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RE: Backgrounds?

GRUBYGUPPY — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 12:29:01 GMT

idahosalty (9/7/2008)

I have a 75 gallon tank and am looking to put a background on it. It would be the 23" size one. I was looking for the blue or black plain type and went to a few of the local pet stores to find out they are no longer carrying that size in that color? Even though the guy told me it is their number 1 seller. So I decide to go online and look and I am astonished to find out that I cant find it any where on there either. Can anyone give me a link to where I might be able to buy it online, or a better option as a background. I am not against the idea of the fake reef background or something weird like that, but I hope it is a last resort.

If you want an idea for background, I go to Wallimart to the kitchen section.They have a perferated foam that comes in rolls(it is for linning drawers and shelves) in the kitchen. I just it to the size of the tank back and tape it on with ducktape. The holes are tiny and only alllow a bit of light through. The added bonus of this is the stuff acts as a minor insulation(helping with temp control) and it comes in quite a variety of colours.:cool:

RE: Backgrounds?

Nep2Ns PlumR — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 09:58:58 GMT

Have you considered painting the glass? I tried paper backgrounds but switched to painting. When water gets between the paper and glass and dries, it leaves behind a salt trail (and this will happen more often than you'd think). Besides, you can get paint in what ever color you want, can't say that about plastic/paper backgrounds.

If you decide to paint there are a couple of things that will help. First pickle the glass. That's right I blogged pickle! Saturate a rag with vinegar and wipe down the surface to be painted really well. Doing this a couple of times will remove the oil from the glass so the paint will stick. I use acrylic latex paint but I don't think the type really matters. Apply and let dry completely. You'll have to put +/- 3 coats on for complete coverage. When you apply the 2nd & 3rd coats you'll need to do so quickly. As the first coat absorbs the moisture from the latter coats it will start to pull away from the glass. So the trick is quick thin caots then let it dry and do it again. :)

RE: Backgrounds?

jfish13 — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:30:58 GMT

Another cool background is this: http://www.petco.com/product/12007/T-Rex-Crab-Island-Climbing-Background.aspx It's meant for hermit crabs but can easily be taped on the back of your Aquarium for a natural background. I have it on my goldie tank. It look great!

RE: Backgrounds?

idahosalty — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:46:22 GMT

thanks for those links. I already have my choice on the way. They were a bit pricey but I guess it is because they are hard to come by now but whatever.

RE: Backgrounds?

jsmith11618 — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 17:50:11 GMT

This one is 25" x 25"
http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/group/802/product.web

This one is 23" high and is sold by the foot.
http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/prod/205406/product.web

This one is 24" high and is sold by the foot. Double sided.
http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/prod/212496/product.web

Backgrounds?

idahosalty — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 16:45:07 GMT