Sea-Monkeys On Mars!For those familiar with the Magic Castle kit, you'll no doubt recognize that this kit is almost identical. So this review can also be considered as one for the Magic Castle as well (although I must admit to being partial to the look of the Mars kit). These two kits represent the first major departure from the standard Micro-Vue Ocean Zoo tank since it was first introduced. Sure, we've had some intresting variations (namely the Space Shuttle Adventure kit), but these two kits are truely different environments for your pets. 
Firstly, you'll probably be struck by the size. It appears smaller than you might expect... but do realize that we are talking about a 12 oz conatiner. The Micro-Vue seems larger, but this is simply because it is flatter. The best way to describe the size of this new tank is to compare it to a can of soda with a rounded top.
One of the real pluses in the design is the wide base (similar in function to a wide based spill-resistant travel mug). Quite simply, this new tank is not so easily tipped over. Coupled with the snug fitting magnifier cap, your pets will be offered double protection against spill hazards. But don't think that this means your Sea-Monkeys will be deprived of oxygen. A close inspection of the area surrounding the cap will reveal small breathing holes in the tank.
Another plus (and one I hadn't anticipated) is the magnification effect of the entire tank. Once filled with water, you'll notice that the Martian landscape inside appears larger. This means that your pets will appear larger as well! And of course, if you want a bigger magnified view, just look through the aforementioned magnifier cap. Speaking of the landscape, I really enjoy the variation that this kit provides. I enjoy watching the Sea-Monkeys swim over, under, and through the rocky arches and the Mars lander.
The kit includes just about everything you need. In addition to the basic starter package and feeding spoon, Living Plasma III is also thoughtfully included (this is becoming a much welcomed trend). Also included is an Aqua-Leash for formula mixing. According to the documentation, you are to oxygenate the water once a day by holding the tank by it's base and gentlty swirling it. Hmmmm... better than nothing I suppose, but I'd suggest using the Aqua-Leash to oxygenate instead. It's not as straight forward as using the Million-Bubble Air Pump, but with a little practice, you'll find that the Aqua-Leash can be used to aereate quite effectively. For more information on oxygenating your Sea-Monkeys tank, check out our Sea-Monkey Tips Page.
Summary: |
As a test, I filled the tank up with water (without Sea-Monkeys), placed the snuggly fitting cap on top, and intentionally knocked it over. I then waited a couple of seconds and then set it upright again. I'm pleased to say that I lost very little water through the breathing holes. Had there been Sea-Monkeys in the tank at the time, it is likely that none would have perished.
If I were a Sea-Monkey, I'd feel downright lucky if this were my home.
