Air Pumps - Are They Necessary?

[salman]

I've looked at a lot of fish tank pictures, and none of them seem to have air pumps in. I have been using an air pumps ever since i started with fish tanks. But do we need to have them?

[Lady Hobbs]

No. Bubblers or airstones can do just as well. And if your tank is planted, you don't even want those.

[salman]

I thought air pumps and air stones are the same.. I use air stones then. Do i need them? My tank isnt planted.

I hate all the wires, trying to get rid of anything that is not needed.

[dorkopolis]

How important are they? I'd like to know, as well!!!

I have never, in more than 20 years of fishkeeping, kept and airstone in a tank.

I have only used them for undergravel filters.

[Wallyfish]

airstones are unecessary. I use one as decoration because I made a volcano. I think some fish find them amusing however and you might also.

[salman]

I hate bubbles! :( I'm gunna go out and buy some plants just so i can take them out! argghhhh

[dev]

Simply put you need enough interaction between the air and the water to keep the water oxygenated. Using an air pump is just one way of ensuring this.

In a planted tank the plants will keep your water oxygenated, and having your filter pump or power head cause enough movement on the surface is another way.

[salman]

Simply put you need enough interaction between the air and the water to keep the water oxygenated. Using an air pump is just one way of ensuring this.

In a planted tank the plants will keep your water oxygenated, and having your filter pump or power head cause enough movement on the surface is another way.

Thanks dev.
I just removed my secondary filter from the tank as well. All the extra wires and everything. The only 2 things inside now are the filter water sucker, and the heater. I'm hoping i can find some tall plants to cover them up. I want this tank to be as perfect as possible. (so i can take pics lol)

[salman]

All my tanks are picture ugly. I am hoping this one can be photogenic.

[gm72]

Dev is correct about surface agitation. Of course live plants will eliminate this need in a normally stocked tank, and some filters will also. As long as the surface of the water is constantly being broken up.

Wally also has it right. I have some clown loaches that absolutely love to play in the bubbles.

It is also a decor issue. Some people, myself included, enjoy the look.

Salman, don't get too down on your tank's appearance. Rue and I had this discussion a while back. Some people love themed tanks, others can't stand them. Some like a lightly planted tank, others love to see a jungle. If you like it and your fish seem to enjoy their surroundings then that is all that matters!