How to Build Plastic Fish Caves

Fish accessories are a way to liven up your fish's habitat, making it more interactive for the fish and more aesthetically pleasing in your home. Adding a cave to your fish's aquarium is key in providing shelter and camouflage, and also gives the tank visual interest. An easy way to make your own fish cave is by using plastic PVC piping, which is inexpensive and can be found at home-improvement stores. Using the PVC pipe along with materials already in your home can make for a great-looking fish cave.

Things You'll Need

  • Hacksaw or small-toothed power saw
  • PVC pipe
  • Sandpaper
  • Hot glue gun
  • Glue sticks
  • Bowl
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut the PVC pipe to the length desired for the cave. The circumference of the pipe can be whatever you wish, but it should be wide enough to give your fish adequate space to move through.

    • 2

      Cut the PVC pipe lengthwise. Don't cut the pipe in half; only about a quarter of the pipe should be removed. The result will be a C-shaped pipe half.

    • 3

      Cut the ends of the pipe on a diagonal, similar to the shape of a trapezoid. This will make the overhang less extreme, giving the fish easier access to the inside of the cave.

    • 4

      Sand the entire pipe. This includes sanding rough edges to protect your fish and the surface of the pipe to make gluing easier.

    • 5

      Glue rocks or sand all over the surface of the pipe. Use the same type of rock or sand as the bottom of the tank is decorated with for extra camouflage. You may need to glue multiple coats of rock or substrate to hide the entire pipe. Let the glue cure for at least an hour.

    • 6

      Soak the cave in a bowl of water for at least one day, then rinse.

    • 7

      Insert the cave into the fish tank, pushing the edges into the bottom rock or substrate to hold it in place.