A few ways I have done things.

[justupgraded15]

Here are a few ways to save money and find a quick fix to problems.
-Filter Floss=100% polyester fiber (use poly fill for the same effect, but cheaper)
-Plastic canvass, fishing line, and silicon sealant make good guards for filter uptake tubes to keep out small fish and large debris
-Plastic canvass, fishing line, and some plastic spoons can seal off the back open section of an aquarium to keep escape artist fish from leaping out. (had it happen with hatchet fish)
J.R.

 

[Inchworm]

Hi justupgraded15

You are right about the filter floss. The kind you buy at the lfs is identical to the fiberfill or quilt batting that can be bought at a fabric shop for much less money. The important part is to make sure it's 100% polyester.

But what do you do with the plastic canvass, fishing line, and some plastic spoons to close off the back part of the aquarium. How do you put it together?

 

[justupgraded15]

You cut it to size around the open spots on the back of the tank, tie it together with plastic canvass, and use the spoons as support.
J.R.

 

[Adrinal]

 

[mhoward1999]

Thanks for the tip on the plastic canvass. I never thought of that! I have used it for a nursery before, but never occured to me to use it for a guard. I lost a cory to jumping once, and I used to have a female guppy who was into breathing air, I guess. Every once in a while I would walk by the tank and she would be in the floor. I would throw her back in and she'd be fine. It wan't long until I bought a new tank with a hood!

 

[Inchworm]

Hi justupgraded15

The idea with the plastic canvas is a good one. It would work out well for people with frogs since they are big jumpers too.