lava rock vs Leca/Hydroton

Pavel · #1 (**permalink**) 08-12-2006, 12:15 PM

Debating ..... Instead of using the puffed clay balls [Leca/hydroton], could I get away w/ lava rock as the bottom layer of my terrs. My old 30 gal terr has the hydroton as it was on hand at the time. But for the two big terrs I would need to buy more "rock" no matter which substance I decide to go with. The lava rock would be a lot cheaper which is its primary attraction.

Also, my 90 gal tank came with the white plastic drain board/bottom.

Since I'm not doing fish -- strictly plants, should I remove it or just put my media directly on top of it? Would it matter?

Marty · #2 (**permalink**) 08-13-2006, 10:19 AM

I use regular river pebbles (pea gravel). Found it at a nursery. Very heavy though. I don't see why lava wouldn't work. Except it will get clogged up and will retain a lot of junk in the pores. On the flip side, it will also allow a lot of surface for beneficial bacteria to grow on.

You may want to read this thread too: http://www.orchidboard.com/community...highlight=lava

littlefrog · #3 (**permalink**) 08-14-2006, 11:02 AM

Lava rock tends to scratch glass, and it is very dusty. You'd probably want to give it a very throrough rinse. Other than that, no reason I can see not to use it. It would probably look very nice...

Springhalen · #4 (**permalink**) 08-16-2006, 11:58 AM

Lava rocks make a very nice false bottom, I think its easier to work with than LECA. It is dusty however, but rinsing it easy. It can be used again and again.
Best
Flemming Andersen