OT: Wash your hands before putting them in your reef tank

Oxylebius

Well-Known Member
Wash your hands before putting them in your reef tank
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/blog/wash-your-hands-before-putting-them-in-your-reef-tank

Oxybenzone has been linked to coral bleaching in multiple studies, but a new study by the University of Central Florida finds that this chemical is much more harmful to corals than previously thought. In concentrations as little as 62 parts per TRILLION (equivalent to one drop of water in six-and-a-half Olympic swimming pools), oxybenzone alters corals' DNA.

The findings of this study should also serve as a reminder to reefkeepers to wash their hands (and arms) before putting them into your aquariums. Oxybenzone isn't only found in sunscreen. It is used not only as a photoprotective agent but also as a photostabilizer in a lot of other common beauty products such as fragrances, hair spray, lotions, cosmetics, and nail polish. And as mentioned, oxybenzone is toxic in very low concentrations, so it doesn't take much to harm your corals.

Wearing gloves is the best idea. It's safer for both you and your corals. The chemical soup of reef seawater harbors risk for you (lest you need a reminder, read these palytoxin horror stories). The chemical soup on your skin also harbors risk for your corals.

Read more here: http://www.advancedaquarist.com/blog/wash-your-hands-before-putting-them-in-your-reef-tank
 

Squatch XXL

Well-Known Member
My local NPR was covering this the other day on the way home from work. When they said that one drop in 6.5 swimming pools I was stunned. I wash my hands before and after, and keep meaning to get some gloves.
 
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