Best Magnifying Glass for Pests?

[Pola0502ds]

What have you guys found to be the best Magnifying Glass setup for viewing coral and frags searching for pests and eggs.

I'm thinking something that can be mounted would be the best option.

 

[AlexG]

If you are looking to get something for viewing corals out of the tank in a small tray of water or out of the water you could look at getting a small stereo microscope. This would give you several levels of magnification and lighting for viewing corals with binocular vision. I just got a small one and it has worked out great for locating pests and for general research.

 

[Pola0502ds]

Pests is the main reason for it. Can you link me to what you purchased?

 

[AlexG]

This is the stereo microscope I purchased.

AmScope SE306R-PZ-LED Forward-Mounted Binocular Stereo Microscope, WF10x and WF20x Eyepieces, 20X/40X/80X Magnification, 2X and 4X Objectives, Upper and Lower LED Lighting, Reversible Black/White Stage Plate, Pillar Stand, 120V or Battery-Powered https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005B2XMY8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_MpefCbZGPTFPQ

 

[michael giordano]

You spent $180 on a microscope? Man, that’s is some dedication to pet eradication.

 

[MJC]

I found the best is to take a photo with your smartphone a then zoom in the photo.

These were taken out of the tank with my phone and a flash light

 

[Katrina71]

I find it much easier to just use reading glasses 2.50+ or higher. Hands free.

 

[AlexG]

You spent $180 on a microscope? Man, that’s is some dedication to pet eradication.

I purchased this microscope mostly for aquarium research but it really does a nice job looking for pests as well. From a microscope price point this is more of an entry level microscope. Microscopes can get really pricey depending on the brand, build quality, and the quality of the optics. Since I am just using my microscope for light duty use I elected to get an entry level microscope which has been a great tool for my research. With a clamp on phone mount it also allows me to take some great pictures with the phone which is a great option if you need to identify something you are seeing. A stereo microscope might not be for everyone but I think its a great option for looking for pests and for just looking at all the interesting micro fauna living in your tank.

Closeup of a Mysid shrimp

 

[Flameback Pair]

This is what Santa is supposed to bring me for Christmas. Coral viewer that is effective and affordable.