Fluval 406 and bio sponge filter

[InfamousFH]

I'm currently running a Fluval 406 with stock sponge in bottem tray followed by bio max ceramic rings in all other media trays, my top tray is one half bio max and chemi pure elite. As a secondary filtration unit I added a sponge filter with air pump, my problem as of lately is my Male Flowerhorn seems to be nipping away at the sponge filter. If I remove the sponge filter is it possible I would expect a bacterial bloom and/or ammonia spike? Or would my 406 be able to handle things accordingly. Any options or suggestions are all welcome.

 

[Fish Tank Travis]

What size is the tank? What are your maintenance habits? What is the complete stocking of the tank?

 

[InfamousFH]

60 gallon. (1) 6-7 inch male flowerhorn. Gravel substrate. 25% every friday w/gravel vac. Fluval 406 canister. Finnex digital titanium heater@83 degrees. PH around 7.8.

 

[Fish Tank Travis]

It seems to me that the 406 should be just fine, but I will be happy to hear what others think.

 

[InfamousFH]

Well it's been 24 hours since I removed the Bio sponge and all seems ok, I'll run another test in the morning just to be sure.

 

[InfamousFH]

Ok this is what happen, tested my water again and as I figured, slight reading for ammonia and nitrite. Alittle less than .25 for both Immediately dosed two caps of Prime. Will run a follow up test tomorrow to see where it's at.

 

[InfamousFH]

Test results this morning were back to 0 ammonia 0 nitrite.

 

[Chockful O Phail]

Do bigger water changes. 90% or better, your fish will thank you. But your 406 should be fine. You could try an air stone in the gravel, just something to help with oxygen supply.