acrylic rods used on baserock????

[glenn10]

I recently read a post by Louie about using acrylic rods drilled into the baserock of a reef system. If memory holds true, the rods suspended the bottom of the rock one inch above the substrate.

Here’s my question. The concept sounds great as no waste can get trapped between the substrate and the rocks. Are there certain creatures, ie jawfish that need the rock resting on the substrate or doesn’t it matter? Is there any downside to this method?

 

[Anonymous]

It was not my intention to leave the 1" gap. I did fill that tank with sand and filled it so that most rocks have 1/2" clearance most of the way around. I have enough sand in other areas of the tank that I could move it around and fill the gap if i have any problems.

I think in such a small tank, the increase the surface area of the sand may result in a healthier sandbed. The gap could however, turn into a detritus trap. We will see. Livestock may eventually redistribute my sand such the gap no longer exists. I purposely filled the front of the tank so that it doesn't look like the rock is suspended off the bottom, as i think that would look unnatural.

My original intention with the rod was simply support the rock off the glass in order to provide a stable base without burying expensive live rock or base rock, and have it more aestically pleasing than PVC. I have seen to many tanks where the pvc ultimately becomes exposed, and i don't want that look in my tank.

I'll take a pic of the tank with the sandbed sometime this weekend.

Louey

 

[glenn10]

Thanks for your thoughts Louey.

Glenn

PS, I took the first acrylic course at the same time that you did.

 

[fungia]

just curious what is this acrylic course you guys are talking about? i would like to learn more.

 

[Anonymous]

yeah, i totally want to see a picture.

 

[Kabob]

Louey, I was curious given the cear properties of acrylic can you actually see the rods? I think that would be a cool effect to have it look like the rocks were hovering above the sandbed. 8)

Jason

 

[Anonymous]

The refractive index of acrylic is different from sea water, so you can see the rod easily.

Let's see who post a pic first. If I do it first. Louey needs to buy me a drink! 8)

 

[Anonymous]

David Magen said:

Let's see who post a pic first. If I do it first. Louey needs to buy me a drink!

The drinks are on you, buddy!