Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Is black polyethylene irrigation tubing.... but a "soft" supple variety that doesn't "kink" ....

If you put the two types together, the difference is obvious and you'll know it when you handle it.

I suspect the "clear vinyl tubing" is a PVC tubing.... bit suss... and no good in the sunlight as it degrades overtime and promotes algael growth.

The black soft tubing doesn't have either of these problems

Hi Rupe,

Thanks for your help!



HDPE? LDPE?

I ordered 3m anyway.

LDPE should be fine.

with the clear tube as always the concern for me is the plasticisers

Hi Steve,



Is it bad for fishies? or just humans who eat fishies?

Slight tangent: what is the clear tubing used with air pumps in aquariums?

scottie, "badness" is relative to the observer. There is always Someone whos grandfather smoked until they were 90. i'm happier with PE........

clear tubing in aquarium is usually PVC but silicone is getting more and more popular. the PVC will look clearer and harder (depending on temp) the silicone will look frost and is much softer.

All men are bad ... & in their badness, reign.



Well that is good to know. I couldn't find any LDPE tubing at my local B. I found plenty of CVT (clear vinyl tubing) & some reinforced stuff (with a red line down it), so the stuff Rupe found for me will have to do.

I just finished reading "cradle to cradle", http://www.mcdonough.com/cradle_to_cradle.htm - I'm amazed at how little we know about the effect on human health of everyday materials.

looks like a good read