Having an aquarium full of goldfish provides a good decoration in your home or office. What’s even better is that it not only serves as a decoration to brighten up a room, it is also a therapeutic tool that helps improve mood.
Studies suggest that aquariums reduce stress and calm nerves. By watching fish swim, eat, and play, you can significantly lower your stress and anxiety. Even people with Alzheimer’s disease can benefit from aquariums.
But before you buy your aquarium and fill it with different fish and decorative rocks and plants, know that there are a good number of options that you can choose from. When choosing aquarium rocks, you need to know which types are safe to use in an aquarium.
Three main types of rocks
Igneous rocks
These types of rocks are decorative but offer no other benefits. There are acidic, intermediate and basic igneous rocks. Many of these rocks are non-porous and are suitable for use in the aquarium. Meanwhile, weathered igneous rocks are porous and absorb water, becoming weathered and spongy. They take in potential contaminants from their environment and slowly release them into the aquarium.
It is advisable to opt for specimens worn by water or fresh rocks that do not have sharp edges. It is not ideal to use igneous rocks that are highly mineralized with iron and other minerals.
Sedimentary rocks
Sedimentary rocks come from deposited layers of sands and silts. Its composition varies according to the material that binds the deposit such as lime, quartz and mud. There are two types of sedimentary rocks: sandstone and limestone.
Both are considered decorative. But just like igneous rocks, choose non-porous quartz-based sandstones for a freshwater aquarium. Limestones, on the other hand, are ideal for a marine aquarium.
Metamorphic rocks
These rocks are formed from igneous and sedimentary rocks, by pressure and heat. The most common metamorphic rocks are marble, dolomite, and slate. Marble is ideal for aquariums that require a high pH. It has a good buffering property and is also used as an environmentally friendly alternative to coral rubble or coral sand. Dolomite is good for alkaline environments. Lastly, slate is good to use as flat surfaces for spawning.
Choosing the right kind of rocks, plants, and ornaments for certain species of fish can be difficult, especially if you’re buying an aquarium for the first time. It is advisable to research, read articles and seek the help of professionals. Make sure you get your fish and aquarium supplies from a reputable supplier.