Which metals are posionous to Axolotls

[daniel]

I know copper is, but is brass, aluminum, stainless steel, I assume cast iron is. Im rigging up a pump system with PVC piping, but I might have to use some brass fittings or connectors. Im curious if this would be harmful at all to the animals. Another question, Im assumeing limestone would not be a good stone to use.. is that correct?

 

[jennifer]

The book Amphibian Medicine and Captive Husbandry covers this topic in detail. They recommend against using ANY metal in amphibian enclosures. Even screen lids (which I disobey, I do use them). They also warn that PVC systems, while OK for amphibians, should be allowed to cure super-long, and be extensively flushed with water before use, as PVC glues are quite toxic.

A moderate amount of limestone rock may be OK, possibly even beneficial. It helps to prevent the dropping of pH that occurs in aquariums that use soft water (low natural mineral content). So it depends on what your local water is like, and what species you plan to keep in it.

 

[abrahm]

I would personally stay away from all metals, but if you need to use a metal, do not use brass. Brass is an alloy of zinc and copper. Zinc can be toxic at higher doses in birds and humans and I would assume amphibians. Stainless (not galvanized as it contains zinc) steel and aluminum would be better choices. I don't know of any information about incidental poisonings from these, but I wouldn't want to risk it personally.

Limestone will make your water hard and raise the pH (unless it is already high.)