What Do I Really Need To Use In A Fluval 306

[radman2020]

I was given a fluval 306 for my 35 gallon tank. I don't want to spend huge dollars or time. What are the filters I really need to buy for this and how often do I need to replace them? I use well water so there is no chlorine. I have regular tropical fish from the store and some from the stream behind my house.

 

[fluttermoth]

You can fill the filter with almost anything that the bacteria can grow on. Gravel would do at a pinch, ceramic rings or nylon pot scrubbers (make sure they don't have any detergents in them) are good or pond media (sponges can cut up to fit; make sure they fit snugly, so the water can't track around the edges); it's cheaper than the aquarium stuff.

Filter media never needs replacing (apart from filter floss, if you decide to use that); don't forget that you'll need to put all the media from your current filter into it, if you're removing the old filter so you don't lose your good bacteria.

 

[CezzaXV]

Long story short, I made a boo boo and my Fluval 205 is filled completely with ceramic rings. They recommend you have several different types, but tbh as long as the bacteria can grow on it, it's all good.