Hey guys!
So the 120g tank I have is getting redone. Silicone was starting to go so I stripped all that off and will be cleaning then resealing hopefully by end today. Now when the silicone cures the plan is the put sand substrate in, then refill. Unlike last time where I had basking platform in tank, I want this tank to be 100% filled with the 120g capacity. My thought is to build on the side or even the back of the tank and wooden fixture to make a out of tank basking area. If I did the side of tank I will also make it a shelving unit to hold supplies for tank.
Now this tank is to house my 1 adult female RES. Because she is a female she obviously lays eggs. So my thought was to build the basking area a sand substrate as well so she can lay eggs there as well as bask. My question, actually questions, are:
1. A all sand basking area sound good?
2. Should I do half sand and half something else like cork bark?
3. What should the size sand area be if I do half sand and half something else?
Any input I appreciate. I was this tank to be better then what it was. Will be running original canister but also trickle filter to help skim top, maybe she'll allow fish too! Next is also debating how to go from tank to basking, really want a natural look but prices of driftwood by me is crazy expensive!