Could it work? Cherry shrimp substrate

[Gobrian44]

So i was thinking i am growing out some FH fry and there are bits of food at the bottom of the tank. as some are growing larger i am adding dividers so they have their own space. this got me to thinking if i suspended eggcrate an inch or 2 maybe even 3 off the bottom isolating it from all the FH and put java moss and other plants at the bottom could it be colonized with cherry shrimp to help clean the left over food. As long as they did not cross come above the egg crate they would be perfectly protected and there would be more than enough plants and hiding spots for them under the egg crate. Would this help keep the tank cleaner? i know esthetically it would look very odd and maybe somewhat tacky but could it work?

THANKS!

 

[longislandfish]

LOL i dont know if the Cherry Shrimp will be smart enough to stay on the safe side. Very interesting concept however and i would love to see you try and see the documented results. Go For It!

 

[muffywrx]

My cherries are all over the sides of the glass and what not. Doubt many will make it.

 

[Gobrian44]

yeah i really want to try its like an alive ugf and i feel the plants would also help on the filtration. i mean how cool would it be to have tanks like this and not need filters lol. im eager to try this out i definately will as soon as summer school is over... Organic Chemistry is rough lol

 

[muffywrx]

I don't think this will be any substitute for a filter. They may not get much actual food down there, more poop. Yuck!

 

[Gobrian44]

i meant filter as part of the plants as they would aid in the nitrogen cycle. it would take a lot to replace filters. but maybe one day.