
AQUARIUM CONSTRUCTION, TOOLS AND APPLIANCES 

square aquarium may be adapted, but at a window with front light, the 
proportion should approximate a double cube, the length twice the breadth; 
but in either form the depth of the water should not be over 20 inches. 
Aquarium Bases. A variety of materials may be utilized in the 
construction of a base or bottom for an aquarium. Heavy white pine, 
cross-battened on the under side and covered with zinc or glass; a plate 
of thick glass inclosed in a strong wooden or other frame, or slabs of 
marble or slate are all practicable; but wood will prove unsatisfactory for 
aquaria exposed to the weather. Slate is the best material and may be 
had of dealers in the desired sizes and thicknesses, with the edges either 
polished or marbleized. Slate bases one inch thick weigh 14 pounds per 
square foot. The required thicknesses are: 
For aquaria to 15 gallons, not less than % inch thick. 
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40 34 
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is cc « cc «ee a9 «cc «cc «ee 
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Aquaria with cast iron bases and frames may be obtained but should 
be thoroughly protected from rust on the surfaces in contact with the 
water by asphaltum varnish or other protecting covering. 
Aquarium Frames. Wooden frames may serve for small aquaria, 
but are not satisfactory. Contact with the water will cause warping and leaks. 
Zinc frames are too weak for aquaria of larger size. Angle brass frames 
are largely used and make handsome aquaria, either polished and lacquered 
or nickel-plated. For very large aquaria the angles, as rolled, are weak 
and should be reinforced by soft-soldering two together, as otherwise the 
resistance to the water pressure will depend too much on the strength of 
the glass plates. Angle iron is the most satisfactory for all sizes and may 
be obtained in different widths and thicknesses. The proper sizes and 
weights are: 
For aquaria to 15 gallons, % to 5% inch, weighing .56 pounds per foot. 
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cc «c “c 80 «¢ I «cc «cc 1.50 «c «cc (<9 
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Aguarium Gtass. Double-thick window glass may be used for 
aquaria under 20 gallons, or for the narrower sides of those under 30 
gallons capacity; but its composition is such that its power of expansion 
and contraction is slight and itis liable to fracture from slight strains. 
Double-thick Crown or German-flint glass is preferable, and better resists 
pressure and danger from accidents. Plate glass is best for all aquaria, 
and may be had in two or more thicknesses, 14 inch for aquaria under 60 
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