Saltwater Aquarist - Is it necessary to use the glass lid cover ? Does it significantly reduce light?

Question

I just bought a coralife pc and the adjustable mounting legs. The glass cover will not work with the legs. I called marine depot and the rep said that most saltwater aquarist do not use the glass lid. My tank is still cycling so I only have live rock now, but I would like to keep some soft corals. I have a 48 inch long 55 gallon, with the double light pc with lunar.

Should I use the glass lid and forego the adjustable mounting? I don't want my fish to jump out... is this a problem with saltwater fish? If I am not to use the glass are there certain fish (or combinations) that I should avoid? I really appreciate any help!!!

Answer 1

There are pros and cons to using the glass:

Pros -
*keeps fish in the tank (I once lost a very nice longnose hawk to jumping)
*minimizes evaporation

Cons -
*will decrease light if salt splashes/dries on it (wipe once a week to remove)
*will retain heat from lighting

I have an Aqualight PC with lunar lighting on a 29 with soft corals & mushrooms and a glass cover.

You're the only one who can decide what's best for your situation.

Answer 2

I agree with Copper head. I have a glass top on my 175. I found the heat really isn't an issue though (perhaps due to the size and location) Glass lids are a matter of preference. I STRONGLY recomend a hood. Especially if you are planning on getting invers as well. Starfish are migraters and get into every opening. Even anemone will wonder from time to time.

There are a number of combinations of fish to avoid, however to list them all would be a nitemare. Your best bet is to figure out what you want to start. Pick your most wanted fish. RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH. Find out who they get along with and who they don't. Are they prone to eat corals or do they leave them alone. Do not always trust PetSmart, Petco etc.

Your tank will have to be up and running for around 6 months before you can add corals. Salt tanks take anywhere from 6 months to a year or more to fully mature. Most higher end species of marine fish will require a MATURE tank. This is not a tank that has been running for only a few months.

If you have any questions about your salt tank, feel free to email me.

Answer 3

I have a freshwater planted with a PC, I don't have a top. Don't use the top, it's good to have space underneath the PC for cooling reasons. How much wattage is the PC? I don't see any problems, just check to make sure the fish you get aren't "jumpers".