Tank Redecoration- Help!

[rossyboy]

I have a Tanganikyan Cichlid tank (only a small 70 litre setup) and i'm wanting to redecorate the inside, i.e to place new rocks, sand, and a 3d background.

Only problem is... if i drain the tank i need to leave it 24 hours + for the silicone to 'go off' so i can fill with water again.

Any idea what I can do with the fish in between? I've not got any spare tanks except for a very small one which would be too small for the fish I have.

Ideas please!

thanks in advance...

 

[tenohfive]

Bathtub and a carefully placed extension cable?

 

[rossyboy]

I live in an apartment... so only have a shower!

 

[tenohfive]

Okay, hows about picking up a big plastic bin from B&Q or somewhere like that?

Something like this: 80L bin for £11.

http/www.diy.com/diy/jsp/bq/nav/nav.jsp?...p;isSearch=true

 

[rossyboy]

Great idea...

would i need a filter in it or sumthing?

 

[Corleone]

Great idea...

would i need a filter in it or sumthing?

You should be able to just run your tank's filter on the tub, especially if its a similar size to your regular tank.

 

[tenohfive]

Yep, and the heater as well-though I'd jury rig something to keep the heater a bit further away from the sides of the bin than normal - it may just be me but I wouldn't trust a heater close to a plastic side.

Maybe tie some string across the top middle, then wrap the heater cable round it so it hangs centrally. Thats my thoughts anyway, I'm sure someone with a more practical mind can come up with something better.

 

[rossyboy]

excellent. it says 24 hours on the silicone tube, but then on a guide online i've seen it says up to 72 hours?

It's only to seal in the 3d backdrop, fix the rocks together... 24 hours be ok?

and great idea with the string, i was wandering about that and could see an accident coming along!

I'll make sure i put in the coral sand to keep the water stable too.

 

[tenohfive]

Sounds good. I'd go by what it says on the bottle-if its proper aquarium sealant then following the instructions will usually work out.

 

[wackystarfish]

If youre using the silicone to fix the new rocks, why not do it before you take the fish out of the tank. You can wait, then you will minimize the time needed for them to be out of the tank That way you can be sure the rocks are dried, and it is only the backdrop you need to worry about. Otherwise, use a bucket. If you have any plants, put them in the bucket too.