Biopellet and uv

[xeneryx]

I've read from lots of sites these 2 shouldn't run at the same time. Is it true?

[Jamie @ Vertex]

I think we can call this a half-truth. ;Bacteria will be killed off by the UV, which means you are constantly removing a small % of the bacterial effect (actuial amount depends on flow rate through the UV). ;As the dead bacteria will quickly decompose and re-release the NO3/PO4 from which they are made, it is a bit counter productive.  Excellent skimming right after the UV treatment would help minimise this.

In the end, the two are not really compatable, as there will be a negative impact on the bacteria, however, this may not be a big issue, if the flow-rate by the UV is not predominant. I think i would worry more about killed-off bacteria releasing their nutrients back into the water column, before they can be skimmed out.

Personally, as I use bio-pellets, I do not use UV, although I have a unit for emergencies.  The same may be said of ozone, which kills bacteria, as well.

Jamie

[xeneryx]

Thanks for the detailed input !

[Tony LCW]

Can I also ask whether running Bio pellet and hypo-salinity at the same time. Any effect, appreciate some advise as I am having very high nitrate and icks on fishes. So doing 2 things together.

[Jamie @ Vertex]

Tony,

most bacteria adapt quickly to varied salinity. I wouldn't worry.

With Ick (cryptocaryon), you may find catching the fish and giving him a bath in a medication the better method.

cheers,

Jamie

[Tony LCW]

Hi Jamie,

Thanks for the advise, as you know it quite difficult to catch all the fish out and place in a QT, I suppose that is ideal but my challenge is I am not able to catch all fishes. Anyway, past few days, the ich outbreak and killing 1 yellow Tang and Blue Lip Angel, the rest are all affected now. Will do anything to save as much as possible.

regard

Tony

[Jamie @ Vertex]

Tony,

there is a method using Resochin (chloroquine), a malaria medication, which can be found in the internet. Essentially, the medication is mixed with the food and fed directly to the fish. It is potentially harmfull for corals and large amounts will cause damage, but it will save the fish. In Germany this is a perscription medication and must be obtained from a doctor or veterinarian.

here is a recent article about the medication

http://www.advancedaquarist.com/2013/2/fish

I have used this and it is very effective. I fed the fish heavily one day and then repeated it 2 days later, twice, to get any dormant trophonts.

Jamie