Who Gives A Fish Forums

Hi everyone,

I'm seeking some advice on this mopani wood I bought for my tank. I got home and noticed the bottom is hollow with a rough interior and a small hole. I love the idea of a hiding spot for my Crowntail Betta, but I'm worried the roughness could damage his fins or he might get stuck. Can anyone advise if this is a concern? If so, what options do I have to block it off? Could I smooth out the interior and fill the hole with a Marimo moss ball? Or maybe thread a java fern through the hole, with the roots in darkness? Pictures will be attached. Any advice is greatly appreciated.

You could consider using epiphytes like Anubias or mosses to cover up any gaps or openings in the wood, they'd not only block off the hole but also add some extra hiding spots for your Crowntail Betta.

You could fill the hole with some decorative rocks, or even just some extra gravel, that way it's still a cozy little spot for your Betta but less likely to cause any issues.

floriston wrote: ↑Fri Apr 04, 2025 9:40 pm You could fill the hole with some decorative rocks, or even just some extra gravel, that way it's still a cozy little spot for your Betta but less likely to cause any issues.

I appreciate the suggestion, but unfortunately, the hole is positioned in a way that makes it difficult to add gravel - it's more of an internal cavity that opens up from the bottom of the wood.

floriston wrote: ↑Fri Apr 04, 2025 9:40 pm You could fill the hole with some decorative rocks, or even just some extra gravel, that way it's still a cozy little spot for your Betta but less likely to cause any issues.

I've taken another look and I think I could actually fill it with gravel through the small hole at the top, thanks so much for the idea.

Honestly, I've never seen such a lovely piece of driftwood. Did you get it from Pets at Home?

floriston wrote: ↑Fri Apr 04, 2025 9:40 pm You could fill the hole with some decorative rocks, or even just some extra gravel, that way it's still a cozy little spot for your Betta but less likely to cause any issues.

It was indeed from Pets at Home, and I'm surprised anyone would have left it on the shelf for so long - I feel like I got a real gem.

That driftwood is stunning, I'm literally drooling over it, lol. Would be perfect for my future loaches, the hiding spots and rough texture would be ideal for them.

floriston wrote: ↑Fri Apr 04, 2025 9:40 pm You could fill the hole with some decorative rocks, or even just some extra gravel, that way it's still a cozy little spot for your Betta but less likely to cause any issues.

Hands off, it's mine!

You can definitely smooth out the rough edges a bit with some sanding, that should help prevent any fin damage. As for the hole, you've got a few options - either fill it with rocks or use some plants, it's up to you whether you go for live or fake ones.