>Several local fish farmers use high tech recirc systems and they produce
>some of the nicest, healthiest fishes I've seen.
I realise that there are many successful systems in use (particularly in the
commercial arena) However, these systems are out of reach of most hobbyists.
I have yet to see a "hobby" system that does not have problems. Also I'm
sure none of us can afford our own personal "Fishician", but you're be more
than welcomed here in Oz - we could share a few rums together while we
debate the pro and cons of recirculating systems :-)
I think we need to look at the reason why a hobbyist wants this particular
type of system in the first place.
Is it more effective than 'standard' aquarium filtration principals? -
personally, I think not.
Is it because water changing is made easier? - maybe, but if that the main
reason then it would be better just to set it up as an automatic water
exchange system where the down pipes (adjustable) are positioned at a level
that water needs to be changed and then have above tank filling taps from a
central reservoir. You could even recycle the exchanged water with a
chlorine treatment procedure.
Is this system cheaper to install and run? - I think not.
Is it more beneficial to the heath and growth of the fish? - I don't believe so.
So that brings us back to the beginning. Perhaps Dan would like to tell us
why he considered this system - seeing he started the thread ;-)
Adrian.
Adrian R. Tappin
"Home of the Rainbowfish"
http://www.ecn.net.au/~atappin/home.htm