Now it's an open top...what are all the benefits?

I got some clear screen from BRS to put over my tank. I took the glass off last night and the screens are on. So what are the real benefits of doing this? I know gas exchange and the light penetration is noticeable. But does this help with PH too? So far I am liking this more than the glass.

 

If your glass top was too air-tight, then you may notice an improvement in pH as gas exchange will also be improved (low O2/high CO2 affects pH). I don't have that issue with my glass cover, but then again, I use HOB equipment which forces me to keep the rear 3 inches of the tank open. What you will notice is more evaporation and possibly salt creep.

 

you have a sump on your aquarium or a canister filtration system?

 

Sump.

 

I dont think you'll notice much of a boost to your water quality since you have a sump. One thing you'll notice is your light penetration since the glass is no longer reflecting the light out. I dont know where I read it but glass reflects about 30% of the light coming in. The percentage depends on how thick the glass is as well. If you have a par meter you can tell.