Film on the water surface

[Yeaulman]

I was just looking at my new tank today and noticed a funny looking film on the top. What is this from and how can I fix this if its harmful.

My tank is a 48 gallon with 4 fancy gold fish and nicely planted with about 6 different plants and a light dosing of CO2. I have 130 watts of 6700k lighting.

 

[juliethegr8t]

If it looks a bit like an oil film, with colors and such, it's probably normal. Most tanks have them, unless they have a lot of surface agitation. It just forms from excess nutrients. If you're really worried, you can take it off by placing a paper towel or newpaper lightly on the surface.