I believe that using diaphram air pumps to oxygenate res water may not be the best way to go. This opinion is based on many years of experience in setting up and maintaining reef aquariums and researching techical information relative to the health of delicate corals.

As I understand the air/water exchange principles, the actual gas exchange takes place at the surface where the air and water come in contact. The agitation of the water causes an incease in the volume of oxygen in the water. In other words, the bubbles rising through the water column add little to nothing to the exchange. It is at the surface. The greater the surface area the more exchange activity you will have. In the ocean, the highlest levels of oxygen are at the surface and diminish rapidly as the depth increases.

Using a small water pump to create surface turbulance accoumplishes the same task (surface agitation) without he noise of a vibarating air pump and these small pumps last for years. No airstones to clog, no noise, and no tubing to route.

Other opinions?
Crusinjimbo Reviewed by Crusinjimbo on . Air Pump vs Water Pump I believe that using diaphram air pumps to oxygenate res water may not be the best way to go. This opinion is based on many years of experience in setting up and maintaining reef aquariums and researching techical information relative to the health of delicate corals. As I understand the air/water exchange principles, the actual gas exchange takes place at the surface where the air and water come in contact. The agitation of the water causes an incease in the volume of oxygen in the water. Rating: 5