View Full Version : UV Sterilizer in a Planted Tank?
WaywardSon
05-13-2009, 12:47 AM
I have heard / read that a UV Sterilizer (although it may help control algae) is not the best for a planted tank as it may "sterilize" trace elements and prevent plants from reaching their full growth potential.
Comments / feedback?!? Thank you!
The Zigman
05-13-2009, 1:15 AM
A uv sterilizer kills living things.
trace elements arent living things.
It does not effect your Nitrate, Nitrite, or Ammonia levels.
It wont remove Iron, Boron, Phosphates...
It will only kill the bacteria that are in contact with its light long enough to be killed.
It wont kill your biofilter either, since the mass of it lives within your filters container.
I have a Turbo Twist 16X on my planted 125... Been there for about 2 years..
fishorama
05-13-2009, 6:59 AM
It will only kill algae that is in the water & passes through the UV. It won't kill it on plants etc
I agree with Zig and Nancy. There's no point trying the UV with its limits pointed out. Best leave it for pond use.