Setting up an African Cichlid Tank

[dempsey6]

So I just set up an 120 gallon cichlid tank. I bought about 200 pounds of stone and built up a rock structure about 4.5 feet long and 16-18 inches tall.

I'm a newbie to this stuff so I was wondering a couple things. Is 200 pounds too heavy for the tank? And how dangerous is it to have the stone built up like that?

I'm scared that when im cleaning the gravel the stones may come crashing down and possibly either REALLY crack my tank or break it completely :wall::wall::wall::wall:

I'll take any information you guys have! thanks!!

 

[NegativeLogic]

What do you have the rocks resting on? It's recommended to put some egg crate (basically lighting grate - you can get it a home supply places) on the bottom of the tank so that the weight is more evenly distributed and you won't get any point loads that could cause cracking if the weight shifts.

You can also consider making some segments of rock that are siliconed together (or otherwise secured) for better stability.

 

[blue2fyre]

You're fine. Egg crate can help with peace of mind. You would be surprised how much rock the bottom of a tank can hold. You could pile it up to the top and still not damage the tank.

 

[Rollinondubz200]

sounds like a sweet setup. ide like to see pics