tanks without a substrate

[D. Hedington]

Ok, so I've used the search feature with no result.
but I'm setting up my 180g in place of a 120g(6ft)
i dont want to use a substrate.
current stock moving in will only be a jardini, and a couple plecos,
and more fish will move in when I feel confident they'll be safe with the jardini.
only decor will be a few large peaces of drift wood.
filtration will be 2x Aqua One ''Aquis 2400's'' and 2x sponge filters.

has anyone got any advice to give?
or even a pic of a large tank without a substrate?

cheers

 

[Padiwan cichlidiot]

Even though I do not like tanks without substrate, I do set them up occasionally. I have never set up a tank that big, but here is the advice I can give about bare bottom tanks.

Pluses:
Easier to clean; can see what needs to be siphoned
Junk can not really hide

Minuses:
Unnatural for fish, takes them longer to acclimate
Need stronger filtration, no bacteria to break down harmful substances

 

[Austin]

I have no problems with acclimation, filtration, or debris buildup; and I have all barebottom tanks. I think it puts the focus more onto the fish than the decor.