undergravel filters?

[steve-0]

hello everybody I recently just purchased a 10 gallon tank from an ad in the paper. Ihave never owned a tank before and i just have a question. I bought a 10 and a 5 gallon tank, they both came with undergravel filters. I was wondering how good they work and if its worth getting a better kind of filter. I also got 3 air pumps,airline,2 heaters, and some misc ornaments. The whole package was 20 dollars o i just couldnt pass up the deal. Thanks for your help

 

[sgtbirch]

what powers the undergravel filters. In my opinion UGF are a pain. I never use one. but you may modify what ever power the uUGF to work fine on thier own.

 

[steve-0]

there are two small air pumps powering it. seems powerful enough but im probably going to invest in a better filter thanks for your help.

 

[sgtbirch]

recommend small powerhead with canister filter or like a small combe penguin for like 20 bucks. Or an eclipse hood if you want the best.

 

[DizzyDezzy]

for a small tank like that a UGF should be enough (unless you intend to overstock).
Oh, and what fish are you planning on? some fish (most catfish for example) like to have a bit of current in the tank, and a UGF doesn't do much in terms of current, unless you are using a powerhead to operate it. Other fish, like bettas, need as little current as possible, and a UGF is perfect for a betta tank in my opinion

 

[sgtbirch]

Good point dizzy- I never have a tank without a catfish. How could anyone have a tank without a cat?? is taht possible? another reason I dont use UGF. They are good for some people and inexpensive I must admit.

 

[semper fi]

also with cichlids they are constantly digging and uncovering the plates which make the ugf's ineffective. also not alot of current going in in the tank.

maggie

 

[steve-0]

i have 2 angel fish, 2 dwarf puffers and a golden loach