open top with canopy or hood?

[frankycee]

I'm thinking about future lighting for a future tank.

Can I use just a light-canopy-that-doesnt-cover-whole-tank (will fish jump out) or is a hood better?

 

[Avi]

I think you'd be wise to cover the tank with glass or if you don't want to do that, use the "eggcrate" that is used under flourescent lighting in ceilings. You can get it at a Home Depot-type store. It can be cut with a keyhole saw so it can be made to cover any open areas. It's a good way to prevent fish loss due to jumping.

 

[jwhitlow1031]

covering the tank with glass is better, it will help prevent evap, just my 2 cents/opinion though... if heat is a issue then you want an open top to help with that, otherwise i would recomend the glass, also many lights are to be mounted over glass to help prevent splashing on the bulbs, but this can be solved in other ways... anyway hope that kind of helps

 

[Blown 346]

I would second the Egg Crate idea, Having glass tops will not only not allow for evaporation but good gas exchange as well.
Evaporation isnt a bad thing, proper gas exchange should be present.

 

[Cprowler]

Third the eggcrate, what type of lighting are you going to use?

 

[NCreefwannabe]

that and glass isnt as good for gas exchange. The eggcrate or clear mesh would be better.

 

[LazyD]

I can understand clear mesh, but no one worries about eggcrate blocking light and or casting shadows?

 

[Blown 346]

To be honest, I can tak my egg crate off and back on with no visual lighting difference.

 

[tkeracer619]

I like open top with a canopy. If they jump out they fall back in, you have great gas transfer,and dont have to move anything other than a door when you feed.

my.02