Column of bubbles

[capecoral]

I think I know the answer, but is a column of bubbles (like small freshwater tanks use) ok with reef tanks? Or will the bubbles cause a problem. I like the look, actually.

[sheamurai]

I'm curious about this too, now that you ask. I've heard people suggest opening a window to help with maintaining levels, you'd think putting an air stone in the tank would help with gas exchange too...but I can't say I've ever seen one in any salty tank.

[75gsalt]

My return line puts a tornado of bubbles in the tank, we like it and don't plan on changing it.

[Mike31154]

If you like the look, then go for it. Shouldn't be a problem with the system.

[Dont Ask Me]

Air stones are fine to use, and good for gas exchange cooling properties etc, just be prepared to clean salt of everything above and around where you place it, i use one in my fuge and i am forever cleaning the sides and light fitting.

[meisel1]

I agree with dontask, the salt creep will be formidable and drive you nuts...been there done that...ONCE :eek:

[jbird69]

The two problems with doing this are, as already stated, the bubbles bursting at the surface send of a micro spray that results in crystalized salt (or salt creep) EVERYWHERE.
The second problem is flow. If you want a successful reef tank, you must have substantial flow, this will turn your column of bubbles into nothing more than a tank full of bubbles.

[floydie83]

Air stones are fine to use, and good for gas exchange cooling properties etc, just be prepared to clean salt of everything above and around where you place it, i use one in my fuge and i am forever cleaning the sides and light fitting.

+1 Had one in my brackish tank...hated cleaning all the salt on the light

[returnofsid]

The bubbles will create horrendous salt creep AND bubbles will generally stick to corals, irritating them.

[KafudaFish]

Anyone ever notice that in any movie or TV show that has a marine/reef tank it always has bubbles coming from the sand?

Also the tank always gets shot at or if there is a fight a person gets thrown into it.

If you like the look then go for it. This is your tank afterall. As far as gas exchange a skimmer will provide better gas exchange than a trickle of bubbles in the display. Also people use outside air when they have pH issues in their tanks.

One solution to the salt creep everywhere is having a little plastic or glass shelf just above the water's surface. When the bubbles pop they pop on that and not your lights etc.

[capecoral]

Ok thank, will have to re-consider.

[sheamurai]

ok, good points, thanks