Forest "driftwood"

Hi,

I'm interested in finding my own driftwood from the forest or tree trimmings and was wondering if there is a specific species of oak/beech tree that has more desirable qualities for the aquarium? Also, what is the best way to remove the bark from the wood? I've tried a pocket knife and sand paper which takes a long time. Then I was thinking about a wire brush and sandpaper.

Thanks,

Kaya

 

Hello!

I would not recommend using "fresh"/ live wood. The problem with it is that it contains sap and resins that'll introduce a plethora of problems into your tank, and you'll never be really able to fix it unless you get rid of the wood and redo everything. If you do go hunting, look for piece that are dead and "dried" (aka weathered wood= been exposed to the elements) and away from being directly connected to the tree and has no bark. Oak and beech wood are okay, but you'll have to boil and boil so it gets properly waterlogged. Happy hunting

Hope this helps and best of luck!

 

Oops, yeah, I wouldn't get any green wood, I was going to look for stuff that was properly dry but not rotten. Thanks for the info on boiling!

 

Oops, yeah, I wouldn't get any green wood, I was going to look for stuff that was properly dry but not rotten. Thanks for the info on boiling!

I have just collected some peat bog wood and I water blasted it. Cleaned off all the bark and dirt nicely

 

Do you have any rivers or creeks near you, I find lots of nice driftwood at river overpasses.