Unique Aquarium Information Articles
This post will provide links/resources to a few “Unique” aquarium/pond articles dealing either lesser known subjects or subjects that are often unfortunately “ripe” with myths due to cut and paste posting on the internet via forums, Yahoo Answers, about.com, etc. (as well as misinformed aquarium/pet stores that are often lazy and repeat this information too)
- UV Sterilization Articles; UVC irradiation and immune response
This article/post explores an aspect of UVC Radiation that few outside of the research community are even aware of
- Aquarium Light; Facts and Information
This is very in depth and frequently updated article, and although the subject is not unique, the content is due to the fact that most information about aquarium lighting is vastly out of date, often totally ignoring facts from research going back over at least a decade.
Bluntly the Best article dealing with the complicated subject of Aquarium Lighting. Unlike most articles of this subject, the content is researched outside of the very anecdotal aquarium keeping community, which is often very behind in this subject, with many still suggesting the very archaic “watts per gallon” so-called rule. This article has information about bulb types such as T2, SHO, Induction Lighting and more that is missed by most. As well the important subjects PAR, watts per lumen, useful light energy, focused lumens and more are addressed.<
- Aquarium Lighting Digest
This is a much shortened version of the Aquarium Lighting Facts & Information article that provides some of the same information in a simple digest format
- Aquarium Lighting Digest
- UV Sterilization Articles; UVC for Home or Office Air Purification & Surface Sterilization
Not necessarily a unique article, however this post shows other uses for UVC light, which is a subject (UVC radiation) that still generate more controversy than it should considering the science behind its use
- Aquarium Answers; Use of Salt in Freshwater Aquariums
This article/post deals with a subject that has considerable controversy on both side, where often both sides have half the information/facts and are both “half right & half wrong”
- Aquarium Algae; Brown Diatom, Thread/Hair, Green Spot, Marine, BBA (Black Beard Algae)
An Aquarium Answers article (post) algae control article, intended to address the types of algae that receive the most questions; including Brown Diatom Algae, Thread/Hair Algae, Black Beard Brush Algae (BBA), and Marine Hair Algae aka Filamentous marine algae (I address other algae as well in this article).
- Fish as Pets; Misidentification of Planaria
A subject that is common example of internet “cut & paste” of misinformation.
- Fish as Pets; UV Sterilizer Myths #5
A basic article, however it provides insights into the common misinformation surrounding the use of UV Sterilizers for aquarium
- Fish as Pets; Aquarium Forum Hall of Shame #10; Aquatic Community
A post at “Fish as Pets” that deals with what I would describe as a VERY intellically dishonest forum thread from Aquatic Community about aquarium chemistry and Wonder Shells in particular. This is a post that will either make you laugh or cry depending upon your mood based on the lazy misinformation posted in the thread quoted here (it is that bad!).
- Aquarium Article Digest; Iridovirus in Gouramis
I will add more resources over time to this post.
Aquarium Heaters
There are many Aquarium Heaters now to choose from; from the basic Automatic (non pre-set economy), to the very popular glass submersible pre-set (thermostatic), the new quartz heaters, the Titanium heaters (including the digital titanium heaters), and the undergravel heaters (for Betta Bowls or similar).
Here are a few:
(Please click on the picture below to purchase/visit website)
Features:
• Heat Shatter Resistant
• Run Dry Safety Shut-Off
• Completely Submersible
• Easy to read temperature setting
• Double insulated heating element
• Superior temperature control
• Quartz Tube
• For Marine or Freshwater use
*HYDOR 7.5 WATT MINI HEATER- $12.99
• For 2.5 - 5 gallon aquariums.
• Extra small: easy to hide in mini tanks and bowls
• Super safe even under gravel; no damage if left running dry
• Completely submersible; ideal for use in both glass and acrylic tanks
• Helps increase temperature 5 degrees F (2.5 C) for a 2.5 gallon aquarium or 4 degrees F (2 C) for a 5 gallon aquarium over ambient temperature.
• No setting necessary
Submersible Pre-Set Glass Heaters
• Easy and precise setting of desired temperature
• Sensitive and reliable thermostat maintains uniform temperature
• Heating Element is highly efficient and compact
• Designed for extended use and complete safety
• Supplied with strong support clips and suction cups
• Adjusts temperature from 66- 93 F
*TITANIUM HEATER- 300 Watt - $31.99
• For fresh or saltwater
• Durable construction
• Internal temperature probe
• Controls temperature from 68- 93 F (20- 34 C)
• Separate controller (analog dial, although more reliable than digital controllers I have used in my aquarium service business)
• The most accurate, state of the art thermostat available.
For Further Aquarium Heater Information; please see this article:
Aquarium Answers; Aquarium Heaters
To purchase many types of aquarium heaters:
Sponge Filters
Sponge filtration is an often overlooked type of aquatic filter device for freshwater tanks, ponds and bowls, and even marine aquariums. Many persons look past their simplicity as ineffective, but therein lies their quality.
For the best in Aquarium Sponge Filters

For stand alone filters, please see our Sponge Filter Kit Page with more exact aquarium sizes for stand alone filters.
AQUARIUM PRE-FILTERS: See this page for Sponge Pre filters for your canister, wet/dry, or power filters. Great for live bearer aquariums, baby aquariums, etc. (including replacement sponges)
HYDRO POND FILTERS For Hydro Pond Filters, follow this link
Hydro Pond Filters are also excellent for use in high flow aquarium sumps or similar.
For further Sponge Filter Resources:
Sponge Filtration
UVC Replacement Bulb Reference Guide
UV Bulbs can be found by UV Sterilizer Manufacturer companies in alphabetical order
UV Replacement Bulb Cross Reference Guide/ Directory
| Manufacturer | Models | Description | Item Number(s); Click on Item number for web link |
| *AQUANETICS | Sterilizers Models: 15IL, 15SPT, Q15IL, Q15SPT, Q15ILHP, Q30ILD PQ15IL, PQ30ILD (Requires 2 Bulbs) |
15 Watt T8 UVC | G15T8, PUVLB515 |
| *AQUANETICS | Sterilizers Models: 25IL 25SPT, Q25IL, Q25SPT, Q25ILHP, PQ25IL, 50ILD (Requires 2 Bulbs), Q50ILD (Requires 2 Bulbs) |
25 Watt T8 UVC | G25T8, PUVLB525 |
| *AQUA ULTRAVIOLET | Sterilizers Models: Advantage 2000 UV | four pin 8 Watt UV bulb (8.5”) | PUVLF208 |
| *AQUA ULTRAVIOLET | Sterilizers Models: Westlands 8 Watt Pond UV Clarifier | four pin 8 Watt UV bulb (8.5”) | PUVLF208 |
| *AQUA ULTRAVIOLET | Sterilizers Models: Advantage 2000+ UV | four pin 15 Watt UV bulb (8.75”) | PUVLF215 |
| *AQUA ULTRAVIOLET | Sterilizers Models: Classic 8 Watt | four pin 8 Watt UV bulb (11.5”) | PUVLF288 |
| *AQUA ULTRAVIOLET | Sterilizers Models: Aqua Fish & Statuary Spitter 8 Watt | four pin 8 Watt UV bulb (11.5”) | PUVLF288 |
| *AQUA ULTRAVIOLET | Sterilizers Models: Classic 15 Watt | four pin 15 Watt UV bulb (11.5”) | GT14T5L/4P, GPH287T5L/4P, PUVLF285, |
| *AQUA ULTRAVIOLET | Sterilizers Models: Aqua Fish & Statuary Spitter 15-Watt UV | four pin 15 Watt UV bulb (11.5”) | GT14T5L/4P, GPH287T5L/4P, PUVLF285, |
| *AQUA ULTRAVIOLET | Sterilizers Models: Aqua Fish & Statuary Spitter 25-Watt UV, Classic 25 Watt | four pin 22-25 Watt UV bulb (17.16”- 17.50”) | GPH436T5/4P, G22T5L/4P, PUVLF435 |
| *BECKETT | Sterilizers Models: Pond Filter #PBF3000 | G23 9 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 9, PUVH2309 |
| *BECKETT | Sterilizers Models: Medium Biological & UV Filter | G23 9 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 9, PUVH2309 |
| *BECKETT | Sterilizers Models: PBF750 Medium Biological Pond Filter | G23 9 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 9, PUVH2309 |
| *BIOZONE | UV Purifier Models: 100 Home Air Purifier, 3000, 4000, & 5000 Office & Home Air Purifier, Induct 1500 & 2500 Air Duct Air Purifier, 300FS & 400FS Food Service Air Purifier, 200R Restroom Deodorizer & Air Purifier | T5F - 10 Watt/ four pin UVC Bulb 8.75” | PUVLF210 |
| *CAL PUMP | Sterilizers Models: Biofilter #BF1000, U.V. Clarifier #UV9 | G23 9 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 9, PUVH2309 |
| *CAL PUMP | Sterilizers Models: Biofilter #BF2000 | G11 18 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G11/PLL 18, PUVG1118 |
| *CAL PUMP | Sterilizers Models: U.V. Clarifier #UV18 | G11 18 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G11/PLL 18, PUVG1118 |
| *CAL PUMP | Sterilizers Models: Extra Large Biofilter #BF4000 | G11 36 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G11/PLL 36, PUVG1136 |
| *CAL PUMP | Sterilizers Models: Extra Large Biofilter BF4000 | G11 36 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G11/PLL 36, PUVG1136 |
| *COMMODITY AXIS (Via Aqua) | Sterilizers Models: Multi Skimmer Delux with UV, Terminator 5 Watt UV Sterilizer | G23 5 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 5, PUVH2305 |
| * COMMODITY AXIS (Via Aqua) | Sterilizers Models: Terminator 9 Watt UV Sterilizer | G23 9 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 9, PUVH2309 |
| * COMMODITY AXIS (Via Aqua) | Sterilizers Models: Via Aqua Terminator 13 Watt UV Sterilizer | G23 13 Watt Compact UV Bulb (do not be fooled by inaccurate cross reference guides on the internet, the Terminator 13 watt does NOT take the GX23 bulb) | G23/PLS 13 |
| * COMMODITY AXIS (Via Aqua) | Sterilizers Models: Via Aqua Terminator 18 Watt UV Sterilizer | G11 18 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G11/PLL 18, PUVG1118 |
| * COMMODITY AXIS (Via Aqua) | Sterilizers Models: Via Aqua Terminator 36 Watt UV Sterilizer | G11 36 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G11/PLL 36, PUVG1136 |
| *CORALIFE | Sterilizers Models: Turbo-Twist UV Sterilizers Aquarium/Pond 9 Watt | G23 9 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 9, PUVH2309 |
| *CORALIFE | Sterilizers Models: Turbo-Twist UV Sterilizers 18 watt | G11 18 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G11/PLL 18, PUVG1118 |
| *CORALIFE | Sterilizers Models: Turbo-Twist UV Sterilizers 36 watt | G11 36 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G11/PLL 36, PUVG1136 |
| *CORALIFE | Sterilizers Models: Turbo-Twist UV Pond Clarifiers 36 watt | G11 36 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G11/PLL 36, PUVG1136 |
| *CURRENT USA | Sterilizers Models: Gamma 8-Watt Pond or Aquarium UV™ | four pin 8 Watt UV bulb (11.5”) | PUVLF288 |
| *CURRENT USA | Sterilizers Models: Gamma 8 Watt | four pin 8 Watt UV bulb (8.5”) | PUVLF208 |
| *CURRENT USA | Sterilizers Models: Gamma 15-Watt Pond or Aquarium UV™ | four pin 15 Watt UV bulb (11.5”) | GT14T5L/4P, GPH287T5L/4P, PUVLF285, |
| *CURRENT USA | Sterilizers Models: Gamma 25-Watt Aquarium or Pond UV - Q | T5F 22- 25 Watt/ four pin UVC Bulb (17.16”- 17.50”) | GPH436T5/4P, G22T5L/4P, PUVLF435 |
| *CUSTOM SEALIFE | Sterilizers Models: 9X Double Helix Sterlizer | G23 9 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 9, PUVH2309 |
| *CUSTOM SEALIFE | Sterilizers Models: Double Helix UV Sterilizer | G11 18 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G11/PLL 18, PUVG1118 |
| *CUSTOM SEALIFE | Sterilizers Models: 36W Double Helix UV Sterilizer | G11 36 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G11/PLL 36, PUVG1136 |
| *CUSTOM SEALIFE | Sterilizers Models: U2 8 Watt Double Pass UV Sterilizer | two pin 8 Watt UV bulb (12”) | G8T5, PUVLB508 |
| *CUSTOM SEALIFE | Sterilizers Models: U2 15 Watt Double Pass UV Sterilizer | 15 Watt T8 UVC Bulb | G15T8, PUVLB515 |
| *CUSTOM SEALIFE | Sterilizers Models: U2 25 Watt Double Pass UV Sterilizer | 25 Watt T8 UVC Bulb | G25T8, PUVLB525 |
| *DANNER | Sterilizers Models: Pondmaster® Pressurized Filter with UV #PUV-1000, Pondmaster Supreme #12971 | T5F - 10 Watt/ four pin UVC Bulb 8.75” | PUVLF210 |
| *DANNER | Sterilizers Models: Pondmaster® Pressurized Filter with UV #PUV-2000, Submersible Ultraviolet Clarifier #02920, # 12972 | T5F - 20 Watt/ four pin UVC Bulb 14.5” | PUVLF350 |
| *DANNER | Sterilizers Models: Pondmaster® Submersible Ultraviolet Clarifier #02940, Pressurized Filter with UV #PUV-4000, #12974 | T5F - 40 Watt/ four pin UVC Bulb 20” | PUVLF500 |
| *EMPEROR | Sterilizers Models: Retro-Fit 25 Watt Savio Skimmer | T5F, 22- 25 Watt/ four pin UVC Bulb 17.16”- 17.50” | GPH436T5/4P, G22T5L/4P, PUVLF435 |
| *EMPEROR | Sterilizers Models: Smart High Output UV Sterlizer™, Pond Smart HO UV Sterlizer™ | T5F - 50 Watt/ four pin UVC Bulb 18.3” | PUVLF46H |
| *FISH MATE | Sterilizers Models: 500 Pressurized UV+Bio Pond Filter | G23 5 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 5, PUVH2305 |
| *FISH MATE | Sterilizers Models: 1000 & 2000 Pressurized UV +Bio Pond Filter | G23 9 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 9, PUVH2309 |
| *FISH MATE | Sterilizers Models: Compact 8W & 16W UV+Bio Pond Filters (16W requires two bulbs) | 8 Watt Bi Pin UV Bulb | #G8T5, #PUVLB508 |
| *GARDEN TREASURES | Sterilizers Models: 18-Watt In-Line UV Light - Mfg #60031, Biological Pond Filter Mfg #BF1000 | G11 18 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G11/PLL 18, PUVG1118 |
| *GARDEN TREASURES | Sterilizers Models: UV Pond Clarifier Mfg #UV9, Bullfrog UV Clarifier Mfg #UVBF | G23 9 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 9, PUVH2309 |
| *GARDEN TREASURES | Sterilizers Models: Pressurized Biological Filter with UV Light PF1600UV | G23 7 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 7, PUVH2307 |
| *HAGEN LAGUNA | Sterilizers Models: PT-520 PowerClear 1000 UV Stabilizer, PT-1650 Power Clear Max 1000 UV Stabilizer | 8 Watt Bi Pin UV Bulb | #G8T5, #PUVLB508 |
| * HAGEN LAGUNA | Sterilizers Models: PT-1506 Pressure-Flo 3200 UVC Filter | T5F, 22- 25 Watt/ four pin UVC Bulb 17.16”- 17.50” | GPH436T5/4P, G22T5L/4P, PUVLF435 |
| *HAWIIAN MARINE | Sterilizers Models: Angstrom 2537® UV | 8 Watt Bi Pin UV Bulb | #G8T5, #PUVLB508 |
| * HAWIIAN MARINE | Sterilizers Models: Angstrom 2537® UV, Model AN-15 | 15 Watt T8 UVC | G15T8, PUVLB515 |
| * HAWIIAN MARINE | Sterilizers Models: Angstrom 2537® UV, Model AN-25 | 25 Watt T8 UVC | G25T8, PUVLB525 |
| *HOZELOCK CYPRIO | Sterilizers Models: EasyClear 500 UVC 1327, Vorton 500, Bioforce 250 UVC 1311, Bioforce 500 UVC 1312, Ecoclear 500 UVC 1326 | G23 5 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 5, PUVH2305 |
| *HOZELOCK CYPRIO | Sterilizers Models: Vorton 4000, Vorton 2000, Vorton 1000, EasyClear™ 1000 UVC 1328, Ecoclear™ UVC 1327 | G23 9 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 9, PUVH2309 |
| *HOZELOCK CYPRIO | Sterilizers Models: Bioforce™ 4000 UVC 1335, Ecoclear™ 2000 UVC 1328, Ecoclear™ 4000 UVC 1329 (Previous three Require 2 - 13 Watt Lamps), Bioforce™ 2000 UVC 1314, Vorton 6000 (requires 3 Bulbs) | GX23/G23 13 Watt Compact UV Bulb | GX23/PLS 13, G23, PUVHX213 older models may require G23 single clip, please check lamp prior to ordering |
| *SAVIO FILTERS/UV | Sterilizers Models: Savio Skimmer 16 Watt | four pin 16 Watt UV bulb (14”) | #G10T5L/4P, #PUVLF356 |
| *SAVIO FILTERS/UV | Sterilizers Models: Savio Skimmer 25 Watt | four pin 22-25 Watt UV bulb (17.16”- 17.50”) | GPH436T5/4P, G22T5L/4P, PUVLF435 |
| * SHARPER IMAGE | Purifier Model: Ionic Breeze 15 Watt UVC | 15 Watt T8 UVC | G15T8, PUVLB515 |
| *TETRA | Sterilizers Models: GreenFree™ UV Mini Pond Clarifier, Tetratec UV5 Clarifier, UV Mini | G23 5 Watt Compact UV Bulb | G23/PLS 5, PUVH2305 |
| * TETRA | Sterilizers Models: GreenFree™ UV1 Mini Pond Clarifier, UV-1 | G23 9 Watt Compact UV Bulb (some newer Tetra 9 watt may require the G11 base bulb, so please check if 4 pins or 2 pins) | G23/PLS 9, PUVH2309 |
Rena Filstar XP Filters
Filstar XP Filter
The extremely quiet Filstar XP Filters are excellent for use in Fresh and saltwater of aquariums. It has a large bio mechanical and chemical media capacity, strong flow rates and solid construction combined with ease of maintenance.
*Simple Installation
*Easy to Use
*Maximum Performance & Reliability
*Complete with ALL media needed!
For further information or to purchase, please follow this link:
Rena Canister Filter; Filstar XP1 & XP2 Filter Systems
Featured Items; 4-14-09

Lowest Prices for first quality Quartz UV bulbs!
Compact UV Bulb (UVC) for; 5 through 36 Watt Sterilizers/Clarifiers
Compact UV Bulbs in PLL (G11) and PLS (G23 & GX23) styles, now including the proprietary G11 UVC lamp to fit some Tetra UV Sterilizers.
For T5, T8, T10 UV lights/bulbs, please see this page: T5, T8, T10 UVC Straight Replacement Bulbs
Keep in mind that the vast majority of Compact UV Bulbs are standardized (a few companies such as Tetra have proprietary bulbs for their UVs), so these bulbs will fit most units that calls for the proper wattage and base. We sell compact UV replacement lamps to fit 98% of units available, and if your unit calls for example the 5 watt UVC bulb, our 5 watt replacement will fit.
Please check your base that to verify the 3 basic types; G11, G23, GX23
Aquatic Information and Supplies
![]() AQUARIUM DECOR; Synthetic Coral (Yellow Leather, Blue Ridge, Mini 4 Pack Coral Replicas & Red Pipe Organ DeCoral); Castles, and artificial plants; Driftwood, Mango Wood specimens! |
![]() AQUARIUM AND POND PRODUCTS; Filters, Pumps (water, air); Lights and fixtures; Fish Food, UV Sterilizers and UVC lamps; Treatments, conditioners and medications including SeaChem Products; Heaters, CO2, Tubing & more |
![]() OCEAN THEMED DECORATIONS AND COLLECTIBLES; Shell Night lites, Seashells and more |
![]() SHELL WIND CHIMES;Elegant ocean themed garden decor |
![]() The Internet’s Premier Aquatic Resource with well researched and up to date aquarium and pond information, help, sites, and articles. Including Fish Nutrition, Aquarium Disease Prevention, more. |
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Quartz Heaters
Sponge Filters



