What metals are bad for our aquariums?

DLH

Mercury is always an issue, but most municipal water sources nip that one in the bud pretty quick.

Get a copy of your water quality report from your municipal water source (public utility). They'll list the concentrations of harmful metals and chemicals in the water, and it'll give you a good idea of what to watch out for when adding water to your tank.

If you're talking about putting an actual chunk of metal in your tank...well, then I would assume anything that doesn't oxidize (rust) would be fine in water.

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Officially fishless until after the move....tune in later for details!

What about copper plumbing and galvanized metal like screws.

DLH

Galvanized steel will oxidize, so I wouldn't recommend putting any in your tank, and copper might corrode a bit and even trace amounts of copper in the water column is toxic to any inverts like shrimp or snails you put in. However, as stated above, if you're worried about the plumbing in your house, as long as it's not falling apart I think you'll be fine. You can always invest in a drinking water test kit and test the water fresh out of your tap for metal concentrations.

__________________
Officially fishless until after the move....tune in later for details!

I may just do that. My house was built before they outlawed lead in the solder used to sweat/connect the copper pipes. Would be good for the "Peace of Mind".

DLH