Filters for Ranchus

[Torch]

I have 4 Ranchus in a 50 gallon aquarium tank using Aquaclear 110 power filters. Seems the current is still too strong with the power filters set to lowest settings. What about filters should I tried? I feed them twice day around 60 degree temp with Progold pellets.


- What filters?
- If I used powe filter, still need air stone, since the water fall should generate oxygenation right?

[suphi]

Try canister filter at low setting, aim the water jet against the back wall to reduce even more current. You will likely need 2 airstones this way since there won't be much surface agitation, you may also have to vacuume the tank everyday, but the fish might prefer lower water current...mine does. You don't have to have water current but oxygen supplement is always a must in aquarium setting.

[small_ranchu]

I have two Aqclear 110s(full power) on my 90 g tank. It doesn't bother my fish at all.

[Torch]

Thanks, I think the cannister may be too much maintenance, won't keep water clear and need to for further air stones. I still like the Aquaclear HOB, think I may just go with less powerful one, downgrade from 110 to 70 and add sponge filter inside the tank.

[rcarltonj]

I have an AquaClear 110 on each of my 75G tanks along with double stacked HydroSponge V filters. When I want to reduce the current on the AquaClears, I just float a piece of filter foam (cut in thirds lengthwise) directly inder the outflow of the HOB. I keep the foam in place with dental floss tied to a paper clip that fits inder the lid on the filter.

I'll try to post a picture later.

[johnatoranchu]

I have 4 Ranchus in a 50 gallon aquarium tank using Aquaclear 110 power filters. Seems the current is still too strong with the power filters set to lowest settings. What about filters should I tried? I feed them twice day around 60 degree temp with Progold pellets.


- What filters?
- If I used powe filter, still need air stone, since the water fall should generate oxygenation right?

Best way to reduce flow and increase filtration at the same time is to install a wet/dry filter. Simply make a glass box, 4 inches x 4 inches x the length of your aquarium. No bottom is required, just struts to support the filtration media, which should be "light weight" - plastic, sponge or similar. Direct the water from the power filter to a spray bar fitted through the length of this wet/dry filter box. Sounds complicated but is very simple. Filtered water returns to aquarium like rain causing turbulence and aeration but little water current.
John

[Torch]

Rich, thanks I'll wait for you pics to see, but got the idea. May try that before downgrading my Aquaclear. Why do you just turn down the flow rate on the Aquaclear 110?

[rcarltonj]

Here's the pics of the floating sponge that I use to restrict filter flow when needed. Normally I just turn the flow rate to low, but on special occasions I use this setup. I thread the dental floss through the sponge with a large needle, then tie a large paper clip to the floss so it's just long enough to keep the sponge in place and fit under the filter lid at the back edge of the filter.

http://i885.photobucket.com/albums/ac60/rcarltonj/Filter-Flow-2.jpg
http://i885.photobucket.com/albums/ac60/rcarltonj/Fliter-Flow-1.jpg

[small_ranchu]

Please keep in mind, one of the advantage of having filter is to have surface aggitation for gas exchange. :)

[rcarltonj]

Yes Fred, that's true. Normally I only use this setup when I'm using an HOB filter on both ends of the tank. One end churns while the other end is relatively quiet.

[Torch]

Nice Job with setup, I'll give it try. Thanks all.