Formalin

[cope413]

I've kept Formalin MS on hand for a long time. The bottle I have is on its way out (whitish precipitate is forming inside)

It appears that it's not really available for purchase anymore.

Can I just use lab grade 37% formaldehyde? Or are the stabilizers (methanol?) different than what is used in Formalin MS?

 

[Kungpaoshizi]

What's the purpose of this?

 

[Humblefish]

I've used straight 37% formaldehyde in the past for treating brook.

You can also find it in these medications: Quick Cure, Aquarium Solutions Ich-X, Kordon Rid-Ich Plus.

 

[cope413]

Thanks. It's my go-to for ich and Brook. Been about 3 years since I've needed it, but I'm about to move my tank, and it would be just my luck to need it and not have it.

 

[Humblefish]

Thanks. It's my go-to for ich and Brook. Been about 3 years since I've needed it, but I'm about to move my tank, and it would be just my luck to need it and not have it.

Look into acriflavine sometime. Has many of the same benefits as formalin, but is not as bad of a carcinogen.

 

[cope413]

I thought that was an antifungal. It works on external parasites, too?

I lost probably a dozen clowns to brook when I first got into the hobby. Then I discovered formalin. Haven't lost one since.

 

[Humblefish]

I thought that was an antifungal. It works on external parasites, too?

I lost probably a dozen clowns to brook when I first got into the hobby. Then I discovered formalin. Haven't lost one since.

It is primarily an antiseptic, but a LFS I advise has successfully used it on dozens on clownfish with brook. I believe @melypr1985 uses it at her store as well.

 

[Kungpaoshizi]

I hope you turn your skimmer off when you use it! (vaporizing formaldehyde, mmmmmm)

 

[cope413]

Never put it in the tank. Only as a dip. There is an airstone, but it's such a small amount (1ml per 1g water), I'm not really concerned. Also, I'm not really anywhere close to it when I'm doing the dip.

Using a router on plywood or MDF without a mask is probably an order or 2 of magnitude worse.

 

[Kungpaoshizi]

Ahhh, a dip makes a lot more sense! lol