Filtration for cichla

[CichlidDan]

My new 72"x30"x18" aquarium should be ready within the next few weeks and so I am planning aquascaping and filtration right now. I currently only have a fluval 405 running on the 90 gal they are in and I was wondering what you guys think would be another suitable canister to add to it when I move them to the new tank. (I think its approximately 170gal) I am considering an fx5 right now because of price and mechanical filtration capacity, but have also been thinking about eheim because I have heard they have much greater capacity for biological media which I understand is a must for these large fish. Unfortonately a wet/dry sump type filter isnt really possible for me at this time, but what are your guys opinions on what I should do for filtration for these rapid growing fish. (I have 4 small (3") monos if it matters)

 

[haynchinook334]

FX5 and 2 ac110 would be good.

 

[cichlid savage]

What are you using for substrate? You can use the 405 add the fx5 or an eheim 2260 and be fine IMO. Just watch your water parameters. If you find that you need more then you could add an ac110 or 2. If you are using sand be careful as the ac110's can suck up sand damaging the impeller.

 

[CichlidDan]

I was considering sand, but would it be easier to go with smaller gravel?

 

[cichlid savage]

I was considering sand, but would it be easier to go with smaller gravel?

With sand I would def go with a canister over an HOB. Sand in a HOB can ruin it, while it will be filtered before getting to the impeller in a canister.

 

[bOOsteN aUdI]

wet/dry with a nu clear canister and a external pump.. if you want to get crazy you can always add a drip system... is it 30" wide or 18" wide?

 

[CichlidDan]

Its 30" wide, out of curiosity is a sump more energy efficient?

 

[bOOsteN aUdI]

it depends on the pump size.. how many gallons is that tank?

 

[CichlidDan]

i think it is about 170g not couting glass thickness

 

[bOOsteN aUdI]

i guess you can run a fx5 and be ok but i run a fx5 on my 120 and i don't feel its enough so i run a ac500 or 600? on top of it as back up and that on my grow out tank.. there are energy efficient pumps out there.