Effects of Driftwood in an Aquarium

Driftwood adds visual interest to aquariums by adding a natural, realistic look. However, if used incorrectly, it can have certain effects on an aquarium. Driftwood works best when used in a tank that replicates an environment where driftwood and the water conditions caused by driftwood would naturally exist.

  1. Effects on Fish

    • Driftwood provides hiding places for shy or nervous fish, helps shelter fish while breeding, and divides territory for aggressive fish. According to aquarist Tom Haupenthal, certain fish, such as the plecostomos, feed on driftwood to add roughage to their diet.

    Effects on pH

    • Driftwood lowers the pH of an aquarium. Certain fish prefer a low, acidic pH including barbs, danios and loaches from Southeast Asian rivers, where their natural waters fall at a pH between 6 and 6.5. South American discus and dwarf cichlids also prefer a lower pH. To raise the pH of an aquarium that has become too low because of driftwood, aquarist Robert Lashlee suggests that aquarists add dechlorinated tap water (instead of distilled or reverse osmosis water) and add limestone or crushed coral to a filter or substrate. Increasing the tank's water flow and movement also raises pH.

    Effects on Color

    • Driftwood may leak tannins into the aquarium water, giving the aquarium a dark-water look. According to Foster and Smith Aquatics, some aquarists enjoy this "tea-stained" effect, especially in biotopes (area-specific aquariums) that simulate Amazonian black waters. Many species of brightly colored tetras, such as cardinals, neons, bleeding hearts and rummynoses thrive in dark water. Aquarists who prefer clear water "cure" the driftwood before adding it to a tank. Curing involves leaving new driftwood submerged in a bucket of water for a week or two, changing the water as it discolors.

    Dangerous Effects

    • Not all driftwood is safe for aquariums. Driftwood not sold specifically for fish, even driftwood meant for reptile tanks, may have had chemical treatment and could harm the fish. Driftwood safe for aquariums include hard woods such as ash, maple, hickory, oak, elm, bogwood and mopani--the older and more "weathered" the better. Green or soft wood will rot and deteriorate in the tank. Driftwood may contain fungal or algal spores that can multiply once introduced into the aquarium.