An aquarium for larger water animals

A glass aquarium 50 cm by 25 cm is of useful size. Old accumulator cells are suitable, but the glass is not very obvious.

 To prepare like an aquarium procure some fine silt from the bottom of a clear stream or pond and wash it carefully in running water. Cover the floor of the aquarium with it to a depth of about 2 cm. Plant a few reeds in this, weighting the roots with a stone or lead ring. Then put in a layer of coarse sand or gravel and some large stones to serve as hiding places for the water insects. Fill with a slow stream of water and permit to stand for a day or two unless clear. Clean water plants should be introduced.