RE: coconut fiber

[listhub at andante_mn.org]

All according to my experience.  Your mileage may very.

On 03-Nov-02 RuevenM at aol_com wrote:
>     I am about to try my first coconut fiber as a spawning medium and I would
> like to hear from those who are already using it. What are the advantages and
> pitfalls? 
>
I use it for Nothos and some Fundulopanchax in conjunction with peat in a 1 part
coconut fiber to 2 parts coarse peat ratio.  It appears to let the peat "fluff"
up slightly more when in incubation.  More O2 ??  I have never used it alone

I have heard that some SA Annuals do not like the spawning media this coarse. 
No direct experience here .. yet.

It is also a great addition to worm bedding for reds, whites, and grindals. 
Keeps the media fluffy.  Here I use it about 1:5 with standard worm bedding.

>Does it hold moisture well in storage?
>
I just wet what I need when I need it and store the bricks dry.
 
> Anything special as far as 
> collecting, drying and bagging? 
>
With the 1:2 ratio I mentioned above .. NO.

> Does it need to be boiled before use? 
>
No.  Unless you are in a real hurry to wet it.

> Does it
> sink well when re-wetted after incubating the eggs?
>
Once wet, yes.  Again this refers to the 1:2 ratio I mentioned.

The bricks expand about 8 times in volume and do take about a day to fully wet
and sink.  I usually throw a 1/4 brick in a bucket and let it sit for a few
days and add 1/3 volume to coarse peat which I have boiled.

In case anyone is wondering, I get mine from www.wormsway.com.  Good outfit.

Good Luck
john

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John N. Alegre                   o
Andante Systems               o
eCommerce Consulting       o
Custom Web Development <*{{{{}><
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E-Mail: listhub at andante_mn.org
Date: 02-Nov-02
Time: 23:51:49
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