Since 2006 or so, when I started in this crazy hobby, I can't count how many times I've had to aquascape. Whether it's due to an upgrade/downgrade/move/just want to change how things look.. it's always the same. I get that thought "Hmmm.. I think it's time to re arrange the rocks in the tank!" (Or because I have to due to relocation/etc.. ) and in the beginning I'm enthusiastic and optimistic.
First:
Not only do the rocks not 'fit' close to how you want, but you have to take into consideration:
-Structural stability
-Flow
-Coral placement
-Enough height for higher light loving inhabitants
-Making sure your rock will fit in the tank with enough space to wipe up the glass
-And finally; the general look of the rocks.
In the beginning I have a great idea of how it should look considering the rock I have. Then, I take everything out and try my hands at the new scape.. after 20 minutes or so of arranging/getting things the way I like.. I have to take the rocks apart and try to epoxy (more on that later) or use plastic/acrylic rods (more on THAT later) to secure the rock. Funny thing is; it never gets back exactly the way you want it!
As for epoxy.. I have no idea what I'm doing wrong (it must be something) because epoxy is ridiculous. Today I even let the rock sit in the same spot for over an hour (actually.. almost 2.. ) without touching it.. and of course, being careful IT CAME APART with the slightest movement. "You can drill it 1/2 hour after application.." Right, and I'm an astronaut cowboy millionaire. :lol:
The plastic rods are okay I guess.. If you don't mind having to drill through rock. Some is very simple, but most takes a long time and is quite tough and messy to get through. I've been drilling all day.. haha. And I feel you still have to use some sort of puddy to make the rocks stay in the same spot.
Even if the above is conquered, there's still the matter of getting the rock structure into your tank without moving it at all, and actually liking it.. Not to mention the cloud that appears.
OK. So, who wants to come and aquascape for me? :lol:
/rant.
First:
Not only do the rocks not 'fit' close to how you want, but you have to take into consideration:
-Structural stability
-Flow
-Coral placement
-Enough height for higher light loving inhabitants
-Making sure your rock will fit in the tank with enough space to wipe up the glass
-And finally; the general look of the rocks.
In the beginning I have a great idea of how it should look considering the rock I have. Then, I take everything out and try my hands at the new scape.. after 20 minutes or so of arranging/getting things the way I like.. I have to take the rocks apart and try to epoxy (more on that later) or use plastic/acrylic rods (more on THAT later) to secure the rock. Funny thing is; it never gets back exactly the way you want it!
As for epoxy.. I have no idea what I'm doing wrong (it must be something) because epoxy is ridiculous. Today I even let the rock sit in the same spot for over an hour (actually.. almost 2.. ) without touching it.. and of course, being careful IT CAME APART with the slightest movement. "You can drill it 1/2 hour after application.." Right, and I'm an astronaut cowboy millionaire. :lol:
The plastic rods are okay I guess.. If you don't mind having to drill through rock. Some is very simple, but most takes a long time and is quite tough and messy to get through. I've been drilling all day.. haha. And I feel you still have to use some sort of puddy to make the rocks stay in the same spot.
Even if the above is conquered, there's still the matter of getting the rock structure into your tank without moving it at all, and actually liking it.. Not to mention the cloud that appears.
OK. So, who wants to come and aquascape for me? :lol:
/rant.
