Aeration Question

[moon]

Hello.

I've got a (fishlessly cycled) planted 170L Juwel Panorama tank with (so far) 20 Neon Tetras and 3 Swordtails. My external filter is an Eheim 2126 (suitable for tanks up to 350L !).

Do I need an air pump? In order to get the outflow set up to give balanced currents, I am creating little surface agitation, and I am worried the fishies don't have enough air. Or is the strong current enough?

I am a little confused though, as another guide I read discourages air pumps in planted tanks (as it drives the CO2 out of the water).

Cheers
Moon

 

[Inchworm]

Hi Moon

If you have a planted tank, there are many things to consider to make it a healthy and safe habitat for your fish and to grow lovely plants too.

I'll move your thread to the Planted Tanks section where the experts will advise you.

 

[George Farmer]

If you wish to grow plants then CO2 is a very important nutrient.

Unfortunately it is very unstable in water and can escape very easily into the air. Aeration or excessive surface agitation is an excellent way of driving off this CO2 so air pumps and filter outlets pointed at the surface are not a good idea for the planted tank.

You can rest assured that there will be plenty of oxygen for your fish with minimal surface movement and no aeration - especially with your current stocking levels.

If and when you grow lots of plants this will add even more oxygen, and if you really get into the hobby and start injection CO2 and boosting your lighting then you'll get so much oxygen you'll see the plants producing oxygen bubbles (pearling). For many this is a very rewarding experience (I include myself in that one).

 

[moon]

Thanks for the re-assurance. CO2 is on the cards, but not for a few months.