More biological filtration

[petey205]

i'm just looking for a way of getting more biological filtration in my fish tank. the tank has been up and running for 6 months, i do weekly 30% water changes and change filter pads monthly. it's a 55 gallon tank with two Tetra Whisper 30-60 filters. could i stick sponges in the filter to give more room for bacteria to grow on? what are some options? thank you

 

[Oughtsix]

Why do you think you need more biological filtration? If you have high Ammonia and Nitrite readings more filtration is in order. If you have low Ammonia and Nitrite levels your don't need more biological filtration. Every surface in your tank is a surface for bacteria to grow on. Sponges are great bio filters.

 

[aclockworkorange]

What is it stocked with?

 

[petey205]

african cichlids mostly, i have two clown loaches, a polypterus, and a yellow king tiger pleco in there with them.

 

[HarleyK]

Howdy,

Ditch the Whispers and get an Eheim 2217

HarleyK

 

[crisper]

if your water params are good no need to add extra, but more is always better.

 

[Bderick67]

Whisper filters are junk IMO, bad design if you throw away your BB every month when you throw out with the old media. I would add some sponges from a AC110 or AC70 you should be able to cut to fit your whisper. Harley K's advice is actually pretty good.

 

[petey205]

i agree, whispers are junk but i got two of them when i bought the tank from the previous owner. alright cool, i'm heading up to the LFS in an hour, i'll check those out. i wish i had $180 to spend on a canister filter but that isn't an option right now.

 

[petey205]

thank you guys

 

[KaiserSousay]

You never did answer the big question.
How is your water?
0 ammonia
0 nitrite
Whatever nitrate would tell me you don`t need to spend any money.
Your system is doing just fine without another nickel being spent.
So, be real about this.
If you just want to do some changes, then just do them without bringing bacteria into it.