Newbie question about changing sponge filters

[mattteoh]

Hi guys, I'm new to keeping fish/shrimp.

I know that sponge filters need to be changed on a regular basis but I was wondering, if I change the sponge, does that reset the cycle by removing the beneficial bacteria?

Thanks for your help

[Bieffe]

No need to change just rinse. Unless very worn out then change. Replace old sponge with new and keep old sponge in tank for a week or so then throw away.

[Yulbrainer]

Yes you need to change it periodically as it will be clog by the dirt, rinsing will not do enough.
The bactery mainly live in the filter media, changing sponge will not restart the nitrogen cycle.

[Shadow]

is the the sponge filter the only media you have? if not then you no need to be worry

[mattteoh]

What do you guys mean by filter media? I only have a sponge filter as my tank is rather small :/

[Shadow]

Normally beside sponge, you will also put other filter media like ceramic ring, biohome, etc for biological filtration.

[zonkkie]

usually if sponge filter is the only form of filtration, better to put 2. When worn out, replace one at a time.

[mattteoh]

Thanks for your help guys! I'll go get some ceramic rings

[fishlearn]

So to say ... if i only have 1 sponge filter connected to an air pump in my tank ...
where should the ceramic rings be placed?

[Shadow]

ceramic ring not for that type of filter