Removing Undergravel Filter?

[duffekp]

I have installed a cantister filter a few months ago and just disconnected the under gravel filter, I have not however removed the plates under the gravel. The fish seem to be doing fine but I want to add live plants. Is it ok to keep the under gravel filter plates in the aquarium.

[bushwhacker]

personnaly i'd take the fish out and remove those plates. reason i say take the fish out is when you pull the plates your gonna stir up all the crap under em and that could cause a major spike in the water.. so turn off the filters take the plates out and get ready to do some major water changes before puttin the fish back

[Wild Turkey]

I would say remove it, you can leave the fish, just be ready to do a hefty water change afterwards and be gentle pulling up the filter. You dont want it in there if you want plants, and definitely not if its just sitting there, its just making a pocket for stuff to fall and rot if its not running.

[Red]

agreed with WT and i would have one person doing a W/C and then one person going around with a net and picking up all the big stuff around the tank..

[Wild Turkey]

agreed with WT and i would have one person doing a W/C and then one person going around with a net and picking up all the big stuff around the tank..

great idea if you can find a volunteer:19: