uv steralizer???

[samsmom]

I have been doing my research, tank is still empty as I work on my background and on the stand, and I am looking at all the improvements in the hobby since I last tried, alas ignorance and disposable fish (i believe ignorance murdered them) I am now seeing UV Sterilizers for sale. What are they, do you need one? They are so expensive, I will be running a 97g (48x26x18) with 2 aquaclear 500 filters and an underground filter for cichlids. So do I save my loonies and invest, or can I get along without one?? Thankx :huh:

[kw0me]

i'm still a newbie but i always though uv was mainly for salt water and a waste of money in fw. but i could be wrong.....

[Star_Rider]

UV sterilizers can work in both marine and FW tanks.

they bsically kill nasties by pumping them thru the UV light..the trick is to expose the nasties to the light long enough to kill them..they have been used for GW(greenwater with some degree of success) where they do come in handy is wiping out water born parasites ich freeswimmers are one as are flagellated protozoans..
UV sterilizers do not need to run all the time..usually when there is a breakout.
in a marine tank they are used to keep ich in check..many aquariasts don't treat the fish but treat the water with uv to kill the freeswimmers..

[samsmom]

so, the accessory is not necessary right away?

[musho3210]

no, they are not nessicary at all.

[Star_Rider]

you can do without..

but they aren't a bad thing to have if you can afford one.

[samsmom]

Thankx, guess it can wait