Above the Tavern with Parka!

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
I came up with another idea about the gravel in the Cleveland. I won't need to remove it to put the new undergravel plates in. I can bag it inside the tank and move it to one end and then set one plate at a time and move and empty bags of gravel as needed. And that includes keeping the pea gravel separate from the lava rock. I decided to get the Cleveland fitted with the new air powered undergravel filters before I start that next build.



Here's a few pics to look at:

I'm going to use three plates in the Cleveland, each plate is 3 feet long and so I will have a 2 foot gap at one end that I will do a deep sand bed...
The Cleveland May 11, 2025.jpg




Here's a look at Czech style lift tube build. These things crank out some water movement!
DIY airlift.jpgLift Tubes May 11, 2025.jpg


I had to cut away at the shelf braces for a full water flow. Even with those pieces cut out these shelf units make for some sturdy UG filter plates!!! I didn't even have to buy pipes for lift tubes, they were included! HAHAHA!Ready for Service.jpgLeft Half of Chicago May 11, 2025.jpgBlue Gourami May 11, 2025.jpgHouseplant filter may 11, 2025.jpg

Jungle Val.jpg

Chicago may 11, 2025.jpg
 
I see what you mean about the shelf braces blocking off flow across the whole plate. nice job on the cutaways, should still have plenty of support. Looks like those plants are starting to take off. I've always liked giant danios, remind me of little trout. They are pretty long lived for a small fish too. I had one that had a stroke, so paralyzed it could barely wiggle. Over time it improved and learned to swim again, never was quite the same but got to where I was the only one who could pick it out of the crowd.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Parka
I see what you mean about the shelf braces blocking off flow across the whole plate. nice job on the cutaways, should still have plenty of support
I really am pleased with how well suited these storage shelves are for being re-purposed as Under Gravel Filter Plates, Lift Tubes Included!

These shelf units are so sturdy and the corners are double lined and I'm using an oscillating tool to cut the inside corners out where the lift tubes go and I use the same tool to cut the notches on the bottom braces.

My current issue is getting that gravel moved in the Cleveland, it takes a lot of energy and need to stay well rested in order to have energy...

I still got this going on, I need more Energy!
Pool Pond, May 15, '25.jpg
 
MonsterFishKeepers.com