Undergravel filter with sand substrate?

[skiweeangel]

As I have said before my husband and I have a second 55gal we want to set up, but this time we want to use sand. I was wondering if we need an under gravel filter. I plan on using pool filter sand.

 

[toddnbecka]

No, not necessary at all, and UG filters won't work with sand unless you put a layer of filter media over the plates. Sponge prefilters are helpful (sand will quickly destroy hob filter impellers) and so are malaysian trumpet snails to prevent anaerobic pockets in the sand bed.

 

[Shadowraven]

NO! Do not use an undergravel filter. They are more trouble then they are worth, especially with a sand bed. If you want a filter just get one that hangs from the back of the aquarium.

UGF are bad juju. Avoid them!