recommend small filter

KendraMc

i'm looking into setting up a qt/hospital tank tonight and am wondering what kind of filter people recommend (looking brand/model as much/more than style). i'm planning on a rather small one (unless someone convinces me otherwise), so i shouldn't need much.

thanks.

ChrisK

What size tank? If a ten gallon I would shoot for a aqua clear 30 its adjustable from ten to thirty gallons keeps the water really clean and clear but it is around 30 bucks definitely worth the money though

KendraMc

i'm thinking smaller than that at the moment, i want it (at the moment) for a Swordtail and will plan on replacing it when i have more fish/more space/bigger fish.

DKRST

I use a planted 10 gallon with a hydro-sponge II filter. The Rena air pump's a pain since I don't care for the noise, but the smallest powerhead I have found (aquaclear 20, rated for 5-20 gallons) puts out too much flow for a QT tank. For sick and new fish, I prefer a very, very, gentle water flow. I keep the QT tank stocked with snails, plant trimmings, and a couple of deformed guppies (too soft-hearted to cull them) to keep the tank cycled and ready for new fish!

k19smith

I second the sponge idea, great filters and really cheap. Plus you can just run it on another tank in till you need it. Kensfish has the hydro sponges for around $5, then all you need is an air pump which you can also pick up cheap.

DKRST

Just remember to thoroughly disinfect the sponge before moving it back to a main tank, especially if your QT tank had any issues!

I forgot that once (won't make that "oops" again) !