Setting up your shrimp tank is both fun and time consuming, as you not only need a good tank or the shrimps, but also reliable and efficient accessories.
A good filter is going to keep the water clean so that your shrimps stay happy and healthy for longer time. As there are several types of filters that you could use, let’s take a closer look to the most important ones to help you decide easier on a type.
Which filter should you use?
The first one to talk about is the sponge filter that is very affordable and it’s very easy to take care. Able to provide mechanical and biological filtration, the sponge filter brings several things to the table and only some flaws are typical.
Here are the pros:
- Efficient mechanical filtration as the sponge draws water through
- Reliable biological filtration as bacteria grows on the sponge
- Very easy to take care of
- It’s very affordable
Here are the cons:
- It lacks chemical filtration
- It’s not the best looking filter out there
The HOB (Hang on Back) filter is the most popular filter out there and here are the advantages:
- It offers mechanical, chemical and biological filtration
- It comes for a nice range of prices
- It’s not that difficult to take care of
The HOB filter does have its downsides:
- You need to unplug it for cleaning
- You have to add a pre-filter sponge to make it safe for your shrimps
If you’re looking for a filter for a bigger tank, the canister filter is the better choice and here are its advantages:
- It sustains mechanical, biological and chemical filtration
- It looks nice and it’s dependable
You should also take a look at the downsides:
- It’s not very cheap
- You should add a pre-filter sponge for the safety of your shrimp
- Cleaning it isn’t as easy as you’d wish
The conclusion
The options are plenty and you should start by taking a look at your wallet, but also at your patience and time when making the final choice.
Page Table of Contents
Top 5 Filter For Shrimp Tank Reviews
1). Aquarium Fish Tank Biochemical Sponge Filter
Reliable and able to keep your tank nice and clean, the XINYOU XY-380 Aquarium Fish Tank Biochemical Sponge Filter is a both affordable and effective for your shrimp tank.
The biochemical sponge filter is quite big and you may easily hide it with some decoration or plants. It has a compact shape and its base is weighted so you don’t have to worry about its stability.
The sponge has a solid build and doesn’t come with a cheap feel. It looks sturdy and able to take the use for a good amount of time.
Providing both mechanical and biological filtration, the sponge is very easy to use and installing an airline into it isn’t difficult. The sponge takes power head so it offers also aeration and filtration for the shrimps.
The sponge catches traps waste particles and keeps the water clean in your tank. It’s very easy to clean in a bucket and you should never use tap water for that.
Offering an impressive surface area for colonizing bacteria, the sponge filter is going to make a difference in the water quality.
Pros
- The sponge is easy to install and to clean
- It takes power heads
- It has a large surface area for colonizing bacteria
- It provides biochemical filtration
Cons
- It may be too large for a small tank
- Some got it with no instructions
Nevertheless, as it’s efficient, dependable and low-priced, the sponge filter shouldn’t be skipped on when in need for a sponge filter for your bigger shrimp tank.
2). Whisper In-Tank Filter for aquariums
Designed for the tanks up to 20 gallons, the Whisper In-Tank Filter with BioScrubber for aquariums needs large Bio-Bag filter cartridges and has plenty of qualities altogether.
The filter is easy to install and quite versatile when it comes to that. You may place it with a hanger and a suction cup or two suctions, as it fits the best your shrimp tank. You can easily set the filter to high or low water level using the mounting suction cup and the bracket.
The motor is under water and it has a good, yet silent run. 2 inches of water are enough for the filter to work, so you can keep it in mind when setting a turtle tank additionally to your shrimp tank.
The filter only need a couple of minutes to clean the filter. The surface area is large so it’s very efficient for the filtration.
The design is functional and you have easy access to the filter cartridge for cleaning when in need. The filter comes with pre-assembled Whisper-In Bio-Bag filter cartridge.
The filter moves a lot of water and does a good job for keeping your tank clean and your shrimps healthy.
Pros
- It comes with Bio-Bag filter cartridges
- It moves a lot of water
- It runs silent
- It’s easy to install and versatile
Cons
- It doesn’t have a lid
- It’s not the strongest filter out there
All in all, the filter is effective and versatile so you shouldn’t skip it on when in need.
3). Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filters
Thin and presenting quite a slim design, Aqueon QuietFlow LED PRO Aquarium Power Filters is both dependable and fairly priced, which explains its impressive popularity.
The filter sustains chemical, biological and mechanical filtration and assistance with Aqueon specialty filter pads.
The self-priming feature spares you time and effort and the filter is ready to use out of the box. It starts up automatically and that’s important in case of power shut downs.
The water flow is good and the water circulation is effective and the filter is a competitive choice.
Another important feature on the filter is the LED indicator light that informs you when the cartridges need changing.
We also like the filter as it can monitor the actual water levels. The risk for clogging isn’t null, and this does take away a bit from the filter’s overall value.
The internal pump is strong, but not loud and it’s efficient, which counts a lot more.
The filter keeps the water crystal clear and improves the oxygen levels, keeping your shrimps healthier for longer time.
Installing the filter is a breeze and so is the maintenance of the filter.
Pros
- The filter sustains chemical, mechanical and biological filtration
- It’s easy to install and to use
- It has a slim profile
- It cleans the water well
Cons
- The LED gives inconsistent performance in some cases
- The water isn’t as quiet as you’d expect as the water pump is strong
Ending on a positive note, the filter does come with some minor issues, but none of them minimizes the fact that is a reliable and efficient option for your shrimp tank.
4). Marina Power Filter
Quiet and slim, the Marina Power Filter is one valid option you shouldn’t miss out when shopping.
The filter is designed to keep the water clear in tanks up to 15 gallons and comes with many good things attached to it.
The detailed description begins with the 3 filter cartridges: 2 Bio-Carb and 1 Bio-Clear. The cartridges include Ceramitek so it provides biological filtration.
The self-priming feature spares you time and effort, whereas the adjustable flow control allows you to find the right settings for your shrimp tank. The less current means less stress for your shrimps, helping them live longer.
The filter comes with sponge pre-filter, so you shouldn’t worry about the safety of your shrimps. It comes with multiple compartments for filter media, thus increasing its efficiency.
the pump is submerged, so the filter is rather quiet. The setup isn’t difficult at all and the instructions are pretty clear, guiding you through all steps.
The filter is well made and it has a small footprint. It looks nice and is a sure buy for a shrimp tank.
Pros
- The filter comes with sponge pre-filter
- It has several compartments for filter media
- It’s efficient and silent
- It has adjustable flow control and self-priming feature
Cons
- It doesn’t come with media and you need to buy it
- Some find it tricky to make it sit straight on the back of the tank
Regardless of the minor issues, the filter still is a safe and good option for keeping your shrimp tank clean and money well spent altogether.
5). Fluval C Power Filter
One may think that the Fluval C Power Filter is a bit too strong for a shrimp tank as the filter is a heavy-duty filter that doesn’t disappoint.
The ceramic heater core of the filter provides even and good heat and the filter has a flow rate up to 153 GPH as it fits tanks up to 50 gallons.
The filter is easy to install as it’s a clip-on model. It has a compact shape and it’s easy to replace the sponge, as you don’t need to remove any parts.
The poly/foam pad of the filter is good for the mechanical filtration and its large area is efficient for two stages of the mechanical filtration. The first stage of the foam takes care of the large particles, by catching them and the second stage of the thick polyester takes care of the fine debris.
The filter also provides chemical filtration thanks to its activated carbon insert that is made with 100% premium research grade carbon. The large surface areas suck in impurities, keeping the water clean. The carbon filter eliminates the impurities, odors and discoloration, which explains its overall value.
As for the biological filtration, it’s the additional hydraulic circuit that manages to handle it very well. It takes part of the intake water to the Bio-Screen from the top of the Trickle Chamber cover so that the Bio-Screen eliminates debris before getting to the biological chamber. The water is pumped to the Trickle Chamber and spread evenly and only afterwards starts dripping on the C-nodes.
On top of everything else, the surface of the C-nodes includes a complex pore system that sustains the beneficial bacteria that is able to eliminate nitrites and ammonia. Let’s not forget to mention the “Star Shape” that offers larger filtration surface and even higher biological power.
Easy to use and compact, the filter is well made and it’s a wise investment to make.
Pros
- The filter provides chemical, biological and mechanical filtration
- The setup is easy
- The build is good and the filter is compact
- It’s not difficult to take care of
Cons
- The bio-media basket could be a bit bigger
- Some don’t go for the two-piece impeller design
All things considered, the filter is dependable, effective and it’s worth every single penny.
Best sponge filter for shrimp tank
The Huijukon Double Super Biochemical Sponge Filter Air Powered Filter for Aquarium Fish Tank brings lots of things to the table and you shouldn’t hesitate when shopping.
The filter is made with food-grade materials and it’s very safe to use for your shrimps. It’s easy to install, to use and to clean, keeping the water crystal clear. It fits tanks up to 35 gallons.
The sponger filter sustains both mechanical and biological filtration and has a dual sponge design. This means the surface for the bacteria is double and the cycling is twice as fast.
The setup is no brainer and you only need to install the airline tubing and air pump into the unit. You can place the filter wherever it suits you the best and hide it on the back wall of the tank. The filter is a great option not only for the shrimp tanks, but also for the fry, crayfish or for breeder tanks.
The decreased current in the tank and the housing recommend the tank for the shrimps. The tank comes with a water flow exit tube that is easy to adjust, so you may set the right height of the water flow.
The air diffuser/T-Type connector is easy to adjust so you may modify its position. The arms holding the sponges are also easy to move so that the sponges position better away from the tank walls.
On top of everything else, the sponge filter runs quietly and doesn’t stress out your shrimps.
The price is great and the filter is a wise choice whenever in need.
Pros
- The filter is made with food-grade materials
- It’s very safe for the shrimps
- It comes with two sponges and adjustable arms
- It’s efficient and quiet
Cons
- It doesn’t come with flow control
- You need to get air pump, airline hose and check valve
However, as it’s safe, dependable and efficient, the filters still stand as a great option for your shrimp tank.
Best sponge filter for 10-gallon shrimp tank
The XY-2831 Air Pump Sponge Filter for Aquarium, Tank Size 10-gallon checks not only the box for efficiency and ease of use, but also the one for the low price, which makes it a great deal for many looking for a sponge filter for their 10-gallon shrimp tank.
Installing the sponge filter is no brainer and you shouldn’t worry at all about this part. You only need to install an airline into the unit so that you ensure both filtration and aeration for the fish. The filter has a well thought design so it manages to provide both mechanical and biological filtration.
The surface area is large so that the sponge filter gives a lot of space for the “good” bacteria to grow. The aerobic bacteria are going to colonize the sponge, ensuring bacterial substance that is important for the nitrogen cycle.
The filter doesn’t trap fish fry so the filter is very safe for the shrimps. It’s also a safe choice when breeding and spawning Dwarf cichlids, guppies and killifish.
The bubbles are small and the filter runs silently. It has a sleek appearance and for the efficiency it provides, you shouldn’t sit on the fence when running into it.
You can definitely use the sponge filter as pre-filtration unit when fitting it to an external/top filter. You can also use it for breeding filter or as a secondary filter.
The filter is easy to clean. You simply squeeze it under some water from the tank, never under tap water.
Pros
- The filter sustains mechanical and biological filtration
- It’s easy to install and to clean
- It’s efficient and runs quiet
- You can use it as pre-filter or secondary filter too
Cons
- You need an air pump for it
- Some didn’t get the instruction, even though the filter is very easy to set up
Keeping your shrimp tank nice and clean, the filter is a great choice to try and quite a bang for your buck.
Best filter for planted shrimp tank
The Penn Plax Cascade Hang-on Aquarium Filter With Quad Filtration System comes with plenty of good things and you should give it a try whenever in need.
The filter comes in various sizes so you can have your pick according to your needs. Its main strength is the Bio-Falls Filtration system that is dependable on the anaerobic bacteria filtration, eliminating nitrite and ammonia.
The filtration works well and the filter provides efficient oxygenation too.
The list of features includes the activated carbon cartridge that is good for eliminating odors, harmful chemicals, but also discoloration and toxins inside your shrink tank.
The filter features also an adjustable flow knob so you may set up the flow rate just the way you want it for the tank. An internal sponge sustains the colonization of beneficial anaerobic bacteria and the poly fiber floss cartridges gathers the floating particles.
Let’s also mention the self-leveling case that keeps its level and the intake tube length that is easy to adjust.
The filter has a good build and runs pretty silent.
The setup is a breeze and you can confidently use the filter for both saltwater and freshwater applications.
Pros
- The filter presents a Bio-Falls filtration system
- It’s easy to set it up
- The flow rate is adjustable
- It has a good build and runs quietly
Cons
- The suction could be better
- The plastic parts don’t have a durability feel
Nevertheless, for the money you pay, you get an efficient and dependable filter that does a great job for keeping your planted shrimp tank clean.
Best filter for small shrimp tank
Versatile and efficient for keeping your shrimps safe and healthy, the AZOO Aquarium Mignon Filter is a great choice to try for your tank, if it’s sized up to 3 ½ gallon. However, some successfully use it on their 5 gallon tanks too.
Even though the filter comes with rather vague instructions that aren’t going to be very helpful, the filter is easy to set up. Additionally, you can definitely make the alterations that you need for the best fit in your tank as the filter is versatile.
The HOB filter is a great choice for the Nano aquariums and it’s designed to sit in the edge. It keeps the water clear and you don’t need an external pump for it.
The filter comes with nice features and you’re going to appreciate a lot the adjustable flow control knob on top. You may set up the flow speed according to your needs.
We really like that the filter comes with pre-filter so you shouldn’t worry about the safety of your shrimps.
The lid fits tight so everything stays in place. The casing is see-through and looks quite nice. The filter has a good build and seems able to take the use for a good amount of time.
The motor is quiet so the filter runs smooth and nice, without sacrificing on the efficiency. Compact, small and easy to clean, the filter is a nice option to keep in mind.
Pros
- The filter is easy to setup and to modify, if in need
- It keeps the water clean and the shrimp safe
- It’s quiet and efficient
- It’s small, compact and looks nice
Cons
- The sponges that come along could be better
- The instructions are poor
For the ease of setup, use and maintenance, but also for its reliability and looks, the filter stands as an option to have in mind for a smaller shrimp tank.
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