sump

[animalzrok2]

does a sump replace the need for a filter?

 

[mfdrookie516]

No. A sump is not a filter. But, you can utilize chambers in a sump to filter. A wet/dry filter can be made, which is similar to a sump (one could even consider it a type of sump), which is a great bio/mechanical filter. In a SW tank, a refugium is usually built in a sump to provide a place for macro algae and things of that nature. It's also a great place to grow pods. In a FW system, you usually have the wet/dry setup. It can cause nitrate problems if not cleaned regularly, though.


Moved to General Hardware/Equipment Discussion

 

[animalzrok2]

so is it worth it to get a sump for a fw tank?

 

[mfdrookie516]

Kind of hard to say. It's really not something you *need*, but many larger tank keepers have wet/dry filters on their tanks. You're looking at probably $200+ if you DIY one. If it's less than 100g, it's not worth it IMO. A canister filter(s) is plenty for most tanks well over 200 gallons. Some just prefer a wet/dry.