Unwanted Shell Grit

[CheekyCheeze]

Hi There,

I just got a 4ft tank and a mate of mine has given me heaps of gravel substrate.
But the problem is, is that there is shell grit mixed with the substrate.
I wanted to keep soft water fish and I am pretty sure shell grit will raise the ph Levels.
Can you Guys think of any way I could remove it or counter the ph rising effects.

Cheers

CheekyCheeze

 

[Inchworm]

Hi CheekyCheeze

Welcome to the forum!

It might not be worth the trouble to separate the shell bits from the gravel and, unless you are an experienced fishkeeper, it's probably best to avoid having to alter the pH.

Play sand, which is readily available and inexpensive, makes a nice substrate. IMHO, in the long run it might be best to just get rid of the gravel.

 

[CheekyCheeze]

Thanks for the welcome.
I actually got rid of pretty much 90-80% of the Shell Grit from my Gravel.
Me and My friend spent three hours sifting the Gravel to get out as much of the shell grit as possible.
I don't know if it was worth it but We did it in the end!
I am hoping to keep a shoal of angel fish and black neon tetras, they prefer softer conditions but I have read it isn't that important.
I hope it all goes well.

But thanks for your help anyway

-CheekyCheeze-

 

[TribeOfShroom]

Me and My friend spent three hours sifting the Gravel to get out as much of the shell grit as possible.

Now thats dedication!