How to Set Up the Background for a Fish Tank

The background provides the backdrop for the rest of the decorations in the fish tank. A well chosen background will make your fish feel secure and also increase the aesthetic appeal of your aquarium. Learn how to properly set up the background for a fish tank for maximum impact.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Exacto knife or scissors

Instructions

1. Choose the type of background you want. If you are planning for a more realistic aquarium environment, choose a solid color background, or one that features natural scenes. If you are setting up a themed aquarium, choose a background appropriate to the theme. Most pet stores will have a good variety of backgrounds to choose from.

2. Determine what size tank you have. This is normally measure in gallons. Tanks come in two different types: "long" tanks are rectangular shaped and longer than they are tall, and "tall" tanks are taller than they are long. You will need to know the gallon size and whether or not your tank is long or short so that you can buy the appropriate amount of aquarium backing.

3. Take exact measurements of your tank. Using a tape measure, measure the height and length of the back panel of glass for your tank. This way, if you choose to buy a background that needs to be cut, you will know exactly how much aquarium background paper to buy.

4. Attach the aquarium background to the fish tank. On the design side of the background, there will be a thin layer of plastic that must be peeled away to expose the adhesive that holds the background against the glass. Carefully peel away the adhesive, then line the edge of the background with the edge of the fish tank. Push the background onto the glass evenly and with gentle pressure. Be careful not to get any air bubbles between the background and the aquarium glass.

5. Inspect the background by looking at it from the front of the aquarium. Make sure that it is lined up correctly and that no air pockets are visible between the background and the glass.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a natural background or a single dark color. This will reduce the stress on the fish as it more closely resembles their habitat.