Under gravel

[Wellcraft]

I'm planning my 120 gal set up and today I got this book (The conscientious marine aquarist) and they are talking about adding an under gravel filter also.

What do you guys think about adding this type of filtration. I'll be using my old 30 gal tank to build a sump just so you know.

Is this normal to use that kind of set up or is unusual?

Thanks in advance

 

[abulgin]

My bet is you are reading the old edition of CMA which is 20+ years old. A new edition was recently published in June, and, although I haven't read it yet, my guess is that it no longer recommends undergravel filters. This is old technology not used in reef setups anymore. Now, you just need a healthy amount of live rock, a good skimmer and a refugium with macroalage.

 

[BurntOutReefer]

unless its a jaubert method

 

[billdogg]

i would avoid the UG too - nitrate trap!

 

[inachu]

I tried using undergravel on my fresh water tank and I hated it!
It stunk up the entire living room.

 

[weluvfish54]

yeah that UG is trash.
sumps and live rock.