Backfill For Terraces/substrate

[cartandpeg]

Hi,
I will be using pool filter sand a my substrate and I was thinking of building some terraces,basically I would come out 6 inches from the right hand back corner along the side wall and the back wall of the tank and build a rock wall across about 10 inches high and then another in front of that about 8inches high and so on.So it steps down/up.

As I would like to keep my substrate not deeper than 2 inches deep( in case of any gas build up) could I cut out polystyrene to shape and place that behind the rock wall and then add my 2 inches of sand on top of that.

Also I would like to do the same on the other side of the tank,but due to my pick up tube for the filter I will have problems,could I cut mt pick up tube back so it is shorter or is it better to have it going the full depth of the tank as it does now.

Thank you.

 

[Aquascaper]

Polystyrene is safe for use in the aquarium, just make sure any cut edges are sealed (melt them with a hot air gun or similar) to prevent pellets coming loose.

You can cut the intake pipe shorter but ensure that the water flow moves water up from the bottom of the tank to avoid dead spots. Most dissolved organics are held in the top level (hence why skimmers take from the surface) so it actually helps.

 

[cartandpeg]

Thanks for the info Aquascaper,
I have changed my mind that many times on how I might want my tank to look,I look at pics on different tanks and think that looks awesome,living in a small rural town does not help,no access to big aquarium places to have a good browse at what might be about to buy.

 

[raptorrex]

you could also use Fullers Earth.
I found it great for contouring the tank floor.

 

[cartandpeg]

Thanks raptorex,
the only thing I can find about fullers earth is what seems to be a make up product,as being in Australia I suppose we do not have that specific product.Thanks anyrate.

 

[DrRob]

In Aus I believe that the nearest you can find is diatomite, or diatomaceous clay.