Flat base for the rock

[rsach]

The 55g cube that I bought had this base at the bottom, it's made from hard plastic with rough top, the previous owner had it custom fit. During the tank cleanup I removed it and found some sand under it which I cleaned up. Should I put this back, any harm in doing so?

 

[mike550]

That‘s really interesting. I know that some folks use plastic eggcrate to help distribute the weight of their rock aquascape across the base of the aquarium so there aren’t any “pressure points” on the glass. It also helps to keep the rock in place if the sand moves. I’m guessing that the plastic serves a similar purpose.

I‘m sure others will have thoughts on whether this is a good idea or not. I don’t have an opinion one way or another.

 

[rsach]

Any advice on this? I'm almost done with cleaning the dry rocks and wanted to see if I should start with or without this at the bottom. Thanks!