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bowls have a "lip." If your bowl doesn't have a lip, I strongly recommend getting another bowl, as it will be nigh impossible to cover adequately without using tape. Since tape leaves a residue on glass, you are better off getting another bowl, or using the lidless methods described below.

Of course, some people just don't want a lid on their tanks. Lids are beneficial not only because they prevent fish from jumping out, but also because they prevent dust and dirt and kids' toys from falling in. More importantly, lids regulate your water temperature and help prevent evaporation. Even the simple tulle lid helps protect the tank from these hazards!

If you really don't want a lid, or your fish jumps anyway and bonks himself on the head, consider filling your tank only halfway, so fish can jump, but not out. If you do this, respect the fact that your 10-gallon tank is only five gallons now, and change the water more frequently. Additionally, floating plants like Water Sprite and Duckweed are very beneficial in preventing evaporation and in helping your fish feel more protected. If you have floating plants, however, you should also consider a lamp, which means a tank cover anyway (because bare light bulbs next to water is a quick recipe to electrical fires).

After all your hard work, a happy fish may still jump, particularly if it's a surface-dwelling fish like a betta. Just remember that the fish isn't trying to commit suicide- jumping out for them is a bit like diving into the deep end of a pool is for us. Fun for a second, but they sure don't want to stay there for more than a minute!

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