uv sterilizer

do i need a uv sterilizer. 34 gallon just starting.

 

not really. I've never run one. They do help keep parasites down but I've never had a problem and you should be ok as long as you quarantine properly.

 

In a word, no. They aren't a necessity, but more of an added "helping hand" when an ick or bacterial outbreak occurs in a system. Most people that have one (myself included here) do not run the UV unless it is needed. I ran mine when I had a bacterial/fungal infestation, and I ran that for 3 months before turning it off again.
All you really need for a 34G as far as equipment goes is a good protein skimmer, adequate lighting for your needs, proper water circulation. Of course other things are needed, but those 3 things are generally the most critical.

 

never used one on my 36 and never will.

 

i heard it kills beneficial bacteria along with algae?

 

It will kill beneficial bacteria but only free floating bacteria in the water. Since most of the BB resides and colonates in the crevices of the LR and in LS, it will not harm your biological system as much as you think it would.