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Broke CFL over sump! Should I be concerned

Bobbofin

Non-member
My new tank is cycling. I have a 18 watt CFL in the stand. I broke it and a 1" piece of the bulb into the bubble trap of my sump. I immediately unplugged return pump and drained the sump and refilled. I know CFLs contain mercury. Should I be freaking out?
 
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Its a very small amount of mercury and I am pretty sure the silver color in fish is partially created by mercury. Also Mercury evaporates. So you should be fine with the steps you took.
 
I have done this twice before and not had an issue. One time the entire broken bulb fell into the sump. I put carbon in right afterwards. I didn't notice any ill effects.
 
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