Don't you guys find that a black background absorbs alot of light? I once used black cardboard for a background on my 27gal. The moment I removed it (exposing the light coloured wall) the tank looked much brighter.

Right now my background is a light blue but I'm thinking of switching to a darker blue.

I kinda like the different kind of algae that grows on the back wall,as long as the viewing area is clean :biggrin:
Bev do you find a problem with algae from the sunlight ?

Jim

Jim,

Used to have the blinds closed all day every day for months. Then one day I thought of opening the blinds when the direct sunlight had passed so the sunlight wouldn't heat up the tanks but would still catch the natural light. Did not notice any additional algae problems.

Both the 42 gal and the 72 are under a year old. Am hoping the additional indirect light will promote coraline growth on the back walls, which, unfortunately, will also block the extra light going into the tanks :neutral: