FAQ - Frequently asked questions about Tuskwood
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our unique roots. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us at info@tuskwood.com!
What is Tuskwood and how is it used?
Tuskwood is the mineralized roots of small trees and shrubs that have been preserved in peat bogs for hundreds, sometimes thousands of years. This natural process gives the wood a unique dark tone and extreme durability. It is perfect for aquascaping, aquariums, terrariums and paludariums where a natural and aged aesthetic is desired. It is also called Bogwood, Moorwood and Antwood.
Does Tuskwood affect the pH of my aquarium?
The peat bog is an acidic environment, and theoretically Tuskwood can lower the pH slightly. We have done tests with this, and have not been able to demonstrate it practically, so we believe that the effect on PH is normally insignificant. If you want to be extra careful, you can let your Tuskwood become waterlogged in a separate aquarium or bucket, and after a week or so and a couple of water changes, move to an aquarium with fish in it. Since we have not been able to measure a clear effect on PH, we believe that it is not normally necessary.
Tuskwood can help to soften the water by releasing natural humic acids and tannins. However, it does not normally release so much that the color of the water turns brown. A certain blackish depth in the color of the water can be noticed after some time and few water changes, but no dramatic effect.
Why is the root whitish on the surface? Does it turn brown?
This is perfectly normal! This is because that part of the root has been exposed to sunlight for a few months before it was collected. When mineralized wood dries in sunlight, it can take on a greyish or almost white surface. When the root is immersed in water and absorbs moisture, it returns to its natural, deep dark brown color after a few weeks.
Does biofilm or slime form on Tuskwood?
No, the biofilm that forms on ordinary red moor, spider wood etc, does not form on Tuskwood. This is because Tuskwood is about 500-4000 years old, and does not contain the substances that fresh wood does.
How long does it take for the root to sink?
Because Tuskwood is very dense, it sinks faster than many other types of wood, but it needs to be saturated with water first.
- Small roots: Often drops after a few days.
- Larger roots (over 15 cm in diameter): Can take 2-3 weeks.
- Tips: You can glue the root to a rock or weigh it down with another rock for the first few days to get it in place straight away. Some people also use wash bags full of pebbles to weigh down roots directly in the aquarium. These are removed as soon as the root sinks by itself.
How do I prepare the roots before use?
- Rinse and brush off the root with tap water (do not use detergent).
- You can boil the root if you want to disinfect it. Boiling also helps the root to sink faster.
Is Tuskwood safe for all types of fish?
Absolutely! Tuskwood has a positive effect on water quality. Especially species like Discus, Scalare, Corydoras and various L-moths thrive especially well as the roots mimic their natural habitat.
Does Tuskwood affect the color of the water?
Tuskwood can help to soften the water by releasing natural humic acids and tannins. However, it does not normally release so much that the color of the water turns brown. A certain blackish depth in the color of the water can be noticed after some time and few water changes, but no dramatic effect.
Can you use Tuskwood for hard water
We have several customers who have used Tuskwood successfully for aquariums with African cichlids together with limestone and hard water.
Can you use Tuskwood for a community aquarium
Yes, you can use Tuskwood for all kinds of aquariums and all kinds of fish. It is particularly popular to use Bogwood, such as Tuskwood, for South American fish such as Discus, Scalare, Ancistrus, Pleco, L-Malar, Gibbiceps, Neon Tetra, Redmouth Tetra and many others. Most South Asian fish such as Gurami, Botia and Fighting Fish also thrive with Tuskwood.