Do I need a filter.

[joemorris86]

Hi guys.

 

about 4 months ago I set up my first tank. It is a 48 ltr nano tank and has been running well.

It cycled as it should of, and now has 2 clown fish and a small clean up crew all without problem.

 

It has around 3-4kg of live rock, a 2 inch live sand bed and good flow with a small power head and 2 air stones.

 

At the moment I have a hob filter running, which I replaced the filter media with biomax rings and blue life clear.

 

I have read a few things recently which has suggested smaller tanks like mine could be okay with just the live rock and sand working as the filter. I would love to be able to remove the hob as its a little noisey and would just look better without it.

 

Would this be possible? Thanks for any tips.

[Nano sapiens]

Yes, it is possible.. I've run my 12g (46l) tank 'filterless' (no mechanical or chemical filtration) for over 6 years this way.

 

Regular water changes and a good maintenance schedule take on added importance.

[joemorris86]

Thats good to know thanks. could you give me a quick summary of your maintenance schedule, just so I can make sure I dont miss anything.

[Nano sapiens]

http://www.nano-reef.com/topic/327364-maintenance-and-the-nano-reef-tank/

[jabeuy]

I've been running filterless for the last 4 months (since I started my tank)

[joemorris86]

Thanks for the link. does the water still stay nice and clear without a filter?

[Nano sapiens]

Thanks for the link. does the water still stay nice and clear without a filter?

 

Tip: I you would like someone specific to answer then you'll need to quote at least part of the message (like I did here).

 

To answer your question, yes the water stays quite clear in a mature, naturally filtered aquarium. The live rock acts like fly paper due to the resident periphyton, particles advect into the substratum and filter feeders like sponges and corals are continuously processing the water. Water changes make sure that the water doesn't yelllow.

[Boggers]

I have a 75G filter-less tank. It does have a bunch of Macro, very few fish and lite feeding routine but can be done.