Silicone+eco earth question

[MatthewM1]

I really like the look of preying eco earth into the silicone when sealing in GS foam creations. So my question is when cleaning the tank how do you clean these pieces? Just rinse them heavily with scolding hot water? Because the eco earth would absorb any cleaning solutions wouldn't it?

[Sunshine]

I didn't think you needed to clean those parts. I haven't cleaned mine since I made it over a year ago...I just clean the glass, rocks and decorations. My FBTs rarely climb on it though so I hope it is ok...

[MatthewM1]

Yeah I wasn't sure if it needed to be cleaned or not I've never heard it mentioned in any posts. But wanted to ask instead of just assuming

[killerecho]

Use a hand vac...
Sorry, wasn't being serious.

You can spot clean whatever debris and fecal matter by hand if needed. If the tank is well planted with a healthy microcosm of detritivores e.g. springtails, isopods, what have you; cleaning may not ever be necessary.

[MatthewM1]

Where would I find cultures for isopods and spring tails?

and if I had something in a tank that wasn't planted and did have any of those little guys would they occasional hot rinse keep bacteria from building g up on it?

[killerecho]

Joshsfrogs has them on occasion. So does Neherpetoculture. Check the marketplace on the dart frog forum Dendroboard - there's usually someone selling them. It's also a great place to find more info.

The only bacteria you need to worry about comes from droppings or dead insects that are not promptly cleaned up; or if you keep things too sopping wet in there. As long as you stay on top of that, there's no need for any rinsing.