Hi all, I will soon be filling my tank in the wall, and would like to know exactly what UV light kills in the water???

my tank isnt really big enough for the 2 oscars and a bigish plec to keep my tank clean, so I am thinking UV filter...

so, will a UV filter DEFINATELY stop my tank from getting covered in algae, both in the water and on the furniture??

also, will the UV kill beneficial bacteria?? is there a possibility of my BB being compromised if I get a UV filter??

suggestions, ideas, FACTS very welcomed lol..

T

An ultraviolet light is something I have never used on a freshwater aquarium. Serious algae problems is quite preventable without the need for any added devices on the aquarium, in my opinion.

However, I don't think that an ultraviolet light will cause any harm to your biological filter. Having said this, I once read that you shouldn't use them during the cycling process because you do get some free swimming bacteria that could help the cycling and the ultraviolet may kill these, but it will not harm the bacteria that are living on a hard surface, i.e. in your filtration system, on the glass, and in your substrate.

I'm afraid my knowledge and experience with ultraviolet is almost non-existent so I can't really help any further

I use one on my saltwater tank, they will not get rid of *all* your algae problems but it will help greatly, assuming you replace the bulb enough. They will kill free swimming bacteria, but that shouldn't be an issue- water changes do the same thing. They also improve water clarity.

ignore, accidental double post

yeah even I have a fresh water setup.. and my canister has a UV bulb in it.. and it works a charm.. UV sterilization is essential I feel.. it has helped my tank alot.. I think in future I would prefer all my setups to have UV as part of filtration

I have run UV in my 135 gal tank since January and I think it has helped.

I do get a bit of brown algae (?) on some of the aquarium decor (but that could be from running lights 10hrs a day) but none in the water column and the water is crystal clear. No green algae, hair algae or anything growing on the tank walls.

I think it can't hurt - the selling factor for me is the help of killing any harmful pathogens. OFL is right, it does not kill any beneficial bacteria in substrate or filter - only particles that pass by the UV light.

I think UV is a great additive to my tank - I'm very glad I purchased one and would do it again. However, it is not essential.

Here is an article I found very helpful

americanaquariumproducts.com/AquariumUVSterilization.html

thanks meghan, really useful... i think i'll get one..

T