Make a tank divider with simple handtools for about $10
Why do you need a tank divider?
- One common way to breed large, aggressive Central American cichlids is using the "divided tank method". A sturdy divider is used to separate the pair which then spawn on opposite sides of a barrier.
- When you're low on tankspace and have incompatible species.
- When you need some extra space for a recovering fish
You can complete this project using only simple handtools in about an hour.
Before you get started…
- Be safe! Wear safety goggles.
- This projects involves the use of sharp tools. Be careful! This is not a project for kids.
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Tools Neededa. Hacksaw c. Ruler d. Diagonal Wire Cutters |
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Materialsa. Purchase a 2' by 4' sheet of Styrene eggcrate material at a building supply store such as Home Depot. Expect to pay between $5 and $6.This is the cheapest material and works better You will find this material near the drop ceiling section. b. 1/2" PVC Elbow (Qty = 2) c. 1/2" PVC Tee (Qty = 2) d. 1/2" PVC Pipe (comes in ten foot sections) e. 8" Nylon Cable Ties |
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Step 1Measure the inside width of your tank. Measure the water depth of your tank (from the bottom of the tank to the water level). Subtract 1/4" from each dimension to allow for easy placement in the tank. |
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Important Note! |
Take into account the size of the PVC fittings in your measurements! Generally speaking, you will need to subtract another 1/2 to 3/4 inch for each fitting. We suggest you first cut the PVC pipe to size using the dimensions in Step 1. Then, press on the fitting(s) and measure the length to find the necessary adjustment. Measure twice, cut once! |
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Step 2You'll need to cut 7 pieces of PVC pipe: A) 2 Verticals B) 1 Horizontal C) 4 Legs (8" long) Use the hacksaw or backsaw. A vise is helpful. |
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Step 3After cutting all the pipe, |
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Step 4a. Assemble all pieces excluding the legs. STOP! Test fit the divider in your tank. b. Add the legs, once you're sure everything fits. NOTE: PVC Cement is not required. A friction fit is adequate and allows for easy |
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Step 5Using a pair of diagonal wire cutters, cut the eggcrate material to size. The eggcrate should slightly underlap the frame. |
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Step 6Cut notches in the eggcrate for the base. Use the diagonal wire cutter. |
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Step 7Fasten the eggcrate to the frame using the cable ties. Use one per corner and one in middle of each section. |
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Step 8Cut off the excess cable tie. |
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Installing the Tank Divider |
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Step 1Remove the bottom "legs" from the tank divider. |
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Step 2Clear out gravel from the bottom of tank. Place the tank divider in the tank. Note: We've added a clay tile as a spawning surface for a pair of large Blackbelt cichlids. |
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Step 3Clear out gravel from the bottom of tank. Place the tank divider in the tank. Insert the four legs securely. |
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Photos by Rick Borstein.