


Plus, during power outages, the beneficial bacteria on the sponge stays in the oxygenated tank water (which gives it a longer chance of surviving), and you can use our rechargeable air pump with built-in battery backup that turns on automatically during power outages.įor more information on filtration options, read our article on fish tank filters and which one you should get. Because of the constant bubbling, it provides good water circulation and surface agitation, white being gentle enough to avoid sucking up fish fry, shrimp, and other slow-moving creatures. Sponge filters are a long-time favorite of both beginner and veteran fish keepers since they’re cheap, easy to clean, and hard to break since they have very few mechanical parts.

This water suction process mechanically collects debris from the aquarium and gives beneficial bacteria place to grow. Bubbles rise from the inside of the sponge, thus drawing water through the sponge walls. The air pump pushes air through the tubing into the hollow cavity inside the sponge filter. This most basic of all filters requires at least three components: a sponge filter (which sits inside the tank), air pump (which sits outside the tank), and airline tubing to connect them. Sponge filter setup diagram What is a Sponge Filter? Check out our step-by-step instructions to help you get started with your first sponge filter. But beginners often have many questions on how they work, how to set one up, and how to keep them clean. Sponge filters are one of the most popular filters used in fish stores, fish rooms, and breeding tanks because they’re so reliable and easy to use.
