Do I need an air pump?

Ellis · June 14th, 2007

I have a 21 litre tank, big enough for guppys, I have a filter system that filters through the stones then that comes out at the top of the tank, I pulled it up so it kind of spalshes as it comes out again, is this enough for air?, I bought an external air pump that has an air stone on it but it makes so much noise and way to powerful for my size tank.

Will my filter be ok as to give enough air?, any other suggestions?.

Thanks.

susitna-flower · June 14th, 2007

5 gal is small for a tank, having additional air besides what the filter provides, MAY not be necessary, if your nitrogen cycle is complete, and you don't overstock. Remember 1" adult size for the fish you choose per gallon of tank. That means you can't even have 5 guppies or you will be overcrowded!

ALSO the warmer the water, the less available oxygen, so you will want to keep the temp at the middle to lower limit for the fish you choose, AND do partial water changes more often to insure plenty of available oxygen for your fish.
The other option would be to get a smaller air pump, one that advertises a quiet operation and for a small tank under 20 gal.

Air movement through the water helps provide the transfer of C02 out of water and Oxygen availability to your fish, but it also insures enough oxygen for the bacteria necessary to complete the nitrogen cycle. If you don't have ANY oxygen the anaerobic bacteria flourish, which will increase toxic Nitrogen buildup, resulting in a deadly condition for fish. Best of Luck.

Land of the Midnight Sun 8)

Ellis · June 14th, 2007

Thanks. 8)

COBettaCouple · June 14th, 2007

you can also put a check valve on the air line from the air pump to the air stone to slow the air flow.. a gang valve is even better and gives you adjustable control on the air flow.

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