what size filter(s) for 55G neon tetra tank?

knightgobe · 05-04-2008, 03:00 PM

I am setting up a planted 55G neon tetra tank with HOB filtration. I want alot of filtration but am concerned about causing too much current for the small neons to swim against. I was thinking of using two filters near either end of the tank. Should I get two the same size...or one big biowheel? Any recommendations?

Knightgobe

Judge · 05-04-2008, 06:06 PM

Hi Knightgobe. Not sure about FW filtering and I am sure to FW addicts will jump in but I have a 55G SW and I use a Magnum 350. It works great, not a real strong flow but if you look at one be sure and get the deluxe model..it has the ball valves so media change is much easier. IMO only.

gregpape23 · 05-05-2008, 07:20 PM

I think one big one should work, I don't think the current would be much of a problem. Even if it was, the plants would block/ slow down some of it.

somerton16 · 05-05-2008, 10:49 PM

i have a rena filstar xp1 on my 10 gallon tank with neons and the current is a little too strong for them. the likw it though (i think) thwy try and swim into it alot. i forget what the gph for the rena is but its defiently over rated for a 10 gallon. i am gonna put a spray bar on to see if they like the calmer water better or vice versa i'll let you know how it goes

Tommy Gun · 05-06-2008, 06:55 PM

Hey Knightgobe - welcome to the forum!

I think you have a lot of choices for filtration and I also think you would be relatively hard pressed to fit enough HOB filtration on your 55 gallon tank in order to distress neon tetras since - and someone can correct me if I am wrong - they are "built" for life in streams and tributaries. In fact, I think you and your fish would actually benifit from at least a moderate amount of water movement and IME, even the Magnum 350 with spraybars and/or with the two biowhell attachments has proven to be just fine for my 55 gallon community tank...back when I had one.

fernival brainard · 05-07-2008, 03:55 PM

aquaclear, made by Hagen is a good filter and IMO, 2 aquaclears (20-40gal tank models) one placed on each end of the tank would work great. One of the things I like best about these HOBs is that you can get any type of media and cram into them (I use pond filter media, cut to fit, made by oddysea in my aquaclears), they are not limited to just media made for them because of the shape.

knightgobe · 05-07-2008, 09:28 PM

Thanks for the advice. I'm thinking of using an emperor 280 in conjunction with an aquaclear 70. That way I get a biowheel plus versatility of the aqua clear. Also the E280 isn't a grande monstrosity like the 350 and 400 models are. I think the emperor models also have good flow control. What do you think?

Neil

fernival brainard · 05-08-2008, 01:18 PM

I have an emporer penguin (can't remember the model but its big) on my 120 and I don't have any complaints about it. It came used and the folks I got it from had been using it for about 3 years and it hasn't missed a lick in the 6 mths or so that I have had it. Good filter.