Water Aeration

[Luca Brazzi]

Ive read several articles and posts which talk about how important it is to make sure that the tank water is aerated. Normally people use things like airstones, powerheads (to break the water surface), spray bars etc. to do this. Ive also heard that the surface needs to be disturbed to break up any film that may form on the surface that would inhibit air exchange. However, in my newly built drilled 75 gallon tank, I have an internal overflow which continually skims water from the surface, and the standpipe (drain) leads to a Biotower with drip plates in it to allow the water to trickle through a couple layers of mechanical media, and the biomedia. Shouldnt the trickling water provide all of the aeration I need? And shouldnt the internal overflow constantly skimming water from the top keep a film from forming on the water surface?

In otherwords, do I need anything else in this system?

Wouldnt adding an airstone/bubblewand or powerhead to disturb the surface just be a waste of time in my tank?

[OrionGirl]

Yep, you're figuring correctly. This is one of the ways aeration in handeld in SW systems, where the water flow is carefully controlled, and lots of splashing isn't a good thing (increases evaporation, and salt creep).

[Sumpin'fishy]

You are doing fine for aeration, Luca. The overflow boxes are great for skimming surface scum and the fall down the overflow, drip plate, and trickling, as well as standard water movement all aerate the water very well, I wouldn't worry about any more surface agitation (unless you were housing trout or something:D ). I'm glad you went DIY with most of your stuff, BTW. I've read plenty of your posts, and you are getting some great experience in building everything you need. This is also saving you a bundle! Enjoy!

[Orbitorly]

You have enough ariation - but I thought the system you have on it now is only used on SW aquariums ?