This list is a dynamic list of reader submitted tips, tricks, and substitutions. Please e-mail me(
freshaquarium.guide@about.com) with your favorite tips, shortcuts, pitfalls to watch out for, etc. As the list expands, I'll sort it by topic. To get things started, here are a couple of my tips.
Dividing a tank - Ever need to separate a fish (or two) from the others, but didn't have a spare tank? If priced dividers at the pet shop, you probably decided you might as well buy a second tank! Don't give up, there is an inexpensive way to divide a tank in two. Go to any department store that has a craft section, and purchase a sheet of plastic canvas - the type with big holes. Cut it a bit wider and taller than the tank, then slide it in so the bottom is buried well into the substrate and the top is slightly above the water level. Viola! Instant tank divider.
Seeding a new tank - Seeding is the process of using gravel from an existing tank to jump start the bacterial colonies in a new tank. If you know you are going to start a new tank, take a filter bag, fill it some gravel you plan to use in the new tank, then put the bag in an established tank for a few weeks. When you get the new tank set up, transfer the bag of gravel into it, and you have built in bacteria. Don't have a filter bag? No problem, use clean panty hose instead (my thanks to Kathy for submitting that tip).
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