magnifying tool

[upsjopop]

Just wondering what everyone uses to spy on their tanks in terms of a magnifying glass for the close up look-sees. I have a small square one but get a headache from squinting through one eye.

John

 

[piercho]

I use a 10X-20X eye loop. It's a Russian make, good quality, and was purchased cheaply from Harbor Freight Tools. It comes with a stand that allows me to place it against the aq glass and focus on the micro critters on the tank side of the glass. I also use it to examine things removed from the tank, but that's harder as I have to fix and illuminate the object.

I have a 5X illuminated magnifyer on an extension arm on the work bench. I've been handy for fish surgery, cutting on corals, and general examinations.

My nikon allows me to focus a short distance into the tank and get macro shots which are magnified.

What I'd eventually like to acquire is a "dissecting" microscope with an adjustable tray (X,Y,Z), adjustable illumination, zoom magnification up to at least 30X, and a camera adapter. IMO you need at least 25X to see the identifiying skeletal features of SPS corals.

 

[vjvl51]

My husband gave me a 5 or 6 inch diameter magnifying glass. I don't know the magnification or where it came from but it helps (big enough to use both eyes). I just wish it was stronger. I'm thinking of getting those glasses that you can buy at the drug store. Anyone tried them?

Vickie

 

[NaH2O]

Vickie - I'll welcome you on your first post!

I use my camera, and my daughter has a huge magnifying glass - it is as big as her face..lol. It came with an insect toy from Discovery Toys, and I can use both eyes to view through it. It also has a really long handle. I'm glad I bought it for myself

 

[upsjopop]

Discovery Toys! That sounds like a place to start. Thanks.

John