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Originally Posted by baos  I spoke too soon. The original cory I placed to test it after the first 3 deaths is still alive. however a bn pleco and one corydora are still just hanging in. I did a 95% water change. There is a strong wood odor from above the tank. I believe the soil I'm using has a lot of wood matter. Could the water be too strong in tannins? |
Perhaps, but my money is on wood oils, especially if there's a wood odor. (Tannins generally aren't toxic to fish, nor do they have odor.) I had a couple fish deaths in my 50 gal that I think were due to wood oils (e.g., pine tar and cedar oils). I think that some soils are not composted long enough before they're offered for sale. Composting takes time.
I would be prepared for temporary problems with this soil. Plan to do water changes frequently or on an add-needed basis. I would definitely keep charcoal in the filter.
I'm glad that you are being so vigilant with your fish. Sounds like you all have been through a lot.