Will a reverse flow powerhead affect the nitrifying bacteria in an UGF.?

Question

I currently have a 56 gallon column Perfecto aquarium with two Maxi-Jet Model 900 powerheads and an AquaClear 500 powerfilter. Yes, I'm aware that this is quite a bit of filtration. I vacuum weekly and do water changes as well, but there is quite a mulm buildup underneath the plate that has built up over the last 3 years. I know that I could take a small hose and vacuum out underneath the plate, but it is difficult due to the depth of the tank. I also admit that I am a little bit lazy as well. :) I am thinking about putting in 2 AquaClear Model 70 powerheads with reverse flow capabilities. Have any of you done this with a mature tank? Would it affect the nitrifying bacterial colonies already present? I'm worried about mulm decay eventually poisoning the tank. I wish I didn't set up the UGF, as I've had tanks do perfectly well without them, but it came with the tank, and stupid me, I set it up!!

Answer 1

You can do exactly what you are talking about without harming the bacteria bed in the least. I would suggest you creat a hole in the gravel down to the filter plate as far from the reverse flow as possible and cover the other lift tube. Run that a momment and then switch tubes, attempting to blow as much mulm out of the hole in the gravel as possible. Then just run the reverse flows and all will be well.

MM

Answer 2

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