Beginner tank question

[jrk2323]

Hey i am new to firebelly newts and i have 2 in a 20 gallon tank with about 2/3 water. I was just wondering if a filter is necessary for this tank or not. I'm not sure if the current is too strong or not...i have no experience with these. Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

JRK

 

[Azhael]

Hi, and welcome to the forum!
Well, Cynops orientalis is a species that likes completely still water. They can tolerate a weak current but prefer complete stillness. Strong currents stress them and can cause them to leave the water.

I would recommend filling the tank more than two thirds with water (you can have a piece of floating cork bark for them to haul onto if so they choose, unlikely as that is). The more water, the better, both for you and for them, since it makes maintenance a lot easier, provides more stability and more space for them. Also, they love having LOTS of plants...and i do mean LOTS!
Having lots of plants has a great bonus, and it is that in sufficient quantity they will actually do the job of a filter. Plants take compounds from the water, oxigenate it and they also provide lots of surface for the biofilm of bacteria to grow on. The effect is just the very same as that of a filter, without any current.
Have you seen this caresheet?:
Caudata Culture Species Entry - Cynops orientalis - Chinese firebelly

 

[dipsydoodle]

Re: Beginner tank

I would personally say yes, however other people have said no.

You can direct the filter flow towards the wall or block it up a bit to reduce the flow.

In my CFB tank I have an aqua one mini filter; it's too small for the tank, but considering it's not full it's ok, it's fairly weak and my newts don't seem to mind it.

 

[JWERNER]

Re: Beginner tank

IMO you should at least get a sponge filter in the tank. Its air driven so the curent is low if any.

You can also buy the pump and then do a search for DIY sponge filter online and come across plenty of ways to make a cheap effect sponge filter yourself.

They do good at filtering fine particles and are great for bio filtration.

HOB filters ( hang on back/power filters ) leave a space for the newts to climb up and get out but if you must use one and figure a way around them getting out you can pack the chambers tight with poly fill ( filter floss ) and other mechanical filtering media to slow it down. Purchasing one for a smaller size tank is also a good idea.