps prevent your fish from becoming disoriented when it sees its own reflection on the bottom flora. Gravel also provides substrates that lets the fish tank plants hold their roots to and also provides a home for the nitrogen fixing bacteria that is important for a well balanced ecosystem in the fish tank. Gravel provides a place for the fry to hide to avoid being eaten by predators.
River Stones
River stones are fish tank rocks that have been smoothened out by the natural currents pf the river which accounts for its rounds smooth appearance. These stones considered a safe option for the aquarium as they have been submerged in water for a long time. Just be extra sure that the stream is clear from pesticides or any for of contaminants before you place the rocks in your aquarium. It is a good idea to seal with a silicon sealant before you arrange it in a stack. This step can prevent possible cave-in as the fish moves in and out of the rocks in search for food.
Slab
Slabs provide an excellent way for you to design a unique cave or structures by using aquarium grade silicon sealant. This can provide an interesting place for the fish to hide. You can use it with other rocks to form a layered structure.
Live Rock
Live rocks are good for saltwater aquarium and possess a colony of marine life on it which can instantly enhance the quality of the water in your fish tank. The rocks are usually made from old coral reefs which had died some time ago and broken into smaller fragments. As these are full of crevices it makes a great home for marine life.
Synthetic Rocks
Synthetic rocks can be and interesting addition to ad instant detail to your fish tank, They can range from the $4 a piece simple rocks to the more intricate detailed designs that can easily cost up to $60 can still use this type of rock plant if you want to but it might be best to submerge the lava rock into the gravel to prevent injuries.
Branch Rock
Branch rock can be used to add more dimension and drama to a fish tank. These are often present in the form of coral reefs and other structures which you can use to color your fish tank.