Preventing snails from entering overflow and drain

[daveverdo]

The snails are in the tank less than a week and they are already in the overflow. I have seen a few different setups where people used eggcrate, plastic canvas from a craft store, nylon netting, ... to make a top for the overflow.

I would appreciate some details on making a small cover for the overflow to keep out the little buggers. Things like how to keep it in place and such would be helpful. Pictures even better.

Would putting something like a media bag over the entire top of the standpipe help keep them out of the drain without restricting flow?

With only one drain I have a little concern about blockage.

Dave

 

[pimpinitup6969]

a media bag seems like it would work i havent had that issue with mine in the past but def something i should think about...
Matt

 

[Piazzon12]

I definately wouldnt use a media bag, it can clog really easily... especially with the single overflow. They do make a PVC screen that fits... that's what I use... as seen here http://www.bigalsonline.com/StoreCa..._bulkhead?&query=bulkhead&queryType=0&offset=

or you could eggcrate over your entire overflow

 

[daveverdo]

Gotcha - something to add to the next order from where ever.

Thanks,
Dave

 

[fatrip]

i would suggest doing either eggcrate or there is a very ridged mesh that is about 1/4 inch holes at lowes that you should put over the top of the over flow. this prevents any fish from jumping into the over flow as well as most snails and hermits.

 

[daveverdo]

i would suggest doing either eggcrate or there is a very ridged mesh

How do you attach it? Just lay it on top?

Dave

 

[Blugobi]

Dave I have some of the mesh that Fatrip is taling about..it works great. All I did was use a small dab of super glue on each corner. I actully placed at about 45* angle so if one of my wrasses jumps it will bounce back into the water...

Geo

 

[Gary Majchrzak]

FWIW I use common nylon window screen over my overflows and a high GPH flows through them. Although snails will clean the screening you'll still need to monitor it so it doesn't clog. (I use a toothbrush to clean 'em). I replace the screen every other month or so depending on how gunked up they get.

I've been running with screens like this for over 11 years now