Can aquarium filters be too powerful?

Aquarium filters can indeed become too powerful for certain species of fish. Strong currents are detrimental to tropical fish species that are accustomed to quiet waters. Bettas or Gouramis cannot withstand excessive flow without depleting their energy supply. They have insufficient rest, which prevents their bodies from naturally resting. Resting is a necessary activity to balance swimming, feeding, and breathing. The right flow of water through the aquarium helps to clean up debris, maintaining a comfortable environment for the fish.

To establish your ideal flow rate, use this method: multiply gallonage of your tank by the desired turnover rate. For example, a 20-gallon tank requiring 5x turnover would require a flow rate of 100 GPH. To measure your actual flow rate, time how long it takes your filter to move a known quantity of water. Adjust as necessary.

In all instances, resort to filters having adjustable flow if possible. Many of the Hang On Back filters have flow control dials. Many of the canister filters include spray bars that disperse the current. For the filters with fixed flow, you can add aquarium-safe sponges to the outflow pipes. These measures will prove effective in protecting delicate species.

Examine your fish daily for stress signals. Healthy fish freely explore all parts of the tank. They feed freely without constantly swimming against the current. If certain portions of the tank area are not examined, your water movement may be too much. Balance is needed, enough to take care of filtration, but gentle enough to permit natural behavior.

Read the full article: Aquarium Filter Types: Your Essential Guide