pump help.. is an air pump really need ?

[squint]

There will be some oxygen exchange in the bubbles, but it's relatively minimal but will overall be an insignificant amount of exchange. If you're pumping 90% pure oxygen into the water that changes things a bit.

All opinion and no facts.

 

[millerkid519]

Unless your treating for ich with salt and high temp, then it would be wise to add the air stone

I have to ask you to explain

 

[tarheel96]

Airpumps are not needed but they are the cheapest and most energy efficient way of moving water and I use them for sponge filters. A 1 watt air pump can power a 5 x 4.5 x 4.5" sponge filter. The downside is the noise.

 

[markstrimaran]

I use an airlift, in a corner to vacuum waste into the overflow wier, and to grow algae on a a scrubber.