fionah

I am concerned that the current in my tank may be too strong. I have a Fluval 2+ which pumps out water quite fast (even when turning to lowest level and with the spout pointing towards the glass).

I also have an air pump which, on the packet, says is suitable for up to 10 gallons. My tank is 14 gallons and I'm concerned the bubbles are too strong. I could probably do without this as the Fluval will be airating the water. Though I want to keep this because my corydoras love playing in the bubbles. I think I may set a timer on this for between 12pm-midnight as this is when they seem to be most active.

I'm worried that when I start getting more fish for my tank, the water current would be too strong for them.

If I buy a smaller airstone (the existing one is about 4 inches long), will this make the bubbles even stronger? (not sure about the science of this!)

If I get an airline clamp, will this damage the airpump?

Any other options for reducing the current?

Drea

The best way to deal with bubbles is to get a gang valve that connects the pump to adjustable levers which you can turn up or down. It doesn't matter what size the airstone is really, I think it's the pump that determines how strong the bubbles can get. If your filter doesn't have an adjustment dial of any sort, you can use filter material and place it in the outflow area. Other option is place plants where the flow hits the water to help deflect the out flow.

susitna-flower

The Fluval2+ is rated for 105 GPH, and is designed for a tank at least 2 ' long, 45-65 gallons.

It may be strong for a 12 gallon tank, but if you use the standard of 10 X tank gallons, it should be just about right for your tank.

Do you have the outlet under water? Other than the current as you describe, any other problems with it? Does it splash water out?

I have never had one, but seems you could point it length wise on the tank, and direct the flow into some rock decorations. Some fish would simply love this. Up to you, and the type of fish you choose.

Blub

fionah

I'm not sure yet! At the moment I have 4 corydoras. I am not sure whether to get 2 dwarf gouramis and some tetras, or 1 male betta and some tetras. Gouramis and Bettas are my favourite fish but I was told not to mix them. Suggestions for alternate community fish welcome.

fionah

The outlet is underwater. There are no other problems at the moment and the water doesn't splash out.

I was going to point it lenghwise but then it would flow directly above my live plants, which I have lined up against the back of the tank.

I'm trying something else at the moment, I have adjusted the nozzle to allow air to get into the water flow which, when aimed at the glass, produces lots of small bubbles down the side of the tank. I then turned the airstone off completely. The fish seem to love playing in the Fluval bubbles as much as they did in the airstone.

Will give the multiple outlet valve a try anyway. Though I'm finding it so much more peaceful without that noisy air pump running that I'm tempted just to stop using it and keep the Fluval going with a higher flow rate!

Blub

lyndatu

I have the same problem too with my powerhead(torn the tails off my guppies)!

I faced the outtake tube on a big ornament to deflect the current. Although the strong current is now at bay, the other fish still like to swim by it to play, especially my pleco. Hope you figure it out soon!