frogster221

i was reading a website and they said that they used real leaves in their aquarium. they even said how to do it. they said to just pick oak leaves from your backyard then boil them and then they were aquarium safe. is this true and if so would it benefit fish in any way and would it look good or bad?

Shawnie

I would think that leaves will break down and make a mess in the tank submerge in water? at least IMO ...interesting that someone uses them tho...

frogster221

ya i was thinking the same thing but the website said that he has never had any problems with the leaves or them detiorating

Barbrella

A substrate of leaves is often used for fish like killies and some kinds of wild bettas as these fish spawn in them. It simulates the detrius layered habitats they come from.

I've never done it, but would be interested in hearing how it goes.

Dino

I have done it using the method mentioned.
It works fine.
Leaves need to be replaced every 2-3 months.

Shawnie

wow...I learn something new everyday on fishlore!!!!! thanks...but im afraid im too chicken to try it

Dino

I know several people in Atlanta who use this method to breed apistos.
It also works with some killiefish.

frogster221

the website said to have a normal substrate then a few inches of leaves on top. he also said that corys really liked it is this true? and Dino are the leaves detiorating in the tank or do they just begin to look bad from algae?

Dino

They do break down over time.
Just as any organic matter will.
I would think most cories would do well with leaves.

frogster221

well im gunna start moving tanks around and changing the aquascaping of them soon so i might try it. if i do ill set up a new thread on it