Betta Fish Filter Recommendations and Selection Guide
Below are tried-and-tested filter solutions for betta tanks, along with key selection criteria:
I. Recommended Filter Types
Hang-On-Back (HOB) Waterfall Filters
Features:
Gentle, adjustable water flow with quiet operation.
Ideal for small tanks (6–12 gallons / 15–30cm).
Top Models:
Cergman YL-5 (3-in-1 filtration, suits 7–9 gallon tanks)
Jinlijia JJ-01 (with aeration, energy-efficient and silent)
Back/Side Filtration Systems
Best for:
Ready-made tanks like MiJia Fish Tank 2nd Gen (space-saving and aesthetic).
Tip: Use low-power pumps (≤2W) to prevent strong currents.
Sponge Filters (Air-Powered)
Advantages:
Low-flow design with integrated aeration and filtration.
Perfect for nano tanks or breeding setups.
II. Key Selection Criteria
Flow Rate: Choose a filter that cycles 2–3x the tank volume per hour.
(e.g., 15L tank needs 30–45L/h flow)
Noise Level: Prioritize models under 30dB (e.g., Jingye JY-W355).
Adjustability: Look for flow control or wall-facing outlets to reduce current impact.
III. Practical Usage Tips
Installation Tricks
Add a protective sponge to the intake to prevent fish from being sucked in.
Turn off the filter at night to let bettas rest.
Maintenance
Clean filter sponges weekly to avoid clogs and overflow.
Use Indian almond leaves or volcanic stones to stabilize water quality.
IV. Cost-Effective Combinations
20cm Cube Tank:
Double-layer filter box + 1W pump + quartz ball media (total cost ~$8.50)
15cm Nano Tank:
Small HOB filter (e.g., Sunsun Xiaoli) + heater set to 77°F (25°C)
Final Note: Adjust based on tank size and your betta’s activity level—avoid strong currents or cramped spaces.
Translation Notes:
Converted metric to imperial units (gallons/cm) for American readers.
Replaced with brand transliterations + model numbers.
Used bullet points and bold headers for skimmability.
Added cost conversions ($8.50 ≈ 60 RMB) for relevance.
Emphasized "current impact" to address bettas’ sensitivity to water flow.