Hi,

I've setup a 20 gallon Long a week ago now and it has been 20 years since the last time. It's great to have it again. It's fresh water with live plants, a HOB filter and a heater.

So far I've only added 3 Albino Corys, a Betta and a couple Chinese Algae Eater. I know the Algae Eater is much too big but they are a mere 1/2 inch long now and will trade them in when time comes. I plan on having Cardinal Tetras and others that will live happily together eventually.

Question is: if I use an air pump safely above the water line in a cabinet, will I still need to use a check vale? I'm concerned that it will take away from the psi.

Also, if I have enough live plants (my first attempt) isn't it so that I would not need to disturb the surface any more than what the HOB filter does as is? Hence, no need for the pump unless it's for decoration.

Thanks for the forum.

Selvan

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20 gallon long est. Oct 2009
Flora: 10% Duckweed, Amazon Swords, Java Ferns, Java Moss, Anacharis & Anubias.
Fauna: 18 Cardinals, 8 Pygmy Corys, 6 male Endlers, 3 Otos, & 3 Ghost Shrimp
Filter: AquaClear 50 with foam, fiber, & 2 biomax bags