Dragon Stone, also known as Ohko Stone, is a popular hardscape material in the aquarium hobby. It is a type of rock that is valued for its unique appearance, texture, and versatility in aquascaping. Here are some key characteristics and considerations regarding Dragon Stone:
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Appearance:
- Dragon Stone is often characterized by its rough, textured surface and intricate, jagged features. The stone's natural weathering gives it a weathered and aged appearance.
- The coloration of Dragon Stone can vary, but it typically includes shades of brown, red, and gray.
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Texture:
- The surface of Dragon Stone is rough and irregular, providing an excellent substrate for the attachment of mosses, ferns, and other aquatic plants.
- Its porous nature allows it to absorb water, making it suitable for mosses and epiphytic plants to anchor and grow on its surface.
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Aquascaping Uses:
- Dragon Stone is a popular choice for aquascaping layouts, particularly in freshwater planted aquariums.
- It can be stacked or arranged to create caves, arches, or rocky outcrops, adding a natural and aesthetically pleasing look to the aquarium.
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Inert Nature:
- Dragon Stone is inert, meaning it does not significantly impact water parameters. It won't alter the pH or hardness of the water, making it safe for use in a variety of aquarium setups.
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Compatibility with Plants:
- Its rough surface provides an excellent substrate for attaching mosses, ferns, and other epiphytic plants. These plants can be attached directly to the stone using thread or glue.
- The porous texture allows for the growth of beneficial bacteria, contributing to the biological filtration in the aquarium.
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Cleaning and Preparation:
- Before adding Dragon Stone to the aquarium, it's advisable to rinse it thoroughly to remove any dust or debris. Boiling the stone can also help sterilize it and release any trapped air.
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Tank Size:
- Dragon Stone is suitable for aquariums of various sizes. Larger pieces can be used as focal points in bigger tanks, while smaller pieces are versatile for smaller setups.
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Natural-Looking Aquascapes:
- Due to its natural appearance and diverse shapes, Dragon Stone is often used to create aquascapes resembling mountainous landscapes, riverbanks, or rocky shores.
When using Dragon Stone in an aquarium, consider the specific aquascape you want to achieve and plan the arrangement of the stones accordingly. The irregular shapes and textures of Dragon Stone contribute to creating visually appealing and natural-looking underwater landscapes.