Abstract: A shelf system which provides a decorative ornament for use inside of aquariums or terrariums. A rigid planar sheet is provided with a means for removable attachment to the inside surface of the wall of an aquarium at any height along the wall. The attachment means does not alter the ability of the wall to hold water in the aquarium while maintaining a secure attachment to the inner surface of the aquarium wall. The shelf may be provided with ornamentation, particularly a decorative texture on the outer edge and it may be provided with a supporting column.

Abstract: The present invention is a an aquarium air valve system and hanger unit for control of air entering an aquarium. The valve system has one or more valves thereon and is provided with a means for controlling the air flow from each valve. The valve system is mounted to the outer surface of the top wall of a hanger unit. The top wall is of adjustable size in order to allow secure fit over a variety of types of aquarium top frames. A valve system cover may also be provided in order to protect the valve system from accumulating metallics and debris.

Abstract: A filter cartridge for use in aquarium filtration systems having mechanical, chemical and biological filtration elements. The mechanical element forms the front wall of the filter cartridge and this is bonded around the outer border thereof to a back member. The back member may be rigid or semi-rigid.

Abstract: A habitat system for use in small animal enclosures providing desirable living space for underwater, amphibious and land dwelling animals. The habitat is formed from a wall type structure with one side which is essentially concave, thereby forming a gap space behind the wall. The habitat system is removeably attachable to the inner wall surface of the animal enclosure. Surface decoration may be provided on at least one wall of the habitat system, and various component parts may be intermeshed in a variety of ways in order to form multiple configurations.

Abstract: An assembly which is used with an undergravel aquarium filter in order to keep the passage between the bottom cavity under the filter and the uptake tube free from blockage due to gravel. The assembly is in the form of a collar which extends from the bottom plate of the undergravel filter at the point of insertion of the uptake tube. A ring, with a structure to prevent the passage of gravel through the central portion thereof is fitted within the collar. The ring may be removed from the collar to clear gravel out from the collar before insertion of the uptake tube.

Abstract: A maintenance system for aquariums which utilizes an electrically powered suction force and a lift tube made of flexible plastic tubing. The lift tube may be provided with one or more branch points to allow for simultaneous or independent powering of a variety of aquarium maintenance accessories. The branch points may be further provided with valves in order to allow for a wide range of control over the suction force provided to the individual branches of the lift tubing.

Abstract: A water filter for use inside of an aquarium which is characterized by the fact that filter cavity housing is removably attached to a sleeve unit which is in turn attached to the inside wall of the aquarium. When the filter material in the filter unit must be changed, the filter cavity housing may be removed from the sleeve unit which remains attached to the wall of the aquarium. The water current generating mechanism of the filter unit is also connected to the sleeve unit so that it does not have to be disconnected when the filter material is changed. The filter unit of the present invention is adapted for use with a cartridge type filter material in a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Abstract: A cleaning device adapted for use in cleaning the interior surface of the glass walls of an aquarium fish tank. The device allows for the interchange or replacement of cleaning elements to accommodate the cleaning of the various types of surface deposits which may be found on the interior glass of the aquarium, by removably attaching the cleaning element to the headpiece of the cleaning device. The preferred embodiment of the invention includes an elongated handle, a non-rusting glass scraper, rigid projections from the headpiece to hold the cleaning element in position during use, and a planter feature for pushing aquarium plants and air tubing under the bottom material in the aquarium.