my tank rescape experience

[floriana]

Just finished redoing my malawi tank and I'm a bit more pleased with it, but still not quite there with that natural look I'm after.

Glad my fish decided to make an appearance for the photos though.

[floriks]

That thermometer seems out of place.

If you're going for a natuflake look, using a single type of rock might be the way to go - the mix and match thing is kinda throwing me. I mean, I'm pretty sure I see one of those artificial rocks that resemble dried-up playdoh with holes drilled in, and it's kinda standing out.

Not trying to be harsh or anything, just tossing in my thoughts - maybe a more uniform rock choice could help you achieve that natuflake vibe you're after.

[oceanix_10]

If I were you, here's what I'd do - move that thermometer to a side, out of the way. I'm not a fan of seeing equipment in the tank, but if it's got to be there, let's hide it. I'd either reposition the heater so it's almost horizontal, just slightly raised at the gauge end, and tuck it behind the rocks with the cable coming out behind the filter pipe, or move it over to the filter pipe to keep it out of sight.

Also, I think using the same type of rock throughout would really help achieve that natuflake look. Adding some more along the back to create a wall effect could work well too. Have you tried searching online for images of your fish in their natural habitat? Sometimes that can give you some great ideas for decorating the tank.

[keelmate9]

I think the background would look way better without those water marks, or maybe just switch to a black one.

[oceanix_10]

If you can reach behind comfortably, consider getting some ceramic tile paint and give it a coat.

[floriana]

I really appreciate all the feedback on my tank. It's been a work in progress for ages - over a year now. I collected most of the rocks myself, but I didn't have enough, hence the mix. The artificial ones are just a temporary fix until I can get some more on my next park trip. The thermometer was only in that spot temporarily while I was refilling the tank after the water change. My husband is still working on the background, so hopefully that'll come together soon.

[floriks]

I scored a ton of granite at the local quarry for a steal - 2 bucks. Got way more than I can fit in my tank, so thought I'd throw it out there as an option. Yeah, I know, finding rocks in a park sounds like more fun, but quarry granite is a heck of a lot easier to find in bulk. Plus, it's dirt cheap - they sell it for 30 bucks a ton. Here's how my tank turned out with the granite chunks.

[floriana]

The park I went to had a ton of loose rock from all the hill blasting they did for the roads - most of it's the same type, I just didn't grab as much as I needed when I was there.

[waveborn]

It'll be alright, not perfect, but it'll work. Mbuna don't need as much space between rocks as you'd think. If they can squeeze through, they'll prefer to be fin to rock, believe it or not. Tighten up the stack a bit and add more - it's not bad, just a bit short and gapped.

Build it taller and tighter if it's for pure Mbuna. Leave a small bit of open water, trust me. I've used all fake rock in my tanks, but not the cheap-looking stuff. I use high-quality stones - that's not a concern. Just make sure the gaps are only just big enough to squeeze through, and the stack is stable, as fake rocks can move easily. Add plenty of choices for them, and you'll have happy fish.