[APD] Eclipse -> open-top tank

[Laura Wichers <cellostix at wtw_waveform.net>]

My 20H tank currently has an Eclipse hood/filtration system, retrofitted 
with a 55W PCF.  I've been thinking about switching to an open-top tank for 
some time and the recent discussions have inspired me.  I have a tight 
budget but am considering the following modifications.  Any 
changes/suggestions would be most appreciated.

I'm thinking of raising the existing light up on legs, similar to what Tom 
Barr did, but instead of using wood or glass, using pieces from the 
original cover.  Any ideas how to do this without drastically altering the 
existing structures?  Would it be safe/advisable to remove the plastic 
cover over the light after having raised it up?  I assume the plastic cover 
was mainly there to protect from splashing, which seems an unlikely threat 
from 8" or so from the surface.  The raised sides of the hood should do 
well against some of my jumper-esque fish (a few gourami and some 
SAEs).  The Eclipse filtration has worked well for me so I'm planning on 
leaving that as is, but will not be using the cover for it anymore.  To 
lessen the evaporation from over the filter pad, cutting down the rest of 
the cover to just fit over this area (middle back section, about 
3x8").  For aesthetics, I thought of loosely attaching a few Chinese 
evergreens in the back, roots free to the water.


Laura


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