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Hello, this is Pleco Breeding Diary.
In the previous article, I introduced a range of gadgets for the Imperial Zebra Pleco’s dedicated 60-wide tank, including a UV sterilizer, SwitchBot temperature control, and Awataro (Schwatz).
Now, it’s finally time for the installation of the previously announced “ST TS Bio Sponge Filter XL”!
In addition to the overhead filter, I wanted to further boost biological filtration as a sub-filter.
That’s why I chose the ST TS Bio Sponge Filter XL.
My first impression upon receiving it was… “It’s surprisingly huge.”
Sponge filters usually have a compact image, but this XL size boasts an overwhelming surface area, making it perfect as a habitat for bacteria.
Furthermore, since it’s “air-driven,” it can operate completely independently from the overhead filter.
Even if the overhead filter’s pump stops, this sponge filter can maintain filtration and oxygen supply – making it an excellent choice from a redundancy perspective.
ポチップ
When it arrived, it contained the default filter media.
However, since it produced dust, I decided to discard all of it without hesitation.
▲ This is the default filter media. It’s powdery, so I decided to replace it.
▲ The interior after neatly removing the media. I’ll be filling it with my preferred filter media.
For the replacement filter media, I chose Fujino Spiral, which has a solid reputation for bacterial colonization.
It’s a porous material with a large surface area, allowing aerobic bacteria to proliferate densely.
▲ Fujino Spiral. The spiral structure on its surface ensures bacteria won’t escape.
Pochipp
Additionally, I added a small amount of coral sand to act as a buffer, preventing a sudden drop in pH.
This is a “safety measure” to maintain the slightly acidic to neutral pH that Imperial Zebra Plecos prefer.
▲ Coral sand. Even a small amount helps stabilize pH.
▲ Packed tightly with Fujino Spiral, then sprinkled with coral sand, and it’s complete.
Here’s a happy accident (?).
I tried inserting a Kotobuki hang-on-back filter submersible pump that was lying dormant in a drawer, and it snapped right in perfectly.
▲ It fit. Perfectly. I have to use this.
Attach a PVC Pipe VP13 Elbow to the Outlet, and it Transforms into an Instant Diffuser!
From here, I added a little DIY.
By attaching a PVC pipe VP13 elbow to the outlet, it results in──
- The air connected to the filter body is forcibly diffused by the submersible pump
- As a result, it produces fine bubbles, just like with a diffuser!
This is an upgrade with almost zero additional cost.
It creates a microbubble sensation different from an airstone, and increased dissolved oxygen can be expected.
I want to provide the best environment for my Imperial Zebra Plecos, so accumulating these little tricks is enjoyable.
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