How to Make Fish Tank Rock Background

Creating a realistic background for your fish tank can be done in multiple ways. If you enjoy the look of genuine rock to back your pet fish and aquarium plants, you can make a fish tank rock background easily.

Things You'll Need

  • Acrylic sheet
  • Aquarium-grade silicon sealant
  • Small rocks or pebbles
  • Saw or sheers
  • Measuring tape
  • Bucket
  • Water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut a rigid acrylic sheet to fit the back wall of your existing fish tank or aquarium. Cut out any holes or pieces necessary for the fish tank filter tube, hoses or heater. This will make it easier to install the fish tank rock background in your aquarium.

    • 2

      Collect small rocks or pebbles from your yard or garden, or purchase a bag of pebbles at a home center or pet store. Wash all rock you use thoroughly in a bucket or sink with running water. The rocks must be free of all dirt, dust and micro-organisms before use in your fish tank. Found rocks could be cleaned with boiling water to kill any bacteria or fungi.

    • 3

      Begin at the bottom of the acrylic sheet and work your way to the top. Squeeze a quantity of aquarium-grade silicone sealant directly onto the sheet, and attach rocks or pebbles to it. Small pebbles or relatively flat rocks will create an aquarium background that is attractive but less obtrusive in the tank.

    • 4

      Continue adding silicone and rock to the entire sheet of acrylic. Place the rocks close together to form a solid wall. Do not use excessive amounts of sealant that ooze up between the rocks. Any small spaces can be filled in with aquarium gravel or even sand.

    • 5

      Attach the rock background to the rear wall of your fish tank with aquarium sealant. Press the sheet to the fish tank glass. For a removable rock background, simply position the acrylic sheet in the rear of the tank and attach it with suction cups or hooks at the top.