Eheim Classic 350 or 600?

[Platyfish_14]

Hi, I am still deciding on a filter for my 150l (39-40 gal) aquarium that will be light to moderately planted with Java Fern, Java Moss, and Anubias species tied onto rocks and bog or drift wood, and platys as the fish. Actual water content is estimated to be around 117.5L/150L - 127.5L/150L.

What I am wondering is, with this information, and feeding my platys twice a day as normal. How many platys fully grown would you experienced aquarists recommend having in this fish tank that will have a good amount of hiding places and territories and using the 350 canister filter with the standard media in the default order in the filter? And how many platys would yous recommend when using the 600 filter? My reason for wanting to know this is because I care for my future fish, and just want to do what is right for them, and I know you guys are the right people to ask. I know I am going to possibly get a variety of different answers, but I want to see what you all say. Let me know if yous need any more information from me, for yous to give an accurate enough answer.

Note: I have been reading that the flow of these filters drops significantly when fully installed.

And with these filters, has anyone ever reduced the flow using the valves (double tap connectors) on the filter, and how much without causing damage to the machine/filter? Sorry if I should be asking the eheim support techs but I haven't got a reply from them yet and it's been about 2 weeks.
All help and advice is welcome and appreciated, thanks in advance

 

[heavyhitter]

Get the 600, no question! I have six 3317 (600) and one (2215) 350. The problem with the 350 is that the intake tube is smaller and Ive had to use long coat hangers and brushes to get the gunk out of the lines as they stated to clog and cause flow issues. When the 2215 (350) gets dirty flow really takes a hit.

Keep in mind that the flow on these, even the bigger filter inst that great and will not turn your tank into a whirlpool. If you want lower flow drill the spray bars larger.

Note: I have been reading that the flow of these filters drops significantly when fully installed.

The flow doesn't seem to be bothered when full of media and my 2217's only diminish when they have ran for a very long time and are really dirty. That said IMO the flow of these aren't that great to begin with, They are the best bio canisters made but dont expect great mechanical filtration.

FWIW my 350 is not even in use and sitting in a closet now. The larger filter is simply that much better.

 

[Platyfish_14]

You don't think the flow going back into the tank would be too much and stressful for the fish? And would the plants be fine with the flow? I am just inexperienced, and this is my top concern as of right now tbh? Not trying to challenge you.

 

[heavyhitter]

If you drill the holes bigger in the spray bar it makes the output much smoother. In a small tank the 350 will work for you but if you wanted anything better It wouldn't do much. The 350 moves as much water as some of the smallest HOBs Since you are only keeping platys the 350 will be enough for you. Either canister will hold way more bio media than you will need.

The 600 in your tank will give you better mechanical filtration.

Platys will breed a lot especially with lots of plants for fry to hide in. They have a small bio-load as long as your water parameters are good I bet you could keep a a couple dozen.

With live bearing fish just remember 2 can turn into 100 pretty fast.

 

[HarleyK]

If in doubt: Go BIG