Adequate filtration/aeration?

[MDH]

Hello All,

I've got a quick question for you. I've got a relatively new 29G tank setup, lightly planted (for now anyways) with stock levels where they should be (3 cichlids, between 2" and 4"). I'm filtering with an AquaClear50. I was thinking of adding an airpump or whatever you guys recommend. My question is, is the AC50 good enough to handle the filtration/aeration needs of this tank, and will an airpump help? Thanks!

 

[fishieperson321]

I think it will be enough filtration, but I would add an AquaClear 100 to the tank also just incase one quits and you should almost always have extra filtration. That will give you a little over 10x filtration. Also, you can clean them alternately so that you won't go through a cycle when cleaned. Also, an airpump would make a great addition. Maybe a bubblewand or action air ornament or two.

 

[mostlycichlids]

what kind of cichlids? also I too like to filter 10x the volume per hour. HOB filters are not the best choice for planted tanks and air pumps and bubble wands are out too. You are adding o2 to the tank by adding live plants so extra areation is not necessary.

 

[WyldFya]

Welcome to MFK! A second filter wouldn't hurt. However, an air pump will not do too much, unless you are running a sponge filter on it.

 

[MDH]

Thanks for all the input guys!

To answer your question, I've got a 2" convict, 4" Blue Acara, and a 3" Malawi cichlid (I've heard you're not supposed to mix SA with African's, but they are all doing fine, well at least for now).

 

[MDH]

Well I've had a few changes recently. I've given up the African, and swapped in another convict + 2 Tiger Barbs. Also have picked up another AC50. So I'm getting close to 14 water turns per hour (200gph X 2). Is this too much for my setup?

 

[freeskierrocket]

well i run Emperor 400's on my 30 gallon tanks.........working great for me and yes...overfiltration is key in this game!!

 

[Dr Joe]

Well I've had a few changes recently. I've given up the African, and swapped in another convict + 2 Tiger Barbs. Also have picked up another AC50. So I'm getting close to 14 water turns per hour (200gph X 2). Is this too much for my setup?

Are the fish happy or struggling to stay in one place .

Air stones help with offgassing but with this bio-load you don't have to worry about it, and the ac50's will give you enough surface aggitation.

Dr Joe

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