Caves

[Nofrnds2pla]

Hello, I have a general question about caves. I am going to have pea puffers, and Otocinclus catfish my 10 gallon planted tank. Is a cave with an entrance and an exit preferable for these guys or do they feel safer with a one way cave? Also should the number of caves closely match the number of fish so they all have a home? Thank you for your time. My boyfriend tells me I overthink things Lol…. I just want to give them a happy home.

 

[sharkweek178]

Hello, I have a general question about caves. I am going to have pea puffers, and Otocinclus catfish my 10 gallon planted tank. Is a cave with an entrance and an exit preferable for these guys or do they feel safer with a one way cave? Also should the number of caves closely match the number of fish so they all have a home? Thank you for your time. My boyfriend tells me I overthink things Lol…. I just want to give them a happy home.

I think it's better to have more than one way in and out so that a fish doesn't get trapped by an aggressor.

 

[JackGulley]

I would say the most important thing would be to just have interesting rock shapes for them to explore. This will both provide a surface for them to eat algae off of, and provide an interesting and safe-feeling environment for them. I don’t know that they necessarily pick one cave to “live” in.

 

[madmark285]

. Is a cave with an entrance and an exit preferable for these guys or do they feel safer with a one way cave?

Someone suggested to me for my Mbuna tank I working on, a tunnel (open on both ends) would be used to get away from another fish chasing it. A cave would be preferred when breeding as an example, they will defend it. Not sure if his theories right, tank not set up.

Numerous people have told me, pay attention to line of sight. If the aggressor can no longer see the other fish, he will stop chasing it.

 

[JackGulley]

Honestly, I think “have fun with the aquascape” would be my advice to all new fish keepers. Don’t just throw in some props and call it a day. Creating an environment you’re proud of makes the tank more enjoyable for you AND the fish!

 

[Nofrnds2pla]

I would say the most important thing would be to just have interesting rock shapes for them to explore. This will both provide a surface for them to eat algae off of, and provide an interesting and safe-feeling environment for them. I don’t know that they necessarily pick one cave to “live” i

I would say the most important thing would be to just have interesting rock shapes for them to explore. This will both provide a surface for them to eat algae off of, and provide an interesting and safe-feeling environment for them. I don’t know that they necessarily pick one cave to “live” in.

Makes sense….just keep it interesting for them!

 

[Back in the fold]

The best caves ever are coconut shells . Cut one in half and put a hole or two in it with a hole saw and you have the best little igloo type caves ever . Not sure but I think the organic qualities of coconut shell is good for your water too .

 

[Ceez]

Hello, I have a general question about caves. I am going to have pea puffers, and Otocinclus catfish my 10 gallon planted tank. Is a cave with an entrance and an exit preferable for these guys or do they feel safer with a one way cave? Also should the number of caves closely match the number of fish so they all have a home? Thank you for your time. My boyfriend tells me I overthink things Lol…. I just want to give them a happy home.

My Oto's like to hide in the plants when theyre not scavenging the tank. I've never seen them in the caves we have. I've seen them on top of them but never in them.

 

[sharkweek178]

My Oto's like to hide in the plants when theyre not scavenging the tank. I've never seen them in the caves we have. I've seen them on top of them but never in them.

My pygmy corys hide in plants and behind driftwood. I had a little cave in there but none of the fish ever used it.

 

[Ceez]

My pygmy corys hide in plants and behind driftwood. I had a little cave in there but none of the fish ever used it.

My redtail shark, clowns and plecos use them but never have I seen an Oto use one. I could be wrong though as Otos are fairly small and it would be hard to see them in a dark cave. I do see them asleep in the plants for the most part when they're not out and about cleaning the tank

 

[JackGulley]

Yes, mine really like to perch on top of rocks or plant leaves but never under