Sponge Filter; Bowl or Small Aquarium Filters

 

This is a very simple idea where by one uses a Hydro Sponge #2, then one would cut this filter's sponge in half, then remove the male strainer, then finally replace the sponge with this new "1/2" sponge "Mini Hydro Sponge Filter" well suited for a small aquarium (under 2 gallons) or a bowl.

The result of this VERY simple DIY Mini filter is an extra sponge for a future change, but just as importantly and unlike other DIY sponge filter ideas circulating here on the internet is you also still have a Quality, Patented Hydro Sponge Filter with higher bio filtration capacity per square inch (or square centimeter) and a sponge (plus spare) that does not degrade quickly.

It is also noteworthy that this Mini Aquarium or Bowl Sponge Filter is vastly superior to one of those small round under gravel filters many will use in a bowl for these reasons (especially for Betta Bowls/Containers since food often falls to the bottom where the Betta will rarely go):

*More easily rinsed (de-chlorinated tap or bowl/aquarium water should be used for rinsing, not tap water)
*Higher Bio Capacity (more space for aerobic nitrifying bacteria)
*Better oxygenation of this bio bacteria
*Much less decomposition in the substrate or bowl bottom that can result in Aeromonas bacterial outbreaks or Saprolegnia (fungus) outbreaks.

Please click on the picture above to enlarge for a better view

DIY CO2 Reactor, Diffuser; Using Sponge Pre-Filter & Pump

Updated 12-27-18

Another use for a Sponge Filter, whether a standard Sponge Filters or a Sponge Pre-Filter (such as the Filter Max #2 pictured here) is as a diffuser/reactor for CO2 systems.

This DIY CO2 Reactor/diffuser works better than just about any other according to my friends in the industry who are expert planted aquarium maintenance pros. It is similar to the gravel vacuum with a sponge plug method popularized in a planted aquarium forum in that this method utilizes a top-notch sponge filter material for better CO2 absorption then slow dispersion. As well the Filter Max Sponge Filters have a secure cap that does not blow off under pressure from the water pump, unlike the other method.

This method is an excellent choice for use with the simple Gelatin, DIY Yeast methods as well as the more advanced "ISTA Co2 Refillable Aluminum Cylinder Set", and even professional regulated CO2 canisters

(1) As per the picture to the left, connect a relatively slow pump such as the Rio 200 Pump (138gph) to what would normally be the pump pick up, but in this case, the flow is directed downward so as to trap the CO2.

(2) Then drill a small hole so as to add an air line control valve (such as found in the Lees Valve Set #14104)which then goes to the source of the CO2.
From this valve run airline tubing to your CO2 source.

Use the valve to regulate CO2, but the water pump at least in part keeps the CO2 contained until it is absorbed through the sponge material.

(3) Add an in-line air check valve as close to valve as possible to prevent water back up into the airline tubing once the CO2 is exhausted. I often find that it is best to still "blow out" the airline (by mouth) prior to adding to fresh CO2 each day.

And simple, you're done!

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In controlled tests using s Sponge Filter as compared to a Ceramic air stone or standard reactor/diffusion bell, the Sponge Filter achieved much higher dissolved CO2 levels when calculated with KH and pH tests

The use of a homemade pressurized bottle can be used for Jungle Fizz Tabs or DIY yeast CO2 generators.

*For further planted freshwater aquarium information:
Aquarium Plants; General Care, Beginner to Advanced

*Another tip to secure filter intakes, tubing, etc. are the ZooMed Mag Clips. Although their primary use has been for aquarium heaters, I have adapted these for lift tubes, air line and much more.

Further Reading:
*Aquarium Lighting, Facts & Information for Planted Aquariums
*NilocG Liquid Plant Ferts | NPK, Thrive, Enhance
*Aquarium Chemistry