Basics : Ornaments
Other than driftwood and rocks, there are many other things which can go into an aquarium, however some caution is required. Generally, if it's from a pet shop intended for aquaria, then you are safe. The worst I see is that the finish erodes (paint chips off).
If not intended for aquaria, beware of any product which might leech toxins (ie: black rubber), or be chemically treated (ie: bactericides and fungicides are toxic to fish). You need to look at every aspect of the ornament, from the material used, the properties of the paint, the sealer over the paint, any adhesives used etc.
Details...
Seashells are mostly calcium and will dissolve in an aquarium, at a rate dependant
on how acidic your water is. They will also raise your gH, kH and pH, which may
or may not be desirable for your application. Ensure that there is nothing dead
in the centre of a conch. Starfish might dissolve too quickly to be practical
to use.
Glass is inert and safe (watch for sharp edges). Clay products are usually safe. The cheaper their cost, the less likely additional and potentially toxic chemicals were used in their manufacture. With clay, the sealer or paint used are the biggest hazards. Most plastic is inert and safe, but the release agents used to free them from their moulds are not, nor are the de-greasers used to remove the release agents. A hot water rinse will usually clean them enough, and fresh activated carbon will get anything you missed.
Soaps and detergents should never be used for aquarium products. Bleach can be used for sterilization, with some good rinses and a soak with a de-chlorinator after. Many kitchen sponges (or bathroom, laundry & kitchen products, including garbage bags) are treated with fungicides and/or bactericides which are toxic to aquatic life.
Metals vary in their toxicity, and should not be in aquarium water. Stainless steel with a high chromium content is probably the safest. Copper would be the worst. Zinc is toxic (galvanized iron). Iron, though it will quickly rust is not generally considered toxic, but can cause other problems. Aluminium is somewhat toxic. Rapid or extreme pH changes will cause metals to leech into the water, increasing their toxicity to the fish. Lead (used to hold down plants) is known to have toxic properties, but is generally harmless in a very stable pH environment. Its use should still be avoided.
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