hoppycalif

Zapins statement is correct: the benefit of an air stone is no greater than that of having some slight surface disturbance due to water returning from the filter. The water surface of the tank is far greater than the surface area of the bubbles, and has the added benefit of always being there to transfer gases to and from the water. The airstone also causes water currents in the tank, which prevent a stagnant layer of oxygen rich water from existing at the surface, with oxygen depleted water below. But, with the right water circulation in the tank, from the filter and/or powerheads, that isn't a problem either.

Nelumbo74

I kindly disagree. However, to each his own.

hoppycalif

I don't mind disagreements. There are always several going on here, which keeps us on our toes. I find I have been wrong enough times to never be 100% certain of anything.

davemonkey

I find that the suface water disturbance (from my power filter) is sufficient. Not only do I not have an air stone going at night, but I run DIY CO2 24/7.
I could see where oxygen would be depleted (and too much CO2 built-up) if I had no/little water movement. But, with good water circulation and some surface movement, I have not experienced a need for bubbles.

The old man

I only use a "bubbler" in my fry tank along with a sponge filter. The hornwort grows fine in it along with a little java moss.

Pinto

Nope. I only use my filter. I think bubbler are useless unless you use them for decoration.

gibmaker

never use one and the co2 runs 24/7

bosmahe1

I do not use an airstone. Canister and spraybar provide water movement and I run co2 24/7.

c4cache

no bubblier i run co2 into a power head and then right into my main return pump so the co2 is coped up by two pumps and am very happy with the lack of visible bubbles in the tank.