Need Help! How Much Alder Cones Should I Be Putting In My Tanks?

[AquaPit]

Hi all

I have two tanks

One is a 3Litre Shrimp-only tank and a 30Litre German Blue Ram tank

I have added 2bunch of alder cones in the shrimp tank(about 4small cones per bunch) and 10bunch in my 30Litre

How will it affect both my tanks?

I read it lowers pH and the benefits of using them but how much is too much?? Am I putting too much that will be harmful to my livestocks??

 

[Akasha72]

I'm about to try using cones too but more to stain my water and my fish seem to like it as much as I do. I plan to add the cones to my filter in a media bag. If you look here http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?/topic/439536-using-leaf-litter-for-infusoria/ there's some info and links that might help answer your question.
 
Personally I was going to play it by ear just adding a few and seeing what happens and just add more until I get the desired look. I'll be interested to see what happens with your tank

 

[AquaPit]

I'm about to try using cones too but more to stain my water and my fish seem to like it as much as I do. I plan to add the cones to my filter in a media bag. If you look here http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?/topic/439536-using-leaf-litter-for-infusoria/ there's some info and links that might help answer your question.
 
Personally I was going to play it by ear just adding a few and seeing what happens and just add more until I get the desired look. I'll be interested to see what happens with your tank

Tks!

Will update!

 

[Bubbelzzz]

I've heard from others that the effect on the pH level isn't that big. Some even say there is no effect at all. 
I personally just used them because I liked the dark water color. I've never tried measuring pH differences. One I've put dozens at a time in them, but besides the nice dark color no weird reaction of the inhabitants. So I assume that the actual effect on the pH level is minimal or not severe enough to cause trouble to my fish.
 
On the other hand, the effects per cone differ a lot. Some will barely stain the water and sometimes one is enough. So be prepared for different results from time to time.