CHAPTER IX. 
ARRANGING THE COLLECTION, 
When the tank is secured it is properly cleaned with clean 
water and a sponge, but without the aid of soap, and filled up 
to the top with water to test the resistance of the glass and to 
detect any leaks. In making this test the tank should be in a 
perfectly level position, and of course not in a carpeted parlor. 
Having stood the test, it is now placed in position, care 
being taken that it sets perfectly level. Now get the washed 
rocks or tuff-stone intended for the. rockery ready, and put a 
sufficient quantity of well-washed sharp sand on the bottom of 
the tank to cover it to the height of about one or two inches, 
This done, seat yourself in a chair some distance away from 
the aquarium, look at it, and study the best effects regarding 
the arranging of the rocks. Don’t be in too great a hurry; re- 
member that this arrangement is to be for at least one season, 
and don’t forget that you must make allowance for the plants, 
making as little shade for these in placing the rockwork as pos- 
sible. The arrangement of the rocks being completed, the next 
move is the planting of the plants. Since we know that these 
are the prime factors for the maintenance of the aquarium, this 
should be done with great care. 
The plants may be well-rooted specimens or mere cutting:; 
in either case handle them gently, do not bruise or break 
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