Filtering a 55 gallon Tank

[mandi]

My mom got a used 55 gallon tank. She's either going to keep it and have me set it up, or give it to me when I move into my new place this spring/summer (she's not sure that she wants to deal with the maintenene after I move out haha). Either way, I want to find a good filtration system for it (either for a gift to her, or for when I get it).

It came with an undergravel filter, and 2 Skilter power filters. I don't see where an undergravel filter would do much good, and I want to have live plants anyway, so I don't want to use it.

What kind of filtration should I get? My biggest tank is a 20 gallon, which has an AquaClear 30 filter -- I've had experience with the "hang on the back" type power filters, and with undergravel filters (hate them) but that's it. I was thinking in this case about going with some type of cannister filter, but I know *nothing* about them. (I found a place that sells "Jebo" brand ones rated for up to 125gal that are quite cheap... are they ok, or should you only go with a brand like Fluval?)

I know it kind of depends on the fish, which I can't tell you for sure what the tank would be for (though if my mom keeps it, I think it will be black veil angels, as they're her favorite).

Anyway, could you guys give me some general advice about the best method(s) of filtration on a tank this size?

 

[DarkSide]

On my 55 gallon I have an "Aqua-Tech 30-60 gal. external power filter" (hang on the back type). It has pretty good filtration. Except it has a tendancy to give a high current in the area you put it in. Like the right side (where my filter is) has a very strong current, while the left side just swishes around.

 

[KerriPaul]

As I am also planning a similar size tank the same question interests me.

I would only consider an external canister filter as I have found them the most effective, except perhaps undergravel which I wont use because I have many plants.

I would like to know:

What is the best canister to buy

Do any external canisters have an air inlet so that I dont have to add an airstone to the tank?

 

[yvez9]

I'm also thinking of getting a canister for my 50 gallon.

I have an aquaclear 300 right now and ti does the job (it is used to raise fry right now)

Eheim are pretty much the best canisters i found so far. you need no air stone with them i believe.

 

[KerriPaul]

Which eheim?

I have an ecco and that definitely needs an airstone as it has no air inlet.

 

[Daveo]

I think that a Fluva 304 wold work, and what is wrong with undergravle filters. they worlk better than some other filters. Some people say that fish poop gets into the gavel and just waists away and kills fish. well it dosen't. just keep the maintanance once a week maybe twice and there you have it good water. and you can do plants with the under gravel filters two. put then again I wouldn't use a undergravel filter if you are going to be using small gravel or sand

Daveo

 

[Great Lakes]

This is by far the best filter for the dollar money can buy.

I have been trying to break mine for six years now.

GL

 

[fufanu360]

yes, either the one in the link, or a diatom, those work wonders! a lil pricey though

 

[FrAnK3333]

I would get both an Emperor filter and canster, like the one greatlakes showed. Well thats what Im doing wiht my tank, Emperor 400, and a Magnum 350.