Shell Grit

[Trebs]

This question is primarily aimed at Ladyred but feel free to post if you know the answer!

On the subject of using shell grit in a fry tank. Have you seen a noticable differnece between using and not using a calcium source? I understand it aids in bone development but I'm interested to see if and what observable differences this has. Better growth rate, less spinal deformaties, better shapes?

I'm assuming there is greater need for shell grit when RO or softer water is used?

Thanks.

[Merrilyn]

Hi Trebs, I don't have any scientific proof, but in my opinion I seem to be getting stronger fish with faster growth rate when I add shellgrit to the grow out tanks.

Another Melbourne breeder friend, who has been breeding discus for longer than me, also uses shell grit or chalk in his grow out tanks, and reports the same stronger growth.

It may not be so critical in other states, but Melbourne water is very, very soft, and a pH crash is always a possibility.

[Aurora]

Does that mean he just throws in a normal piece of blackboard chalk, or does he dissolve it first?

[Merrilyn]

ordinary white blackboard chalk. When it disolves, he throws in another. It's worked for over thirty years.

[Trebs]

Thanks.

I'll start with a small amount of shell grit. My water is about KH 4 out of the tap so it shouldn't be such a big issue. At what age do you start adding shell grit?

[Merrilyn]

Around 2 - 3 weeks. Sometimes a bit later. Just whenever they start to really grow. And then I keep it in all the grow out tanks.

[Aurora]

How long does it take for the chalk to dissolve?

[Merrilyn]

Dave, I've never used chalk, but I imagine it would last several weeks, depending on the number of water changes. I replace my shellgrit after a month.

[leanne31]

Hi Merrilyn you say that you use shell grit in your grow out tanks as they get stronger and have a better growth rate how long do you leave it in there for. I have 8 juveniles that range from 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 inches would it benefit them or is it a bit late and if so do you just put it on the ground or in a pot ect.. thanks Leanne

[Merrilyn]

Because Melbourne water is so soft, I believe all juveniles can benefit from the extra calcium in the water, and I do use it for juvies of that size.

I just drop a handfull of shell grit in the back corner of the tank.

[leanne31]

I live in adelaide so Im not sure about the water quality as in softness or hardness and i only test for ph, ammo and nitrites so I wouldnt have a clue if i need it or if they'll benefit from shell grit or not. Does anyone else in adel use it for they juvies.

[Rgoganj]

Dave,

I have used chalk and it took about a week to dissolve.

I now use calcium chloride.

[Aurora]

cool, now I just need to get some fry to try it with :D

[nicholas76]

Guys

dont use chalk.


Go to the health food store and buy some calcium tablets for human consumption.

then add this to your beef heart mix for your fry.

I was told this from a professional breeder from the U.S when i had issues with fry development.

In relation to shell grit - yeah you can use this as a slow release method. its just a matter of balancing the correct amount as you dont want to send your ph sky high or crashing low.

Ive done both !