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I have a 200gal tank with a canister filter & a powerhead.
The powerhead has the option to deliver a lot, some or no air into the tank.
Are there any advantages/disadvantages to delivering air this way?
The tank is being set up for Ciclids.

It depends on how you are planning on setting up the power head, as to wether you want to air flow through it. If the power head is just to make water movement in the deep depths of the tank, then no. If your setup will have the power head at the surface, moving a lot of water on the surface, then it is either or. If the power head will be mounted under the surface enough that it does not cause surface movement, and yet you want more surface movement, then yes you will want the air flow through it. Basically, it slows the output force of the water down, substantially, as the bubbles will block the flow or defuse the flow of water, as it exits the output of the power head. And, as they break the surface of the water, they will cause surface aggitation, and thus increase the oxygen/CO2 gas exchange at the surface.

So, it depends on what you are wanting, as well, what you prefer.

HTH....

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