Miscellaneous Ramblings: May 2026

[BenB]

I haven't done this since February. It was well received, but I forget to keep it up. We're all busy. Anyway....

Ever wanted to ask a question or just make a random comment about something but not start a whole thread for it? Do it here with me. Let's chat. I'll start.
Honestly you should feel free to start a new topic if you want, but if you're like me sometimes, you feel silly for starting one for something basic.

1. Some of us chatted before about a shrimp guard for the Eheim 350 Skimmer. Has anyone ever tried THIS one? I tried THIS one but it didn't float so great.

2. Anyone with a HOB have trouble with the shrimp getting into it? How do you get them out?

3. Do you think a UV filter is useful for algae. I know it's not going to cure it, but as part of a multi-pronged strategy in addition to trimming, topping, replanting, etc.

 

[GreggZ]

#3 I think a UV filter is useful. I run it for 24 hours after every water change. If nothing else really clears up the water and makes it extra crystal clean. So yes to me a good part of a multi-pronged strategy.

 

[Kwyet]

That’s basically what I do—run it for 12 hours after the water change. I only have one on the Dutch tank though.

 

[JayP]

So what kind of UV filters do you run. I didn't think it would be of much value unless you're running one of the higher dollar models like @Naturescapes_Rocco was running.

 

[Kwyet]

I have this one:


It’s not going to kill germs, but I think it does help with all the stuff that gets stirred up from maintenance during water changes.

 

[JacksonL]

#3 I think a UV filter is useful. I run it for 24 hours after every water change. If nothing else really clears up the water and makes it extra crystal clean. So yes to me a good part of a multi-pronged strategy.

That’s basically what I do—run it for 12 hours after the water change. I only have one on the Dutch tank though.

What is the thinking behind running it only after water changes?

 

[GreggZ]

It’s not going to kill germs, but I think it does help with all the stuff that gets stirred up from maintenance during water changes.

Same for me.

I pull and top a lot of plants during weekly maintenance. Stirs up a lot of gunk.

I do think it helps but no scientific way to be sure. Just another tool.

 

[JacksonL]

What wattage UV lamp do you use?

 

[GreggZ]

What is the thinking behind running it only after water changes?

The one I use is a 13W. Seems to work pretty well for me. But I've never run a stronger one to see if there is any difference.