need help with cichlid tank setup

[ruggedkev]

Hi, I've collected a bunch of crushed seashells and rocks from the beach and I'm really keen on using them as gravel for my African cichlid tank. Is it a good idea? I've got a 66-gallon tank, so how much should I use? Also, I was thinking of boiling it to clean it - would that be enough?

[kalevi]

Seashells should work out fine, try giving them a vinegar soak to remove any copper or other substances that might be present. Boiling them will also do the trick. What kind of Africans are you planning on keeping, some species are notorious diggers and sift through the substrate, so that's worth considering.

[ruggedkev]

I've got malawis and a frontosa, and I'm eager to get the shell gravel into my big tank while I'm fixing it. I want to make sure I do this right, my fish are too valuable to risk. Should I use the vinegar before boiling, or is boiling enough on its own? And with the vinegar, do I use it straight or mix it with water? I'd really appreciate specific instructions, I'm keen to get this done but I don't want to make a mistake.

[kalevi]

Boiling the shells should be enough, I think. Copper in shells isn't really a concern in my opinion. Boiling will get rid of anything that could harm your fish. The Malawis might have a bit of trouble digging in the shells, but it'll definitely look good in the tank.

[ruggedkev]

Its crushed seashells mixed with tiny stones, like grit. Lots of small stone pebbles in there with the crushed shells.