New Air Pump

[Laura.p]

I've just picked up my new air pump etc.

I was wondering whether or not to put the pump in my 30L tank to keep the fish happy untill I get my new 180L tank in a week. (I heard they cycle better with an air pump, please tell me if I'm wrong.)

Or shall I just leave it out untill I get my new tank?

 

[waterdrop]

Airpumps and airstones are mostly for looks, so if you like the look then its fine to do anytime you please.

Its true that using an airpump and airstone during a fishless cycle can't hurt. What it does is to help move the surface water around. Moving surface water is what promotes gas exchange (O2 mixing in to the water, CO2 mixing out, generally.)

Sometimes an airstone/pump can be too noisy for people to sleep if the tank is located in a bedroom and in these cases its good to know that its not at all the only way one can move surface water. The output of a filter can also be used to circulate the tank water in such a way that the surface water gets good movement. Another minor problem with air decorations is that sometimes they can overwhelm the fish (once you have fish) and not leave them with the few peaceful places to rest that they need, but that all depends on the tank size, amount of air etc. and can be judged by the fishkeeper.

~~waterdrop~~

 

[OldMan47]

An air pump and air stone can be useful for circulationg the water if you have low flows in the tank's water. When the bubbles rise, they carry a lot of water with them.