Tank backgrounds

**BirdOfPray** · 07-07-2009, 03:25 AM

Just wondering if the tank backgrounds are just for looks or if they have a real purpose. I think I read somewhere that they make fish feel more secure, but I wasn't sure if that's true since I've never run across that anywhere else. If it is true, is one type (solid colored or picture) better than another? And on a hex tank, I guess you'd cover two or three sides? How do you attach it to the tank so it looks good but is still removable?

Getting closer and closer to being ready for fish, but trying not to overlook anything. :)

**DrNic** · 07-07-2009, 04:22 AM

They can definitely make fish feel a bit more secure by ensuring that there is a solid wall, close up, on at least 1 side. I actually just added some black backing to 3 of my tanks and the fish seem a LOT calmer.

I prefer the look of solid backgrounds but I doubt it would make a difference to the fish. With a hex tank you might want to try doing at least 2 or 3 of the walls.

For a test you might want to do what I did. Just grab some cheap construction paper (~$2 for 50 sheets) and put that up. It will at least give you an idea if you like the look or not. Then if you like it you can go out and pickup something nicer or make your own.

**Z Fish Man** · 07-07-2009, 04:26 AM

Agreed with what Nic said. Alot of us use black backgrounds. Walmart has some decent foam board that looks pretty nice and holds up well. Construction paper would work for testing colors but I'd imagine it would fade and get water marks in the long run. I didn't attach mine at all as my HOB filter holds it on for me.

**rookie** · 07-07-2009, 04:34 AM

Once you find what u like you could paint the tank, anyone dissagree.

**KingFisher** · 07-07-2009, 04:42 AM

I attach them with scotch tape so they are easily removed and you don't notice the tape.

**megastealer** · 07-07-2009, 05:32 AM

Originally Posted by rookie

Once you find what u like you could paint the tank, anyone dissagree.

You could... but if you grow tired of the color or decide you like it better without it... paper is a better option since you can change it. I also find that if you get a premade background with a light blue colored water (the ones with plants and stuff), it gives the tank a more tropical island look.

**sailor** · 07-07-2009, 11:03 AM

The backgrounds help cut back in the amount of natural light entering the aquarium which in turn will help cut back in algae growth in the tank.
A darker background will help the fishes colour stand out better.
A very thin coat of vaseline on the glass will help the background stick to the glass. Just smooth over with a credit card will eliminate any air bubbles.

**Wild Turkey** · 07-07-2009, 01:17 PM

Agree with sailor and nic on the applications

I use felt on my tanks, absorbs a good bit of light I find, but I think velvet would be better.

**Lady Hobbs** · 07-07-2009, 01:21 PM

I just tried the vasoline on the background to see how it works. Now I have air bubbles all over the thing and can't get behind the tank to clean the glass off. That's a trick I wish I would not have tried.