I've been breeding and keeping fish for 55 years and the box filter wins hands down. 1 You can add carbon or something else if you need it. (it's rare but it happens) 2 bacteria doesn't colonize on plastics well. so lava rock holds more bacteria better and has a very small anoxic zone inside to help with nitrates a little. 3 Move the floss to a new filter to instantly cycle the new aquarium. 4 It's just easier to sterilize a box filter when you get something nasty you can't cure and need to start over. 5 It's more compact, so takes up less real estate in your aquarium. 6 It's less messy to clean. 7 It's easier to see when it's dirty. 8 Java moss and plants root into sponge filters. 9 Box filters make your water clearer. I think 9 reasons should be enough, but I'll add that most of the best fish rooms by the actual top breeders run on box filters. And yes, I tried sponge filters years ago, and they worked OK. I still have one running, because it was real fancy and cost way too much, but overall when it gets contaminated it goes and that one is in a rearing tank and hasn't gotten contaminated so it is still there, until something goes wrong and it get's replaced with a box filter. I mean I like the pudgy guy who sells sponge filters, but you can always support him by buying a plant or something else and doing what's right for your fish... Step up from the sponge and think inside the box.. filter.
The end is the best. LOL All true, although I could challenge some, like #4. But like I said, I like the sponge filter for a few reasons, but I think both filters are great!
I used to be a sponge filter only kind of person but I’ve actually switched teams to box filters with just crushed coral in them now, I literally never touch it unless the crushed coral needs to be replaced and focus on plants and clams for filtration, kind of an experiment but it’s working fantastic for me. Good showdown indeed.
@@MichaelsFishRoom of course! I live kinda far from you though I’m in somerset county, but if you ever were taking a hike up that way your welcome to come see the set up, I’m big in ecosystems and trying to make them as close to self sustaining/low maintenance as possible
Hey Michael - I only have sponge filters, but I can see an advantage of the box filter over the sponge filter. They both need to be removed but for the sponge filter, you've got to squeeze in water repeatedly to clean. With the box filter, you just chuck out and replace some polyfil. Seems more efficient and as you point out, polyfil is inexpensive and readily obtainable. Now I'm not thinking of tossing out my sponge filters, but the box filter looks pretty good.
I’ve used every filter ever. And those China sponge filters are my favorite by far. I like the hygger ones. So easy to pop the sponge on and put back in.
I run a Sponge filter and a box filter in most of my tanks. This way I get the best of both worlds, and the box filters are a bonus because you add different media as needed. Like Some tanks I have crushed coral in the box filter to harden the water.
I just bought a box filter for my baby fry . I am just starting. I had one tank a week ago now I have four. My husband thanks I am a little crazy thats ok. Thank you for all the information on your channel!
To make box filters safe for fry and not suck them in wrap them in pantyhose. This also allows fry to feed from the filter like they do with sponge filters as a lot of food gets stuck in pantyhose for fry to eat. When fry grow big enough remove pantyhose and run box filter as usual.
True. I have had to do it a few times though as I have run out of sponge filters to put in all my fry tanks. Maybe I should just invest in more sponge filters instead of being a cheap arse and annoying wife by stealing her clothes. Cool vids by the way.
I'm interested in the internal filters. They don't seem to get any attention, but they seem perfect! I know they are basically a box filter with a motor (no air pump required, which I love because there is no noise!). Other than taking up room in the tank, I see no negatives for them. Enlighten me!!!!! :-)
Great info, Michael. I love the Co-Op sponge filters but also use some "box" style from Jehmco...you showed one in this video I like both types, but I agree that the box style take a bit more work to clean.
I have both box and sponge filter. Both are great. One air pump , can connect to multiple box and sponge filter. Very effective and easy to maintain. I use both because if I am busy ( lazy ), I just remove the sponge and rinse it. At any point, there will be clean filter .
I have the same large sponge filters as your seeded sponges, and I love them, they do a good enough job and easy to 'squeeze, squeeze,' clean😆 The fry cant get sucked into them, and the pleco fry suck on them. I love watching the plecos sucked on to the airline to take turns at playing in the bubbles
Sponge Filters the way to go. I am done with cannisters. I still keep HOB for fish that want flow. They both kind of have their place. Box filters do too but can be a little messier. Good video!
@@MichaelsFishRoom That is great! Looking forward to following this! It should really start taking hold in Jan/ Feb when I desperately need entertained!!
Sponges are fantastic for Biological filtration --- Box/corner filters offer more Mechanical filtration along withbiological . Is one better than the other? It is a matter of opinion .
I just ordered my first box filter. I have sponge filters, they are great for instant cycles! But that is really the only reason I use them. (Hospital tanks and quarantine tanks.) They totally suck at mechanical filtration. (Pun not intended. LOL!!) I'm excited to use the box filter!!!! I have HOB's in all my tanks, too. Can't ever have too much, right? But I am just discovering the internal filters. Are they not the same thing as a box or sponge filter?? Obviously no need for an air pump, and that is why I am so curious. I hate air pumps. Side note: the king of DIY used plastic bottles with filter floss and power heads for mechanical filtration. I tried it. AMAZING!!! But he said to only use it for a few hours because the water is pumping through all that filth, which is staying in the water all the while. Isn't that EVERY filter???!!? Why can't I use them all the time?
I think these type of videos are actually your forte, you seem to have a keen mechanical mindset, and definitely provide useful insight into easy, cheap, doable dyi projects that can be tackled by any amateur fish keeper with even a 10 gallon tank. Keep up the good work, and maybe cover a bit the hob modifications that can be done and potential issues this can cause such as backflow and additional steps to care for the filter when doing a modification to the standard set up.
"I'm cheap, they're cheap, we're friends" true that. Definitely a believer in ACO sponge filters. The fact that you can change out the air stone should make enough sense to invest in these from the get go. I have a different kind of sponge filter without the interchangeable stone, so eventually the one in it will likely erode and break up.
I appreciate that you don't care if people get offended. The world needs to stop pandering to keep from hurting people's feelings..life is hard, so buck up buttercup. ✌️
Hey buddy! Hi Michael! Thanks for reminding me 😉 ~ the china filters are floating! No sucky on the cups 🤭 (used the link ~ thank you!) I'm not overly impressed with the china filters and I use a lot of them. The sponge part is easy to clean ~ it's the other tubes that are difficult to take apart to clean. Eventually the china filters becomes the bane of the tank! With over 22 tanks ~ don't need no bane!! The same company that makes the 2 sponge filters also makes the round corner sponge filter ~ which are very difficult to attach airline tubing to 😖. Love these product review videos ~ keep them coming! ❤️❤️❤️
I have sponge filters with the China filter lift tubes. The suction cups never work for me with China filters. Probably a placebo but it looks like more water moves through the sponge filter when the air line isn't inside the lift tube, and the life tube is taller
I use the jemco with a sponge filter. My big trick is I use have two box filters for each tank . I pull the dirty box and just replace it with a clean box. I just changed it with only a airline hook up
Good information. All my tanks currently have Aquarium Co-op sponge filters. I love their airline too. What kind of Goldfish is in the tank next to Hank? It's really cute. 😊
@@raul534 "When using a filter in a Betta tank, the biggest issue is monitoring the water flow. Bettas don't like fast flowing water and will have trouble swimming." Bettas don't like to swim where there is bubbling or flow. Hob creates the flow too, but in my case it's more gentle than from the sponge filter.
Anything air driven, after watching the Aquarium Co Op video on which filtration gives a tank the highest oxygen content. I am all about air driven filters sponge,under gravel or a Ziss. I’m cheap also so if I am pumping air into a tank then I want the most for my money. Haven’t tried a box filter yet but maybe in my next tank.
Box filters are great also - It a matter of ones opinion which is better . I will say the box filter offers a little more Mechanical filtration vs. a sponge . We sell both and use both
@@MichaelsFishRoom on that I will have to disagree do you have a friend with names they answer to like some dumb guy,dumb f-ck or how about my Italian friend who wanted to be Irish for Saint Patrick’s day so I named him Holden M’groin?
Michael the videos are entertaining. You did mention that sponges don't provide really clear water. When you want to, how do you polish your water? Video perhaps?
I used both they work great together, also I had a glass of milk and yodels for a snack : ) .How have you been Michael ? My super red pleco kick a batch of eggs out of their cave . I hatch the eggs end up with 25 fry.
Hej Michael. A question came to me as I have seen a couple or more of your videos today. Are you fine??? 😆😆😆😆 I like sponge filters. I had on in my childhoods tank in the 70's and 80's. Without the bioloigal chamber. The "chinese" one. Strange name, never heard that name before. I love it for new tanks and for quarrantine. I try always to have 1 or 2 ready. Also, some times I just squese a mature filter into a new setup. Good filterkeeping and greetings.
The coarse sponge filters not good for the nano shrimp tanks. I use the regular sponge filters for the nano shrimp. I found that the coarse, my baby shrimp get into the sponge and I lose babies when cleaning. Bigger fish okay though.
Thanks for the fun videos! I just bought a Husky storage rack that hold 2500lb per shelf I’m going to do a rack system. Probably breeding for profit or just for fun 🤷♂️ I like the idea of a sponge filter other than I know the coarse ones won't clear the water as much and being in my living room I want it looking neat. Would you agree that the finer sponges like the ones you sell polish the water a bit better hence why they clog faster pulling in all the smaller particles?
Great info Sir. 👍👍👍👍👍 Can you share your thoughts on moving bed medium filters using k-series pros & cons. Sir how do you select which size box & sponge filter for specific tank? Eg. 20 gallons how much box/sponge would you recommend & what's rule of thumb when selecting box filters vz sponge filters for aquarium? For 20g would you get 20g sponge or higher? Etc... could you give me a shout in that video. Love your channel. Great info/content & handsome presenter...👏👏👏👏👏
Box vs Sponge = each has its place and actually work best together: the coarse sponge for bio and the box with no bio and coarse sponge/fine sponge/floss (all three) for mechanical. Run the bio filter at a slower speed so it doesn’t pick up as much “stuff” as the faster moving mechanical. Now about canisters…. Guppy question for the Guppyfather: which baby guppy is the most tender and delicious? Time for my late morning tea!
I use both. Any ideas how to get rid of worms in tanks. About 1/8" long (1/4" when moviing on the glass) and look like a snail without the shell. I got them in my Nano shrimp tank. How? New plants put in. From them? Any thoughts. Thank you. You always have great videos and information.
@@MichaelsFishRoom I want to start more Tanks for my Betta Fish, but I’m super busy and don’t know when that will be. Maybe 🤔 2-4 weeks when my cleaning business dies for the winter.
Hi Michael. I've never had a box filter before but I'm going to try one out after this great video. I completely agree that the aquarium coop sponges are amazing except they do not collect the fine particles from the water since the sponge is so coarse (great for infrequent maintenance but not for crystal clear water). I tried using only their sponge filters but wasn't happy with the water not being clear enough for my liking. So now I am also using a hang on a HOB filter solely for it's ability to get out the fine particles, which makes me question why I even need the sponge filters in the first place. I do like knowing the sponge filters are always working even if the HOB has issues and I usually stock my tanks pretty heavily so the overkill filtration is nice. Question about the box filters you've used, have you had problems with shrimp or fry getting stuck in the grates? I'm wondering if I should maybe put a little sponge over the intake grates. #guppynation Thanks.
Sponge filter all the way. And I like a fine sponge over a porous one, so fry can pick at it all day. Worth the more frequent cleanings, in my opinion.
@@MichaelsFishRoom Fair question. I've never used a course sponge in a fry tank, so I cant say for sure, but it seems like baby brine shrimp, finely crushed flakes, etc would get "sucked" too far in. I like how a fine sponge holds the tiny food particles while fry pick at it. Hmmm... you've made me begin to re-think my position.
Here in Australia we can't get the Aquarium co-op large open pore sponge filters we only get the standard type one that you show but in 3 sizes, small medium or large. Also if you want clearer looking water just run 2 sponge filters in the tank, one at each end (most of my tanks run 2 sponge filters anyway as I breed pleco's). I only run sponge filters in my tanks as they are easy to maintain. One last comment.. I don't like the position of the next video cards as it covers your face when I am trying to watch the bloopers, and we all know .... Bloopers are the BEST ~;0)
All of my tank has sponge filter. Aquarium coop one often times get bubbles not just from tube but also from around the side (smaller bubbles coming out from top green stuff's side that connects sponge and tube.What would be the issue? ) . Hydro pro sponge filter I have does not do that...
you forgot the biggest con for ,box & sponge filter.... they are butt ugly.. i know your breeding fish pretty has nothing to do with it. that being said i do run some sponge filters. stay well
another mislabelled paid presentation video...... the finer sponge filters are far superior to aquarium coop ones... the surface area is 1000x more and that is the main and only main spec that counts when it comes to air sponge filters... now you and cory ships the same filter with an cheaper sponge and charges the same price and calls it better... oh and corys filter is made in china, its a china model.. cheaper plastic than the better china ones at the same price too...
Something to remember, most people will never utilize all the surface area for BB to grow as the colony will only get as big as the food source allows. Therefore even if a finer sponge did have 1000 times more surface area (I am calling bull shit on this ridiculous statement), it wouldn't matter. In addition, the course sponge does not clog as fast (As I said) and that is why I like it.
@@MichaelsFishRoom of-cause it doesnt clog has fast, because for a sponge filter it is useless... stop trying to sell rubbish to people with less experience, a sponge filter doesnt even provide the suction needed to block a decent sponge, its all surface and comes away easy.. a decent proper sponge is probably even more than 1000 times the surface area for bacteria.. the stuff on them filters is cheap, his plastic is cheap compared to the grey ones, its all cheap and tacky made in china.
Buy Seeded Sponge Filters, Guppies, and Plecos here! www.michaelsfishroom.com
Awesome 👏 that I can find a seeded filter.
I've been breeding and keeping fish for 55 years and the box filter wins hands down.
1 You can add carbon or something else if you need it. (it's rare but it happens)
2 bacteria doesn't colonize on plastics well. so lava rock holds more bacteria better and has a very small anoxic zone inside to help with nitrates a little.
3 Move the floss to a new filter to instantly cycle the new aquarium.
4 It's just easier to sterilize a box filter when you get something nasty you can't cure and need to start over.
5 It's more compact, so takes up less real estate in your aquarium.
6 It's less messy to clean.
7 It's easier to see when it's dirty.
8 Java moss and plants root into sponge filters.
9 Box filters make your water clearer.
I think 9 reasons should be enough, but I'll add that most of the best fish rooms by the actual top breeders run on box filters. And yes, I tried sponge filters years ago, and they worked OK. I still have one running, because it was real fancy and cost way too much, but overall when it gets contaminated it goes and that one is in a rearing tank and hasn't gotten contaminated so it is still there, until something goes wrong and it get's replaced with a box filter.
I mean I like the pudgy guy who sells sponge filters, but you can always support him by buying a plant or something else and doing what's right for your fish... Step up from the sponge and think inside the box.. filter.
The end is the best. LOL
All true, although I could challenge some, like #4.
But like I said, I like the sponge filter for a few reasons, but I think both filters are great!
I used to be a sponge filter only kind of person but I’ve actually switched teams to box filters with just crushed coral in them now, I literally never touch it unless the crushed coral needs to be replaced and focus on plants and clams for filtration, kind of an experiment but it’s working fantastic for me. Good showdown indeed.
That sounds cool, I would like to come take a look if you are up for it!
@@MichaelsFishRoom of course! I live kinda far from you though I’m in somerset county, but if you ever were taking a hike up that way your welcome to come see the set up, I’m big in ecosystems and trying to make them as close to self sustaining/low maintenance as possible
@@gardenstategoldfish698 email me michaelsfishroom@gmail.com
Hey Michael - I only have sponge filters, but I can see an advantage of the box filter over the sponge filter. They both need to be removed but for the sponge filter, you've got to squeeze in water repeatedly to clean. With the box filter, you just chuck out and replace some polyfil. Seems more efficient and as you point out, polyfil is inexpensive and readily obtainable. Now I'm not thinking of tossing out my sponge filters, but the box filter looks pretty good.
Many people clean the polyfil too.
@@MichaelsFishRoom I'm not sure why when it's so inexpensive and much easier to just toss and replace! :-)
I’ve used every filter ever. And those China sponge filters are my favorite by far. I like the hygger ones. So easy to pop the sponge on and put back in.
LOL, I will be reviewing that one soon.
I run a Sponge filter and a box filter in most of my tanks. This way I get the best of both worlds, and the box filters are a bonus because you add different media as needed. Like Some tanks I have crushed coral in the box filter to harden the water.
Good point!
I just bought a box filter for my baby fry . I am just starting. I had one tank a week ago now I have four. My husband thanks I am a little crazy thats ok. Thank you for all the information on your channel!
Cool! Good luck and tell your hubby is wrong!
I use them both...like them both. I like that you can put things like Purigen in a box filter
Cool
To make box filters safe for fry and not suck them in wrap them in pantyhose. This also allows fry to feed from the filter like they do with sponge filters as a lot of food gets stuck in pantyhose for fry to eat. When fry grow big enough remove pantyhose and run box filter as usual.
Except then the box filter can't do it's job.
True. I have had to do it a few times though as I have run out of sponge filters to put in all my fry tanks. Maybe I should just invest in more sponge filters instead of being a cheap arse and annoying wife by stealing her clothes. Cool vids by the way.
I really like the large jehmco box filters. They are unsightly in display tanks but their utility in breeding tanks/fish rooms is awesome.
Cool!
I'm interested in the internal filters. They don't seem to get any attention, but they seem perfect! I know they are basically a box filter with a motor (no air pump required, which I love because there is no noise!). Other than taking up room in the tank, I see no negatives for them. Enlighten me!!!!! :-)
I have one in Taco's tank. I will be doing an update soon.
Great info, Michael. I love the Co-Op sponge filters but also use some "box" style from Jehmco...you showed one in this video I like both types, but I agree that the box style take a bit more work to clean.
Thanks for watching!
I have both box and sponge filter. Both are great. One air pump , can connect to multiple box and sponge filter. Very effective and easy to maintain. I use both because if I am busy ( lazy ), I just remove the sponge and rinse it. At any point, there will be clean filter .
Perfect!
I have the same large sponge filters as your seeded sponges, and I love them, they do a good enough job and easy to 'squeeze, squeeze,' clean😆
The fry cant get sucked into them, and the pleco fry suck on them.
I love watching the plecos sucked on to the airline to take turns at playing in the bubbles
Everything I said! AWESOME!
Sponge Filters the way to go. I am done with cannisters. I still keep HOB for fish that want flow. They both kind of have their place. Box filters do too but can be a little messier. Good video!
Thanks and thanks for the order!
@@MichaelsFishRoom Sure! The last cories I got from you are amazing!
Did you get much of a response for your indoor mutt guppy project?
@@caroleinwv yes! I have a poop ton! Lol
@@MichaelsFishRoom That is great! Looking forward to following this! It should really start taking hold in Jan/ Feb when I desperately need entertained!!
@@caroleinwv perfect timing
I love sponge filters. 😍
I have them in all my aquariums and they are my main filters I prefer. Also, they're very safe for baby fish fry. ☺
Yes they are!
Sponges are fantastic for Biological filtration --- Box/corner filters offer more Mechanical filtration along withbiological . Is one better than the other? It is a matter of opinion .
Thanks for repeating EXACTLY what I said. LOL
@@MichaelsFishRoom positive reinforcement
I just ordered my first box filter. I have sponge filters, they are great for instant cycles! But that is really the only reason I use them. (Hospital tanks and quarantine tanks.) They totally suck at mechanical filtration. (Pun not intended. LOL!!) I'm excited to use the box filter!!!! I have HOB's in all my tanks, too. Can't ever have too much, right? But I am just discovering the internal filters. Are they not the same thing as a box or sponge filter?? Obviously no need for an air pump, and that is why I am so curious. I hate air pumps. Side note: the king of DIY used plastic bottles with filter floss and power heads for mechanical filtration. I tried it. AMAZING!!! But he said to only use it for a few hours because the water is pumping through all that filth, which is staying in the water all the while. Isn't that EVERY filter???!!? Why can't I use them all the time?
you can - Joey is not the messiah
LOL, yes, just like every other filter, the dirt is in the water.
Can you make a video about keeping a fish in the classroom since you can't leave the lights or filter on over weekends or after school or at night
Why can’t you leave the filter on? And you can put the lights on a timer.
Hey Mikey - can you talk about canster filers PLEASE???
LOL
I've used both many times, box filters are the way to go for me. Just my 2 cents!
If it works for you, it is right for you.
I like them both depends on the application 😁 keep up the good work brother 👍👍👍
Thanks!
I always had the hardest time cycling my Aquariums until I watched Michael’s videos, lol. I now have 3 small filters of all kinds and he is right.
Thanks! Feel free to spread the world on social media!
@@MichaelsFishRoom I voted for Trump! 🥳
@@MichaelsFishRoom I’m in Facebook jail another 19 days then I will 😂
I think these type of videos are actually your forte, you seem to have a keen mechanical mindset, and definitely provide useful insight into easy, cheap, doable dyi projects that can be tackled by any amateur fish keeper with even a 10 gallon tank. Keep up the good work, and maybe cover a bit the hob modifications that can be done and potential issues this can cause such as backflow and additional steps to care for the filter when doing a modification to the standard set up.
Thanks! Asyou may know, I was an Auto tech for many years. I also have plenty of vids on DIY hacks for HOB filters!
"I'm cheap, they're cheap, we're friends" true that. Definitely a believer in ACO sponge filters. The fact that you can change out the air stone should make enough sense to invest in these from the get go. I have a different kind of sponge filter without the interchangeable stone, so eventually the one in it will likely erode and break up.
Yup
I use ceramic rings and have all filters at least 3 small ones sponge, box, and carbon.
I did mine like a asian undergravel filter.
Removing those bio filter sponge.
And replace it with sand.gravel,bio balls.
Cool
Hate the dual spongeS with suction cups - Anything with suction cups stop "sucking" so they actually SUCK!
That is so deep........
I appreciate that you don't care if people get offended. The world needs to stop pandering to keep from hurting people's feelings..life is hard, so buck up buttercup. ✌️
Exactly!
I add an extra long tube to my small box filters. Helps the filters to become more efficient.
Sure does, but how much more?
@@MichaelsFishRoom I go about 6 inches extra on the tubes. Seem to work pretty good.
Hey buddy! Hi Michael! Thanks for reminding me 😉 ~ the china filters are floating! No sucky on the cups 🤭 (used the link ~ thank you!) I'm not overly impressed with the china filters and I use a lot of them. The sponge part is easy to clean ~ it's the other tubes that are difficult to take apart to clean. Eventually the china filters becomes the bane of the tank! With over 22 tanks ~ don't need no bane!! The same company that makes the 2 sponge filters also makes the round corner sponge filter ~ which are very difficult to attach airline tubing to 😖. Love these product review videos ~ keep them coming! ❤️❤️❤️
Thanks so much for watching! Yeah the sucky cups make them suck!
Thanks for this vid! I never even considered the box filter, but the sponge works out great for me because I'm lazy and they work!
Thanks to watch!
I have sponge filters with the China filter lift tubes. The suction cups never work for me with China filters. Probably a placebo but it looks like more water moves through the sponge filter when the air line isn't inside the lift tube, and the life tube is taller
With the lift tube, it "should" produce more lift.....in theory.
I use the jemco with a sponge filter. My big trick is I use have two box filters for each tank .
I pull the dirty box and just replace it with a clean box. I just changed it with only a airline hook up
That is very smart!
Good information. All my tanks currently have Aquarium Co-op sponge filters. I love their airline too.
What kind of Goldfish is in the tank next to Hank? It's really cute. 😊
Goldfish?
@@MichaelsFishRoom In the tank behind your right shoulder.
@@ReneesZooTube that’s just your imagination.
Sponge filters in smaller tanks, double box filter in a bigger tank, hob in betta tanks because they don't like bubbles
Hob with lava rocks
Nice
Hey where did you get that info about bettas not liking bubbles, I want to read more about it. Please and thanks
@@raul534 "When using a filter in a Betta tank, the biggest issue is monitoring the water flow. Bettas don't like fast flowing water and will have trouble swimming." Bettas don't like to swim where there is bubbling or flow. Hob creates the flow too, but in my case it's more gentle than from the sponge filter.
@@nicolero8130 oh ok cool thanks
Sponge Filter ALL the way, they are the best especially Aquarium Co Op’s! Mike keep up all the great work, I love your videos!
Thanks so much!
Anything air driven, after watching the Aquarium Co Op video on which filtration gives a tank the highest oxygen content. I am all about air driven filters sponge,under gravel or a Ziss. I’m cheap also so if I am pumping air into a tank then I want the most for my money. Haven’t tried a box filter yet but maybe in my next tank.
Box filters are great also - It a matter of ones opinion which is better . I will say the box filter offers a little more Mechanical filtration vs. a sponge . We sell both and use both
We are like twins.
@@MichaelsFishRoom I’m not as handsome as you I would break the camera.
@@johnwood738 and I’m funnier.
@@MichaelsFishRoom on that I will have to disagree do you have a friend with names they answer to like some dumb guy,dumb f-ck or how about my Italian friend who wanted to be Irish for Saint Patrick’s day so I named him Holden M’groin?
I had a box when I was younger but I like the sponge filters best.
Didn't we all? LOL
Great info Mike. Love my sponge filters! Easy, cheap and do a great job in my tanks.
Exactly!
DIY box filter is the best of both world
Cool
Michael the videos are entertaining. You did mention that sponges don't provide really clear water. When you want to, how do you polish your water? Video perhaps?
Good idea!
Thanks Michael Informative and entertaining as always! You look great btw. Hope you're feeling well!
Thanks!
Watching “Real” Football and Michael’s Fish Room. If I just had some boneless wings, it would be a perfect Sunday.
Boneless wings are chicken nuggets
I used both they work great together, also I had a glass of milk and yodels for a snack : ) .How have you been Michael ? My super red pleco kick a batch of eggs out of their cave . I hatch the eggs end up with 25 fry.
Yodels....I haven't had one of those in about 100 years! Not a huge fan either. I am well thank you! Good job with the eggs!
How to add airstone to the box filter ? I am using it but i dont think im doing it right
Look at my Box filter videos.
Hej Michael. A question came to me as I have seen a couple or more of your videos today. Are you fine??? 😆😆😆😆 I like sponge filters. I had on in my childhoods tank in the 70's and 80's. Without the bioloigal chamber. The "chinese" one. Strange name, never heard that name before. I love it for new tanks and for quarrantine. I try always to have 1 or 2 ready. Also, some times I just squese a mature filter into a new setup. Good filterkeeping and greetings.
Thanks for watching.
The coarse sponge filters not good for the nano shrimp tanks. I use the regular sponge filters for the nano shrimp. I found that the coarse, my baby shrimp get into the sponge and I lose babies when cleaning. Bigger fish okay though.
Good point!
Thanks for the fun videos! I just bought a Husky storage rack that hold 2500lb per shelf I’m going to do a rack system. Probably breeding for profit or just for fun 🤷♂️ I like the idea of a sponge filter other than I know the coarse ones won't clear the water as much and being in my living room I want it looking neat. Would you agree that the finer sponges like the ones you sell polish the water a bit better hence why they clog faster pulling in all the smaller particles?
Yes they do. Good luck with the project!
Thank you
You’re welcome!
Great info Sir. 👍👍👍👍👍
Can you share your thoughts on moving bed medium filters using k-series pros & cons.
Sir how do you select which size box & sponge filter for specific tank? Eg. 20 gallons how much box/sponge would you recommend & what's rule of thumb when selecting box filters vz sponge filters for aquarium? For 20g would you get 20g sponge or higher? Etc... could you give me a shout in that video. Love your channel. Great info/content & handsome presenter...👏👏👏👏👏
LOL, thanks. I use the largest sponge I can as I am lazy and leave them in too long, this way there is space for the BB to grow.
Box vs Sponge = each has its place and actually work best together: the coarse sponge for bio and the box with no bio and coarse sponge/fine sponge/floss (all three) for mechanical. Run the bio filter at a slower speed so it doesn’t pick up as much “stuff” as the faster moving mechanical. Now about canisters….
Guppy question for the Guppyfather: which baby guppy is the most tender and delicious?
Time for my late morning tea!
Thanks! No sandwich or fancy Cali egg dish?
Healthy snack and beverage…. I grabbed some Halloween candy and a beer when I watched this. Probably not what you meant.
I mean, the candy had nuts I suppose, that is a good source of protein and Beer is made from hops, which is a plant, therefor beer is a vegetable!
@@MichaelsFishRoom I like the way you think!!
I use both. Any ideas how to get rid of worms in tanks. About 1/8" long (1/4" when moviing on the glass) and look like a snail without the shell. I got them in my Nano shrimp tank. How? New plants put in. From them? Any thoughts. Thank you. You always have great videos and information.
I'd have to see a picture.
@@MichaelsFishRoom I will try to take a picture and send to you. You have knowledge on these type of problems. Thank you.
Started to use box filters a month ago
Do you like them?
@@MichaelsFishRoom water is clear, I think they are good. As for the cleaning, I rinse the white wool and put it back. I don't rince lava rock.
@@nicolero8130 If it works for you, it is right for you!
sponge filter all the way (cheap and easy to clean)
Cheap and easy!
Can we get shirts up here in the frozen north lands??
Anywhere in the world!
How do you preserve a Seeded filter ? I throw many away.
Why?
@@MichaelsFishRoom I want to start more Tanks for my Betta Fish, but I’m super busy and don’t know when that will be. Maybe 🤔 2-4 weeks when my cleaning business dies for the winter.
@@carriejaske7662 it needs to have a food source.
Hi Michael. I've never had a box filter before but I'm going to try one out after this great video. I completely agree that the aquarium coop sponges are amazing except they do not collect the fine particles from the water since the sponge is so coarse (great for infrequent maintenance but not for crystal clear water). I tried using only their sponge filters but wasn't happy with the water not being clear enough for my liking. So now I am also using a hang on a HOB filter solely for it's ability to get out the fine particles, which makes me question why I even need the sponge filters in the first place. I do like knowing the sponge filters are always working even if the HOB has issues and I usually stock my tanks pretty heavily so the overkill filtration is nice.
Question about the box filters you've used, have you had problems with shrimp or fry getting stuck in the grates? I'm wondering if I should maybe put a little sponge over the intake grates. #guppynation
Thanks.
Hiya! I don't keep shrimp so I cannot say.
Sponge filter all the way. And I like a fine sponge over a porous one, so fry can pick at it all day. Worth the more frequent cleanings, in my opinion.
Why can't they pick at the course sponge?
@@MichaelsFishRoom Fair question. I've never used a course sponge in a fry tank, so I cant say for sure, but it seems like baby brine shrimp, finely crushed flakes, etc would get "sucked" too far in. I like how a fine sponge holds the tiny food particles while fry pick at it. Hmmm... you've made me begin to re-think my position.
I love Box filters, but one thing is that air pump is noisy.
Not really.
Maybe not noisy...but it is definitely not quiet like powered water pump filters.
Will the sponge filter leave a lot of ditritis on the bottom?
Did you watch the video?
Here in Australia we can't get the Aquarium co-op large open pore sponge filters we only get the standard type one that you show but in 3 sizes, small medium or large. Also if you want clearer looking water just run 2 sponge filters in the tank, one at each end (most of my tanks run 2 sponge filters anyway as I breed pleco's). I only run sponge filters in my tanks as they are easy to maintain. One last comment.. I don't like the position of the next video cards as it covers your face when I am trying to watch the bloopers, and we all know .... Bloopers are the BEST ~;0)
Bloopers ARE the best part!
All of my tank has sponge filter. Aquarium coop one often times get bubbles not just from tube but also from around the side (smaller bubbles coming out from top green stuff's side that connects sponge and tube.What would be the issue? ) . Hydro pro sponge filter I have does not do that...
I think Cory has a video about that. Check out his channel for it.
@@MichaelsFishRoom thank you.
Thai iced coffee
Nice
Hank had a growth spurt! Awwww…
LOL
I use sponge filters because I'm lazy
Me too!
I see your goldfish
Nah
you forgot the biggest con for ,box & sponge filter.... they are butt ugly.. i know your breeding fish pretty has nothing to do with it. that being said i do run some sponge filters. stay well
Thanks!
❤☝👍
Thanks!
More fun to watch than the NFL hype BS on the tube.
Also, I am way more good looking.
another mislabelled paid presentation video...... the finer sponge filters are far superior to aquarium coop ones... the surface area is 1000x more and that is the main and only main spec that counts when it comes to air sponge filters... now you and cory ships the same filter with an cheaper sponge and charges the same price and calls it better... oh and corys filter is made in china, its a china model.. cheaper plastic than the better china ones at the same price too...
Something to remember, most people will never utilize all the surface area for BB to grow as the colony will only get as big as the food source allows. Therefore even if a finer sponge did have 1000 times more surface area (I am calling bull shit on this ridiculous statement), it wouldn't matter. In addition, the course sponge does not clog as fast (As I said) and that is why I like it.
@@MichaelsFishRoom of-cause it doesnt clog has fast, because for a sponge filter it is useless... stop trying to sell rubbish to people with less experience, a sponge filter doesnt even provide the suction needed to block a decent sponge, its all surface and comes away easy.. a decent proper sponge is probably even more than 1000 times the surface area for bacteria.. the stuff on them filters is cheap, his plastic is cheap compared to the grey ones, its all cheap and tacky made in china.
@@koffee3816 I mean, I guess you are the expert. 🤦🏻♂️
@@MichaelsFishRoom You're deceitful and just trying to sell cheap stuff to people entering the hobby.
@@koffee3816 How can my opinion be deceitful? Also, plenty of other people who have experience love the filters, soooooooooooo.