Bubbler in the reef

[lar]

My new project is a small reef to add some movement and interesting look I thought about adding a bubbler which would be just a hose with some holes poked into it. I would bury it under the rock, It may add a little more water movement and a interesting look. (24in cube tank) any bad effect on corals to be expected?

 

[uncle fester]

No bad effect on corals but you're gonna end up w/ salt creep around top of aquarium. As bubbles pop, salt spray will form a crust in that area. Also, the bubbles could (if small enough) skim some protein from water but would only be effective at this if "scum" was removed regularly.

 

[nm reef]

Never see many reefs(or any saltwater systems) that use air bubbles.
As mentioned above they will contribute to excessive salt creep...can cause damage/irratation to some corals...do tend to accumulate on rocks/sand... and just doesn't look right.
Good air/gas exchange can be achievied by placing the flow of a power head towards the water surface causing a ripple...and current can be just as effective within the water column by using power heads to circulate through out the system.

 

[blue_carpet]

there is a chance that the coral could asorab the bubbles and be hurt

 

[dirtybilge]

I agree with the above, there is no good reason to have bubbles in a salt water tank.