Getting rid of white fungus on driftwood, especially when it is placed within an aquarium, is important for maintaining a healthy environment for aquatic life. The white fungus is usually a harmless fungal growth that naturally occurs on new pieces of driftwood when it’s submerged in water. Here are the steps you can take to remove and prevent the fungal growth:
Step 1: Remove the Driftwood for Inspection
Firstly, carefully remove the driftwood from the aquarium, ensuring that you do not disturb the inhabitants or the ecosystem too much. Inspect the driftwood for the extent of fungal growth.
Step 2: Scrub Off the Fungus
Using a clean brush or an unused toothbrush, gently scrub the white fungus off the driftwood under running water. Avoid using any chemicals or soap as they can be harmful to your aquarium life.
Step 3: Boil the Driftwood
If it’s feasible given the size of the driftwood, boiling it can be an effective way to kill fungal spores and sterilize the wood. Boil the driftwood for 1-2 hours, but always be cautious when handling hot items. Allow the driftwood to cool before returning it to the aquarium.
Step 4: Soak in Mild Bleach Solution (Optional)
If boiling isn’t possible or the fungus persists, you can opt to soak the driftwood in a mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 20 parts water) for 24 hours. Thoroughly rinse the wood after soaking to remove any residual bleach, and soak it in clean water for another 24 hours, changing the water several times during the process.
Step 5: Dry the Driftwood Completely
After cleaning, let the driftwood dry completely in the sun. This can help kill any remaining fungus spores. If you have boiled the driftwood, you can skip this step as the boiling process should have eliminated the fungus.
Step 6: Return the Driftwood to the Aquarium
Once the driftwood is completely dry and cool to the touch (or immediately after cooling if it was boiled), you can place it back into the aquarium. Keep an eye on the driftwood for a few days to ensure that the fungus does not return.
Preventive Measures and Tips
- Pre-treatment: Before adding new driftwood to an aquarium, always pre-treat it by boiling or soaking to minimize the chances of fungal growth.
- Water Quality: Maintain good water quality in your aquarium with regular water changes and proper filtration to prevent fungus growth.
- Aquarium Cleaning: Consistently clean the aquarium and remove any uneaten food or debris, as organic matter can encourage fungal growth.
- Aquarium Inhabitants: Consider introducing aquatic snails or fish that feed on fungus and algae, as they can naturally control such growths.
Remember, while the white fungus on driftwood is typically not harmful to fish, it can be unsightly and a sign of excess organic matter in your aquarium. Regular maintenance and pre-treatment of driftwood can prevent such issues from arising.