Putting things into your tank from the ocean

[shyshko08]

I was wondering if I can add sea shells straight from the ocean, and if I can, how do I properly clean them or do I even need to?????

 

[r1v2c]

you should boil the shells before you put them in ... this will kill any unwanted parasites/bacteria.

 

[ophiura]

Be very wary, in particular of "snail" shells as many still have hermits in them that you do not want. Very common here in TX at least...

 

[shyshko08]

As far as boiling them, does everyone agree that, thats the best way to treat the shells before placing them into the tank?

 

[ophiura]

or bleaching in a mild solution, rinse several times...

 

[shyshko08]

Originally Posted by ophiura
http:///forum/post/2868395
or bleaching in a mild solution, rinse several times...
I'll try boiling them, cleaner and easier job i guess haha. Thank you!

 

[aquaknight]

I used a vinegar bath on the shells I got from SWF.

 

[culp]

Originally Posted by AquaKnight
http:///forum/post/2868937
I used a vinegar bath on the shells I got from SWF.
you should never use bleach. vinegar is safer.

 

[teresaq]

I use bleach for cleaning some things, just rinse really well, declorinate and air dry very well.

 

[sean48183]

As teresaq said.

 

[scottallert]

Ive taken shells for frag plugs ive taken, coral banded shrimp, snails, hermits, angels, porcilian crabs, brittle stars, and not one problem yet, there all alive and well.

 

[scottallert]

Ive taken shells for frag plugs ive taken, coral banded shrimp, snails, hermits, angels, porcilian crabs, brittle stars, and not one problem yet, there all alive and well.
and a small puffer it jumped and died though.