I've been reading around trying to figure out the "best" filter for my 45 gallon planted tank. Right now it's got whatever HOB came with it, but I'd like to go with a canister tank. Reading around here, I've settled on a Rena Filstar. I'm thinking the XP2 would be appropriate. Is that about right, or would I need to use the XP3. My tank is sort of mediumly planted and will be towards the heavily stocked side when I finish stocking it.
Filter for a 45g planted?
- Thread starter mrakins
- Start date
I use an XP3 on my 55g planted tank and its more than enough. The XP2 would probably suffice for you. Its rated at 300 GPH for tanks up to 75g. The XP3 gives you an extra 50 GPH and is rated up tp 175g. In addition, the XP3 has an extra filtration basket that allows for more media. Bigalsonline has the XP2 for $74.99 and the XP3 for $99.99.
Scott
Scott
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Another question...it looks like I get pretty much everything with the filter except for some ceramic stuff for the biofiltration. Is that right? How much ceramic doodads would I need for an XP2? And does the brand matter? Thanks!
The more surface area you can get the better for bio media. A lot of people, including myself, use (untreated) nylon pot scrubbers as a cheap alternative to the ceramic media they sell. I've got a rena xp3 so the extra compartment has 6 of those in it. Here's some good into on bio media:
http://www.wernersponds.com/biofiltermedia.htm
http://www.wernersponds.com/biofiltermedia.htm