Do you really need a UV sterilizer on Large tank?

[DeLgAdO]

it doesn't kill beneficial bacteria. Since getting a UV a couple of weeks ago my nitrates have actually decreased, and I've done only 1 water change since then. Don't know if it is coincidence or not, but either way I don't think it harms beneficial bacteria.

how on earth does a UV decrease nitrate?

hmmmmmm its gotta be sumthin else..........

 

[HarleyK]

lwe test water for nitrates (which are beneficial bacteria) right?

Not quite. Nitrates are compounds, not life forms... and it is controversial if the bacteria that create nitrates are good or bad. I think they're good, because they prevent a nitrite or ammonia peak. But maybe that's just me. And no, the vast majority of beneficial bacteria will not be affected by UV.

I absolutely agree with DeLgAdO that a UV sterilizer cannot be responsible for a reduction in nitrates. Maybe indirectly, but I even have a hard time thinking about possible indirect ways. If others have made the same observation in their tanks, please post and I'll think a bit harder

To me, a UV sterilizer only treats symptoms, not causes. That's end-of-the-pipe thinking, a last resort. If you have crummy water, I'd rather suggest an R/O unit than a UV. If you have algae problems, I'd rather recommend better lighting, more frequent water changes, and possibly an RO. After all, a UV only kills plancton. The pollution, the reason why plancton bloomed, is still in the water and your fish have to live with it. I'd rather go the extra mile and create a healthy environment for my fish than getting a UV for cosmetic reasons. Remember that plancton is not the pollution, but the result of pollution. And regarding parasites: Call me old school, but I prefer quarantine...

HarleyK

 

[mark.]

uv=no algae = no dead algae = less ammonia for your filter to convert to nitrates.
but im just guessing.

 

[fish head )'>]

I had problems because of all the sun light. The UV Starilizer has totally keeped the free floating algee in check. You can see the unit peeking out on top/back of the tank.

 

[rumblesushi]

Yup, maybe lots of dead algae is waste that is converted like anything else.

 

[maddog10]

I think the general consensus is that it is up to you. There are benefits to using it, it will HELP prevent algal growths and kill bacteria that are exposed to it. The down side is the cost (initial and periodic) and the additional maintenace. IMO do it if you can.

 

[MikeVance]

You don't NEED IT, But you do WANT IT! (Ebay made me say it!-)
I only run a 4 watt on constantly in a 160; and you would THINK it wouldn't make a difference; BUT since installing it I have had 0 algae blooms and my tank is close to a window as the guy above does in the pic (kinda looks like you have a sail on your front window? Arghh... wheres me pirate bird? Arghh ...) :j/k:

 

[Ang]

Some people say it affects your fish's immunities because it kills all the baddies so your fish ends up like a "bubble boy".

But my response would be, i doubt it.

Just introducing my arm to the tank for water changes introduces bacteria to the tank. Along with the siphon and any new decor and even new water from the tap.
Their food has bacteria on it too.
There is always a supply of bacteria that they are being introduced to. There's no way it goes through the UV sterilzer before it can reach their system ALL THE TIME.
The only way there immune system could be weakened is if every tiny thing was sterilzed before going in the tank and it was completely sealed and away from any "dirty" air.

I have one. I got it as a freebe when i bought the tank from my LFS.

Its on my 125. It's 18 Watts.
I use it because i already had it. No point in letting it sit there.

If i didnt have it, i wouldnt buy one. Not entirely necessary unless you are in an area with poor water quality.
So thats my response to that.

 

[Atarax]

I dont think they are a life or death necessity, but it can help prevent disease outbreaks and parasite infestations, for instance if u buy a Regal tang with ich from your LFS.... it damn sure helped get rid of that little problem.