Review on 🌳 Large Mopani Wood by Zoo Med Laboratories, 16-18 Inches by Lisa Carter

We have a 55 gallon aquarium with a few catfish, eels and Oscars. I wanted to add decor that would stand up to Oscar's somewhat disruptive nature (although it's very cold here - just enough for us to have plants). In addition to the plants, we already had some large stones, but we wanted to add something with the height. I took a chance on getting this mopani tree not knowing what we would actually be getting as each piece is unique and I am so glad I did. When we got it I was very happy with the size. It is approximately 1 foot tall and 18 inches long and curves into a "C" shape. It's flat at the bottom so it sits securely on the bottom of the tank and then curves up and down like an arc. I soaked wood in a 5 gallon bucket for a week, changing hot water every day. I think I brushed the wood twice to remove the remaining dirt. After 5 gallons of water began to flow out, almost clear, I placed the firewood in the aquarium. The first 2 weeks or so in the tank they peed a little more. I could probably lie in the bucket a little longer. But I just changed the water very diligently and cleaned the filter in the aquarium once a week. In the 3rd week the brownish coloring of the water was hardly perceptible and has remained so ever since. Very slight discoloration which I like a lot because it gives a natural look. The pH of my water is also well balanced. Wood gives the aquarium a great look and feel. The colors intertwined with the wood are beautiful. My Oscar loves to swim around and behind him and the catfish love it. They eat from it all the time and keep it clean. I am very satisfied and may buy another copy in the future!