just a few DIY 3d Background questions.

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
J

JDMB20TDA

Feeder Fish
Sep 14, 2010
3
0
0
Chicago
So ive been doing a lot of research and Im very interested in building a Intank background for my american cichlids in my 55g tank.
Lately they have been pretty territorial and Im hoping providing extra places to hide and a change of scenery will change that.

Here is the problem, The tank is filled and home to a few fish already,
3 small balas
1 marble pleco
1 pictus catfish
1 jack dempsey
1 oscar

I was going to swing by the home depot and pick up some foam insulation. what I dont understand is why no one uses the pink corning owens foam?
its denser and stronger, and seems like carving and shaping would be a much easier task.

my other problem being the tank is filled and fully cycled is not being able to drain it for installation of the backdrop.
I was planning on just securing the top of the foam with some aquarium safe silicone then using a 1x1 and some dowels wedge the bottom half against the rear of the tank.

Let me know if anyone has any insight or has any tried and true way of securing the foam backdrop without draining it and using silicone.

thanks, Jeff
 
Jeff,

i used the pink rigid construction insulation... whatever is cheapest IMO.. also look into the website that was posted on my DIY background THREAD.

After i started my DIY background i realized the cost is nearing the price of these... and in your case you can just plop it in an established tank.
I'm continuing my project because i like making things myself. but next time I'll probably buy one.

~LiquiD~
 
I think your only option is to add wieghts to the background if you don't want to drain it. A background isn't going to change the aggression. It could make it worse since 3D's take up tank space and will cramp the fish more.
 
And welcome to mfk!
 
hey thanks a lot guys, I figured adding more material and reducing actual tank space could cause problems but the slate I have in there now doesnt offer much protection from the large oscar.
recently the jack is almost all gray in color. with a healthy diet and good water conditions I can only think its caused by stress.
Thanks for the links that is always an option although I really do enjoy getting my hands dirty and putting things together.
 
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