swarvegorilla wrote:
> "Laura" <Fanta_Seas RemoveThis @webtv.net> wrote in message
> news:26808-45381050-478@storefull-3275.bay.webtv.net...
> >
> > need an airstone in the tank? I have a 55 gallon tank with 3, 3 inch
> > pearlscales and 2, 3 inch lionheads.
> >
>
> not if your filtration disturbs the water surface enough to allow good
> oxygenation!
> I prefer to use those round sponge filters that sit on the bottem of the
> tank instead of airstones as then you get the same amount of oxygen
> (disturbance on the surface injects oxygen and bubbles move carbon dioxide
> rich water to the surface where it can be exchanged for oxygen) with the
> bonus of a good biological filter for your fish.
I totally agree with swarvegorilla, I think sponge filters are too
often overlooked as a cheap source of bio-filtration and surface
agitation. You can also connect them to power heads with air diffusers
for cross circulation too. Or another device for cross circulation are
internal power heads which often also come with air diffusers (I prefer
the Via Aqua as they have internal sponges instead of cartridges and
are cheaper to operate and like sponge filters, good bio-filters).
Carl
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