Paint bubbling on ornaments, two different tanks.

I had a beautiful little mermaid in a 5 gallon, planted tank with 3 glo-fish and 2 guppies. After a while, the paint started to bubble (this was a painted acrylic ornament, made and sold for aquariums) and then peel off. The company had no answers for why this happened (I test weekly and have no issues), so they sent me a replacement. Now it too is beginning to bubble. Then I bought a red bridge from the pet store (made by a different company) for a different tank, 3 gallons with 1 betta; it too is starting to bubble. I have driftwood and stone looking objects with no problems. I was thinking that the water somehow got between the paint and the base, but the red bridge is completely encased. So maybe this is a water issue after all, but one that doesn't show on the pet store or my tests. I have seen one review of the mermaid with the same problem, so I guess I'm not the only one...can anyone speak to this issue; cause and/or cure? I sure do like these little bits of whimsy in our tanks. Thanks

 

Throw it away. I had a painted decor item. One day I noticed it was just 'missing' some of its paint. The ornaments that are colored naturally (the color is actually IN the material) are best. Just because it is made for aquariums doesn't mean the one who made it knew what s/he was doing!

Case in point: I was researching 'betta hammocks' for my betta boys. After much research I decided to just put some broadleaf anubias in their tanks and skip the fake leaves. Seems the 'stems' of those leaves is made of untreated metal and have a tendency to RUST when in water. Um, no thanks, I rather like my fish alive!

 

That would really, really disturb me... I would also toss the ornaments. I really never liked superbright painted ornaments, going for a more natural feel (not quite biotope, but close). But if paint is peeling off, who knows what kind of chemicals it might be leeching into the water o_o

 

Many more than what our kits test for, I'm sure.

 

I have had to toss a red bridge ornament ( made by topfin ) and several other ornaments made under that name.
They seem to deteriorate pretty quickly

 

I'll have to agree with jwebbe, I had to toss my 29G synthetic driftwood centerpiece because it started going pink on me after a month. Also by Top Fin :/

 

I'll have to agree with jwebbe, I had to toss my 29G synthetic driftwood centerpiece because it started going pink on me after a month. Also by Top Fin :/

Isn't that crazy? Something that is supposed to be rated for an aquarium and only after a few months you have to toss it? I just haven't had much luck with "quality" ornaments but won't be buying topfin - ever!