Question: Filter Recommendation

[Baldrick314]

I'm returning to having an axolotl after a long break and currently buying equipment for my new setup. I recently bought a tank (can't remember exact dimensions and not at home but it's approximately 60cm long, 30cm tall and 30cm deep. The guy I bought it off said it was approximately 70 litre in capacity).

I'm planning on running a sand substrate with a few live plants. The bit I'm stuck on is what kind of filter to get. I'm tossing up between an internal clip on the side style one or an external canister style, is there a clear advantage to either style? Also should I be aiming for a really low flow rate to avoid creating a current or is there a minimum amount of flow I need to ensure the water stays clean?

All advice greatly appreciated

 

[AxolotlChris]

Great that your coming back to Axolotls!

Your tank should be fine for just one Axolotl.

Since its only around 70L, a submersible would do the job perfectly.

My juvenile tank is a 60L and I use a Fluval U2 filter:
U2 Underwater Filter | A470 | Filtration | Fluval

This filter can output water through the center spray bar or by the top nozzle, I use the top nozzle and point the flow slightly upwards towards the wall of the tank which minimizes the water flow perfectly.

You can read this article on filters for more information:
Caudata Culture Articles - Filters

 

[Baldrick314]

Thank you for the reply, now I can start shopping

 

[Bengdogg]

I found my Fluval U3 had too much flow in my 125L tank. I personally would go for a smaller canister filter. I don't know if Tetratec still make the 400 series but the 700 could be turned down a bit in a tank your size and point the spray bar towards the glass.

 

[Baldrick314]

Thanks for the reply. I'm currently waiting on a filter to arrive. I bought a 350L/hr in tank filter with a spray bar. My thinking is that I can direct the bar at the tank wall and it will drizzle down the side and not cause a current. I'll monitor it while the tank is cycling and if it looks or feels like it is causing excess current I'll have to look for a different filter