Aquarium Backgrounds

[RobberyinCSharp]

So I'm trying to figure out what an appropriate aquarium background would be for my fish tank (20 gallons). It's currently not set up - I'm cycling the filter in a 10 gallon tank with some old mature media I have. I really really like the look of plain glass - I think it's very modern and flattering, but it's disgusting to have to look at all of the wires and cables hanging from the aquarium equipment. Are there reflective backgrounds you can buy?
I know other people look for black backgrounds....I like the look of these, but I'm concerned that it'll make my aquarium very "dark" and small looking. I'm not a big fan of solid blue, but I wouldn't rule it out! Many people on this forum have beautiful tanks with solid blue BGs.

I'll be stocking the tank with:
2xChocolate Gouramis
3xCroaking Gouramis
2xOtto Cats

and I'm in a debate over whether I'll be adding Lemon, Neon, or Black Phantom Tetras. But that's the general "color scheme" of my future tank.
I also have live plants ready - Amazon Swords, Moneywort, and Java Fern.
I am currently looking for driftwood/mopani wood/live rock to add to my tank and finalize an aquascape.

I'm probably just over thinking it all, but I would really like some other opinions!

 

[sarah40011]

not sure how much help this is but looking at some aquascape competitions i see they have white backgrounds, looks so clean and fresh. not brave enough for it myself tho, black all the way for me

 

[RobberyinCSharp]

not sure how much help this is but looking at some aquascape competitions i see they have white backgrounds, looks so clean and fresh. not brave enough for it myself tho, black all the way for me

What color fish do you have in your tanks with black backgrounds? Do you feel as though it darkens your tank? Does it make the fish colors look faint?

 

[fishguy2727]

Definitely black. It looks the best, helps increase the pigmentation in the fish, and makes them stand out better.

Paint it on, don't use those cheapo plastic backgrounds from the shop.

 

[Rummynose]

I like the look of just glass as well, and I arrange the decor and plants to hide as much as I can, and drape some wires over the tank hood to let them "fall" down at the sides of the tank.
I've considered black before, since I think it may bring out the colours of my Rummynose Tetras more, now I have to look if I can see some pictures with white back grounds, lol!

 

[fishguy2727]

White backgrounds are just going to wash out all their colors and make every little tiny speck of algae drive you nuts.