Polymer clay ornaments - aquarium safe?

[CACAdmin]

I know that clay pots, etc. are safe in an aquarium with our fish. However, I was wondering if anyone might know if items made from non-toxic polymer clay (the kind you can harden in a standard oven) is safe to put in an aquarium.

[fishykisses]

i don't think it's safe - although it says non - toxic i think that's if you eat it. I think the colour leaches out in water.

[CACAdmin]

Thanks. Better safe than sorry.:yes:

[CACAdmin]

I'm still curious of course. I did a test and left an ornament stand in hot water and then tried one in warm aquarium waterand no color leached out. Polymers from what I understand are plastics (someone please correct me if I'm wrong) so once baked nothing toxic should leach out (I don't think). :Think: It'd be rather like putting other plastic items in the tank (which we do all the time.) Any thoughts on this?

[Melody]

This dude (http://www.garieinternational.com.sg/clay/aquafloats_pond.htm) has been making Polymer ornaments for aquariums for years.:smile:

[fishykisses]

that post does say "relatively safe"
You're not supposed to eat or drink out of the polymer clay, thats why i wouldn't put in in my aquarium. if it softens in water over time and the fish eat it, or if chemicals do leach out over time...i dunno.
maybe do a little test of your own.

[Melody]

You don't eat or drink out of it because its pourous and can harbour bacteria, or so I read anyways.

[CACAdmin]

Harboring bacteria (the good kind) would be a good thing in the aquarium.:yes:

[CACAdmin]

Update: I did my own tests (totally unscientific). I made some 'branch-like' shapes and used them to feed zuchinni with (they have enough weight to keep the zuchinni down on the gravel and look somewhat natural when the zuchinni has been consumed.

Results:

No negative impact on the health of my fish or snails http://www.canadianaquariumconnection.com/forum/images/icons/icon14.gif
If left in tank over time, clay tends to soften again and breaks easily http://www.canadianaquariumconnection.com/forum/images/icons/icon13.gif