How to disinfect aquarium plants?

Aquatic plants purchased in pet stores are frequent vectors for the introduction into an aquarium of undesirable organisms such as snails, parasites or algae.

Although this is not an absolute guarantee, the “disinfection” (improper term) of these plants helps reduce this risk.

Among the different disinfectants that can be used, potassium permanganate is very effective and is easily available in pharmacies (over-the-counter sale without prescription).

*Please note, however, that certain fragile plants such as Cabomba spp., Ceratophyllum spp. or Myriophyllum spp. do not support this treatment.

In practice, we proceed as follows:

• Prepare a stock solution containing 1 g of potassium permanganate in 1 L of water (this solution can be kept for 2 to 4 weeks in the dark).
• Take 5 mL of this stock solution to dilute again in 1 L of water.
• Soak the plants in this diluted solution for a maximum of 30 minutes.
• Rinse your plants with plenty of water after the potassium permanganate bath.

More information on: Aquawiki