Slate slate and more slate

[wormstyle]

I'm currently in the process of redoing to setup in my 55. I am stacking flat pieces of slate in the tank.

My plan was to have it stacked about half way up the tank all the way across the back with caves here and there. I figured it to be about 200-300 pounds of slate to do what I want. Which worked out great because a friend of mine was throwing away an old pool table so I grabbed it and busted the slate up to make a kick *** tank. Just don't want to bust the bottom out.

Is there a limit on how much I should put in?
Any suggestions?

 

[jm1212]

having lots of caves made of slate would be perfect for african cichlids.

i dont think there is a limit as long as you have something supporting the entire biootm of the tank, llike a thick peice of wood.

 

[wormstyle]

Currently just a home to my Electric catfish and a few dozen feeders (temporary home before my Gar and Oscars get fed).

Some african cichlids would be nice though. How many would you suggest for a 55? The EC pretty much just hides all day and night so they would prob not bother each other.

 

[wormstyle]

Hmmm just read...

Catfish

Do you think the slate is to sharp for him? I knew he was fat and sluggish but didn't think he would cut himself.

 

[blackwolfXKAV]

are you planning a 180?
Hes going to need a lot more room.
If you are concrened about the slate, you could grind it down somehow.
Good luck!

 

[wormstyle]

Planning on building a custom tank in the near future... well 6 months... living in an apartment now so can't really do it yet.

I know i'll have a big enough tank for the EC.... now the gar I don't know what i'm going to do. He is doing well in the 75 now but he's growing pretty quick. any suggestions?

 

[Mgamer20o0]

people use egg crates or something below the rocks to spreed out the weight. i would use something plastic that is safe for the tank.

 

[Rbishop]

use the egg crate lighting fixture covers.

 

[midnightmadman]

pics~!!

Lets see some pics!!