Do you guys use the aerating feature on your PH's. I 've read despite most people thinking the bubbles from diffusers and airstones create O2, it's mainly surface agitation that increases dissolved O2 so the fish can utlize it . Just confirming, before i dip this other PH in my tank not to connect the venturi feature..Thanks guys

FR - - i started with my powerheads running with the venturi's - -but the air bubbles were driving me insane - -you ar correct about "breaking" the surface to O2 the water better - - so i think more than anything its a matter of choice - -if the bubbles aren't a problem and you like it, go for it. I have 2 HOT filters and a HOT skimmer - -so for me there's plenty of surface "breakage" so my PH's are just pumpin water . . . . . . snowboss

First time posting here as i usually post in freshwater, but i have two powerheads running for my small tank and i use the aeration feature. I run two Aquaclear powerheads with the air feature, and although I have tried to run them without the air, it seems to work much better with the bubbles. The reason I think this is because bubbles with current can create a lot more surface agitation than just current by itself. With just the current, my fish would gasp for air every now and then, but with the bubbles they never do... and I also have two HOB filters cascading water into the tank, so plenty agitation there as well. I dunno, maybe bubbles increase surface area of the water or bring oxygen needed water from below to the surface, who knows. I'd love more than anything to turn my bubbles off, but I notice a big difference with the fish as well as the general odor of the tank when I don't run the bubbles. Who knows.

Also, I also have reversed my outlfow deflectors to point upwards to the surface (using a rubberband, as these were meant to attach downwards only). They work great like this, and really i dont see bubbles anywhere but near the top of the water column. I can adjust the air to come out at half force, and this reduces any noise to a minimum. My two cents, hope it helps with your decision making.

also i have 2 canisters, and the outputs shake the surface also ,so i should be set with the 02 situation.....also i notice people use the sponge on the intake of the ph...you would probaby have to change that often or the nitrates could become a problem. but then again the debri will fall to the bottom neway......

I knew there was a reason i stick to the freshwater side, lol.... ure right, freshwater advice doesn't translate to saltwater even with similar equipment. my bad

have u considered a planted tank?