Lustar Hydro Sponge or Hagen BioFoam for low current?

Dexter

Dexter

AC Members
Mar 14, 2009
16
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0
Southern Cali
Hi everyone,

I have a 5 gallon tank with one betta in it. The tank came with a HOB filter and there is no way to adjust the flow and it seems the current is stressing out my betta. He is constantly getting caught in the waterfall and being swept to the bottom and other times you can see him swimming with all his strength but just not going anywhere. So I looked online and found alot of places recommending the Lustar Hydro Sponge Filter or the Hagen BioFoam Filter when low current is needed for fry.

I was just wondering if anyone has tried either of these and if they work well? Or if anyone had could suggest any kind of filter with a low current? Also from my understanding these filters use the sponge for mechanical and biological filtering but they have no chemical carbon filtering? Anyone's thoughts on whether the carbon is really necessary? Any advice or recommendations would be appreciated. Thanks.
 
Your understanding of them is quite correct. I have the ATI Hydro-sponges and have no complaints. I don't use carbon anyhow so it is a non-issue for me. In the event I should need to use carbon, I have 2 empty media bags that I can put carbon into and then hang the bag where water circulates the best.

Use of carbon is strictly and individual choice. Some need it due to their water chemistry while others do not.
 
i agree with jeff 100%. right on the money!
 
Thanks for the response. How is the current with the ATI sponge filter you have? Do you think it would be suitable for a betta?

I never thought of putting the carbon in the flow of the water. That makes sense though.
 
The current in minimal but is there none-the-less. Unless your fish needs a fast flow they are fine filters for almost any tank size. They are especially ideal in fry tanks. I poer mine with a powerhead so I get great flow and circulation. Power it as you see fit. The more air you use the more circulation you get. Or use a powerhead and really blow the scales off your betta! :) In a 10 gallon fry tank I used an air pump suitable for 10-30 gallon tanks, in my 29 I use a 700LPH powerhead (Approx. 185GPH)
 
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