Why do fish and shrimp need hides?

Hides give fish and invertebrates a place to retreat when stressed, rest between feeding, and establish territories. They mimic natural environments, making your aquarium inhabitants feel safe and secure.

Are 3D-printed aquarium hides safe?

Yes — when printed using aquarium-safe materials like PETG, hides are non-toxic and safe for long-term underwater use. Our designs are made to be smooth and snag-free to protect delicate fins and antennae.

How big are the entry holes?

Each hide in this set features 2.5 cm (1 inch) entry holes, ideal for shrimp, guppies, corydoras, and even small plecos. These openings are large enough for easy access while still feeling safe and enclosed.

Will these hides work for plecos and bottom dwellers?

Absolutely. Plecos, corydoras, loaches, and other bottom-dwelling species love having multiple sheltered areas. The 3-piece set allows you to spread hides across the tank to reduce competition for space.

Do the hides blend into aquascapes?

Our coral-inspired texture and neutral tones make them perfect for both natural and stylised tank layouts. They can be placed among plants, rocks, or driftwood without looking artificial.

What are aquarium hides used for?

Aquarium hides provide shelter and a safe retreat for fish, shrimp, and other tank inhabitants. They reduce stress, encourage natural behaviours, and create a more balanced tank environment.

Why choose a 3D-printed fish shelter?

3D-printed shelters are lightweight, durable, and can be made in unique shapes and textures not possible with traditional resin decor. Our designs are made using aquarium-safe PETG material.

What size fish is this large shelter suitable for?

Our large coral shelter measures approximately 13 x 13 x 13 cm with 2.5 cm entry holes — perfect for small plecos, corydoras, shrimp, and medium-sized community fish.

Is this shelter safe for planted tanks?

Yes. The smooth PETG finish ensures it won’t damage plants or fish, and its coral-inspired design blends well with aquascaping layouts.

Can the large shelter be used in saltwater aquariums?

Absolutely. PETG is non-toxic and suitable for both freshwater and saltwater tanks, making this shelter a versatile choice for a wide range of aquariums.

What size cave is best for bettas?

25–30 mm entrances suit most bettas, giving them shelter while still letting them turn and swim out.

Are 3D-printed caves safe for shrimp and fish?

Yes — our caves are made from aquarium-safe PLA/PETG with no coatings or paints. Always rinse before placing them in your tank.

Can these caves be used in saltwater tanks?

Yes — the material is inert and unpainted, making them suitable for both freshwater and marine aquariums.

Where are Blubber Cove caves made?

Every piece is designed and 3D-printed in our UK family-run workshop, tested in real aquariums, and shipped quickly.

Where do you ship from?

All orders ship from Northumberland, UK. Dispatch usually takes 2–4 business days.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes — tracked international delivery is available at checkout. Shipping times vary by location.

How do I track my order?

Once your order ships, you’ll receive a tracking link by email. UK parcels are sent via 48-hour tracked service; international orders include tracking.

Do you take custom requests?

Yes — tweaks, scale changes, or new ideas are welcome. Contact us via the site and we’ll confirm what’s possible.

What materials do you use for aquarium décor?

We print in PETG or PLA depending on the design. Both are aquarium-safe plastics that won’t leach chemicals. Pieces are finished smooth to protect fins, shrimp and snails.

Are your aquarium products fish- and shrimp-safe?

Yes. All tank items are designed for fish and shrimp use with no coatings, paints or glues — just inert plastics hobbyists trust.

How do I care for aquarium décor long term?

Rinse in tank water during water changes. Avoid boiling or harsh scrubbing. With light care, the décor lasts for years without warping or releasing toxins.

Do your floating hides actually float?

Yes — each one is buoyancy-tested before shipping. Some tanks may need a gentle nudge or a suction cup to settle them in place.

Can shrimp or fry use these caves?

Yes — caves are designed with small entrances and smooth edges so shrimp, fry and nano fish can hide safely without risk.

Can I put the décor straight into my tank?

Yes — give it a quick rinse in tank water first to remove dust and help it settle naturally.

How many cards fit in your deck boxes?

Most designs hold 100+ single-sleeved Magic: The Gathering cards with room for tokens or dice. Check each listing for exact capacity.

What materials are used for deck boxes?

Durable PLA/PETG that keeps its shape over time. We craft in small batches so every hinge and latch is tested.

Can I customise a deck box?

Yes — custom requests such as scale changes, colour swaps or simple engravings can be discussed via our contact page.

Are Blubber Cove aquarium ornaments safe for fish?

Yes — all décor is printed in aquarium-safe PLA or PETG with no coatings or paints. Smooth edges protect fins, shrimp and snails.

Can these ornaments be used in betta or shrimp tanks?

Yes — entrances are sized for bettas, shrimp and small fish. They provide secure hides while blending into natural aquascapes.

Do your floating hides actually float?

They do — each floating piece is buoyancy-tested before shipping. Some tanks may need a gentle nudge to settle in place.

Where are your aquarium accessories made?

All pieces are designed and 3D-printed in our UK family-run workshop, tested in real aquariums and shipped directly from Northumberland.

Blubber Cove is a UK-based aquascaping studio specialising in handcrafted floating aquarium caves and hides. We 3D print in small batches, test in live tanks, and blend design with natural fish behaviour.

Why trust Blubber Cove’s floating hides?

We’ve spent years perfecting fish-safe materials and buoyancy designs. Our bespoke floating hides encourage natural betta behaviour—resting near the surface, exploring calmly—while looking great in modern aquascapes.

The Secret to a Happier Betta: Why Floating Aquarium Caves Are Taking Over Aquascaping

November 3, 2025

🌊 The Secret to a Happier Betta: Why Floating Aquarium Caves Are Taking Over Aquascaping

It’s no secret — betta fish love to explore. But most aquariums miss one key thing: a safe, floating space near the surface where they can rest naturally.
That’s exactly why floating aquarium caves are fast becoming a must-have in modern aquascaping — and why Blubber Cove’s Floating Shell Hide and Dual Dome Cave are quickly becoming customer favourites.

Both hides are designed in the UK and crafted locally 3D-printed from fish-safe materials (PETG), and designed to mimic natural behaviour — helping your betta or shrimp feel calm, curious, and at home.

💬 1. Why do betta fish need a floating hide?

In the wild, bettas rest among floating leaves and roots near the surface.
A floating hide recreates that environment — giving them a secure, shaded spot to rest or bubble-nest naturally.
It reduces stress and encourages their most natural behaviours.

💬 2. Will it stress my fish or clutter the tank?

Not at all.
Blubber Cove’s floating caves are lightweight and stable, designed to move gently with the water.
They add vertical depth to your scape without taking up floor space or disturbing your plants.

Available Now 🔗

💬 3. Are they really fish-safe?

Yes — every model is 3D printed using non-toxic, aquarium-safe materials and thoroughly tested in live tanks.
There are no sharp edges and no coatings that can flake or leach into your water.

💬 4. Do shrimp and small fish use them too?

Absolutely.
Shrimp love to graze on the textured surfaces, and small species use the shade as shelter from stronger light or current.
They’re perfect for community aquariums where everyone gets their own peaceful spot.

💬 5. Which design should I choose — the Shell or Dual Dome?

🐚 Floating Shell Hide → best for minimalist tanks and gentle currents. Smooth, natural shape that fits seamlessly in any aquascape.
🌕 Dual Dome Floating Cave → adds more visual height and texture. Great for betta display tanks or aquascapes with multiple fish.

Both are compatible for free-float setups — giving you full control of placement and movement.

Available Now 🔗

💬 6. How do I clean and maintain a floating hide?

Just rinse gently in tank water during routine cleaning.
They don’t absorb debris or algae, so maintenance is easy — no scrubbing or special tools required.

💬 7. Who is Blubber Cove?

Blubber Cove is a UK-based aquascaping studio specialising in handcrafted floating aquarium caves and hides. Every design is 3D printed in small batches with care, tested in live tanks, and built to blend beauty with natural fish behaviour.

💬 8. Why trust Blubber Cove’s designs?

Because aquariums are our obsession — not just our business. We’ve spent years perfecting fish-safe materials and buoyancy designs to craft bespoke floating hides that look stunning and keep your bettas, shrimp, and fish calm, happy, and active.

✨ Final Thoughts

Floating aquarium caves don’t just look good — they make fish happier.
They recreate natural resting spots, reduce stress, and help you build a more dynamic, layered aquascape.

Discover both designs on BlubberCove.co.uk

Crafted for aquarists who believe décor should be as functional as it is beautiful.

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