What are fishtank plant sculptures made of (and are they toxic)?

October 25, 2009 10:29 AM

My wife bought this fishtank plant sculpture. One of the 'rocks' got chipped, leaving a big white spot (looks like plaster). Is it still safe to use?

Can't find any material information on the packaging or on the web. We think it might just be ceramic.

Instinct says "Of course it's safe! It's designed for a fishtank. The material would have to be safe"

Skeptic says "Companies always try to minimize costs, so they may use some semi-toxic material, but so long as they cover it with plastic/paint that has a 95% chance of containment, they can sell it."

We are going to call up the company and see if they'll just exchange it, but if anyone has any insight, we'd appreciate it.

posted by johnstein to pets & animals (2 comments total)

I think it's just ceramic (the base has to be heavy enough to hold the plastic plant down) and could be sealed with a dab of aquarium-safe epoxy regardless of the material but definitely call Biorb first before you attempt any home repairs: when I was having trouble with a excessively noisy air pump their customer service was super kind and sent me a replacement pump with a bonus filter kit and a bunch of fish food for free.
posted by jamaro at 10:43 AM on October 25, 2009

jamaro nailed it. It's probably fine, aquarium epoxy or silicone could seal it, but check with the manufacturer. Their goal is to keep you happy with the product, not to ignore you and be branded in your mind as the people who killed your fish.
posted by jrishel at 11:55 AM on October 26, 2009