Is this safe for betta?

[Splashes]

Can I use Rustoleum clear lead-free enamel on tank decorations?

I ask because I removed Splashes' shark decoration last month, and he hasn't made any bubble nests since then. I think he misses his shark friend! ;D But the paint was peeling off the shark and I didn't think that was safe.

So, my question is whether I can coat the shark with enamel sealer and put him back in.

Does anyone know if it's safe once dry? Thanks!

[Splashes]

No one knows? I posted on another forum and they say no, only marine paints are safe. But it couldn't have been marine paint to start with if it peeled in FW within 6 months.

I know I can buy a new shark deco, but I'm afraid it'll do the same.

[amanichen]

Whether different materials and paints are safe for fish tanks isn't a topic that comes up very often. Really the only useful information on it is that there are a few types of paint, (which are really just lightweight epoxy compounds) that are (so far) known to be safe in tanks. Epoxy is often used to produce colored gravel, and certain types of tank ornaments, and is used to seal the electrical components of aquarium filter motors (literally, they're encased in a block of epoxy.)

Using any other "paint" than epoxy isn't a good idea, as most paints are somewhat water soluble, may outgas harmful chemicals, and just weren't designed to hold up to constant immersion.

As for rustoleum...I wouldn't use enamel on anything that's going into water that has fish in it. A good test to see whether or not it'll leak chemicals into the water is whether or not it smells. If the paint outgases chemicals into the air, then it'll definitely outgas chemicals into the water, and these are chemicals that are designed to protect your deck chair, and not necessarily safe for fish.

The best advice is to avoid anything that hasn't been already painted for you (by a reputable manufacturer of aquarium products.) If it has been painted, make sure they're using epoxy paint, as epoxy is stable underwater and generally does not outgas harmful chemicals when it is cured.

[Splashes]

amanichen said:

The best advice is to avoid anything that hasn't been already painted for you (by a reputable manufacturer of aquarium products.) If it has been painted, make sure they're using epoxy paint, as epoxy is stable underwater and generally does not outgas harmful chemicals when it is cured.

Thanks amanichen! I was waiting for your answer. Next question is, which are the reputable manufacturers? I bought the shark at Petco or Petsmart. I would hope they would choose reputable products, but then again, the paint did peel on the shark in a couple of months. So where do I find him a good shark that won't peel? He still isn't making bubble nests..... I think he misses his "tank buddy"! ;D

[amanichen]

If you want ornaments for your tank, make sure they're solid plastic or epoxy, and not painted. Many plastic products nowadays have the colors molded directly into them rather than painted on.

Your first guess is that you would only find them at large chain stores, and not independent stores, but that's not always the case. Stores are often required, under contract, to carry an entire range of products from a supplier. What this means for you is that you'll find both high-end products, and complete junk.

Basically, stay away from cheap (and cheesy looking) aquarium ornaments

And if your fish isn't making a bubble nest, then some frequent water changes with water of slightly varying temperature can help stimulate the creation of one. Of course, some males will only make a bubble nest when the weather changes. Approaching rain and storms signal a good breeding time for them because there's a temporary boost in their food supply.

Many bettas instinctively nest after you get them home because of the change in water chemistry, a but after that they will rarely make one again.

Remember, a bubble nest is not a requirement -- it's just a sign that the male felt like making one.

[Splashes]

Thanks again. What can I say, my son picked the ornament and I thought it would be safe. I'll have to look for a plastic shark or something to take its place in the tank.

Splashes has almost always had a bubble nest going...up until the last full change and I removed the shark. My son has some little rubbery-plastic fish that we "swim" around in front of the tank for his flaring exercises (not too often). Maybe he needs some exercise (enticement). I wouldn't put them in the tank though, he'd never rest!

[amanichen]

Excercise is a good thing for bettas, so feel free to get him up and moving =)