I want to se up a small waterfall/river section. I have the material to make a false bottom and plan to do so with 1.5 inch spacers.
What kind of pump should I get? Want one that will push the water up at least 8-10 inches. Not serious pressure - but enough to slowly move the water. One that is quiet and reliable.
Any micro-pump will work. You could also modify a standard aquarium powerhead. I think any submersible pump can pump 8-10".
How deep should the water be at any pool? Dont want it too deep.
An easy way to make a pool is cut a small section of false bottom away and screen it off. Rocks and/or moss can be used to conseal the screen. I wouldnt go deeper than 1.5"
How would you set up a water heater in a tank to make it removable if something were to go wrong? How warm to make the water to properly heat the cage?
you could maybe place it in the pool or where the waterfall is draining. Thats the only way I could think to make it easily accessible. Depending on the species in question, whatever temp they are most comfortable at is what you should set the heater to.
What is the best way to cut glass? I would like to set up an overflow drainage hole. I plan to have a good amount of mist in the cage via my rainmaker system that currently sprays 4 times daily - for 3 minutes.
If it's tempred glass, you're sol. However, if its not, get a large shallow tray (enchelada trays work well) and fill it with water. Completely submerge the glass pannel you will be drilling in the water. A dremel tool with a diamond coated bit works great, just dont rush thru it. The water will do a good job of absorbing the heat, but if you try to go too fast, the glass WILL crack and you'll be pissed. Use a steady up-down motion to cool down the bit every couple seconds. 3000 RPM seemed to work good for me. Also, you will know its tempred if you are drilling for 5 minutes and arent making a scratch.
Hope I covered everything.
-David Taylor
