Box Filters

[BobK]

I've heard that box filters are the cheapest and simplest option and they do a great job. I do have a question about them. If they are completely submerged in water, how does the bacteria live and thrive in the biofilter? Do they get enough oxygen from the air pumped into the filter? I was thinking about getting one for my livebearer tank. Thanks!

 

[guppymonkey]

Box filters are a cheap and very old filtration system. They use an airstone to produce a current that draws muck through the filter and keeps the bacteria aerated. They are amazingly good for fry tanks as they can't suck the fry to their deaths but are only useful on small tanks. Large tanks require many box filters and aren't really practicable. Most people only use them on tanks that are 10 gallons or less. If you use one I would recommend frequent water changes as they are not as effective as power filters but are a lot cheaper.

 

[black angel]

as they are changed too often bio bugs dont get a chance to take hold. you will need a permanent sponge filter to accumulate the bugs.