tree branch

[tai_pan1]

I found a neat tree branch that I want to incorporate into one of my tanks. What is the best way to disinfect it so that I don't introduce any unwanted organisms into my tank?

Any help would be appreciated.

Mike

[Big Mike]

Put it in the oven at about 300 for about an hour...that's what I've heard anyway.

Some people say to microwave it (if you can) for a few minutes, some say that does not always work.

I would soak it in hot water and scrub it then bake it for a while.

[Linds]

Yup, I agree with Mike, those are the best ways of sterilizing tree branches IMO. If you do choose to microwave be very careful, it works very well but it gets incredibly hot VERY fast. My microwave had a branch 3" thick smoking in 1.5 minutes! :eek:

It's good to give it a good scrub before baking/micro, but make sure not to use bleach, hot water is good enough. The branch will absorb anything you use so it's best to avoid any chemicals/detergents ;)

[Christina]

When we do tree branches we do what mike said but we use a temp of 250 and bake for 2 hours this way we feel safe also setting it on a piece of aluminum foil in case some sap bubbles out and catch all of the moisture so your home doesnt turn into too much of a sauna!
Christina

[tai_pan1]

Thanks for the info, unfortunately, I don't think it will fit in my oven. I'll have to see if I can cut it down snd still keep the "look" of the branch that caught my eye in the first place.

Thanks again,

Mike

[North]

Hey Tai pan.. depends on the branch, you may want to remove the bark if any, and to kill the bugs bleach works fine, just soak it it a tub for a while..with a cup of bleach then rinse very well , I soak a second time with clorine remover (any fish store) to remove smell and residue and let dry a few days.. never had any problems with this ....

[tai_pan1]

I ended up cutting the branch into 3 sections and baking it in the oven for 2 1/2 hours. I removed the bark first, washed it real well in hot water then baked it. I started at 250 degrees fahrenheit and raised it to 275 after 1 hour. A half an hour later, I still didn't set it on fire, so I raised the temp to 300. After it cools, I'll use some dowels and wood glue and glue the whole thing back together.