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is liquid carbon safe for fish?

Posted: Fri May 02, 2025 12:25 pm
by flourman
I've been using liquid carbon in my planted tank for a few weeks now, but I'm worried about my tetras. Has anyone had issues with fish health after dosing? My tank is 20 gallons, with a sponge filter and LED lighting.

Re: is liquid carbon safe for fish?

Posted: Fri May 02, 2025 2:13 pm
by floraborn
Liquid carbon is generally safe if dosed correctly. I've used it in my 40-gallon with Cardinals and Rams for years without issues. Key is to start with half the recommended dose and observe. What's your current dosing routine?

Re: is liquid carbon safe for fish?

Posted: Fri May 02, 2025 3:34 pm
by zeno9
I agree with floraborn. My betta tank has been fine with liquid carbon, but I only use a quarter dose. Maybe tetras are more sensitive?

Re: is liquid carbon safe for fish?

Posted: Fri May 02, 2025 4:23 pm
by reelz
floraborn wrote: Fri May 02, 2025 2:13 pm Liquid carbon is generally safe if dosed correctly. I've used it in my 40-gallon with Cardinals and Rams for years without issues. Key is to start with half the recommended dose and observe. What's your current dosing routine?
Yep, gotta take it slow. I messed up once by overdosing, and my shrimp didn't like it. Now I stick to half doses, and everything's chill.

Re: is liquid carbon safe for fish?

Posted: Fri May 02, 2025 5:20 pm
by Tidal4
My tank's got a mix of guppies and neons, and I've been dosing liquid carbon daily for months. No problems so far, but I keep an eye on them. Maybe check your water params just in case?

Re: is liquid carbon safe for fish?

Posted: Fri May 02, 2025 6:50 pm
by Kodixa1
I dunno, man. Liquid carbon seems sketchy to me. My corys started acting weird after I started using it. Could be coincidence, but I cut it out and they perked up.

Re: is liquid carbon safe for fish?

Posted: Fri May 02, 2025 7:58 pm
by swiftfly
Kodixa1 wrote: Fri May 02, 2025 6:50 pm I dunno, man. Liquid carbon seems sketchy to me. My corys started acting weird after I started using it. Could be coincidence, but I cut it out and they perked up.
Corys are sensitive, so that makes sense. Maybe try excel instead? It's gentler.

Re: is liquid carbon safe for fish?

Posted: Fri May 02, 2025 9:18 pm
by flourman
Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try cutting the dose in half and monitor my tetras closely. Appreciate the help!

Re: is liquid carbon safe for fish?

Posted: Fri May 02, 2025 9:28 pm
by floraborn
flourman wrote: Fri May 02, 2025 9:18 pm Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try cutting the dose in half and monitor my tetras closely. Appreciate the help!
Good call. Let us know how it goes. Also, make sure your tank's well-aerated—liquid carbon can reduce oxygen levels.

Re: is liquid carbon safe for fish?

Posted: Fri May 02, 2025 9:58 pm
by reelz
Yeah, aeration's key. I run an air stone at night just to be safe. Better to overdo it than risk your fish gasping.