Nasty surface film

[ma_clement]

Hi

I have what I thought was overkill filtration (Eheim 2215 on a 20 gal tank) but it didn't prevent the formation of a nasty (and thick) surface film.

When I put my finger in there, the gunk stays on my finger

My cat didn't come home yesterday. I believed he had gone hunting, but now I'm starting to think the surface film ate him.

What do I do?

If it makes any difference, other than that surface film, everything looks good. Plants are growing and no algae whatsoever

[bettabreeder]

Raise your spray bar so that it causes surface disruption. This should help break it apart. If you're going with co2 and need minimal surface disruption then look into a surface skimmer.


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[ma_clement]

ah well Co2... that is why I did not raise my spray bar. I did not want to loose whatever small amount of Co2 I have in there since I do not inject any

I look into the surface skimmer... thanks


Are the lily/popy style return pipes effective against this?

[exv152]

Are the lily/popy style return pipes effective against this?

Yes they are, I use one and it creates a slight surface agitation that prevents this. Also, an air stone/air pump will clear it up in a minute or two. Some planted tank folks run an air pump at night while the lights are out, and turn it off during the day to prevent co2 from gassing off.  

[charlie]

Well worth the price
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXWjY6e4v0Y

Or the DIY cost effective version from the DIY guru
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlM3Dbgf10I
Regards

[lucius]

I bought one of these Hagen Aquaclear Skimmers but I'm not sure if they fit other HOB or canister filters.  It's a little bulky but it works great on my AC500.

[ma_clement]

Well worth the price
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXWjY6e4v0Y

Or the DIY cost effective version from the DIY guru
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlM3Dbgf10I
Regards

Both look good, but I would rather avoid adding anything to the tank. It is rather small so these would look out of place.

I managed to get an (other) aquarium in the house, but it has maintain the WAF at all times 

[ma_clement]

I bought one of these Hagen Aquaclear Skimmers but I'm not sure if they fit other HOB or canister filters.  It's a little bulky but it works great on my AC500.

i'll check those

Eheim also has one for my 2215, but at this price, I'd rather get a lily pipe, if they are effective