How to Remove Copper From a Saltwater Aquarium

Copper enters your saltwater aquarium either because you have filled the tank with tap water from copper pipes or because you have given your fish medications that contain copper. Copper is a popular treatment for a common illness often called Ich and caused by a parasite, Cryptocaryon irritans. Despite its medicinal use, high amounts of copper can damage fishes' gills and immune systems. Copper is deadly for the invertebrates you might want to keep in your tank, such as anemones, crabs, shrimp, live corals and live rock. You can remove copper from your tank by following a series of simple steps.

Things You'll Need

  • Small, fully assembled, temporary saltwater tank
  • Aquarium net
  • Sink drain
  • Filter
  • Rocks and sand (optional)
  • Hot water
  • Bucket
  • Vinegar
  • pH test kit for saltwater
  • Copper test kit for saltwater
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Instructions

    • 1

      Transfer all fish from your original aquarium to the temporary aquarium with the aquarium net.

    • 2

      Drain the original aquarium of all water.

    • 3

      Remove the aquarium's filter and any decorative rocks or sand.

    • 4

      Scrub the inside of the tank thoroughly with hot water. Pay particular attention to the cracks and corners.

    • 5

      In the bucket, mix a solution that is 10 percent vinegar and 90 percent hot water. Scrub the inside of the tank again with this solution.

    • 6

      Rinse the inside of the tank with hot water. If possible, leave hot water in the tank to soak overnight.

    • 7

      Insert the new filter and replace the rocks and sand with new ones, if desired.

    • 8

      Refill the tank with saltwater. Check the pH with the pH test kit and adjust accordingly. Test the carbon level with the carbon test kit to verify that it is reduced.

    • 9

      Use the aquarium net to transfer the fish back to the original aquarium.