“Honey, I shrunk the fish tank.”
Yes, a nano tank has all the character of a larger aquarium, but in a smaller package. Because it is so small, however, having adequate filters for a nano tank is key to keeping the livestock healthy. Waste an accumulate quickly, so you must be extra vigilant to keep it all under control.
When you work with us for nano tank installation, we will make sure you have the most ideal filtration systems, elements, and livestock to keep your tank cleaner.
Main Types of Filters for Nano Tanks
The primary types of filters for nano tanks include sponge filters, canister filters, hang-on-back (HOB) power filters, and protein skimmers.
1. Sponge Filters with Air Pump and Airline Tubing
Sponge filters are among the most popular solutions for fish tanks of all sizes. Although they might not be powerful enough alone for a large aquarium, they could be just the right filter for a nano tank.
In this type of filtration system, the air pump pushes air through the tubing and into the sponge filter. Bubbles then rise from inside of the sponge, drawing water through the sponge walls. Essentially, the system acts as suction to collect debris from the aquarium, all while adding bubbling into the aquarium for better circulation.
2. “Hang on Back” Power Filters
An HOB filtration system features a recirculating pump that pulls water in, cleans it out using various media within it, and then dumps cleaner water back into the aquarium.
With this system, you can customize the flow rate. The water should be completely turned over four times per hour.
You should be especially careful to avoid filters that are too powerful for nano tanks, as the movement can stress those fragile little fish and endanger them. A good rule of thumb for aquarium filtration flow rate is 30 to 40 gallons per hour for a 10-gallon aquarium, and you would adjust accordingly for other fish tank sizes.
3. External Canister Filters
Benefits of external canister filters for nano tanks include the ability to tuck them away out of sight, usually under the tank. They also won’t take up room in the tank like some submersive filters, and they can be customized for the air flow you desire.
The motor for the pump may be internal or in the tank. Once the filter is filled with water, the pump forces water out of the filter, up a tube, and then back into the tank through the filter.
4. Protein skimmers
Protein skimmers remove waste products from wildlife in the aquarium before the waste breaks down, leading to a reduction in nitrate buildup and in algae growth. They work by creating bubbles in a reaction chamber.
Natural Filtration Systems for Aquariums
Several natural elements can help nano tank filters do their job, as well as beautify the tank and contribute to your livestock’s enjoyment. They include rocks, gravel, plants, and bottom feeders.
1. Rocks
Rocks not only beautiful a nano tank and give the fish a place to play, but they also serve as a natural filter by capturing excess debris. Rocks can also contribute to the growth of healthy algae in the tank, although you should keep your eye on how much is accumulating.
2. Gravel
Placing gravel at the bottom of any tank is essential, as it will capture waste from the livestock.
3. Plants
Plants contribute to oxygen movement and filtration within an aquarium habitat.
4. Bottom Feeders
Adding hungry livestock that would eat excess waste in the tank is a smart move. Some of our favorite bottom dwellers are shrimp, snails, loaches, and catfish.
If you need new filters for a nano tank or are looking for aquarium water delivery, contact Seatech H2O online or call us. We’ll help you customize the best options for your habitat.