How long should I leave my filter?

Question

I was wondering how long should I leave my filter during the day in a 10 gallon tank with dividers that has 4 bettas? The spot where the filter is bothering one of my Betta since it circulates the water in his spot. So how many hours should I leave the filter on per day?

Answer 1

It should be on all the time. Not only does your filter clean out the floating bits in the water, it gets rid of ammonia and converts it to nitrates (which are less toxic and removable through regular water changes) through what is called the Nitrogen Cycle. If it is too strong in one section, consider removing that betta and keeping that section of the tank empty. If that isn't possible, try the nylon stocking idea posted above, or buy a filter with a slower flow rate (make sure it's still large enough to hold the proper bio load though).

Letting the filter media dry out is basically going to kill all the helpful bacteria that converts ammonia to nitrites to nitrates. It's as bad as replacing the entire filter and your tank will likely suffer as ammonia skyrockets.

Answer 2

The filter should be on all the time. Put pantyhose over the intake of the filter to slow down the flow. If that does not help enough, cut the ends off a pop bottle and cut a straight line down the length of the tube that is ramaining. Stick that around the out flow of the filter to disperse the flow.

Answer 3

The filter really needs to be on all day long. Is there any way that you can block off the water flow somewhat so it isn't bother the one betta?

Answer 4

i guess it would depend on when you were home...try having it on when you aren't home and then turning it on when you are home...

Answer 5

i like apples

Answer 6

I guess till dirty.