clay cave

xander · Post by **xander** » 28 Nov 2004, 23:16

I am thinking of making or having a clay cave made to suit some large plecos. I am not sure if I can use just any clay or if I have to stick to specific types so I don't leech anything in the water. These aren't for breeding just a place to hang. I'm not sure of the design yet I think I will play with it before I fire anything. Just need to know what is safe to use. Thanks

PlecoCrazy · Post by **PlecoCrazy** » 29 Nov 2004, 01:52

If you want to skip making them and just buy them then check out this site.

http://www.cichlidbreeding.com/

I just purchased some pleco caves from him.

MatsP · Post by **MatsP** » 29 Nov 2004, 09:52

Are those Pleco caves not listed on the site? Because all the objects on that site seem to be less than 10" long, and a large pleco will easily reach that and a bit.

--
Mats

Graeme · Post by **Graeme** » 29 Nov 2004, 14:34

Good Point Mats!!

Post by **Shane** » 29 Nov 2004, 15:35

Great link! I was unfamiliar with that site.
Most of the caves are in the 7 inch range. I do not know too many people that are spawning 10 inch plus loricariids. These should get you through Panaque, Peckoltia, Hypancistrus and the other most commonly spawned genera. If you need something larger, why not contact the site and see if they can make something special?
-Shane

MatsP · Post by **MatsP** » 29 Nov 2004, 15:42

Shane wrote:Great link! I was unfamiliar with that site.
Most of the caves are in the 7 inch range. I do not know too many people that are spawning 10 inch plus loricariids. These should get you through Panaque, Peckoltia, Hypancistrus and the other most commonly spawned genera. If you need something larger, why not contact the site and see if they can make something special?
-Shane

OP said "Large Pleco's" and "Not for breeding, just a place to hang". Now, different people have different ideas of large, but I thought this could easily mean 10"+.

I agree, it's probably a good idea to contact the site and see if they do what they have to offer. They seem to have a range of products similar to what OP wanted, and should be able to arrange a "one off" or "extended range" product. And they probably know what works and what doesn't from at least the water-tolerant perspective...

--
Mats

pturley · Post by **pturley** » 29 Nov 2004, 17:45

Don "The Caveman" is at the OCA (Ohio Cichlid Association) Extravaganza every year. Good stuff.

They will definately work with you for the appropriate size caves if you ask (or if enough people ask).

xander · Post by **xander** » 02 Dec 2004, 00:20

I am hoping to design it myself. And it is not for breeding as these guys need to burrow to do that. Its just a place that they call call their own. Somewhere to hide if they want and defend and share whatever. Just sort of aquascaping with clay. That may be a better way of putting it. just want to know whats safe.

fishfever · Post by **fishfever** » 02 Dec 2004, 02:57

You can obtain clay (terra cotta) pipe sections in various lenghts usually 10 inches to several feet long and in various widths. I have seen round ended, square, or hexagonal. I prefer the sided pipes because the do not roll. I glue a terra cotta flower pot plate to the end of the pipe Terra cotta roofing tiles also can be cemented together in any configuration you prefer. All these items are readily available at a home improvement store or a plumbing warehouse at reasonable prices. They are used for underground septic water distribution conduits. These "caves" can be partially filled with coarse sand to allow the animal the luxury of preparing their own brothel/nursery.

clay cave

clay cave

thanks