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about the new 55 gallon setup. I got two 6" micro-bubble ceramic air stones for my new tank. They work just fine, but what I have a problem with is that they create a half inch layer of bubbles at the top of the tank. I guess I can live with that, but with that fat layer of bubbles sitting at the top of the tank, doesn't that kind of defeat the purpose of them? I can't imagine there is much oxygen transfer at the surface?? Yes? No? Maybe so?



Last edited by Jessnick at 30-Dec-2005 15:10

Well, I think the main purpose of airstones is to disturb the water's surface and enhance gas exchange there. If they just break up the surface tension and create a bit of stir, the bubbles are doing their job. Is that what you're asking?

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Have you used any medications /additives to the tank lately if so this could be a problem. I have used the fine ceramic airstones for years and I noticed when using any medications I also get the fine air bubbles on the surfase for a while.

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Keith

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Hi,
It is possible that you have a build up of a protein scum
(an oily appearing scum) that builds up from fish food.
The oil is preventing the bubbles from bursting at the
surface.

You can remove the scum by laying a paper towel on the
surface and letting it moisten, then remove it taking
the scum with it. Or you can turn the air up to the
air stones so that they break the scum up into fragments
that will collect around dust particles and then settle
to the bottom where you can vacuum them up along with the
other detritus when you do your regular tank maintenance.

Frank


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