Still confused on filtration

[Issack]

I am about 80% done with my 486 gallon tank. Did the last of my water proofing today. will set the glass in a few weeks... and yes, I will make a thread on the build and how it turns out.. Thing is sweeeet.!!

I'm planning on 2 FX5s and a couple of power heads. I would really like to have some AC110s but i have no idea if it will fit over the back of my tank.. the sides and back are 1 1/2 thick. Could someone measure the lip on that pump for me and tell me if it will fit.? Would be much appreciated if i could find that out.

Also. I need to know you guys opinions on Under gravel filters. do i really need to have one.? can i keep my gravel clean with other methods.? I was wanting to do RF UG but would be a pain to build it. My materials are limited here at the lowes and HD. I don't have all the things you guys can get like peg board and thick plexy glass. I plan on using these small smooth black rocks that look like shinny pearls we have on one of our beaches here. that or green sand.. and let me tell you.. this sand is very green in appearance. I dont know yet what to get but most likely will be the smooth eli eli rocks. I will be getting Rays in the tank as well as Arows. The smooth rocks shouldn't be a problem with the rays.

I'm learning as i go here.. and you guys advice is in need. Thanks in advance.!

 

[justin guest]

Sounds like you may need to up the filtration a bit. not much room for fish growth calculated into the filtration.
j<><

 

[Sandman334]

your filteration is good...but what is your stock? Powerheads will circulate the water if the power head is pointing down towards the bottom....so you don't need a underground filter.

 

[Issack]

your filteration is good...but what is your stock? Powerheads will circulate the water if the power head is pointing down towards the bottom....so you don't need a underground filter.

Stock will be two Arows, a clown knife, and two Rays and a few plecos. I'm keeping it simple. I don't want to have a over stocked tank.

I figured the two FX5s will be sufficient with some added circulation with the power heads. I would like to have some AC110s but still don't know what the lip size is on one to hang over the back of the tank. No stores here carry them. I guess i could call somewhere and see if they could take a measurement.

Thanks for the responses..