Is there overfiltration?

[Wzierbovsky]

I've got a question that's been bugging me. Is it possible to overfilter a tank?

Let's say; I've got messy goldfish in a tank of size which a 400 litre/hour flow rate filter is optimal for. I install a 1000 litre/hour filter instead. Aside from producing a stronger water current and possible heat and electricy issues, are there other dangers? E.g. is the bacteria colony any less efficient in an oversized filter?

Thanks.

[richietay]

hmm....i think Bacteria colony wont be affected! definitely be strong current flow, resulting stress for your fishes.

why not cater your filter to a right tank size.

[kemp]

maybe he have the intention to upgrade his tank in near future

hmm....i think Bacteria colony wont be affected! definitely be strong current flow, resulting stress for your fishes.

why not cater your filter to a right tank size.

[Wzierbovsky]

That's one yes consideration, but a minor advantage at that.

But it's really because I have 4 lionheads who poo way too much - even when I don't feed them. Has to do with that my wife insists on live plants in the tank, and half the plants provide a hearty salad buffet for the lionheads even when I attempt to starve them.

That's why I'm curious; aside from issues of water current etc., will significantly stronger water flowrates affect filtration itself?

[ranmasatome]

i used to use a 2026 on a 2 ft..
the other alterative is that you can use Overhead filters.. i feel these are great for goldfish.. since they crap so much.
Plants wise.. you something hardy and not fun to chew on.. like nanas..

[alanyeo99]

Having an oversize pump does not cause any harm to bacteria colonization in the filter media. Bacteria knows how to hide in crevices and not get washed away easily. I have seen marine tanks and ponds with 10x flow-rate.

If you think your pump is too strong, just direct the output nozzle at a piece of rock or wood to reduce the risk of sending your lionhead into a whirlpool.

[kuku]

its always good to have overfilteration imo...!

[spinex]

I use a 1200l/h pump on my 90L tank. But i got a chiller and external reactor in line. To me it seem okay.

[Wzierbovsky]

Got it and thanks. I'll most likely get an oversized filter for my lionhead tank then, but do strategic positioning + rainbar to minimize the water current flow.