Undergravel filters

[findi]

I often use undergravel filters in reptile & amphibian tanks; what are your thoughts on this? Article here: http://bitly.com/PAWMip

Thanks, Frank


http://t.co/zTPP5KO1

 

[SludgeMunkey]

I used to use them. But, frankly, gave up on them years ago. The required maintenance is just too much of a pain. Having to tear down and recycle an entire tank because the grating if plugged, or live foods worked their way in to form a nice thick layer of anaerobic sludge really turns me off.

I do however use them when breeding egg-scatterers like zebra danios and goldfish. Easy way to keep the adults from eating all the eggs as they are laid.

 

[findi]

Hi,

Thanks..interesting idea re the egg scatterers. I tend to do frequent gravel-washing (siphon-based) and partial water changes, with or without UG filters, so the work wasn't a factor. But I've seen the same problems yo mention in zoo exhibits and others if gravel cleaning not done regularly. Best, Frank

 

[SludgeMunkey]

Hi,

Thanks..interesting idea re the egg scatterers. I tend to do frequent gravel-washing (siphon-based) and partial water changes, with or without UG filters, so the work wasn't a factor. But I've seen the same problems yo mention in zoo exhibits and others if gravel cleaning not done regularly. Best, Frank

Aye, for the same reasons I gave up on gravel around the same time. When I only had one or two tanks, it was not an issue. However, with the current "zoo" I seem to be running in my basement zero substrate for aquatics is the way to go.

As I write this, I neglected to mention one other use for UG filters I swear by: drain access for terrestrial reptile and amphibian enclosures. This is truly the fastest way to ensure one has access to siphon out excess water in the event of over watering on a leaky water feature in an established enclosure. The risers are easily hidden, and a bit of synthetic cotton wool or a plug cut from open cell foam keeps the pets and live foods out, yet still allows air to circulate and siphon access.


I haven't used this in years which is why I had forgotten. However, I think I may spend the afternoon setting up a few US ten gallon formats with this method as both female Jackson's appear to be ready to drop young any day now. This rig was an excellent way to keep the tiny little buggers in the past in well controlled housing.

 

[findi]

Aye, for the same reasons I gave up on gravel around the same time. When I only had one or two tanks, it was not an issue. However, with the current "zoo" I seem to be running in my basement zero substrate for aquatics is the way to go.

As I write this, I neglected to mention one other use for UG filters I swear by: drain access for terrestrial reptile and amphibian enclosures. This is truly the fastest way to ensure one has access to siphon out excess water in the event of over watering on a leaky water feature in an established enclosure. The risers are easily hidden, and a bit of synthetic cotton wool or a plug cut from open cell foam keeps the pets and live foods out, yet still allows air to circulate and siphon access.


I haven't used this in years which is why I had forgotten. However, I think I may spend the afternoon setting up a few US ten gallon formats with this method as both female Jackson's appear to be ready to drop young any day now. This rig was an excellent way to keep the tiny little buggers in the past in well controlled housing.

Hello..in large collections/zoo holding areas I usually go with bare bottomed tanks as well.

Thanks for mentioning other uses..I've been meaning to write an article on that. Very useful in situations you mention; often used for poison frogs as well.

Good luck with the Jackson's...enjoy! Best, Frank