Is slate safe?

[hinesassociates]

Pretty much everywhere I can find (including my lfs) people are saying that black slate should be inert. Also I know they used to make tanks with slate bottoms. I have it in one of my tanks and so far no issues, but a friend of mine said that it will probably leach phosphates. Does anyone have confirmation about if it is dangerous. This is a Fish only tank...

 

[Josh_Canada]

I've seen it done dozens of times in african cichlid tanks. I can't see how it would be different in saltwater.

 

[hinesassociates]

I've seen it done dozens of times in african cichlid tanks. I can't see how it would be different in saltwater.

Cool. Thanks. I just didnt know if they would leach something that saltwater fish wouldnt like...

 

[wlyon]

I've got a few pieces of slate in a couple different tanks and haven't noticed any problems. Been about 3 years now.

 

[JSeymour]

Depends on the slate. Not all slate is the same, although most should be fine. Gray and blue would be the safest. Any red or green streaked pieces should be avoided, as these contain heavy metal salts. You could always coat them with a polyurethane. Once cured, nothing can leach out.

 

[DanEnglish]

I have a freshwater planted tank with a slate bottom that has been running since the 1970's (my dad first set it up, now we both maintain it). no problems here.

 

[hinesassociates]

Cool. Thanks for all the responses. I will keep an eye on the levels with it and see what happens.

Jason - My slate is all dark grey/black so hopefully no metals... but great idea with coating it if I start to see issues I will try that. Thanks!