How to Make Artificial Rocks for a Fish Aquarium

Making rocks for a fish aquarium allows more creativity in design and is budget-friendly. When making aquarium rock, using non-toxic materials is necessary for the safety of the fish. Creating aquarium rock from a recipe can be accomplished by following simple, but specific directions. Time needed for curing the rocks and testing the aquarium PH level are necessary follow-up steps for the health of the tank.

Type 3 Portland cement can be found at most hardware stores. Mix one part cement and three parts play sand or fine gravel together. The mix should form into a ball and feel like Play-Doh. Wearing gloves is recommended during the mixing process. To create a coral reef look, add additional fine gravel to the mixture. Crushed shells and aragonite sand can also be toxic to fish, and should not be used when making aquarium rock.

Place the rock mold mixture into a plastic container and create openings to allow for swim-through holes.

Rubber or plastic molds can be purchased from a hobby supply store for those who desire a specific rock shape, or any plastic container can be used as a free-form aquarium rock mold.

Let the aquarium rock mixture harden and cure for at least six weeks.

You can paint the aquarium rock after it has sufficiently hardened. Any type of non-toxic paint can be used. Oil-based paints can be toxic to fish and taint the color of aquarium water. Rough edges of any aquarium rock formation should be sanded prior to painting.

Place the aquarium rock in a bathtub or child's pool to allow any excess paint or ingredient chemicals to be washed away. Do not use any type of soap or detergent to clean the rocks.

Use a pH testing kit to monitor the aquarium pH level for at least six weeks after adding the rock. The alkaline content in the water will rise due to the chemical base of the concrete. Placing crushed coral in the aquarium filter will assist with keeping the alkaline level down and enhancing water quality.