Copper

SkunkerX

SkunkerX

Well-known member
I got a question about copper....I just got this tank and I'm pretty sure the guy used copper and the question is could it be cleaned out to where I can put inverts and such back in the or would it just be better off saying a fish only as I am not too familiar with using copper, but I know Mario tells me every time I get a fish from him to make sure none of the water from the bag goes in my tank because it contains copper. I know dumb question but hey I know nothing about it so why not ask right?
 
Most everyone will say that you shouldn't. However, I ran copper in my 90G off and on for years. When I turned it into a reef, I put a few pounds of GAC in my sump for a couple months. Over the years since, I've had all sorts of inverts and the only deaths have come from crabs eating snails. I actually kept the LR and sand from the copper days. Looking back, I'm surprised it worked. Would you be starting the tank with new LR & sand?
 
There is no live rock with it and it looks like crushed coral so yes I would be replacing it and it is with no water right now so I will be giving it a good cleaning but if it doesn't fit where I want it to I will probably be selling it.
 
You can also run a Poly-Filter if you want to be certain. They're cheap and are designed to remove heavy metals. In fact the pad turns blue if it absorbs copper.
 
I beleive copper does leach into the silicone,giving it a grren-ish tint.Eric is correct in running GAC,long term there shouldn't be anny issues.Give the tank a heavy vinegar bath and start fresh.Good luck.
 
+1 Eric and Gus...clean it well with vinegar and water, and then run some media that removes metals like suggested, and you should be alright. :)
 
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