Hey all. I'm going to receive some hate for this post, but that's fine. Setting up a 75g for 2 oscars, both of whom are about 3'' or so right now. Yes, I know that a 75g is tight for one, let alone two oscars. I'll deal with that later. The oscars are in a 20g for the time being growing quick. I have a FX4 that I got on sale on Black Friday, yet I think a sump would be probably most beneficial. Besides extra water volume, any other major pros to using a sump on a smaller system such as this? I do anticipate large weekly WC in time. I have always wanted to try a FX series filter. Some people swear by them, I personally have the 407 and love that filter.
75g Oscar Aquarium
- Thread starter powerlifter4
- Start date
If the sump is setup effectively it will be easier to maintain than a canister filter. I personally have a sump running on a 180 gallon will never go to any other filter again lol
My 2cents ... Another consideration is the aeration / oxygen content of the water when using a sump compared to a canister. Yes, there's a lot more volume and endless options for setup with sumps (I am a big fan of sumps and wont go back to Canisters unless its a small tank), but another big benefit is how much the water tumbles, goes over and under media then back up pipes and out the outlet - this creates a lot of time that the water is moving and gas exchanging etc, not just reliant on surface movement in the display tank (This cannot be overlooked either, however) which is of utmost benefits for large (and all really) cichlids. As mentioned above, with the big messy cichlids, its great to be able to look into the sump and see when filter floss or sponge needs cleaning without having to take a canister apart. I also love watching my k1 media tumble in the sump, that's a benefit for me haha.
Id say use the FX4 / 407 on the 75 until you upgrade for the adult Oscars then go with a well planned out sump at that stage.
Id say use the FX4 / 407 on the 75 until you upgrade for the adult Oscars then go with a well planned out sump at that stage.
Since you are dead set on growing them out in a 75, when they moved to an adequate size tank, I'd used the 75 as sump .