Rocks and Stone Safety

[jonall]

Ok here goes with my first question as i mentioned in my newbie post
I have a question on rocks and how you can tell if they are suitable.

I have started up a 29gl tank which i intend to be a community style tank, I have had everything setup for over a week now on a fishless cycle.

After the first few days i added some rocks which were collected from my garden and a few from beside a local river, each rock was thoroughly cleaned/scrubbed 3 times in warm water, and then left in boiled water for 2 x 5 min periods before being added to the tank.

I read that certain rock types may not be suitable and may emit pollutants into the water, what my question is , is how you can tell. Is it simply a matter of monitoring the water tests you do for changes or can there still be a problem even if the tests remain on track ? Since they were added i have had no adverse problems with the water tests i have done.

I am looking to add my first 2-3 fish this weekend and wanted to be relatively sure before adding them.

Thanks in advance

 

[Beesboer]

I have heard that one-way of testing the rock is to poor a little bit of vinegar on the rock. If it make's little bubbles it will dissolve over a period in your tank, relishing metals. Be sure to scrub & wash the rock after you have tested it.

Another thing, be sure your tank is cycled before adding fish. I let my tank cycle for 3weeks before adding any fish.

Hope this helps.