[LongTimeAquarist]

Is an air pump important in a fish with shrimp or will they survive in a tank without one? I have a 20gal tank with a heater, power filter, and lighting, as well as a few decorations. I also have a Male Betta and the air stone seem to give him troubles so I took it out. I know some people would say that Bettas and shrimp don't mix, but I have plenty of room and hiding places for the shrimp and I have seen stories and videos of the two living peacefully together.

 

[sandybottom]

i do not use an air pump in my planted shrimp tank.

 

[henningc]

If you have a HOB or power filter-same thing-then you already have aeratoin. Air is added through water aggitation and movement.

 

[LongTimeAquarist]

I'm using a power filter, but the problem is making sure that they don't get sucked up into it and I need something to use as a pre-filter since the Wal-Mart here don't sell them.

 

[sandybottom]

do you have a petco?they sell fluval chi prefilters $3.petsmart may have them also.you can also use a bit of pantyhose and rubber band to cover the intake.