Hi all!

Been a while since I asked a question, so here goes:

I have been thinking about changing up the décor in my 64L tank. I think slate will be a great compliment to my dark gravel and really show off my guppies' colours.

Unfortunately, all the LFSs near me never seem to stock decent sized pieces. It is usually just the odd pebble-sized chunk mixed with a bunch of other stuff.

Ideally I would like broad, thin pieces (think roofing tile) and I have debated just buying roofing or decorative tiles. However, I am somewhat concerned about the potential risk to my fish, as I have no idea where the slate comes from and what processes it has been to before turning up at B&Q!

I have also toyed with the idea of bringing home some "wild" slate from Snowdonia (they have piles of that crap and I am a frequent visitor), but again - are there any risks to my fish?

Assuming yes, does anyone know of a place that sells decent pieces of slate for aquariums or know of a good way of decontaminating slate bought/nicked elsewhere?

Pure slate should be absolutely fine. It's slate that contain some manner of pyrites that can cause issues with water quality - see here:

http://www.fishkeeping.co.uk/articles ... e-wood-aquarium-decor.htm

Boiling to remove any nasties normally does the trick, molds etc. Try B&Q!