Sponge filters only?

[Backfromthedead]

So how effective are sponge filters really? Could i, in theory, provide effective biological filtration for a 150-200 gallon system with 3-4 large sponge filters?

The big picture here is that im trying to rig up a stacked tank system where the bottom tank could be part of the display but also a type of live-in, planted sump tank.

The main display would be about 150 gallons and the bottom would be 50-60. An overhead planter sump would also be in the works for this setup. I have some rudimentary plans drawn up but nothing sensible enough to post yet lol.

Any tips or advice would be appreciated.

 

[tlindsey]

So how effective are sponge filters really? Could i, in theory, provide effective biological filtration for a 150-200 gallon system with 3-4 large sponge filters?

The big picture here is that im trying to rig up a stacked tank system where the bottom tank could be part of the display but also a type of live-in, planted sump tank.

The main display would be about 150 gallons and the bottom would be 50-60. An overhead planter sump would also be in the works for this setup. I have some rudimentary plans drawn up but nothing sensible enough to post yet lol.

Any tips or advice would be appreciated.

Yes Sponges will definitely do the job but like with any other filter just keep them maintained don't let them clog up. Also test your parameters like normal to make sure the Sponge are handling your bio load.

 

[nzafi]

Do a search on HMF filters. You’ll find a member JasonsPlecosCichlids uses them a couple 265s, 180s, and maybe smaller. I’ll be using them as secondary filter on my 535g.

 

[Backfromthedead]

Oh so it looks like ive got some support for this idea. I have seen jasons tanks and im very envious of his chocolate tank in particular. I had no idea they were sponge filter only tanks though.

tlindsey i will definitely be monitoring it closely as i do with all of my wacky experiments. Plan is to only stock the system lightly until i have that overhead planter sump in place and the bottom tank covered in java moss. I had good results from the 3' planter i used on my 75. So im thinking one about 2-3 times that size stacked with pothos will make a sizable dent.

Thanks for your input!

 

[tlindsey]

Oh so it looks like ive got some support for this idea. I have seen jasons tanks and im very envious of his chocolate tank in particular. I had no idea they were sponge filter only tanks though.

tlindsey i will definitely be monitoring it closely as i do with all of my wacky experiments. Plan is to only stock the system lightly until i have that overhead planter sump in place and the bottom tank covered in java moss. I had good results from the 3' planter i used on my 75. So im thinking one about 2-3 times that size stacked with pothos will make a sizable dent.

Thanks for your input!

Your very welcome!

 

[nzafi]

Oh so it looks like ive got some support for this idea. I have seen jasons tanks and im very envious of his chocolate tank in particular. I had no idea they were sponge filter only tanks though.

tlindsey i will definitely be monitoring it closely as i do with all of my wacky experiments. Plan is to only stock the system lightly until i have that overhead planter sump in place and the bottom tank covered in java moss. I had good results from the 3' planter i used on my 75. So im thinking one about 2-3 times that size stacked with pothos will make a sizable dent.

Thanks for your input!

Yup. In larger tanks you need to make sure to add powerheads for proper circulation.

 

[JasonsPlecosCichlids]

I now have three 265s, all HMF, waiting to find another 265, and the 170 is also HMF. Tell you what, plecos can sure clog them up faster than normal

 

[Dloks]

I use sponge filters for all my grow out tank usually a 40-50g with 1-2 sponges and a 1,200-1,500gph powerhead for circulation. Honestly sponge filter is one of the best and simplest.

 

[Backfromthedead]

Saw an aquatop 250 sponge at a lfs and needless to say i was intrigued. These things are gargantuan.

https://www.amazon.com/AquaTop-CAF-250-Internal-Sponge-Filter/dp/B00J9T3DSY

Does anyone have any experience with one of these beasts?

 

[Backfromthedead]

I use sponge filters for all my grow out tank usually a 40-50g with 1-2 sponges and a 1,200-1,500gph powerhead for circulation. Honestly sponge filter is one of the best and simplest.

Does the sponge affect the power of the pump noticeably? I want to run the return from my sump through a big sponge then back up to the main tank. Pump i have is only good for around 1250 at 4' head though. So if the sponge dampens that any more i think im gonna have to upsize my pump.

1200 gph in a 40 gal? That sounds like a turbulent tank man.