Hi,

I was moving my thermometer away from a magnectic pump and the end shattered. Into the water has gone lots of small black beads which are magnetic as they are attracted to the magnetic pump. The red part of the thermometer is fine and didnt break.

Are these (i'm guessing iron) pellets something to worry about? Theres not too many in the sand, most were attracted to the magnet at the side.

I think thats exactly what it is. If I were in your shoes I wouldn't worry about it.

I think that if they are iron they will rust. I don't know if this will hurt the fish but it will be unsightly if there are many of them. Try passing your cleaning magnet over the sand, when they adhere to the magnet you can remove them from the tank.

I'd think the metal wouldn't be too good after a long period of time. I would take out all you can see. Don't go out of your way trying to find them in sand, but pick up all you see. And yoou must have a thermometer exactly like mine, cause it hs the beads and everyone.

Just be glad the red part didn't break! :up:

I would take a mag-float and run it across the sand. Not sure what they are but something that small and easy to fix could have a big affect on the tank and lead to major problems. Use the magnet and you should be ok. Maybe a few times over a few days to be sure.