I’ve had this tank for about 9 months now. While it’s been very beautiful, my background has been rough. First it was a simple foggy-glass film. Then I removed that to try to add a white one, which only looked worse.

But finally, I was able to afford a dream item - a lightscreen.

And damn, the difference is insane lol. It may show off the algae more, but it really makes the colors pop.

  • smartalec13@lemmy.worldOP
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    2
    ·
    10 days ago

    It’s used with a Canister filter. There are a few benefits to canister filters

    1. Less “stuff” taking up space in the tank. At the very least, the glass lily pipe and glass intake pipe look nice lol
    2. A larger container means more filtration, both mechanical and biochemical. You have a TON more surface area for beneficial bacteria to live on and help clean the water.
    3. Higher flow, which is helpful in larger tanks (mine is not, the high flow is actually an issue for me lol)

    There are different glass pipes, each with their own shape and benefit. This one, the Lily, is named because it’s shaped like a lily flower - this shape allows the water to flow out of it nicely, creating a good even directional flow AND creates a small “vortex” above it, providing extra surface skimming.

    • OhVenus_Baby@lemmy.ml
      link
      fedilink
      English
      arrow-up
      1
      ·
      10 days ago

      Damn. That’s wild and I like the idea of canister filters. I’ve never used one but I like it taking up less space since sponges definitely use space and are hard to hide. I switched to HOB filters but they require cartridge changes and I don’t like the subscription type cost they try to suck you into.

      I think I’m gonna look more into a canister system. I really like your tank and the setup looks fantastic. I can show you my tank but it’s fresh so the plants haven’t filled in as much as I’d like.

      • smartalec13@lemmy.worldOP
        link
        fedilink
        English
        arrow-up
        1
        ·
        9 days ago

        Yeah so far I am enjoying the canister filter. It’s very quiet as well, which is nice. Though it is a bigger task to clean every few months.

        And thanks :) I recommend looking into them, if you can afford one.

        To share an image (at least on mobile) when you’re typing, see the option bar with the usual bold, italics, etc? Scroll that bar to the side. Should be an image option.

        Test: