Filter For Planted Tank

[Mariposa]

Hi, I am converting my 21 gallon (U.S.) tank to a planted one. I currently have an aquaclear power filter, this causes some surface movement and I was wondering if I should change the type of filter and if so which kind is best-suited for a planted tank. Any advice would be welcome.
Thanks

 

[Themuleous]

It really depends on the size of the tank and the amount of surface movement. Some surface movement is important to keep O2 levels up but equally, too much will just drive off all the co2 you add. From what I understand you need to avoid splashing water, that does the most 'damage' to co2 levels. Think the aquaclear filters hang on the site of the tank, half it half out? Probably quite a bit of movement in that case.

I have just changed my internal, to an external eheim classic, would highly recommended eheim externals, but also depends on how much money you have to play with. How big is the tank? I take it the filter you have does a good enough job re ammonia and nitrite?

You could always get everything else sorted and see how it works with the filter you have? i.e. if it effectes the co2 levels lots? Then if it does change it then, better than spending the money if you needn't.

Hope this helps

Sam