The benefits of sponge filters for fish tanks

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The benefits of sponge filters for fish tanks

By Cassie (cynefin)

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Sponge filters are filters that clean by pulling water through a sponge. Sponge filters are typically known for being very cost efficient, but there are many other benefits to them as well. Read on to learn how sponge filters can help keep you and your fish happy.

Sponge filters, as previously mentioned, are cost efficient. This is why many people consider making the change. These filters require the sponge itself, air tubing (relatively inexpensive) and an appropriate powered pump for the size of your fish tank. Traditional power filters tend to be more expensive; you have to buy the filter itself, which climbs in price for larger tanks. Once a month, you have to change out the cartridge and those can get pricey as well. Sponge filters are so cost efficient that many large chain pet stores do not sell them because they wouldn't make any money from them.

They also require a lot less maintenance. A powered filter requires you to unplug it, clean it, and change the cartridge which can be time consuming and sometimes messy. In contrast, all you need to clean a sponge filter is the filter itself and a cup. Fill the cup with water from the fish tank, then insert the sponge filter and squeeze it a few times to clean it. You can also take apart the sponge filter and clean out the plastic it rests on every so often. The sponge itself only needs replacing every six months to prevent it from deteriorating in the tank.

Sponge filters come in a variety of shapes and sizes, whereas powered filters do not. You can purchase different types of cylindrical filters as well as triangular ones to fit in the corner of a tank. The sizes and shapes are limitless which makes them easy to customize to your needs.

They are pretty easy to hide. Some people do not like visible filters, and the sponge filter is a great solution to that. These filters can be mounted on the tank wall with suction cups, or they can be placed on the floor of your fish tank. This gives you the opportunity to place plants or other ornaments in front of the filter. Smaller filters can also be placed inside tank ornaments. For instance, you can place a filter inside a hollow volcano and give the illusion that bubbles are erupting from it.

They are quieter than powered filters. Powered filters tend to make a low humming sound, and that sound can be more noticeable if the filter shifts up against something, the water becomes too low, or if you're trying to sleep or you otherwise need quiet. Sponge filters let out a very small sound (if any) and the bubbles that come out and float to the top also have the potential to be therapeutic when you're feeling stressed out.

Sponge filters are beneficial to other tanks. It usually takes a while to set up another tank; tanks with newer water must be cycled so new, healthy bacteria has time to grow before fish are introduced. If you already have a sponge filter running from another tank, you can put it inside a newer tank to transfer some of that beneficial bacteria.

Small fish appreciate sponge filters. Small fish or fry (baby fish) have a risk of getting sucked up into a traditional filter. Sponge filters eliminate that risk, and they also let off a small or nonexistent current so the fish can swim well. Smaller fish and other aquatic animals such as fiddler crabs and shrimp also enjoy eating off of them.

Overall, sponge filters are a fun and cost efficient choice for aquarium enthusiasts. Power filters are helpful as well, however, and it is important to consider what type of filter is best for you and your fish.