What Is This And Why Is It Leaking?

[Stacy84]

Hello I recently purchased a 120 gallon used acrylic tank because the tank was already emptied
when I went to pick up I didn't insist on it being filled before I left. Being rather new to large
aquariums like this I am slowly learning about the hardware built into them. However, there is
one piece that has me completely baffled. Attached are some pictures of it. If you can tell me why
once I start filling the tank up slowly it starts dripping or leaking into the stand and how i might fix
that, I would greatly appreciate it.
I only filled it up about an inch or two yesterday before i noticed it was dripping so i am unsure
whether once i filled the tank up all the way whether the pressure would cause it to start leaking heavily.
Thanks
Stacy

 

[ox5477]

Looks possibly like it could be an air inlet for a pump to infuse air from the bottom instead of running tubing down from the top.... but this only a guess so wait for more opinions

 

[SkiFletch]

Looks possibly like it could be an air inlet for a pump to infuse air from the bottom instead of running tubing down from the top.... but this only a guess so wait for more opinions

Agreed, looks like its for a bubbler to release air through the substrate or perhaps to hide air hose under rocks to wherever it wants to go

 

[chishnfips]

you could try taking it off and letting it all dry out thoroughly, and then put it back in and seal it with silicon.

Then test it again.

 

[Rooster]

If you dont intend using it, remove it all together and glue a patch over the hole... either glass or acrylic would do the job.

 

[raptorrex]

If you dont intend using it, remove it all together and glue a patch over the hole... either glass or acrylic would do the job.

that's what i would do!!

 

[Tolak]

It appears to be an overflow that someone has plugged with some home made gadgetry. Before you fill it, unscrew that entire plug, go to any hardware or diy store, and tell them you need a plug without the holes & screws someone rigged in there. Get a roll of teflon tape as well, this will insure a good seal with the new plug.

If you plug it instead of glassing over it you will still be able to use the overflow in the future if you so desire.