Ultraviolet Sterilizer Do you use one

Discussion in 'Filters, Pumps, etc..' started by Jason McKenzie, Apr 13, 2003.

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  1. lzb3

    lzb3 Astrea Snail

    Joined:
    Mar 15, 2003
    Messages:
    35
    Location:
    Lower Alabama, AL,Alabama
    Well, for those of us with a scientific background (my degree is in biology and hubby is a chemist) I can tell you that UVS's kill way more bad stuff than good. Why, you may ask? The reason is simple....in a closed system the "bad" can increase to plague proportions very quickly. Just put your tank water under a microscope and check it out. Better yet, have some one that is knowledgable in microbiology tell you what you are looking at! I can guarantee that the first thing you will do is order a UVS.

    I have one on my 500 and my only regret is that I couldn't afford a bigger one! Don't j=have SW without it!

    Just my 2 cents!

    Elizabeth
     
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  3. Wrassman

    Wrassman Peppermint Shrimp

    Joined:
    Mar 9, 2003
    Messages:
    448
    Location:
    Stockbridge, GA,Georgia
    [glow=Green, 1, 80%]Well, I'm still not convinced. I've been keeping SW tanks for a LONG time, since 1978, and have never used a UV sterilizer. [smiley=yaknow.gif]

    However, I do see that they would be useful on a Q-Tank. And, I withdraw my statements about running one for a few hours or so at a time. "mikeyreef's" comparison to anti-biotics was a good one. [smiley=sick2.gif][/glow]

    [glow=Maroon, 1, 80%]My goal is to keep my fish as healthy as possible, by providing them with the highest quality water, the best quality food, and vitamins, and a good light cycle. If you can be successful at these things, then your fish won't get sick.

    However, by all means, have a Q-Tank set up for sick fish, or for new-coming fish. Don't put newly purchased fish directly into the tank -- that's just asking for trouble. Let them sit in your Q-Tank for a few days, in your water, eat your food and vitamins, and get used to your light cycle. After a week or so of that, they'll be READY for your main tank. [smiley=goldfish.gif][/glow]

    [glow=Navy, 1, 80%]That's more than 2 cents worth this time. I wanted to try to explain more of my "philosophy" so that perhaps some of you would understand why I don't use UVs. It is simply a more "natural" approach, and it has worked well for me for many, many years. [smiley=smart.gif][/glow]