Filters

[edd_hardy]

Im setting up a new 30 gallon tank with what I think has quite a low stocking level (12 neon tetras, 2 platties, 2 guppies, 2 dwarf gouramis and a small pleco) and am completly confused about what type of filtration I should use.

The tank most of the fish are currently in has an undergravel filter so it seems logical to move this to the new larger tank and add another undergravel filter. However having searched the internet I have found very varied opinions ranging from "the ultimate filter system" to "absolutly useless" so any advice on the type of filtration that would be best to use from people not trying to sell me something (i.e. you people) would be very welcome.

Thanks in advance
Edd

p.s. The lower the cost the better, however I would rather spend more up front and have a good system than have a running battle with water quality and dead fish for the sake of a few £s.

 

[Tempestuousfury]

A canister filter or a power filter with filter floss as the media (for both). Not sure how much the former costs, but the latter is pretty cheap. If you use filter floss, I hear you only change the cartridge semi-annually. This saves a bundle... (I've got to try it...). The canister is good because it has three or four different media in it and ensures that you'll have enough bacteria. It sucks in fry pretty easily, though. So that might be a problem if you add the livebearers.

HTH

 

[Lithril]

Have a look at this site cichlid addicts homepage, go to aquarium setup and then filtration, he's listed pro's and con's of most filtrations systems.

Personally although undergravel filters have been used for years I feel they have been massively superceded. They have a tendancy to collect debris underneath them. I have 2 x 30 gallon tanks and I have them both running off of Eheim canister filters, while a little bit more expensive you have the option of several media types, a large through flow and very reliable.

 

[edd_hardy]

Thanks for the info. A couple more things: is it beneficial to have both an undergravel filter as well as a cannister or power filter or is this just pointless, and approximatly how much would be a reasonable price for a cannister or power filter.

Thanks in advance
Edd

 

[thecichlidaddict]

Thanks for the info. A couple more things: is it beneficial to have both an undergravel filter as well as a cannister or power filter or is this just pointless

Pointless. Most canisters are designed for the primary purpose of bio-filtraiton, and have the capability of keeping a tank much, much more heavily stocked then you are planning.

As for cost, it depends where you live, and what brand you are aiming for. They range from fairly inexpensive, to extremely costly.

 

[edd_hardy]

Thanks for the information

Edd