because i didnt know and others might not either.

[cichlidchic]

a friend of mine on a differenc forum informed me of a tragedy that struck his tank. because i was unaware to watch for this, i'm letting others know too. if you already knew this, you can move on.

my friend recently drained and divided a 80 gallon tank by placing a glass divider in and caulking it into place with 100% silicone sealant. after allowing it to cure, filled the tank, and put in a few "cycle in" fish. 2 days later everything was dead. the process was repeated, water change, new fish. precisely 2 days later, dead. after examining the only factor that had changed (all readings were normal for a cycling tank) he looked at the silicone. it was silicone 2, not 1. silicone 2 (manufactured by GE) contains a additive called bio-block. it prevents moisture related mildew and mold. but, when used in aquariums, becomes toxic for fish, as it leaches into the water. for all who are re-sealing tanks, make sure you grab Silicone 1.

i say this because we just resealed my tank with silicone 2 and i read that post the day i was going to put fish in my tank. i would have lost them all. Worse yet, i would never have known why...


hope this helps guys!

[wesleydnunder]

GE Silicone II has written on it, "Not for use in aquariums" or similar wording. Another reason I only use Dow Corning 100% silicone on my tanks.

Mark

[tbui1178]

I read this the other day also.. thanks for sharing

[cichlidchic]

yea alot of silicone tubings ready not for aquariums, but most cases its for liability reasons. i went with 100% silicone selant GE brand type 1. we shall see.

[RMD55]

Why try and save a couple on silicone when you are going to put $100's or $1000 of fish in the tank. I only use silicone that has been approved for aquariums.

[Rico]

silicone 1 will be fine.

[cichlidchic]

yea silicone 1 has worked great. recommended to me by someone. fish are happier than ever in their new home!