Undergravel Filters - Pro and Cons - where can I find a thread ?

[arielarad]

Undergravel Filters - Pro and Cons - where can I find a thread ?

I understadn that some are against Undergravel Filters, and few are "for" undergravel filters.
I tried to search the forum to look for a "thread" about this issue, but got lost.

can anyone add a link in the web or a thread in this forum that talks about the debate of good and bad of Undergravel Filters.

tnx

[bossteck]

Let's discuss using this thread you've started then?

From my limited knowledge, undergravel filter works by drawing wastes into the area under the plates, there, the wastes would be broken down by the beneficial bacterials. There are 2 ways to 'power' the filter, using an airpump, or a powerhead.

During my early days of venturing into planted tanks, I was told under gravel filters are not suitable because it is bad for the root systems of plants, and if it is powered by air pumps, would lead to loss of dissolved co2.

Recently, when talking to a LFS owner, I was recommended undergravel filters for African cichlids setup. I guess one of the pros of using under gravel filters is that the plates also serve the purpose of cushioning rocks which are often found in African themed setups.

[arielarad]

I found this least night. interesting and short....

http://www.bestfish.com/ug.html