-> GA> The Aquaclear doesn't aeorate that tank that much, other than bre
-> GA> some serface tension.  Does it have an undergravel filter with a
-> GA> tube?  If not I would recommend one.  I'm certain they are manufa
->
-> Gary - I couldn't disagree more.   Properly setup,   the Aquaclear "m
-> (which will move about 100 gal/hr) provides plenty of surface
-> movement which is where gas exchange really takes place.  It also
-> has the advantage (with a little ingenuity) of not requiring
-> expensive custom media replacements and has a LOT of media volumn.
->
-> Beyond that,   I would NOT recommend combining one with an
-> undergravel filter since the presence of a UG would drastically
-> increase the amount of maintenance the tank would require while
-> providing little (if any) improvement in water quality.   In fact,
-> I have found it easier to provide better water quality without an
-> undergravel filter than with one.
Your the first person whom I've ever heard not recommend the dual
filtration.  I have always maintained an undergravel filter on all of my
tanks as well as a mechanical filter on the side.  The wide sweep of
bubbles and water that break the water tension of a properly installed
undergravel filter are superior to the "aquaclear" type filteration for
air exchange.
The undergravel filter LOWERS maintance as it keeps the gravel clean and
clear of fish crap and other wastes as it promotes beneficial bacteria
growth to eat it up.
My air pump went sour on a 10 gallon tank that I keep, leaving only the
Aquaclear mini to do the job.  While the air pump was down, the
undergravel wouldn't work of course and I can tell you, the water
quality went WAY DOWN!
--- Platinum Xpress/Wildcat! v1.3
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