Undergravel Filtration and Cichlids ???

[Maize-N-Blue-D]

Just wondering,  how many people are using under gravel filter in the cichlid tanks ?    From all that I have read, most of the recommendations say DO NOT USE UNDER GRAVEL FILTERS with cichlids...

[four_by_ken]

From what I have been told, it is because so many cichlids like to dig in the gravel.  Once they get to the plates... filtration is all over.

[Maize-N-Blue-D]

Do you use UG Filters ?

[linuxrulesusa]

From what I have been told, it is because so many cichlids like to dig in the gravel.  Once they get to the plates... filtration is all over.

This is the main reason.

Another reason IMO is that HOB filters (or canisters, to a lesser extent) are easier to clean without tearing your tank apart.  On the other hand, HOBs/canisters use more power and can cost a good bit more.

[four_by_ken]

Do you use UG Filters ?

I have in the past... but not with the current setups.  One tank, the rocks are very heavy and didnt want to worry about cracking the under gravel. 

The others it is because of the digging and I didnt want to worry about it.

Hang on are my first choice.  Big or very stocked tanks, I am adding a canister filter.

[Fish Hobbiest]

Just wondering,  how many people are using under gravel filter in the cichlid tanks ?    From all that I have read, most of the recommendations say DO NOT USE UNDER GRAVEL FILTERS with cichlids...

I have had great success with under gravel....If you have a digger I have slid a piece of slate on top of that area with gravel under ...Some times I have used fishing line to attach nylon window screen over the plate with alittle gravel between....Or plenty of river stone , slate , breeding caves. Some times 2 to 3 inches of gravel. Be sure to use a gravel siphon for water changes and DO NOT OVER FEED OR POPULATE !