The Best Aquarium Glue for Rocks! How to Safely Bond Your Fish Tank Decor

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Written By Editorial Staff
Reviewed By Sarah Jones

Veterinary Experts

Aquariums add to the beauty of any home. Not only do they provide a place for your fish to live, but they can also be a source of relaxation and peace.

However, if you’re looking to add some rocks or other decor to your aquarium, you’ll need to use aquarium glue.

We’ve compiled a list of some top-rated aquarium glues that are sure to bond your rocks securely while also remaining safe and non-toxic!

Be careful when using adhesives in the aquarium. Some types of adhesive may contain toxic chemicals or other harmful ingredients that could harm both you and your fish. 

We recommend using either Seachem Reef Glue or Instant Ocean HoldFast Epoxy Stick for aquarium glue, depending on your usage.

These two products are non-toxic and safe for use with fish tanks and form a strong bond between your rocks, ensuring they stay in place!

What to look for in aquarium glue?

When looking for aquarium glue, find a product that is specifically designed for use with fish tanks.

This type of glue will be non-toxic and safe for both you and your fish.

There are many different brands of aquarium grade glue available on the market, so research in detail before purchasing.

When looking for aquarium glue, find a product that is non-toxic and safe for both you and your fish. Some things to look for include:

  • Aquarium grade – this means the glue has been specifically designed for use with fish tanks
  • Non-toxic – the glue should not contain any harmful toxins that could harm your fish
  • Safe for both fresh and saltwater – the glue should be safe to use in both fresh and saltwater aquariums
  • Quick-drying – the glue should dry quickly so you can get back to enjoying your aquarium!

One of the most popular aquarium glues on the market is Aquarium Safe Silicone Sealant from Loctite. This glue is non-toxic, safe for fresh and saltwater aquariums, and dries quickly.

Remember it is a sealant and not adhesive so may not hold broken pieces together. We can also recommend Aqueon Aquarium Silicone Sealant which has very high user rating. 

How to use aquarium glue safely?

When using aquarium glue, always take safety precautions. Here are a few tips:

  • Always read the instructions carefully before use
  • Never mix different types of glues
  • Avoid contact with eyes and skin
  • Work in a well-ventilated area
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets

Once you have chosen the best aquarium glue for your needs, follow these simple steps to bond your rocks together safely:

  • Clean and dry both surfaces to be glued
  • Apply a thin coat of glue to one surface
  • Press the two surfaces together and hold for 30 seconds
  • Allow the glue to dry completely before adding water or fish!

There are many different ways to bond rocks and other decorations in your fish tank. Here are a few of the most popular methods:

  • Aquarium glue is the most common way to bond rocks and other decorations together.
  • Epoxy putty – epoxy putty is a strong, durable adhesive that can be used to bond rocks and other decorations.
  • Silicone sealant – silicone sealant is similar to aquarium glue, but it has a longer drying time. 

The best way to bond your rocks together will depend on the type of rocks you are using, the size, and your personal preference. Experiment with different methods to find what works best for you!

What Type Of Glue Is Safe For Aquariums?

You can use any glue marked as “Safe for Aquariums.” This is often called “Aquarium Grade” glue such as Seachem Reef Glue

You can also use a type of epoxy putty that’s safe for aquariums, such as  Instant Ocean HoldFast Epoxy Stick. 

Aquarium safe glue vs. Reef safe glue

Aquarium safe glue is used for aquariums housing fish, snails, shrimp, amphibians, and invertebrates. Reef-safe glue is used in sensitive corals.

The difference between aquarium-safe glue and reef-safe glue is the type of adhesive used in each. 

Can I Use Gorilla Glue In My Aquarium?

No, Gorilla Glue is not safe for aquariums and should not be used in them. It will release harmful toxins that can harm both your fish and plants. 

What If I Don’t Have Aquarium Grade Glue?

If you don’t have aquarium-grade glue on hand, there are a few alternatives you can try.

  • PVA glue – PVA glue is a non-toxic, water-soluble adhesive that you can use to bond rocks and other decorations together
  • White glue – white glue is also a non-toxic, water-soluble adhesive that can be used to bond rocks and other decorations together
  • Hot Glue Gun – while not recommended for use in aquariums, hot glue guns are a quick way to bond rocks and other decorations together without waiting for them to dry.
  • Silicone sealant – silicone sealants come in various colors and can be used to bond your rocks together with ease! Apply a thin layer of silicone on the surface you wish to adhere to the other surface, then press firmly together for 30 seconds or more until it dries completely.

Tips and tricks for creating a beautiful and safe fish tank

Here are a few tips and tricks for creating a beautiful and safe fish tank:

  • Use aquarium-safe rocks, gravel, and other decorations
  • Make sure all decorations are securely glued in place
  • Keep the tank clean and free of debris
  • Do not overstock the tank – this can lead to poor water quality and stressed fish
  • Regularly test the water parameters and make adjustments as needed

Creating a beautiful and safe fish tank can be easy with a little bit of know-how. Follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying your very own underwater paradise!

We hope this blog post has helped you learn more about the best aquarium glue for rocks. When using any adhesive, be sure to read the instructions carefully and always test it on a small area first to make sure it’s compatible with your tank material!

Happy glueing!

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