Use Of Peat

[l337dave]

Hello,

does it matter which type of peat I use to try and lower my ph..?

I'm hoping to put some in my external filter.

Can I use the stuff from B&Q or does it have to be a special aquarium kind?

Also I've seen these:

http/cgi.ebay.co.uk/Sera-Peat-Granule-Fi...1QQcmdZViewItem

which seem made for the job but how long will they last, I'm wondering if they could work out quite expensive in the long run compared to the B&Q stuff...



ok and lastly

will peat make the water murky..?

thanks!!!


dave.

 

[TwoTankAmin]

Peat moss softens water and reduces its hardness (GH). The most effective way to soften water via peat is to aerate water for 1-2 weeks in a bucket containing peat moss. For example, get a (plastic) bucket of the appropriate size. Then, get a large quantity of peat (a gallon or more), boil it (so that it sinks), stuff it in a pillow case, and place it in the water bucket. Use an air pump to aerate it. In 1-2 weeks, the water will be softer and more acidic. Use this aged water when making partial water changes on your tank.

Peat can be bought at pet shops, but it is expensive. It is much more cost-effective to buy it in bulk at a local gardening shop. Read labels carefully! You don't want to use peat containing fertilizers or other additives.

Although some folks place peat in the filters of their tanks, the technique has a number of drawbacks. First, peat clogs easily, so adding peat isn't always effective. Second, peat can be messy and may cloud the water in your tank. Third, the exact quantity of peat needed to effectively soften your water is difficult to estimate. Using the wrong amount results in the wrong water chemistry. Finally, when doing water changes, your tank's chemistry changes when new water is added (it has the wrong properties). Over the next few days, the chemistry changes as the peat takes effect. Using aged water helps ensure that the chemistry of your tank doesn't fluctuate while doing water changes.

From: FINS

And yes- peat will stain the water- it will look like you put tea bags in the tank.

 

[The-Wolf]

peat for aquatic use has been irradiated to ensure that it is free from bacteria, bugs etc. peat for use in the garden has not.
so to answer your question no you shouldn't use normal peat.

I have found Sera(tm)s pond peat to be the best value for money

 

[l337dave]

Okey, I'll check that out, don't like the sound of teabag water tho...

I'm guessing when it's planted that will bring the ph down a bit too?


dave.

 

[BigC]

Shamrock Irish Peat Moss is ideal. Hope you can get this where you live. I lived in Bradford West Yorks for a good many years and I could obtain it there no problem. Steep a few handfuls in a bucket outside and keep draining off water each day and replenish with fresh, otherwise your tank will look too dark, due to, too much tannins.
Regards
BigC