Let me start by saying this AWERT aquarium background is a MIXED BAG. I installed it on my 55-gallon freshwater tank, and here's the real tea after living with it for 2 weeks.

The Good: That $10 price tag? Absolute steal compared to custom-printed backgrounds. The underwater scene looks surprisingly vibrant when backlit by aquarium LEDs - way better than staring at cords and equipment. The fabric-like vinyl material (yes, it feels like a premium shower curtain) doesn't bubble like adhesive films, and the included EVA tapes held strong after I cleaned my glass with vinegar.

The Wrinkly Elephant in the Room: Mine arrived folded into a tiny square like origami gone wrong. Pro tip: Use a garment steamer (not an iron!) while hanging vertically - took me 15 minutes but got 90% of creases out. Smaller wrinkles disappeared after a few days pressed against the tank.

Installation Hack: The 8 included tape strips weren't enough for my setup. I supplemented with painter's tape along the edges - completely invisible once filled with water. Much easier to adjust than sticky backgrounds when you inevitably change your mind about placement.

Color Reality Check: It IS darker than product photos suggest - more 'moody twilight reef' than 'sun-dappled shallows'. My tetras seem to prefer the subdued lighting though! For brighter tanks, consider positioning lights closer to the background.

Final Verdict: For under $15, this is fantastic for casual hobbyists who want quick visual upgrade. Serious aquascapers might want pricier options, but as someone who changes setups frequently, I love that I can peel it off without residue. Just budget extra time for wrinkle removal!