new BB question

[rmw4547]

I am just starting a 120 gal BB tank. My question is should I run my uv during my cycle?

[tperk9784]

I wouldn't, not really usefull then.

[Casey]

no it will only hurt at that time

[trueblackpercula]

no it will only hurt at that time

can you please explain this for me?
Michael

[Casey]

Originally Posted by trueblackpercula

can you please explain this for me?
Michael

Sure when a tank first cycles the good bacteria is free floating looking for a place to settle down on like the rock sand etc,that's why you get a white haze in the water,the UV will kill it when sucked into the unit.So it is best not to use when cycling and good bacteris grows faster in the dark.

[trueblackpercula]

Got ya.................so it kills the good and the bad.
Michael

[Casey]

Yes it does,it cant tell the difference

[trueblackpercula]

well I learned something new today. So why is it i would put one of these uv on my tank if it kills good and bad. Would that not turn out to be a bad thing? I always thought they were for parsites not bacteria. So if you have the unit on 24/7 in time it will kill everything good that passes thru it right?
Michael

[Casey]

It will kill anything that goes through it including parasites (which is good)
Wait till after the tank cycles and the bacteria is settled and not free floating to run the UV especially when fish are added.

[Loverotties]

I wouldn't do it.

[hng]

After a tank mature, a lot of people will use UVs to help keep the tank cleaner and reduce the risk of infections. Evrything has it's drawbacks of course and Casey touched on those. Personally, I would run one if I didn't have my eye on a calcium reactor (they are both expensive). When choosing a UV, remember to get one big enough that it will work properly with your tank volume.