Simple DIY Aquarium Background

[@maryannbrown9964]

I love this! Thanks so much for a great, easy to follow video. My 9 yr old daughter and I are building a Paludarium using this technique. We did decide to use pond foam so it would be gray/black under the tan play sand. So far we have built our underwater columns and our raised land area using this technique in several various applications. So far we love how it's turning out and the caverns and intricate way the foam forms under the sand is crazy cool. Easiest way to make the rock formations I've seen. Thanks again!

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+Mary Ann Brown Thanks and you're welcome! I would love to see how your project turns out! Maybe you could share it with us when you are finished?

[@maryannbrown9964]

+Native Fish Keepers I'm super new to using KZbin, but I will definitely try. Our project is an occasional weekend project, so it will take us quite a while. I have a couple of pics I can share now if I can figure out out.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I will be looking forward to seeing it!

[@maryannbrown9964]

+Native Fish Keepers Here is the link to our first weekend of pics. I haven't uploaded any pics of our progress from this weekend just yet. We have a 65 gal tall tank. The plan is to have the raised land area for a transfer of our already established small vivarium which currently houses a tree frog. facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10206609467260892.1073741863.1398462663&type=1&l=b74acc7a4d

[@NativeFishKeepers]

It's looking good so far! Can't wait to see it finished

[@velnlynilic7530]

Oh man, saw this after watching others making backgrounds, cement this, cut that, stack....whew. Fantastic!! I used Native fishkeppers idea and used plastic leftover containers( dollar store) for cave in foreground of tank, siliconed large on bottom and stacked smallar on top. Did this foam and sand thing for a rock formation around it, silicone sprayed it.. AWESOME!!! You rock and it looks like rock. Fish are happy. Thank you.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

That sounds pretty cool! I am happy it worked out for you. I would love to see it, you can share a link or maybe share on the Native Fish Keepers facebook page.

[@Aedony]

This would be awesome for a rainforest terrarium, all these caverns are ideal to put moss in!

[@smalliebiggs971]

That's absolutely neat! Love this one. Looks so natural!

[@santhavaraja3373]

This would be perfect for mbuna cichlids. Thank you for this video. I'm going to do it for my 75g mbuna tank. I would be using less sand. I love the small hiding spots for the fishes. Thanks again man. This is awesome 👌

[@ericmcginnis9413]

I really like the way it turned out! I brought a bunch of styrofoam home from work tonight and at first I tgmtgt I would carve it up and paint with cement but after watching this I now think I will go this route! Thanks for the idea bud!!!

[@MTEXX]

looks almost like an inside-out reef. truly unique

[@delvalle298]

Very good I'm impressed. Good job.😎🐠🐡

[@deborahjeanne2141]

I wish I’d seen this video before I spent $150 on a 3D background. And it just arrived today. Yours looks better than mine and it wasn’t all that difficult to make!

[@sschario60]

Very creative!.Thanks for sharing, man. Going to play with this technique for my 75 gal mbuna tank.

[@darthfushang1]

Tried this and thanks a lot it came out great but I would love to see your finished product all set up. I have a 33 and 55 gallon tank and plan on having a 100 gallon tank and I will be using your techniques.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/enq2qZ6Nf8yVb9E

[@darthfushang1]

Thanks man, it is more beautiful than I imagined. Working on two tanks now my wife thinks I'm insane. A tank with DIY decorations and a live plant tank. You're the best

[@bmx214racer]

That turned out great! I've been wanting to make my own and don't really want to use the concrete that most people use. I'll give it a try!! Thanks for the video!

[@PatriotCoinRings]

I've actually built several of these but you definitly taught me something here. I use to design reptile tanks using expanding foam but I use to let it fully expand and I'd hand carve all my rock sculptures. Once I had a really good form, I would layer it over with cement, sand, rocks and wood. My problem was no matter how much silicone I used on the back when doing this for aquariums, if I didn't have a ton of rock in place it would be so darned bouyant I had a heck of a time keeping the background to stay in place. What I learned here and very interested in is how you put your sand down while the foam was still setting up and how nice those caves and crevecis were. That would be awesome for a reef aquarium because coral would eventually grow over it all. I'm just wondering if it worked for you because it was only 12" tall and 48" long so there was very little water especially with the step and lots of fill sand to the right of the tank and whether it would stay submerged in a normal sized tank like an 80g that is typically around 27"-32" tall? Oh well you definitly gave me something new to work with.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I haven't had a problem keeping any of the ones I have made. But then again I haven't made any for a very tall tank. I would think that adding rocks to the background would help keep it down.

[@MarkLowCarb]

Simply the best fake background DIY that I've seen. Awesome, been looking for something similar. Instead of a styrofoam backing I'll use eggcrate neon light protector, I don't want the background to be boyant. Plenty of small river rocks along the bottom.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Thank you, I am happy you liked it! Good luck on your build!

[@GreenNGoldFever]

Mark Derail, did you make that fish tank background with the egg crate light protector? Did the foam stick ok? Did the top have a tendency to tip or water and substrate hold it in place?

[@jamisonrayned.7052]

Setting up my first tank and so excited to try this. Thank you for such a creative and unique tutorial!!!!

[@forgebynature2782]

I just want to add a little FYI for people going to do it. Great stuff foam is an open cell foam so once its applied. do not cut it because then it is open and water will travel throughout and could damage it. It would be optimal to use a 2lb foam but they dont sell small cans of the stuff

[@larrymarkham7166]

Sir Charles , The great id use great stuff pond foam it is a closed cell foam and is safe for fish or other animals

[@danilocentonze9092]

Sir Charles ,great

[@hemendrasingh4546]

Sir Charles , The great Great information

[@polpolazi]

i dont understand, how water will damage the foam? the foam meant to be in aquatic conditions. so what will go wrong then?

[@GumCow]

You're supposed to trim it if you'll end up coating it with silicone, and then your substrate. It makes it adhere better.

[@erikprice3271]

They make great stuff foam for ponds and tanks. It's brownish black.

[@pbiffy1535]

This looks awesome ! I have been searching for a background to diy & this one is the best I have viewed. Any chance you can show an update on this background ?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I no longer have this tank. I tore it down after 3 years and it was still in great shape.

[@BeautifuLakesStreamsBiologists]

Very nice, thanks! I used to keep trout up to 3 pounds in aquariums. It was very educational for trout behavior.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+Natural Ponds Lakes & Streams by Spring Creek Aquatic Concepts 3 lbs! Sweet!

[@firstnlast6502]

+Natural Ponds Lakes & Streams by Spring Creek Aquatic Concepts what kind of trout and how large of aquariums? and are these fish for your consumption or simply viewing pleasure?

[@BeautifuLakesStreamsBiologists]

cory Blundell I have had trout to 18 inches in a 4 foot long aquarium, but that was a simple system where the fish were being fed. What we are working on currently is a ten foot long system where most of the forage will be produced naturally. These fish were all pets. You could never afford this to grow fish to eat. Most species of trout will work, but rainbow trout might be the easiest.

[@robingagan6288]

That looks amazing. I used thick styrofoam and carved rocks but I like yours better

[@patterdaleman1141]

Looks ...king awesome mate , Just wondering, I want to create an island in my tank , but want it to look natural, Have you ever used this technique to create rocks , an boulders etc , ?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Thanks, I have used it to make I guess you call them rocks or maybe more like small mounds in bottom of tank. I created them directly onto the bottom of tank so they were stationary. If you're wanting to make them so you can move them. You will need to make them with some kind of weight in them.

[@patterdaleman1141]

@@NativeFishKeepers , thanks for your reply bud , yes I thought they might be buoyant, So maybe I could stick styrofoam to a piece of flat slate , or an inert piece of material first , Then build my structure off that , then they could be removed if necessary,

[@beck7394]

What can you say about durability of this Minwax clear spray and is it long lasting undrwater? You did very, very good titorial. Thanks

[@whitetrashandhellbound6905]

3 things I would like to say... 1: Love the phone ringing lol classic 2: If you use the spray foam, but but the "Low Expansion" interior window/door foam you may be able to control your foam a little better. Also, after 10 - 15 minutes the foam will dry enough to form somewhat of a crust on the outer layer. You can manipulate the foam at this stage. You can press it in for custom cave, stretch it slightly for ledges. Just some food for thought. 3: I would like to see your finish product. I think it would look nice all set up in your tank. Great video... Cool idea, I am going to try it out. Thanks!

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Thanks for the tips and here is the finished product kzbin.info/www/bejne/e33XoIKAgMyZga8

[@thatoneguy2800]

vgvgggvggg vgggvgvgvgggvgvgvvgg

[@rayhughes8240]

Best video on an aquarium background ever. I noticed the Minwax sealer is no longer available. Apparently, the new replacement should not be exposed to water for very long. Could you tell me a replacement product and as I'm in Australia I will try to cross-reference the details if it cannot be purchased here.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Thank you, I don't know of a replacement yet. but I do know of a guy not using any sealer and his is holding up nicely.

[@rayhughes8240]

@@NativeFishKeepers Thank you for the reply. It is very much appreciated. I don't want to push my luck with the questions But can I leave the salt out if I just want a basic freshwater aquarium with slightly smoother rocks

[@NativeFishKeepers]

@@rayhughes8240 yep

[@TheBSideDJ]

the result is very good !!!

[@PatriotCoinRings]

Question: When you removed the excess sand after the expanding foam dried up, did you just sit it up on its side and shake it off or did you rinse it off to remove all loose sand?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Just shake it off...the poly spray will adhere anything else that isn't that secure.

[@patriciaselenechandler6542]

Hi! I’m in love with the way your project turned out. I can haedly wait to do mine. I got all the supplies, and I am ready to try and make background following your video. I went to your channel but couldn't find a video update on how the background is doing. I would appreciate it if you could tell me how long I should expect to enjoy this background before I have to redo it. Thank you.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I removed it after 4.5 years and it was still holding up perfectly. I know a guy that made one like this and is still in his tank and is 6 years old.

[@patriciaselenechandler6542]

@@NativeFishKeepers Awesome! Thank you so much for the quick response! I really appreciate it.

[@merchpublicschool9331]

Great job! thus the best I've seen so far on youtube! the cavities are really what makes it stand out from the rest and look so realistic. Could you please post a video of the finished product with the fish inside the tank thank you

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+Samir Farsane Already have one up kzbin.info/www/bejne/enq2qZ6Nf8yVb9E

[@gabe3366]

This is a really cool method. I like how it does the work for you and you don't have to carve out all the rocks.

[@michellecook3340]

Seriously i cant stop watching this video.Clever isnt the word this has left me speechless.Great Work absolutley fantastic xx

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+Michelle Cook Thank you!

[@SUPERMAN-pn7dm]

WOW, YOU SHOULD GET A LIFE HUN,,

[@laurenmiller9389]

Very interested, after putting this in your aquarium did you have any

[@robinhansler4976]

As soon as I watched this I subscribed, great job

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Thank you

[@rtgibson1961]

WOW.. This looks like natural reef, I would of really liked to see the finished project, most tanks have that bar across the middle did you cut it in half, sections or what? This would be a first time project so please excuse me for all the questions. I'd really like to watch you do another one! Thanks

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Yes, I had to cut it when I put it in the 40 long.

[@rtgibson1961]

Thanks, is it possible to put up a video of the finished tank, its really impressive?!

[@NativeFishKeepers]

It's already up look for North American Native Stream tank

[@829smith]

Great idea. 4 years later would be interesting to get an update on what it looks like. Durability? issues?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I pulled it from the tank this past summer and it held up great. No issues what so ever. You can see pics of another one I made that was the same age on Native Fish Keepers Facebook page

[@clayhlong126]

great job made one for my 36g tank this week,i just siliconed it to the tank.was wondering how long before the silicone needs to sit before its good to go.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+C Long I give it 2 to 3 days just to be sure it is completely dry and cured.

[@lukeg5410]

Hi there, what polyurethane spray are you using (water or oil based)? I have called minwax and they do not recommend ANY of their polyurethane products to be submarged and they all leach out chemicals once they absorb water. They also warned that the product will discolor and peal, hence it's not recommended even for outdoor applications. Please advise, Luke.

[@joseloalvez9174]

Awesome, i just did my 110 gallon following these steps, came out incredible, letting the tank cycle now before i move my oscar, blue texas, and jack dempsey into it. came out great though!

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+Joselo Alvez Cool, would love to see how it came out! Maybe you could share on the Native Fish Keepers Facebook page?

[@jaredkassouf1017]

If I were to to this for a 220 gallon, how would you recommend attaching styrofoam sheets to eachother if I were to attach them on top eachother so that they don’t fall apart in the future.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I would use toothpicks and silicone to start. Once you add the expanding foam and it hardens it will add a lot of rigidity to it and hold it together.

[@jaredkassouf1017]

Native Fish Keepers ok cool, and do you just silicone the finished product straight to the glass or secure it another way?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

@@jaredkassouf1017 just silicone to the glass

[@lindseyfrost8347]

Great video!!! Thank you so much for thanking the time to film this for us. I've been looking for days at different ideas for my new 75, this is perfect!

[@lindseyfrost8347]

Taking*

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+Lindsey Frost Thank you and you're welcome

[@rjspidell3291]

This is by far the coolest background I've seen I plan on giving it a shot this weekend for a 40 gallon I'm curious tho dies it affect the heater at all I didn't see where you had yours at

[@NativeFishKeepers]

You would have to create an area for it near your filter intake. I keep North American natives so I don't use a heater.

[@rjspidell3291]

Thanks so much for the feedback I realized that after watching your video a few more times I just have one more question how did you color the back of your styrofoam so so you can't tell it's styrofoam from the outside of the tank?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

@@rjspidell3291 I didn"t color it. If done right you shouldn't be able to see the styrofoam except from the sides and back of tank.

[@willparsons32]

3D backgrounds are spectacular however in order to have one - one must have located his or her aquarium heater(s) in a sump.. I do not have a sump so my heaters are positioned against the lower back glass pane of the aquarium. Any suggestions on how one can install a 3D background with the heaters in this location?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

You could form a space behind the background and have the filter intake near it. That way the water that is being warmed is also being circulated throughout the tank.

[@willparsons32]

hmm... Or have some real good water circulation going through the backdrop which I think you would want to have in order to keep "Dead spots" of Ammonia or Nitrates building up (hiding!)

[@salmodiespeak9712]

Great idea. I tried your method but my sand didn't stick very good. Any other tips not mentioned in video to help. What type of sand did you use?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+Salmodies Peak The sand I used was just stuff I collected from a local river. Tips: make sure sand is 100% dry,apply sand as soon as possible( so if doing a large background do it in sections), and let it dry completely before removing sand.

[@carlblackwell1849]

Hi just seen this looks brill but can I ask instead of spraying it can you place coats of cement on it to seal it as you would do with polystyrene ones ? Thansk

[@NativeFishKeepers]

You probably could but might be kinda hard to get to some spots.

[@mannbub]

My freshwater aquarium is 30" tall, I would like to make the tower kind of decoration in middle of aquarium so that fish can swim around the center pillar/tower(built somewhat as your video), any guidance/suggestions for my project?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

So let think, you are wanting to make a center pillar that would be square/rectangular in shape? If so, I would make your pillar out of styrofoam board. Then add the great stuff and sand to one side at a time allowing it to dry before rotating and doing the next side. I hope that makes sense.

[@mannbub]

@@NativeFishKeepers It sure does sound a goog way, does styrofoam piller last in aquarium and how to make it sink in water

[@jaredkassouf1017]

The Spray foam doesn’t need to be sealed in any way? No toxins to worry about?

[@jordanhenderson3741]

Would the foam make the same rock like shapes if you didn’t use sand? I really like the way this turns out, but wanted to paint the foam with drylok instead. Do you absolutely need the weight of the sand to create the texture you have here?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Yes and no. The sand keeps the expansion of the foam to a minimum. Without the sand the foam would expand several inches and the creation of caves and nooks and stuff would be minimal.

[@jordanhenderson3741]

Thanks for getting back to me! I picked up some pink crayons play sand, I think it’ll make a real nice reef kind of look!

[@jordanhenderson3741]

Crayola*

[@jordanhenderson3741]

Crayola

[@HungryHungryShoggoth]

So I made one of these and for the most part it worked great, I did have one problem though. I'm not sure if it was the temperature where I'm at or if I was just too slow with the sand but I've got quite a few large bare spots of foam. Do you have any idea what kind of adhesive I could use to attach more sand that would be safe? Or will the poly spray for the final step make any adhesives a non-issue?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I did have a bare spot on one of the ones I built. I used a spray glue , can't remember the brand though, and then made sure I used plenty of the clear coat over the area. And I didn't have any issues with it.

[@HungryHungryShoggoth]

Native Fish Keepers awesome, thanks for the quick reply!

[@tokurhkn]

THE AQUARIUM IS VERY NICE, AND A FEW TUBES OF SILICONE DID YOU USE

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+hakan tokur Thank you, I used one tube of silicone.

[@johngutierrez9242]

Is the minwax polyurethane fast drying clear gloss oil based or water based because all I can find is oil based

[@beck7394]

Can we use epoxy lack instead of polyurithane spray? Thanks

[@NativeFishKeepers]

not sure

[@wilsondeleon9461]

How many water changes does this need? Before it’s safe for fish to be put in tank

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I do one 100% water change one day after putting in tank.

[@Calbreos]

This is great! Instead of silicone do you think you'd be able to suction cup this to the back or would it just be too buoyant?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

You may be able to use suction cups. It is pretty buoyant. You could offset that by adding rocks near the bottom of the background.

[@Calbreos]

Sweet! Thanks for the reply!

[@laurenmiller9389]

Very interested, did you have any problem with your fish after you installed this background?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

No problems at all.

[@TheCsntennessee]

Hey there! Thanks for this tutorial. I actually just finished mine and was wondering did you do anything to it after it was all dried? I've soaked mine in water but it still smells so strongly of paint fumes. Just wondering what prep you might have done prior to actually putting it in the tank and will the smell even be an issue for the fish. Thanks!

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Thanks, I installed in empty tank and let it soak for a few day changing the water daily. I have never had any issues doing it this way out of the four backgrounds I have made.

[@TheCsntennessee]

@@NativeFishKeepers thanks so much!

[@raniaravind242]

a

[@uncletater8422]

I'm making a 3D background as well, I'm just curious about the Polyurethane. Does it matter exactly what kind it is? Lowes has a few different options. Gloss, Semi-gloss, Base, Fast drying, stuff like that. The curing process is what I'm most worried about.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Uncle Tater I'm not sure what others you can use. All I have used was the Minwax brand fast drying Polyurethane spray. I will have to look into other types and brands.

[@uncletater8422]

Native Fish Keepers Thank you for the reply. I just want to make sure I get the correct stuff. I'd hate to have to have a ton of fish die due to leeching.

[@OgDj2024]

👍🏾 So, is there a part 2??

[@justinabernethy5330]

This is a great idea. I was thinking about doing a Cichlid tank and thought this would be a great alternative to something like holey rock. It would give the fish a lot of hiding options. Any thoughts on whether you think this would work for that?

[@justinabernethy5330]

Also wanted to know if the Styrofoam you are using ever gets soft and releases the Styrofoam little white beads in the tank?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Justin Abernethy It should work just fine. And I have not had the styrofoam get soft even in the 20 long that I built a background for 3 years ago.

[@mannbub]

Does Styrofoam pillar last in fresh water aquarium and how to make it sink in water?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Yes, it will last for more than 4 years as that is the longest I have had a background in an aquarium. When I removed it it was still in really great shape. As for making it sink, maybe try adding a brick or a rock in the center or try soliciting it to bottom of aquarium.

[@muhammadyoussry4625]

This is really the smartest way ever but can you mention the name of foam spray used

[@2DebbieDoo]

Hello! May I ask, I got a beautiful piece of sandstone from Az that I would like to use in my aquarium. I am worried that, over time, the current in the tank will erode the sandstone and ruin the piece. Will this polyurethane work to seal it?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+2DebbieDoo Yes, I would apply 2-4 coats allowing it to dry in between coats.

[@2DebbieDoo]

Native Fish Keepers That's Wonderful!! Thanks SO much!

[@NativeFishKeepers]

You're welcome!

[@miroslavivanov7220]

I think it a great Background. great job

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Thank you!

[@bradcarter4677]

Hi, im wondering what type of sand you used for this project or could you tell me what type of sand can be used. Im looking for a dark look like yours so play sand and pool sand wouldnt be what im interested in. Thanks

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+Brad Carter It is sand I collected from a local river. Just about any sand could be used as long as it is aqaurium safe.

[@sG-fx8ei]

hi. great idea. would love to try this in my planted aquarium. please help me with the name of the spray you used to make coral shape and the spray u used at the end to color it. thanks in advance

[@NativeFishKeepers]

The materials are in the description with links to purchase

[@sG-fx8ei]

Native Fish Keepers . hi. thanks for ur reply

[@NativeFishKeepers]

you're welcome I hoped that helped

[@sG-fx8ei]

Native Fish Keepers yes. its something very unique. very excited abt diy. thanks again.

[@josecantu4286]

What kind of sand is that?? Im in houston texas that to me looks like dirt, but it does sound like sand. Can i use dirt??

[@NativeFishKeepers]

It's sand I collected from a local river. Not sure if you can use dirt or not.

[@GreenNGoldFever]

Ok brother. Watched the video quite a few times, read pretty Much all of the comments and troubleshooting questions. I might have a stumper for you. I am buying a tank with dual overflow in the corner. Any idea how to build the background around (since they are semicircles) to encompass the sides and hide them? Love the videos by the way. Please keep them coming!!

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Pretty much the same way you would build around a filter intake. Except don't build all the way to the top of the tank. Just build to the bottom of the lits in the overflow. This way the water flows over the background and down the overflow. I would use a block of foam and cut it to contour the overflows and the shave off the front to thin it down before adding spray foam. I hope this makes since as I can see it in my head.

[@GreenNGoldFever]

Native Fish Keepers I know exactly what you mean brother!! Awesome idea shaving out the block foam to contour. Thanks again, keep the vids coming.

[@DavidJHarrisonEssex]

As I'd like mine a light or medium grey do you have any idea what I can use? I suppose standard sand sprayed grey can't be used as the spray would have a bad effect on the water. Thanks

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I would look for grey colored sand or coat it in a watered-down cement mix.

[@ferst5937]

Can you tell me how you made it waterproof and how you kept it from floating?

[@maxextz]

Excellent idea. Thanks

[@darwin5921]

This looked great, at first I thought the foam was going to go flat after you put all that sand on , I'm amazed at how it went all crevlisy and more natural, I'm defiantly going to try this,however, I think I'm going to go with a cement Finnish, i know I'll have to 'cure' the cement over several weeks but I think cement will be better for moss to grow on. Great job tho mate could have shown a finished picture.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Thanks, checkout my video Native Stream Tank for finished tank.

[@pauldavies8638]

I am definetly going to try this on my new tank could you tell me please how you would go about curing a cement finish also what type builders?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I have never done a cement background so not sure what to use to cure it.

[@Rews-fish-shed]

the background is extremely buoyant I tried it in my 70 tall, the silicone i used heavily on the back side to attach it to the tank. only problem hat i didn't take in account was that i was using a rimless tank. i would suggest a bottom ledge and heavy rocks to hold it down. i went another route and crack the front pane of the tank now im $200 in the hole for a new pane of glass but the background di turn out great must say just giving a heads up and a lesson learned

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Robert Palmer Sorry to hear about the broken tank. And yes the background is buoyant. My tanks have a rim so that must of helped keep it down. The rock idea is great idea. Also you could incorporate rocks into the background to add weight and decor.

[@Rews-fish-shed]

Was thinking of layering the styrofoam on the next one 1/4 at a time. first layer cut to form of tank next layer cut out pockets to and cement into and a third layer to cover that and adhere to the tank. I think that would cure any future problems. that along with using the acrylic silicone instead will solve all issues.

[@MrSkittles618]

Where did you go to get the sand. I used play sand and it didn’t turn out like I expected

[@NativeFishKeepers]

from a local river

[@jimychandratjia325]

awesome. naturally shape. btw. what kind of foam i can use ?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

There are links to the materials I used in the description. As for the foam for the base I used white styrofoam sheets the stuff used for packaging.

[@jimychandratjia325]

Native Fish Keepers : thank you

[@Neilecc]

Great video. Just made my own in the same way. Looks fantastic. Thanks for posting video.

[@patrickthoen1]

Awesome work Native Fish Keepers Can i create this and add it later the tank? Cuz mine is full of water already but still without fishes.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I would say yes, as long as you drain the tank so that you can silicone it to the back. And leave it like that until the silicone dries( a couple days) then refill the tank and enjoy.

[@reefer9224]

What type of sand did you use? Some sand raises PH.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

it was collected from a local river.

[@reefer9224]

@@NativeFishKeepers so its basically dirt.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

@@reefer9224 no, it's sand( small pieces of rock, quartz, and shells}

[@theseusc1]

I have a few questions please. First off, the build looked fantastic! Thank you for the tutorial. I've been skimming here and there on the best way to try this and I keep coming up with conflicting information. The aquarium I'm hoping to work with is 48x24x18 (90g) and it's for my piranha. They prefer acidic water and I've heard from other sources that builds like this can raise the pH significantly, like as much as 14. (1) Have you noted such levels, and if so, what have you done to make it safe? (2) As far as anchoring the pieces, some use straight silicone, some use magnets with egg crate, and you're saying basically to silicone it to the back of the tank and add weight to counter the buoyancy with rock, correct? (3) I noted in the video you had mentioned adding stone but then decided against it. Will the Big Stuff foam act as an adhesive to hold the stone in place or do you need to use silicone as well? Also, does the weight of the stone matter in the placement so it does not pull away or break the foam? (4) Would you suggest play sand (kid safe) over industrial? I don't have any natural collection areas to harvest sand from like you do. (5) How long have your builds lasted in their fully submerged aquatic environments? Have you noticed any fading or material degrading over time? (6) Lastly, how does cleaning the rock walls work for you since the foam is probably highly susceptible to breakage? Thank you so much, I appreciate your time!

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Theseus Crabb Thanks and your welcome. 1). Depending on what sand you use will depend on whether or not you will have a ph increase. The sand I used has a lot of limestone so yes I did see an increase. But I'm not sure if the minimal amount of sand from the background would cause such a large increase. As I used the same sand for my substrate. To be safe for you application. I would use something that inert. 2.) I used silicone in my 20 long. And in the new stream tank I didn't use anything. As the substrate and the rocks are holding it in place. It helped out tremendously that the background is L-shaped. As it kept it in place much easier. 3)Yes, the foam will act as an adhesive and hold it in place. If you look at the short end of the background In the stream tank. There is a rock near the bottom. I would try to keep heavier stones near the bottom. As they may cause the background to pull away from or may fall out if not secured properly. I have not tried this myself so not really sure. 4) I know play sand is safe for aquarium use. Not sure on the industrial sand. Whatever you decide on just make sure it is aquarium safe. Also use only dry sand. As any dampness will not allow in to adhere correctly. 5) My background in my 20 long is now over 3 years old. And it is still holding strong with only a slight change in the color of the foam. But I'm not sure if it's the foam itself or just because of bacteria growth on it. I have noticed some slight degrading of the white styrofoam near the top of the background. Nothing that has caused any alarm. I just noticed it has some degrading after 3 years. It s very minimal. 6) I usually don't clean the background off. As I like the look of the growth on it. I did get some green slime algae (cyanobacteria) growing on it and was able to siphon it off with minimal contact. I hope this helps you out. Please feel free to ask anymore question. I will answer them the best I can. Thank you for watching.

[@theseusc1]

I will definitely refer others to your video. Thank you so much, I greatly appreciate it!

[@getoffyourbassandletsfish7651]

Doesn't that poly..... Spray can disolve the white styrofoam ? On the back and sides? Do you have to splay the styrofoam too?

[@getoffyourbassandletsfish7651]

How do u attach to tank back?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

No, it doesn't dissolve it. Yes I have to lay the styrofoam too.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Silicone it in place

[@pauly600k5]

this weekends project! thank you its awesome and looks Great. job well done

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+Paul Marler Thanks!

[@danmo43]

Cool video! Thank you! Oh, btw, you would be amazed how much easier and more foam when you hold the can upside down and pull the trigger up like the instructions tell you to.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Thanks, I hold the can upright to try to control the amount of foam easier.

[@danmo43]

Ah, I see.

[@apo1980]

great video thank you made some for my tanks they look great

[@sebastienlapointe8070]

I'm remodeling my crappie and perch aquarium and i was wondering if you might know of a good place near toledo to get pike walleye ect.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I don't know of any exact location to catch pike near Toledo. But the Maumee river contains both pike and walleye.

[@sebastienlapointe8070]

ik

[@sebastienlapointe8070]

thx though

[@Piercey79]

Hi, thanks for the video... really amazing. Minwax seems impossible to get in the UK unless you're willing to spend a fortune. Do you know what to look for in other polyurethane sprays to make sure that when cured they are fish safe? Thanks.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+Piercey79 DO you have Krylon products in the UK. Krylon Crystal Clear spray should be okay.

[@Piercey79]

+Native Fish Keepers We do but it's Acrylic not polyurethane. Should be OK? thanks so much for the reply and support on this build.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

My bad. It is Krylon Clear Polyurethane not the Crystal clear. Polyurethane becomes inert once cured.

[@AlecBig]

Guess my question is how the heck did you get that into the tank I'm sure you couldn't even pic it up without the foam backing not breaking and rocks falling off only to completely destroy the glass.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

easily, first i had to cut it in half length wise because of the center brace in the tank. But the background was extremely rigid and held together perfectly. Also the rocks were held securely in place with no signs of falling out. The styro foam and the expanding foam together made the background rigid and held up against it's own weight.

[@estikakon3743]

Greetings I really liked the video and made a background like you explained .. The problem is that I do not have the sprite you put in the end. The question is, what can I put on the sand so that it does not come down when I get into the aquarium? Thanks in advance

[@simondamkjr909]

looking good! im about to try the same. but im trouble with finding a clear gloss for protecting thats actully proven its not harmful for fish or in water. and ofcourse there aint any minwax products in denmark ;-) and btw. are you using 2 protection sprays or is it something different.?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+simon Damkjær Just on protection spray. It's the Minnwax Clear polyurethane spray.

[@simondamkjr909]

okay you know any other that be ok to use? the sand have to be completely dry for sticking better?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I haven't tried any other sprays. And yes the drier the sand the better it sticks.

[@alain9816]

what type of sand can i use thats store bought and wont harm the fish or is any type of sand fine for this decor

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+gone loco Pool filter sand and play sand can be found at your local home improvement store. Or any sand sold at your local pet store.

[@dadzwag]

How well has this stood up for you? Has it been leaching chemicals into the water? I'm liking this method more than the concrete one

[@NativeFishKeepers]

It's held up great! It can be seen in my monthly update videos. I have this type of background in two of my tanks. I have had no issues with chemicals being leached. I keep some sensitive species in these tanks also with out problems.

[@CLE-Ls-and-Cichlids]

So if you were to use quikrete instead of sand let it cure then spray it with water would it harden ?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I have no idea, sorry.

[@afterburnerboyz]

This is really cool! I'm going to try this on a 20 gallon long in a few weeks. Can you tell me what kind of sand it is that you used?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+afterburnerboyz It is sand I collected from a local river.

[@davdev]

What kind of sand do you use? I have never been able to find one a good dark color, most around me is tan or white.

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I collect it from a local river.

[@DavidJHarrisonEssex]

Was that your mum phoning to check you had clean under wear on? 🤣 Nice video, I'll be making an Aquarium in the recess between my outside wall & my chimney breast which is around 46 inches long by 19 inches from front to back, the height cam be what ever I want it to be, from floor to ceiling but I'm going to have a hight of around 2.5 to 3 feet, I've been wondering what type of back ground to have, this has helped a lot. I want mine to be a light/medium grey. So frustrating it cut off, couldn't you have edited it after by showing it in the aquarium? Any way, thanks from here in England, U.K

[@NativeFishKeepers]

At the end of the video the video link shown titled North American Native Stream Tank is it in the tank.

[@DavidJHarrisonEssex]

@@NativeFishKeepers Just viewed it & Liked it, thanks. it's 02:35 here in the U.K.

[@seancc3]

can we us any polyurethane spray or paint? or is there something I should watch out for when buying one?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Not sure what others you can use. Look for something that is inert when fully cured.

[@farukgungor8294]

Great idea and work, thanks for sharing. Good man

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+FARUK GÜNGÖR Thank you!

[@beastmode7225]

wow nice what kind of spray do you used for it? and can I use aquarium sand from the shop for background ?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Minwax Clear Spray and yes you can use sand from the shop.

[@reagandornan1898]

Thinking about doing this to my 55, but it has a brace in the middle on top. Would I have to 2 piece it?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+Reagan Dornan Most likely or you could build it as one a cut it in half.

[@reagandornan1898]

+Native Fish Keepers thanks for the quick replay man! And did you actually cut the styrofoam to fit snug or loose? I love your stream tank and I was seriously contemplating on completely copying it because I'm not creative, but then I saw that it busted so I think I'll scratch that idea lol

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I cut it to fit snug. It busted because I made a mistake of not putting something under the big rock. I rebuilt it in a 40 long and put a piece of foam under the rock. And now everything is good and still running fine. Just learn from my mistake. And try to distribute the weight of heavy objects.

[@reagandornan1898]

+Native Fish Keepers thanks man your tanks are awesome! 👍🏼

[@reagandornan1898]

+Native Fish Keepers hey man I just finished my background for my 55 it turned out awesome I wish I could show a picture of it

[@HungryHungryShoggoth]

This turned out amazing! I've been looking into how I could do a nice background for my 55 gallon South-American themed tank and this looks perfect. Only question I have is about durability, most other methods I see for diy backgrounds use quickcrete, however that will leach limestone into the water column and takes a lot of effort to rinse and make fish-safe. Your method shouldn't have that problem, but without a concrete layer does it last as long?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I had one in another tank that was setup for over 3 years. And when I removed it it was still in very nice shape. Also this one is 3 and a half years old and still holding up nicely.

[@HungryHungryShoggoth]

Native Fish Keepers awesome! Well that seals it then. I'm tearing down and re-sealing my 55 so I'm definitely going to put one of these in there

[@NativeFishKeepers]

Cool, please share when you are done!

[@velita2094]

The sand you used for this build was a specific type of sand or jus any regular sand for aquariums will work ?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

The sand was just sand I collected from a local river. I have seen many people use different kinds of sand with good results. So whatever suits you is fine.

[@ralphvaderguy6860]

Did the sand make the foam turn into rock formations?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

The foam expands and the weight of the sand keeps the foam from expanding into one giant mass thus creating the formations seen in video.

[@abrahamnutrition]

Do you just silicon it to the back? You know I see Vivariums/paludariums being made and they will foam directly onto the glass. I wonder if this technique would hold up?

[@NativeFishKeepers]

I just silicone it to the back of the tank. I tried making mounds once that I foamed directly to the bottom but they didn't hold very long( a few months).

[@abrahamnutrition]

Thanks for the videos!

[@mattcero1]

Do those materials off-gas and expel toxins into the water? I'm just curious as I'm about to do something like this. Thanks for the video. Matt

[@NativeFishKeepers]

+Matt Cero From what I gathered no. Once they are completely cured they are inert. I have been using this type of background for over three years. And I have yet to have any issues with it. And I keep some sensitive fish such as darters.

[@misterXlonely85]

what sand did you used ?? and what is the spray that you used in the last step for protection >> this is a good design

[@NativeFishKeepers]

misterXlonely85 The sand is sand I collected from a local and the spray is Minwax Fast Drying Polyurethane spray.

[@misterXlonely85]

aha that's good thnx :)