Beginner's questions

Hello,
I'm considering getting an aquarium and I still have some questions.
So
1. Does a well maintained aquarium with a good filter and a lid smell a lot? I wouldn't mind if myself but I live with other people who might object to it. I know that smell is something very subjective but I'd like to know what your experiences are.

2.I'll have a relatively small tank so I'll keep small fish such as tetras and shrimps. I've read that they sometimes get sucked into filter. Can I put a sponge, wool or something where the water goes in? Will this affect the process of filtration by leaving debris outside? Any ideas how to prevent this problem.

3. I've seen a product by Tetra that creates darker colour of water claiming it simulates natural habitat of tetras. Any thoughts about that? Is it a good idea or just another redundant thing not worth spending money on? I personally think it's not necessary but want to hear your opinion.

 

Hello again.
1. It doesn't smell, especially if it's a small tank. The only time you'd get a smell is if something is wrong or if you have a larger tank in room with the door closed(personal experience).
2. What size tank do you have? The only problem I've ever had is with fish who are sick or blind and can't see the filter.
3. Never heard of it, but no, it's not necessary.

 

Hello again.
1. It doesn't smell, especially if it's a small tank. The only time you'd get a smell is if something is wrong or if you have a larger tank in room with the door closed(personal experience).
2. What size tank do you have? The only problem I've ever had is with fish who are sick or blind and can't see the filter.
3. Never heard of it, but no, it's not necessary.

I'm glad it won't be necessary to spend more money on another product
I wanted to buy a 110l (61 cm long) but I found out it won't fit to my room so I'll have to go with 70l. I've been looking for various tanks for about a week so I've changed my mind a few times

 

If you want the blackwater look, just add some driftwood. The tannins will color the water, but will also lower the pH. Alot of Tetras will be OK with a low pH not sure about the shrimp though.

 

It's always fun going tank shopping, about the filter though, I'd honestly just keep an eye on it, if you get anybody stuck then what I do, and this seems to work for me. Is grab a breeder box and stick around the filter if that makes sense. So keep the air in the air pockets and just stick around the intake. That way if a fish accidentally gets to close they can't get to the intake, or if they go into the breeder, they get a little freaked out and swim out of there. Hope this helps!