So I managed a Mata, do I really need Blackwater? (enclosure ?)

**KrokadilyanGuy3** · #1 07-09-2006, 02:48 AM

First, does anyone know if the tannins that are put off by driftwood, peat moss and the such are benificial to the water quality? (Excluding acidity)

I'm starting my Mata buildup tomorrow and I'm doing some research. As most of you know I'm a naturaltic type keeper and I am obviously going to be true to the name as much as possible, however, I dislike the tannin look and would love to do without if possible, even though that goes against what South American water bodies go for.

I plan on boiling my drift wood to help reduce the tannins and include using a carbon base filter and a carbon base substrate to help promote plantlife as well as defiling the tannins. My only troubling thought is that every thing I've read promotes the tannins while leaving me dombfounded to why I would need it as the peat or additives would help me raise the acidity. All of my other south american animals seem to do fine without these tannins.

Eh.. It's 2:45am so I'm a bit tired so I'm basically just wondering what tannins provide to the water table. Most of the problems fall back on the water quality, so I don't wanna skip a step if it's somehow benificial.

Thanks

**Merlin** · #2 07-09-2006, 10:25 AM

Going back to my aquarium days the reason for the tannins was to buffer the water and keep the acidity high and prevent fluctuations. It also gave the water the characteristic blackwater look that was mysterious and spooky looking and gave the fish a bit of a break from an overhead light glaring into the tank.
I've never heard of the tannins themselves being a requirement if the pH was correct.

**venus** · #3 07-09-2006, 10:55 AM

I have no idea...but good luck with it Zane.

...Cant wait to see pics of the finished setup and your mata.

**CodyW** · #4 07-09-2006, 01:13 PM

In my opinion, yes, you need blackwater.

Ahhh tannins. What good are they anyways? Tannins lower the pH of the water, which is important for you mata as having a different pH would almost definately lead to problems, skin irritation more than likely being one.

The main point is that tannins bind proteins. Anything that the mata consumes will be in contact with tannins, removing that tannins would change the nutritional value of the food consumed. However, other phenols in the water may be capable of filling the roll of tannins. Tannins also have lots of 'anti' properties (anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, etc). Without them the enclosure might be a breeding ground for pathogens.

I say at least run the filter with peat granules. Personally I would try to keep it as close to natural as possible even if it means dirty water.


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