Replacing Biorb Ugf, How To Fit An Internal Filter?

[pablothebetta]

Thinking of re-awakening the Baby BiOrb thats stuffed in my garage, but I really don't want to go back to using the terrible UGF or ceramic media. I was thinking of planting it relatively heavily and housing some shrimp or small fish (was thinking chili rasbora, male endlers or 2-3 male guppies, if anyone wanted to guide me on this), so I don't think I can just leave the tank unfiltered.
How would I attatch a small internal filter in there with the sides being so curved? Furthermore, are there any filters that would be small enough to not take up too much room in the tank (especially as there would be a heater in there also)?

I thought of having some java fern and java moss attatched to some wood in there, would the 5W halogen bulb be enough for them to grow? I also thought I'd like some larger plants to plant into the substrate to go nearer the rear of the tank, are there any that would grow under the lighting conditions? I'm not sure on what substrate I'd use yet, though I'd be willing to use ferts (possibly liquid CO2 as well). A carpet plant would be lovely, though I'm not sure if there are any that would grow under the low light levels, would I be right in this? I don't know a whole lot about plants and plant species.

Thanks

 

[KateW]

Hi Pablo

I'm afraid I don't have any answers for your questions, but I know several other people have converted their Biorbs, so hopefully someone clever will be along shortly. I have a square version (Biorb life) which would be easier to fit an internal too, but I was thinking about some kind of air-driven sponge filter? Being as the air pump feed is already nicely installed, perhaps there is something that could be fitted around the original round filter cartridge case bit (you know the bit I mean!). Anyone have any bright ideas?

Interested to hear any thoughts on the planting situation - I am also thinking of a shrimp tank in the near future.

Sorry to hi-jack, hope your plans work out!