Filter w/ a Low Current?

[Sara]

We're currently looking for a filter for our 5.5 gal Betta tank. The problem? Our Betta *hates* current. He used to live in 2 gal Waterhome with a built-in filter, but we had to keep it off most of the time because the current was too strong for him.

We know that a filter isn't required for the 5.5 gal, but we'd like to try and find one regardless. What we're looking for are any suggestions for a HOB filter that produces as little current as possible...thoughts?

And this Betta is one spoiled fish! His tank has just undergone renovations to include a balcony...

TIA!

 

[An t-iasg]

Hi...I use a sponge filter in my 5.5 gallon betta tank. It's run by an air pump (Tetratec 12) and hooked up thru a gang valve (Penn Plax, I think) to lessen the air actually getting to the sponge filter. The sponge filter has a nice stream of bubbles coming up, that the betta likes to play in, but there is no current and the top of the water is almost perfectly still.

I think just about all HOB filters would be too much for a betta in a 5.5 gallon tank. I have read that some people have a small Whisper or Aquaclear mini in their 5.5 gallon, but they have something other than a betta in the tank.

In my opinion, a sponge filter is all you need in a 5.5 gallon betta tank. The bettas do not create a huge bio-load. The sponge filter provides a place for the good bacteria, and my readings are always 0 (ammonia), 0 (nitrites), and 20 (nitrate). In my betta tanks, I don't think I need a HOB to provide mechanical or chemical filtration. I do have a corner filter that I use carbon in occasionally (I take it in and out as needed.)

Here is the sponge filter I use:

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produ...catid=3940&Ne=40000&R=6981&Nao=9&N=2004+22779

It's rated for a 15 gallon tank, but I think it's ok in my 5.5 gallon.

 

[Shizznit]

U could try and see if the azoo palm filter would suffice.Here's the link http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produ...atid=9821&Ne=40000&R=16273&Nao=9&N=2004+22769 Hope this helps.

 

[Sara]

Thanks for the advice An t-iasg and Shizznit! Now all I have to do is wait for my next paycheque...