Tank screen mesh size

[lutz123]

I need to make a screen for my tank (36Lx18Wx21D) and would like to minimize escapees. I found 1/8 inch black polyester mesh...is that going to filter the light too much? It's plenty bright in my opinion, though nothing in the tank currently needs that much light - 36" Current Sunpod with 2 150 watt MH lights.

[Chad]

I think it probably is too small and will filter the light too much (although it would probably be ok if it were clear mesh).  Plus 1/8" seems like it would be small enough that you would have to start worrying about salt creep on the screen when it gets wet fouling the transperancy further.

Edited January 31, 2011 by Chad

[Stu]

I think 1/4" is the best for all but the smallest fish (trimma gobies, etc). It keeps fish in and allows light in as well. Check out Bulk Reef Supply. They carry the mesh and DIY kits for an entire screen lid.

[lutz123]

Thanks - and I didn't think about the salt creep. I'll go with 1/4 inch and see how that works.

[jason the filter freak]

I would agree 1/4" or bigger is definitely the way to go. I've been away for a while, but there is or was a par meter that the club loaned out, just gab one and check the par values with and with out the net in place.