Build your own fish tank for a special home for your fish. Here's everything you need to know about it.
How to build your own fish tanks
The Facts:
Fish tanks can be built at home at your ease. They are very easy to make and include few simple steps in
the making. These home built fish tanks can be made of any desired shape, size or with any materials and colors. Now-a-days, people go for an acrylic aquarium, as the plastic used is non-toxic. Other advantages of the plastic version can be mobility, durability, and availability in different colors and textures. Supplies:
To make a fish tank, you need to have glass or plastic sheets (generally thick) with appropriate adhesives to limit or negate water leakage. The top of the fish tank can be constructed with fiberglass, and the base should be such to accommodate all the attachable equipment, such as check-valves, air-valves, air pumps, controllers or monitors, heaters, filters, and openings for fish feeders, fish food, net, etc. There should also be space kept for aquatic plants and decorations, which might include gravel, sand, or coral reefs. The other important supplies are strainers, chemical test kits, glass scrubbers, and a bucket for filling or draining the tank.What to Do:
The first step in making your own fish tank is to look for an appropriate place in your home for the aquarium to be positioned. After purchasing glass or acrylic sheets, you should clean them with fresh water and sponge. Once you have cut the sheets to your specifications and sealed all the edges to assure that that tank is waterproof, you need to fill the tank with water, and install the necessary equipment to monitor for water leakage and tank filtration. Lastly, you can place the decorations that you have chosen prior to inserting the fish into the tank.Special Considerations:
You need to monitor your tank for water leakage. If the equipment is not working properly or leaking occurs, you may have to drain the
aquarium to repair the unit and the life-supporting equipment of your fish. Other Tips :
Your fish needs a hygienic place to live in. You must keep your water free of waste materials. By changing the water regularly, you can assure a safe living environment for your fish. The temperature should be kept at a constant temperature, as fluctuations in the temperature causes stress in fish and can lead to disease. You should monitor your fish for any unnatural behavior. If you notice signs of white spots or fungal attacks, you need to remember that these can be cured if found early.Expense:
Building your own fish tank can be very cost effective and a personally satisfying project. All the equipment necessary for an adequate aquarium is available at a minimal cost.
