Can you use an undergravel filter in saltwater tank?
An undergravel filter consists of a plastic plate with small slits that sits under the gravel (crushed coral is often used in saltwater tanks) and water is pulled through the plate by either an air stone or powerhead. I much prefer live rock to an undergravel filter as live rock is much easier to keep clean.
Do saltwater aquariums need a special filter?
Filters and Filtration Gallon for gallon, saltwater aquariums require more filtration than freshwater aquariums. For the most part, saltwater critters need better water quality than freshwater critters. filter only provides mechanical filtration, removing suspended food particles and other debris from the water.
Can you use an undergravel filter with sand?
Sand and UGFs don’t mix. You can not use sand and UGF and you can not have UGF with plants. People that use UGF generally use them in rock tanks with reverse flow pumps to push the gunk UP and then other filters to remove what is pushed up. They do not filter well enough used alone.
Are undergravel filters worth it?
There is no doubt that under gravel filters aren’t for every tank. They do not provide any chemical filtration and can be noisy when using an air pump. However, when properly maintained, under gravel filters are easy, inexpensive and low maintenance for most beginner tanks.
What type of filter do you need for a saltwater aquarium?
The most popular types of filtration systems for saltwater aquariums include canister filters, wet/dry filters, and fluidized bed filters. Extra equipment like protein skimmers also play an important role in maintaining good water quality in a saltwater tank.
How does undergravel filtration work?
Using an undergravel filter (UGF) is a tried and true method of filtering the water in a fish tank or aquarium. Undergravel filters work by pulling water and impurities downward through the gravel at the bottom of the tank. Rather than relying on a filter to clean the water,…
Is an undergravel filter necessary?
Undergravel filters are generally not recommended as the sole source of filtration in an aquarium. This type of filter can be beneficial, however, as a supplemental source of biological filtration.
What is under gravel filter?
Under gravel filters consist of a plastic grate or “filter plate” which lies under the gravel of the tank. This plate allows water to flow freely under the gravel.
What is a gravel filter?
Under gravel filters are any filters where the water is drawn through the gravel as the primary filter media. The portion of the filter you will purchase is a plastic grate that keeps the gravel off of the bottom of the tank, lift tubes to deliver water, and power heads or an air pump to move the water.