Cleaning your shrimp tanks will keep your aquatic pets in a healthy and clean environment. However, cleaning it frequently may stress your pets and might be inconvenient for you as well.
This is why we must select the best filter for shrimp tank and ensure that it is safe and environmentally friendly for your pets. This device will reduce the need for water changes. It will also give you more time to enjoy watching your aquatic pets in a healthy and clean habitat.
As you browse the following information and reviews on National Park Aquarium, you will learn how to choose your shrimp tank filter. Additionally, you will gain knowledge of the various qualities and features you should consider before acquiring one for your shrimp tank.
Best Filter for Shrimp Tank Reviews
1. AquaClear Aquariums Fish Tank Filters
The AquaClear is an excellent option for a top-quality filter as it comes with a high rating as well as an outstanding filtering ability from a 5- to 110-gallon tank.
For aquariums of various sizes, this filter is available in five different models. This model fits tanks ranging from 50 to 70 gallons.
To reduce operational energy and costs, this system employs a filtration system with a precise contact time with the filtration system. Included in this filter are the patented AquaClear foam, BioMax, cycle guard, and activated carbon that enable both mechanical and biological filtration.
In addition, this filter offers a granular activated carbon insert to remove impurities, tannins, and odors from the water and a foam insert to catch large particles.
A shrimp aquarium would be a very good fit for this aquarium filter as it can carry out chemical, mechanical, and biological filtration of all kinds, which results in superior water quality.
Because of the presence of bioMAX ceramic rings, it also has a large biomedia space, ensuring efficient and cost-effective waste removal.
Furthermore, the distinctive waterfall design of this model allows the filtered water to quietly return to the tank, releasing surface tension and enhancing oxygenation.
I use this filter on my healthy and growing shrimp tank. The shrimp getting trapped into the filter has never been an issue since I added the prefilter. The shrimp enjoy grazing along the sponge’s surface to eat all the tasty sludge that accumulates there.
One thing I also liked about this filter is its simplicity in setup and maintenance. And with the help of the user guide in the packaging, all of the parts would be very simple to install.
Moreover, you can easily modify the water flow of the power filter in accordance with the requirements of your aquarium thanks to its flow control feature. The media basket maximizes the filtration effectiveness by preventing water from obstructing the filter media.
Unfortunately, the occasional noise is the only factor of this filter that is upsetting. Even though the sound may not be excessively loud, it is still bothersome, especially if you are near the fish tank. It is especially annoying during nighttime.
- Comes with a top-grade re-filtration system
- Filtration is available in mechanical, biological, and chemical forms
- Simple to set up and maintain
- Extremely energy-efficient
- Includes activated carbon, BioMax, Cycle Guard, and patented AquaClear Foam for superior water quality
- It makes annoying noises sometimes
Anyhow, I can categorically state that the Aqua Clear Fish Tank Filter is a fantastic product. The filter is easy to install, top-quality, and energy-efficient. And since it has AquaClear foam, activated carbon, BioMax, and cycle Guard, you have an additional layer of defense.
2. UPETTOOLS Aquarium Biochemical Sponge Filters
This filter uses a multi-layered filtration method that enables it to effectively clean even larger tanks. It improves filtration quality by filtering the tank water through a special sponge with seven layers of ribbing. It also creates a biological purification process stage by offering a place for helpful bacteria to flourish.
The water is filtered through a unique filter box that is integrated into this device upon passing through the sponge.
You can fill this filter box with appropriate filtration media like media balls or active carbon. It is highly customizable and enables you to adjust the filtration to the needs of your tank.
The filter comes standard with ceramic media marbles for the cartridge box. If you do not have any special media to replace it with, these balls are ideal because they increase the filter’s biological filtration capacity.
In terms of appearance, I believe this filter to be quite appealing. I really like the bluish tint to the clear plastic that makes up the filter’s body. Furthermore, the shape is very appealing, too.
Aside from that, I like how the bubble-escape spout on this filter is higher than the one on the Hygger filter. This makes this filtration system a superior option for tanks that are taller.
While the Hygger filter has two sponges, this sponge filter from UPETTOOLS only has one. Ceramic biomedia is also housed in a compartment at the bottom of the sponge.
It can be somewhat loud if you bring the spout just below the water’s surface. A level of noise of 67 decibels was recorded. We measured 54 decibels when we raised the spout just above the water.
- It is made of food-grade materials for enhanced safety
- A replacement sponge increases biological capacity while decreasing maintenance
- The air infusion chamber generates minute bubbles that increase the solubility of oxygen
- Additional space for ceramic media
- Attractive design
- If the spout is submerged, it may be quite loud
For a high-quality product at a reasonable price, I recommend the UPETTOOLS Aquarium Biochemical Sponge Filter. Although less expensive than other shrimp tank filters, it does not compromise the quality, thanks to its seven-ribbed sponge and filter box.
3. Marina S20 Power Filters
The Marina Slim S10 Power Filter’s distinctively sleek design has advantages from functional and decorative standpoints.
It takes up less room than filters of a similar size and adds a touch of class to your shrimp tank. Furthermore, the filter has a variable flow control to let you change the rate at which water flows through it into your tank.
The variable flow control will enable the fish and shrimp to experience less anxiety and stress by reducing the water flow rate or speed. With that said, it is suitable if you plan to try different water species.
This feature will also prevent food particles from entering the filter chamber. You can easily adjust the ideal circulation speed inside your 20-gallon tank for a healthier and adaptable environment.
Two Bio-Carb and two Bio-Clear filter cartridges are included in the package. All filters contain Ceramitek, a highly porous ceramic filter medium that maximizes biological filtration for a healthy aquarium or shrimp tank.
Another unique design of this filter is that the unit’s motor is inside the tank, which aids in noise reduction and cooling so it will not overheat and malfunction.
If you are not at home and a power outage occurs due to storms, refilling the reservoir with water will not be a problem.
Priming is not required because it automatically restarts when the electricity resumes. The design adds to the convenience of not needing to prime the filter after a water change. It is a game-changer.
However, in my opinion, one drawback is that it is a bit challenging to clean. Such may be the case since the device itself is narrow and slim. But using some mini brushes and cleaning sponges will do the trick.
- Flow control that is adjustable
- Power filter for small tanks up to 20 gallons in volume
- Convenient because no priming is needed
- Stylishly slim but powerful
- Durable
- Quiet submersible motor
- A bit hard to clean due to the slim design
This shrimp tank filter is running silent, self-priming, and long-lasting. Aside from that, the flexible circulation control makes it an ideal option for aquariums that have different aquatic species besides shrimp.
4. NICREW Aquarium Internal Filters
The fact that you can configure this tiny internal aquarium filter in a variety of ways is what I liked best about it. You can configure it so that water drips from above. However, you can set it to flow freely in the tank to make it quieter.
It is a complete water filter system and a water pump in one. This submersible pump’s construction enables it to draw water and filter it twice before returning it to the tank.
Take note that the water undergoes mechanical filtration using bio-foam, and the helpful bacteria will also break down the ammonia.
Another feature attached to this water filter allows it to draw air into the water from outside the tank. This process is quite beneficial since you need to aerate the water in your fish’s tank if you want them to live healthy lives.
By doing this, you can be sure that the fish are getting enough oxygen to help their system function properly. This product works by directing water through the pump before passing through the filter media.
I appreciate the filter media since it is located in the inlet, so the water that flows through the pump is already essentially clean.
On the other hand, this water filter has a minor setback. At the lowest setting, the water flow rate is still strong. The water pump might push your fish around excessively if you plan to use this in a small aquarium.
- Allows you to adjust the filter’s position in a variety of ways
- Has multiple filtration stages
- May also serve as an aerator
- Low maintenance and simple to clean
- The lowest water flow rate is too powerful for small fish
This equipment is incredibly flexible in terms of location and functionality. With such adaptability, there is a variety of setup options to choose from. However, because of the strong water flow rate, you should not use it in a tank with fish or shrimp that are prone to stress.
5. AQUANEAT Sponge Shrimp Filters
This is a corner filter that offers mechanical and biological filtration. It creates an ideal and healthy habitat for fish and shrimps by providing much-needed oxygen to the water. Its design and construction extremely reduce air pump noise and consume the least amount of power.
It is simple to set up and clean. Simply insert an airline into the unit, turn on the air pump, and you are ready to go. Its multi-layer design makes cleaning simple.
Other than that, this filter works great in maternity tanks, hatchery tanks, and tanks for small aquatic creatures. The filter has almost no ability to suction fish through it and produces very little current.
For this model, the tanks that are up to 20 gallons in size are advised. It has the essential components such as one sponge filter, one control valve, one tee, one non-return check valve, four feet of airline tubing, and four suction cups.
The design process is the same as a sponge filter, but with a bit more added. This will allow you to customize your tank if you want to use different kinds of media sponges.
An excellent way to educate people about mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration for tank maintenance. Perhaps the only issue is when this is used on larger tanks. In that case, multiple filters are needed.
- Small size makes it simple to conceal
- Very suitable for smaller tanks
- Corner design for a variety of aquarium sizes
- Sponge foam with grooves to provide more surface area for beneficial bacteria
- Submerges and remains submerged quickly
- Requires multiple filters for larger tanks
AQUANEAT Sponge Filter is one of the beginner-friendly products that is suitable for nano tanks. It takes no time at all to set up and makes maintenance quick and simple, saving time and effort. It is fantastic for maintaining your tank clean because it offers both biological and mechanical filtration while still being simple to use.
How To Choose Filters for Shrimp Tanks
Since shrimps are more sensitive to handling than fish and require special issues to consider for care, such as specific substrates, filters, and water conditions, having the best filter for 5 gallon shrimp tank or bigger is crucial when keeping shrimp. You cannot therefore simply maintain them with any equipment. Consider the following factors before acquiring one:
1. Intensive Biological Filtration
Any shrimp filter should be able to perform both mechanical and biological filtration. The process of removing large debris and floating particles from water is known as mechanical filtration. However, the nitrogenous pollutants are removed from water by biological filtration by converting them into less dangerous and secure compounds.
Adding another dimension, you have to make sure that the filter you selected has adequate biological filtration because shrimp cannot tolerate any increase in ammonia levels. The ammonia will be processed quickly and changed into the safer nitrite and nitrate.
Before adding shrimp to your tank, you also have to finish the nitrogen cycle, a conversion process that takes place throughout the life of every tank. In bio-media, bacteria multiply and form colonies.
2. pH Value
Depending on the species, the pH of water clearly shows how acidic or alkaline it is. Most shrimp prefer pH values between 6.5 and 9.5. You should research beforehand the shrimp species you plan to keep in order to prevent future mishaps. You will receive the pH range that your shrimp can tolerate from it.
3. Suitable Flow Rate
Shrimps can swim freely and more comfortably in a moderately flowing aquarium to one with a robust one. Since they are small aquatic species, they can easily be drawn in. Therefore, check that the average flow your filter produces is appropriate for your shrimp’s strength and swimming prowess.
4. Other Important Factors to Consider
Always cover the inlet of the canister filter with a light coating of foam or sponge. Otherwise, it is possible for the young shrimp to be sucked into the filter, which would be fatal for them. You will notice that there are fewer and fewer shrimps around every day, but you will not be able to know why.
Always pick a filter that fits your shrimp tank’s dimensions. For the tank, you can go larger but never smaller. The water in the tank will not be able to circulate properly through a filter that is too small. As a result, the tank will not be properly filtered. Actually, except if you really want one, there is no need to purchase a canister filter if all you want to do is breed shrimp at home.
On the other hand, you can definitely use a stunning canister filter if you are getting ready for a showcase tank. Remember that filters require routine upkeep. A filter cannot be purchased and left unattended for six months. At the very least once a month, I regularly clean my filter.
Do not use tap water to clean the filter media. Use tank water exclusively. Otherwise, you risk unintentionally wiping out every healthy bacterial colony on the filter media. If it does, the nitrogen cycle in the tank will reach zero and need to be restarted.
Conclusion
The type and effectiveness of the filter you install will determine whether or not your tank has clear and habitable water. A suitable filter should provide an ideal environment in which to place the filtration materials.
However, there are many different aquarium filters on the market today, and you must be cautious when choosing one for your tank or a small aquarium. Choose the appropriate size and functionality. If you buy a too-small one, the water may not be cleaned.
Moreover, if you choose a filter that is too large, the water in the tank may become too turbulent. Choosing the best filter for shrimp tank will be simple and convenient if you consider the reviews above.
