aquarium decoration

Question
I HAVE A 20 GALLON FRESHWATER TANK. IT IS CYCLING STILL. I HAVE JUST A FEW MALE GUPPIES.THE TANK IS BRAND NEW.I WAS WONDERING IF CORYDORAS ARE COMPATIBLE WITH GUPPIES.ALSO, I HAVE A DECORATION CARVED FROM SOAPSTONE.WOULD THIS BE SAFE FOR TO PUT IN THE AQUARIUM?

Answer
Whoa there! You don't need to type in all Caps, my eyesight is fine! Thanks for the concern though....


Yes, corydoras are an ideal tank mate! They are a great addition once the tank is cycled. If you are planning on getting the smaller cories like panda cories or pygmys, you can get 6 of them. If you are getting the larger like peppered or bronze, I would get 4 or 5 of them. They like to be in groups, ideally over 6. But I have found that they do fine in groups of 4-5.

As for the soapstone, first give it a quick rinse in warm water. Then dip it in vinegar. If the soap stone sizzles and produces small bubbles in the vinegar, then it is not safe for aquarium use. If it doesn't go ahead. Be careful though, soapstone if pretty delicate and will eventually wear away in aquariums.

-Nick