Safe to use lead weights in fishtanks?

Question

I've got 2 goldfish (Koi I think) in a 25 gallon tank and my fake greenery keeps getting uprooted and floating around...is it safe to weigh them down on the bottom with the lead strips commonly sold in pet shops? I've heard that it is/it is not and I'm confused. Anyone have the straight dope on this? Thanks.

Answer 1

I don't know if it is safe or not it will be your call

you can always use rock.  

kOi keeper & goldfish keeper

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/world...

http://www.geocities.com/koiphilippines/...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ArAlwupRy...

Answer 2

umm.. l,ead is harmful to to humans why would you put it in tanks?? why cant you just use large river rocks? they sell em at the petstore, just pile them at the base of your plants. also, a 25g tank isnt enough for one fancy goldfish, neverless common goldfish or KOI. please get an apropriate sized tnak/ pond before your fish painfully die of stunting =[  oh, and if its sold in petshops i DONT think its lead... ask the worker what it is and if its safe for your tank... maybe theyll beable to recommend something better?

Answer 3

Lead bad....

It leeches and contaminates reducing the life expectancy of your fish sometimes severely...

If you have large gravel (its easier) silicone them to a pile of them if you feel like arts and crafts day but with a pretty good result. Let it dry 24 hours.

Or sacrifice a leaf and put a hole in it and use fishing line to tie the plant together and bury the anchor leaf at the bottom.

Tell your fish to stop playing with the plants....lol

I think its good if they are..keeps them active.

Good Luck!!

Answer 4

Lead isn't the safest, but they do make weights from zinc now which is safer.

I prefer to use river rocks, make a nice natural looking aquarium.