Do I need a top on my aquarium?

[jenni_dawn]

I've always had the standard black hinged top on my tank with the light that detaches. Based on some advice from this forum, I've purchased an automatic feeder as well as an automatic lighting bar to control the lighting throughout the day. Now I'm stumped on how to use them!

Do I get rid of the top, and just attach the feeder to the side of the aquarium and place the light bar over it (brackets on the side)? I've never actually thought about what a top is for or if it's even needed.

I have a 29 gal tank with 10 various tetra, 2 ottos, a lyretail and one cherry barb.

With gratitude,

Jenni

 

[Aiken Drum]

You don't "need" a hood. There are some benefits from having one though. They help prevent evaporation and fish jumping out of the tank. In my house they also prevent our cat, Sushi, getting into them and give him somewhere warm to sit.



All of my lids either have an opening already cut out, or have a section that can be cut to accommodate a feeder. That doesn't help with the light though. Many lights have different options to mount them, which may accommodate them sitting under the hood. For instance can they be fixed to the underside of the hood? Check the manual to see if you have options other than the mounting bracket. If not then, then yes, you would either have to remove the lid or get a new lid that's translucent. Either made out of glass, clear perspex or polycarbonate (the stuff car port roofs are often made of) is commonly used as a DIY lid.

 

[jenni_dawn]

You don't "need" a hood. There are some benefits from having one though. They help prevent evaporation and fish jumping out of the tank. In my house they also prevent our cat, Sushi, getting into them and give him somewhere warm to sit.

View attachment 390752

All of my lids either have an opening already cut out, or have a section that can be cut to accommodate a feeder. That doesn't help with the light though. Many lights have different options to mount them, which may accommodate them sitting under the hood. For instance can they be fixed to the underside of the hood? Check the manual to see if you have options other than the mounting bracket. If not then, then yes, you would either have to remove the lid or get a new lid that's translucent. Either made out of glass, clear perspex or polycarbonate (the stuff car port roofs are often made of) is commonly used as a DIY lid.

That does look like a comfy spot to relax! My tank is in my office (not in my home) so I'm not here on the weekends. Having these things will ensure my fishy buddies are ok while I'm gone. I've seen the clear lids, but couldn't get my mind around how to get it all to work. I'll see what I can find that accomodates other fixins....

Thanks!