UV good for reef tank

[orangespot]

I only have mushrooms and some zoos. Want to prevent future outbreaks of ich from display and was thinking of a UV sterilizer. Have quarantine tank and plan on being patient and using it when buying new fish. Is the UV necessary?

 

[elfdoctors]

A UV sterilizer is certainly not a requirement. I do not have one. The small benefit associated with possibly keeping diseases in check is probably countered by killing off some of the beneficial bacteria in your system.
A QT is much more valuable.

 

[fishphreak]

I agree with elfdoctors.
It can also kill beneficial bacteria.

 

[beth]

Elfdoctor is correct. While a UV could be valuable in FO tanks where the hobbyist just doesn't want to set up a QT, when you apply the UV to reef systems, or even LR systems, the UV will kill off indiscriminately both good and bad micro-organisms. And since this is the food source for sponges and a multitude of other marine reef and rock creatures, it is not something you want to do.
And, here is something to consider: For the price of a UV you can set up an awesome QT and get a lot more bang for your buck in effectiveness.

 

[orangespot]

Thanks guys! I will keep the QT running and just go that route. I appreciate your responses because it saved me $100.00 from my lfs that was trying to get me to buy one.