Pico and Nano Tank Filters

[dougolasjr]

I have a HOB filters for both my 2.5 and 5.5 tanks I have for RCS. I have fluval U1 foam pad over the filter intake. Do you think this would be sufficient for keeping shrimplets from being sucked up? If not what would be a suggestion? I have a Elite Sponge Filter on my 10g tank which I think should be good for it, but I'm not sure if the foam pads will be good enough for the smaller tanks?

 

[JAY973]

I've used the Aqua clear foam blocks on my RedSea for the Pico. I cut it in half then cut a whole in the center deep enough to completely cover the intake.

I'm sure what ever you are using as long as the intake is completely covered should be fine. You may have to adjust via a flow control if you find it is too strong.Good Luck:thm:

 

[miss jess]

as long as the foam block doesn't restrict the flow dramatically it should be okay. i use the foot from a pair of pantyhose/stockings and attach it to the intake with a rubber band

 

[dougolasjr]

I have the Red Sea on the 2.5, and have its on the lower setting. I would have gotten another one but I'm not sure it would have been enough for the 5.5. Therefore I got a whisper 5-10 on the 5.5 which seems a bit strong tho on the water flow. I have some guppies and a mystery fish in it for the time being and it seems that the current is strong. Could i put something in the area of the filter to counter that?

 

[JAY973]

Well if you use a aquaclear foam block it can serve to purposes as I understand it.
-It will help prevent crashing you biological filtration if you alternate cleaning the internal filter pad and the foam on the intake
-Keep small particles, debris or other live stock from being sucked into the filter
-extends the use of the filter pad inside the filter
-another added benefit in your case as the sponge starts to become clogged it will reduce flow it it get too bad a quick rinse will improve flow again.

I can tell you I see those benefits on my 1.5 gallon pico cause the redsea even with the flow adjusted can thrash sand or SMS substrate around. The RCS like hang on the small sponge as well.

This is an old pic of what it use to look like

 

[Rugh1982]

hi, do u use co2 in this tank?
if so, how do u monitor it?
do u think the shrimps are affected by it?
thanks