I wouldn't recommend sucking up the gravel to clean it in a
well-established,
successful planted tank.

JLD


ok but do you suck up the surface at all. I guess I am asking if you don't
suck up the fish solid waste - does it naturally break down to safe
byproducts. I have heard of catfish (cory ) loosing barbs becasue of dirty
gravel etc. any thoughts

thanks

Al