sponge filters?

[stephanier]

Since my betta's fins are getting torn from my current filter, I was thinking about switching to a sponge filter. I was pleased to find them very inexpensive on amazon. However, I don't know much about them so I was hoping someone who uses a sponge filter would be able to answer some questions:

Do they keep the water as clean/clear as a power fliter?

Do you have to replace the sponges, and if so how often?

Is the current it creates more manageable for a betta fish?

Do you recommend a certain brand or certain kind of sponge filter?

[stephanier]

I also just found this thing on the petsmart website...it appears that it goes over the intake of a power filter...would this be a good solution?

http://www.petsmart.com/product/inde...ductId=3650250

[JackisLost]

I have used a sponge filter recently in my large tank and I don't like them as much as a small canister filter. I have used the zoo med 501 with that sponge you linked and its still my #1. I'm upgrading my small canister to a finnex px 360. To reduce the current I let the return fall strait down and block its path with some rocks and plants.

[athenr3134]

i had bought aqueon 2.5 gallon mini bow desktop aquarium and it came with a filter it is a tad bit on the heavy flow but my betta doesn't mind it. he is seems very happy and its a sponge filter. i am thinking of getting a different filter tho.. the good thing is that this filter it came with can come out completely.

[Kenny G]

@ athenr3134 I have 2 of those tanks and all you have to do to reduce the flow is remove the black filter tube and put a piece of aquarium sponge in it. That's what I did and not its perfect.

[athenr3134]

thanks i will try that if it gets to be too much for him. he seems to be happy so far! :)

[stephanier]

Originally Posted by Kenny G

@ athenr3134 I have 2 of those tanks and all you have to do to reduce the flow is remove the black filter tube and put a piece of aquarium sponge in it. That's what I did and not its perfect.

Thanks! I will try that!