Why use a UV bulb?

[BilboB]

My canister has a space for a UV bulb, I guess to kill unwanted bacteria - but doesn't the bulb also kill beneficial bacteria?

 

[Miami Reef]

It’s a double edged sword. It’ll kill any bacteria that passes through the sterilizer, but won’t kill the nitrifying bacteria since those live on the substrate.

UV can make the water look super clear. It can also help manage fish parasites.

Since there will be less bacteria in the water, it might reduce the food for corals because some can consume bacteria.

UV can also kill free floating algae and live phytoplankton, but it won’t stop algae from growing on the rocks.

 

[Balthazar]

While on the subject of UV. Does or can it help with dino’s?
I have been using one and it seems to be helping.
Water is definitely a lot clearer.

 

[TangerineSpeedo]

I don't.
I use one in a QT. Thinking about using one in my mixing station since I use NSW. But then again will I sterilize some good bacteria? I have the ability to bring one online in my tanks if I felt the need.

 

[saltyfins]

While on the subject of UV. Does or can it help with dino’s?
I have been using one and it seems to be helping.
Water is definitely a lot clearer.

depends on what strain of dinos

 

[Miami Reef]

While on the subject of UV. Does or can it help with dino’s?
I have been using one and it seems to be helping.
Water is definitely a lot clearer.

UV can definitely help some types. If it’s working for you, you must have the types that free swim at night.

That’s another great use for UV: certain types of dinos are susceptible to them if they free swim at night.