Salt

[adampetherick]

I've heard conflicting stories about salt some say ok, some say no.

I'm talking about tonic salt rather than marine salt, it's been suggested on here for use while treating ich.

[Kitishane]

As was just discussed in another thread, we were told to add one tbsp of aquarium salt to our tank (30 gal) each time we did a water change. We were told that all tanks require some amount of salt to keep the fish inhabitants healthy.

However, the more I've read here, the more I've heard that salt can be a bad thing. I'm also confused!

[adampetherick]

that's why I've started this thread to clear it all up. I've been told that a bit of tonic salt helps keep electrolite levels up.

[mikev]

Assuming that "tonic salt" means table salt (NaCl without additives):

There are at least three cases where salt is beneficial, and even in these cases different opinions are possible.

1. As part of Ich treatment.
2. As part of a columnari treatment.
3. To detox nitrates.

These are very specific situations and salt is only needed for the duration of the treatment.

Adding salt on a permanent basis, especially in the amounts recommended by lfs and Aquarium Salt manufacturers is harmful to your fish.

As for the "electrolite theory": ask yourself why would "electrolites" be needed in the tank if they are not needed in nature?

[botiaboy]

Just think about adding salt like putting the temp of your house to 98.6 degrees. Your body does that for you,and like aquarium salt on a regular basis,is a waste of money.

[angelfish83]

Adding 1 tbsp of salt to a tank that big isnt a big deal- but it'll build up over time... like everyone said, its unnecessary. With that amount of salt its almost placebo like, but you really arent helping a whole lot. it isnt necessary.

[adampetherick]

Assuming that "tonic salt" means table salt (NaCl without additives):

There are at least three cases where salt is beneficial, and even in these cases different opinions are possible.

1. As part of Ich treatment.
2. As part of a columnari treatment.
3. To detox nitrates.

These are very specific situations and salt is only needed for the duration of the treatment.

Adding salt on a permanent basis, especially in the amounts recommended by lfs and Aquarium Salt manufacturers is harmful to your fish.

As for the "electrolite theory": ask yourself why would "electrolites" be needed in the tank if they are not needed in nature?

In nature who's to say that NaCl is not absorbed from the suroundings.

I'm not saying to add it a every water change, but a small ammount when the tank is setup to keep the nitrates detoxified

[mikev]

In nature who's to say that NaCl is not absorbed from the suroundings.

Well, how about the people who actually went and checked the water in the places the fish lives?

I'm not saying to add it a every water change, but a small ammount when the tank is setup to keep the nitrates detoxified

Would it not be better not to have nitrates in the first place? Use PRIME if really worried, it is a better *preventive* idea. Salt makes sense only if you already got lots of nitrites in the tank and don't have Prime handy.

[chefkeith]

Salt can raise the TDS like you wouldn't believe. KH/GH test kits won't measure this. You know, I probably talk in my sleep saying stuff like "TDS shock , it's TDS shock"!

[adampetherick]

Over here Maplins sell a TDS meter, you just put about 5ml of water in the tray bit and press the button and get a readout of the TDS, cost me £12

[shari2]

to salt or not to salt,
that is the question:

Whether tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous claims
by Salt manufacturers, or misinformed salesmen,
Or to take arms against a sea of troubles,
And by opposing and learning, end them?

The salt debate is endless. Each to his own, I say,
and damn the torpedoes...(but not the fish!)

[angelfish83]

To salt or not to salt is not a harmless small debate
Some say use salt in times of need
to aleviate nitrite when in a bad state
Nay, salt ye not
Quoth the fish section worker


For at no time, would a loach friend of mine
By choice venture into the sea
Or into waters, which mix theirein.
So if you've got salt, keep it in the vault.
In your fish tank, don't put it in.

[Emma Turner]

I would never consider adding salt to my loach aquariums.

Emma

[shari2]

I have in the past used it for specific purpose in a tank containing loaches. But not as a regular thing. The modestas/yoyos tolerated it well and no lasting ill-effects were seen.

But I wouldn't use it 'stam cahhah' (just because), especially with loaches.

This is one of those issues, such as ick treatments, that has proponents/opponents with sometimes rabid opinions. Can make for bad feelings when heated discussions arise.

My point being...no, salt is definitely not needed for loach health and well being. However, there are alot of folks who do things differently than I do and seem to be 'successful' aquarists. I find it hard to make blanket statements on most things aquatic because of the 'mileage may vary' factor.

[Martin Thoene]

Emma and Shari on the use of Salt.....with some Bard help.


What think'st thou of the gentle salt?


Lord, Lord! to see what folly may be at fault!


How now! what means this passion at salt's name?


Pardon, dear madam; 'tis a passing fate
That I, unworthy body as I am,
Should censure thus on lovely Sodium Carbonate.


Why not on caution, as of all the rest?


Then thus,--of caution I think it best.


Your reason?


I have no other but a woman's reason:
I think it so, because I think it so.




I agree with both of you.

Martin.