Air Pump

[mbiggs03]

Oh... do you think it would be completely necessary to get an air pump for my 55 gallon tank. I have the 75 gallon biowheel water filter. The one with two biowheels and two filter cartridges. Think this would be enough o2 exchange or whatever?

 

[jm1212]

yep

 

[mbiggs03]

So no need for an airpump? OK.. well I bought some driftwood from a pet store... and I have it sitting in my aquarium how I'd like it... without the substrate and all.. Just put the big stuff in to kind of get a "feel". They say to scrub the heck out of it first before putting it in. Is it okay since it's a dry tank?

 

[Hurley]

Are you fish having trouble breathing? If so then yes. If not then I wouldn't really worry about it.

 

[Hurley]

If there is nothing in the tank, no water, not fish, no substrate, its fine. But I would boil it if you can, or at least let it soak for awhile to let possible toxins leech out. Plus that will help keep the tannin levels down, unless you want tannins.

 

[mbiggs03]

Even if it was bought from a pet store? Let it soak in warm or cold water for how long?

 

[Hurley]

soaking in water is a good way to remove tannins. Tannins make the water a yellowish/brown color. Depending on the wood, the amount of tannins will vary. The warmer the water the faster the tannins will leech out, plus if you use boiling water this can remove any nasties as well (I have one piece I bought from the LFS that grew fungus under water because I didn't boil it). I would change the water at least once a day to remove tannins.

 

[Mgamer20o0]

soaking or boiling the driftwood would be a very good idea. i wouldnt add a air pump. almost all tanks dont need air pumps and almost useless.

 

[mbiggs03]

Change the water out everyday? What!? Like 100% for the whole time I have my tank!?!

 

[mbiggs03]

And.. do I look for anything when boiling them? Do I see these tannins leeching out or do I just boil it for an amount of time?