algae wafers contain copper - toxic for shrimp???

H

HarleyK

AC Members
Dec 7, 2006
46
2
8
Howdy,

I was going to get algae wafers for my RCS but realized that most contain copper sulfate. I know the level is non-toxic for fish, but how about shrimp? Any experiences with algae wafers for your RCS? Please state brand and type if you have been using a specific food successfully for a long time.

Thanks,
HarleyK
 
I feed my RCSes Omega One Veggie Rounds. I haven't had any problems. They are very happy and breeding like crazy. I usually break up one of the dics into halves and put one half in. I don't see copper sulfate at all on the label of these.
 
You need a larger dosage of copper to kill inverts than what is in those algae tablets. All living things need copper, however like all substances too much can be toxic.

I found this interesting, not sure how true it is though for FW shrimp...

The requirements for copper is fairly steady among vertebrate animals. Crustaceans, such as shrimp, lobster and crab, are in particular need of copper because its serves as an oxygen carrier in their blood.

Some scientists believe that copper concentrations in crustaceans may be elevated compared with other groups since many crustaceans use copper in their blood pigment. That is why, if you look closely, an uncooked shrimp looks bluish, a typical color of certain forms of oxidized copper.
Click to expand...
http://www.copperinfo.com/health/aquatic.html
 
Feed Pleco wafers to my Brigs and RCS all the time. No casualties (from that, anyway! :)
 
I have Hikari bran Algae waffers (actually I just ran out today) and throw in a very small piece for my rcs. No Problems yet.
 
Howdy,

Thanks for the replies. I know that copper sulfate (ingredient) is toxic to fish (barbs, salmon) around 0.6 mg/L, with daphnia being about 10x more sensitive, and green algae possibly a bit more than crustaceans. Tough part is: The food manufacturers do not give amount of ingredient.

That's why I greatly appreciate your experience :)

TA,
HarleyK
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
AquariaCentral.com
Top Bottom