UV Sterilizer

cgarza7 · Nov 17, 2009

I have a UV Sterilizer from fish keeping and I was wondering if it would benefit an axolotl or not. I was thinking it could prevent some diseases but on the other hand it creates more flow in the tank. I typically would aim the output upward so that the current would not reach an axolotl below but if it would not benefit the axolotl, I probably won't use it at all.

-Chris

Decount062 · Nov 18, 2009

Hi,a sterilizer would help. make sure your bulb is not outdated and control flowrate for maximum effectiveness.Bulbs typically don't last a year and unless GPH through the sterilizer is correct it wont do much, especially for algae,also uv exposure is needed in specific amounts to deal with specific pathogens.It takes more exposure(time vs mc/watts) to kill certain pathogens.

Darkmaverick · Nov 18, 2009

In my opinion, i don't see the point in it for a small indoor aquariium. If you have a giant outdoor tank or a marine tank on the other hand, perhaps i can still see its application. The use depends on your motive. With outdoor tanks, the UV sterilizer can help minimise algae bloom.

If you watch your water parameters and temperature, perform regular water changes, remove solid detritus and have a filter running, there really is no additional need for the UV sterilizer. All tanks have a certain level of microbes, some beneficial and some 'neutral' but opportunistic. In normal circumstances, i don't really expect there to be infectious pathogens present. Using a UV sterilizer will kill the beneficial bacteria as well.

SludgeMunkey · Nov 18, 2009

I have to agree with Darkmaverick. Unless you are running hundreds of gallons worth of tanks on a chain linked filtration system (like many pet shops use) a UV sterilizer is of little benefit.
In fact, there is a good bit of literature on them about the adverse effects they have on small home systems as they kill off even the beneficial bacteria and protozoa in the water.

The best defense against disease is to check your temperatures,water chemistry and filtration status often coupled with good tank maintenance and proper nutrition for your pets.

Joost · Nov 24, 2009

the bacteria will only die, if they come besides the light. The beneficial bacteria and protozoa in the gravel, will not be harmed. Besides that, you sterilize your water too much, i agree with last posters. Your Axo's should be building resistance themselves

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