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Best Filters For Planted Tanks (2025 Updated)

If you’re looking for an easy and effective way to keep your planted tank clean and healthy, then you may want to consider investing in filters for planted tanks. These innovative filters are specifically designed to help maintain the delicate balance of your aquarium's ecosystem. However, before you make a purchase, there are a few factors to consider.

Firstly, you'll need to think about the size and shape of your tank. Different filters work best for different tanks, so it's important to choose the right one for your setup. Additionally, you'll need to think about the types of fish and plants you have in your aquarium, as some filters may be better suited to certain types of aquatic life.

Moreover, you should consider the amount of maintenance that a particular filter requires, as well as its price and overall durability. A good filter can last for years, so it's important to invest in a high-quality product that will provide value for money.

If you're still unsure about which filter is right for your planted tank, you may want to ask yourself some questions, such as "What are the specific needs of my plants and fish?" or "What type of filter would be the easiest to maintain?". By taking the time to research your options and consider your specific situation, you can make an informed decision that will help keep your planted tank thriving.

10 Best Filters For Planted Tanks

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for cleaning and maintaining aquariums and other underwater tanks.
2
This replacement part is ideal for improving filtration in planted aquariums by removing oil, protein, and floating dust.
3
The product is ideal for cleaning and purifying aquariums, household water supply, and degreasing tubes.
4
This product is ideal for supplying and filtering water in aquariums to support the growth of aquatic plants and fish.
5
This product is ideal for filtering and aerating freshwater fish tanks with plants, using inflow and outflow lily pipes.
6
This product is ideal for aquariums with plants and filters, allowing for efficient cleaning and inflow of water.
7
The product is ideal for filtering and purifying water in household tanks, fish aquariums, and oil supplies.
8
The product is ideal for cleaning and purifying aquarium water in households.
9
This product is ideal for maintaining a healthy and clean environment for aquarium plants and fish.
10
The product is ideal for improving water quality and promoting healthy growth for aquatic plants and fish in indoor aquariums.
This product is ideal for cleaning and maintaining aquariums and other underwater tanks.
This replacement part is ideal for improving filtration in planted aquariums by removing oil, protein, and floating dust.
The product is ideal for cleaning and purifying aquariums, household water supply, and degreasing tubes.
This product is ideal for supplying and filtering water in aquariums to support the growth of aquatic plants and fish.
This product is ideal for filtering and aerating freshwater fish tanks with plants, using inflow and outflow lily pipes.
This product is ideal for aquariums with plants and filters, allowing for efficient cleaning and inflow of water.
The product is ideal for filtering and purifying water in household tanks, fish aquariums, and oil supplies.
The product is ideal for cleaning and purifying aquarium water in households.
This product is ideal for maintaining a healthy and clean environment for aquarium plants and fish.
The product is ideal for improving water quality and promoting healthy growth for aquatic plants and fish in indoor aquariums.

1. Mipcase Fish Tank Purifier Set

This fish tank accessory includes a shell that does not cause pollution or harm to water quality. It is a great addition to any aquarium as it helps maintain a healthy environment for aquatic creatures. It is also designed with a separator that can effectively treat the oil film on the surface of the fish tank, ensuring that the water remains clean and clear. The filter accessory dispenses clean water at the appropriate flow rate, keeping the water circulating and aerated. This helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and keeps your fish healthy. The fish tank water purifier is equipped with a flow structure that allows you to adjust the water flow rate as per your requirement. This feature ensures that the water in the aquarium is always at the ideal flow rate for the fish to thrive. Lastly, the fish tank vacuum comes with a powerful suction cup that securely fixes it to the tank, preventing it from falling off while in use. This makes cleaning the aquarium hassle-free and easy.

Pros

  • Does not cause pollution or harm to water quality
  • Effectively treats oil film on the surface of the fish tank
  • Dispenses clean water at the appropriate flow rate
  • Equipped with a flow structure to adjust water flow rate
  • Comes with a powerful suction cup for a secure fit
  • Makes cleaning the aquarium hassle-free and easy

2. 3w Aquarium Skimmer Replacement Filter Accessory

Introducing the Submersible Vibration Pump, an electric-powered pump that is perfect for a variety of applications. With its powerful motor and durable construction, this pump is capable of handling even the toughest jobs. Its compact size and submersible design make it an ideal choice for use in small spaces or where water needs to be pumped out of a confined area.

Built with quality in mind, this pump is designed to last. Its sturdy construction ensures that it can stand up to heavy use and rough handling, while its powerful motor ensures that it can handle even the most challenging jobs. With its submersible design, it can be used in a variety of applications, from pumping water out of a flooded basement to draining a swimming pool.

One of the most notable features of this pump is its vibration-resistant design. This feature helps to reduce noise and vibration, making it a great choice for use in residential areas or other places where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. Additionally, its electric power source means that it is both efficient and easy to use, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable, high-quality pump.

Pros

  • Powerful electric motor for handling tough jobs
  • Compact size and submersible design for use in small spaces
  • Sturdy construction for heavy use and rough handling
  • Vibration-resistant design for reduced noise and vibration
  • Efficient and easy-to-use electric power source

3. Ultetech Planted Tank Cleaning Kit

Introducing the DIY Aquarium Vacuum, a must-have for any aquarium enthusiast. This vacuum provides moderate water circulation, which is essential for the growth of aquatic plants and fish. With its innovative design, this vacuum is perfect for keeping your aquarium clean and healthy.

The Water Purifying Pipe is an excellent addition to your aquarium setup. It effectively removes the greasy film on the water surface and filters out fine impurities, restoring the water quality for your fish and plants. Say goodbye to murky water and hello to crystal-clear aquascapes with this amazing filter.

Keep your aquarium clean with the Electric Gravel Cleaner. Its shell is made of durable and reliable plastic material that won't pollute or harm the water quality. The powerful suction and gentle cleaning action make it easy to remove debris and waste from the aquarium substrate. Enjoy a cleaner and healthier environment for your aquatic pets with this amazing cleaner.

The Water Changer for Fish Tanks is a simple and easy-to-use device that makes maintenance a breeze. It's effortless to disassemble and wash, and the simple installation process ensures that you can start using it right away. This changer is perfect for regular water changes, ensuring that your fish and plants stay healthy and happy.

Say goodbye to unsightly oil films on the surface of your aquarium water with the Aquarium Oil Film Removing Pipe. Made of durable and reliable plastic material, this pipe is simple and practical. It effectively removes oil films and ensures that your aquarium water remains clean and clear.

Pros

  • Provides moderate water circulation for aquatic plant and fish growth
  • Effectively removes greasy film and filters fine impurities for crystal-clear water
  • Powerful suction and gentle cleaning action for easy debris removal
  • Simple and easy-to-use device for effortless maintenance
  • Effectively removes oil films for clean and clear aquarium water

4. Glass Lily Pipe Inflow/outflow For Aquariums.

The aquarium filter can dispense clean water at the appropriate flow rate, ensuring a healthy environment for aquatic life. It provides moderate water circulation, which is perfect for the growth of aquatic plants. The sliding tube outflow above the waterline can also be used as an aerator to remove oily surface film, keeping the water surface clean and clear.

The pipe's unique design helps to expand the flow and provides good downflow throughout the tank, ensuring that all areas of the aquarium receive adequate filtration. Made of durable glass and featuring a compact structure, the aquarium filter is easy to use and maintain, making it an excellent choice for aquarium enthusiasts.

Pros

  • Provides clean water at appropriate flow rate
  • Moderate water circulation ideal for aquatic plant growth
  • Sliding tube outflow above waterline can be used as an aerator
  • Unique design expands flow and provides good downflow throughout tank
  • Made of durable glass
  • Compact structure and easy to use

5. Glass Lily Pipe Set For Planted Tank

The skimmer lily set is a perfect addition to any aquarium as it helps maintain the cleanliness of the water. It includes a skimmer lily inflow pipe, an outflow pipe, and suction cups for easy installation. The pipes are made of high-quality laboratory-grade borosilicate glass that is highly durable and long-lasting. The floating part and the unit for adjusting the ratio between surface extraction and intake in the lower part are made of highly transparent and durable acrylic.

The skimmer lily inflow pipe automatically adjusts with the water level, allowing for hassle-free maintenance. The surface skimmer effectively removes the dirty film on top of the water, ensuring that the water in the aquarium stays clean and healthy for the fish. Additionally, the water surface flow rate can be adjusted by rotating the bottom part, giving you complete control over the water flow.

The lily outflow pipe delivers clean water from the filter to the aquarium, ensuring that your fish are always swimming in clean and clear water. It is important to note that the Ø17mm outer diameter is suitable for tubing of 5/8''ID(16mm internal / 22mm external). The set includes 1x lily pipe outflow, 1x lily skimmer inflow, and 4x suction cups for easy installation.

Pros

  • Made of high-quality laboratory-grade borosilicate glass that is highly durable and long-lasting
  • The skimmer lily inflow pipe automatically adjusts with the water level for hassle-free maintenance
  • Effectively removes the dirty film on top of the water, ensuring that the water in the aquarium stays clean and healthy for the fish
  • Water surface flow rate can be adjusted by rotating the bottom part, giving you complete control over the water flow
  • Lily outflow pipe delivers clean water from the filter to the aquarium, ensuring that your fish are always swimming in clean and clear water

Cons

  • – Suitable for tubing of 5/8''ID(16mm internal / 22mm external) only

6. Aquarium Skimmer And Cleaning Set.

The Lily Pipe Surface Skimmer Inflow is an essential tool for maintaining a clean and healthy planted aquarium. This set includes one lily pipe surface skimmer inflow, two suction cups, and one spring brush. The skimmer is designed with a 17mm outer diameter to fit canister filter tubing with a 5/8" i.d. (16/22mm). The body of the skimmer is made of high-quality glass, while the floating skimmer part is made of clear ABS acrylic. It is specifically designed to be used with a canister filter.

The skimmer's unique design features an auto-adjusting function that adapts to changes in the water level. With a surface skimmer, it effectively removes the dirty film that accumulates on the top of the water. The 360-degree inflow design ensures that water flows through from all directions without clogging, making cleaning a breeze.

In summary, the Lily Pipe Surface Skimmer Inflow is a reliable and effective tool for maintaining a clean and healthy planted aquarium. Made with high-quality materials and designed to work seamlessly with a canister filter, this skimmer is a great investment for any aquarium enthusiast.

Pros

  • High-quality glass and ABS acrylic construction
  • Auto-adjusting function adapts to changes in water level
  • 360-degree inflow design ensures water flows through from all directions without clogging
  • Surface skimmer effectively removes dirty film from the top of the water

Cons

  • – May not be compatible with all aquarium setups
  • – Suction cups may require frequent readjustment

7. Iplusmile Syphon Tube Trio For Clean Aquariums

The Aquarium Water Purifying Pipe is an essential tool for maintaining the water quality in your fish tank. This device is made of high-quality plastic material with a compact structure that is easy to use. It is designed to remove oil film, restore water quality and ensure a clear water surface for a healthy environment for your fish.

The adjustable water flow design of the Oil Film Removing Pipe allows it to be used as an aerator to remove oily surface film, making it an ideal tool for maintaining the water quality in your aquarium. The shell of the Aquarium Water Purifier ensures that there is no pollution and no harmful substances added to the water quality. It is energy-saving and highly effective, making it a perfect solution for aquarium enthusiasts.

This Aquarium Supply is designed to provide an optimal environment for your fish to thrive in. It is easy to install and use, making it a great addition to your aquarium accessories. The Fish Tank Device is created to remove oil film, restore water quality, and ensure a clear water surface. It is a must-have for anyone who cares about their fish's health and well-being.

Pros

  • Made of high-quality plastic material with a compact structure that is easy to use
  • Adjustable water flow design allows it to be used as an aerator to remove oily surface film
  • No pollution and no harmful substances added to the water quality
  • Energy-saving and highly effective
  • Easy to install and use

8. Popetpop Aquarium Oil Cleaner – Tube Purifier Combo

The Fish Tank Filtration Device is a great addition to any aquarium. It features adjustable water outlets that help improve water circulation and support plant growth. This device is also designed with a flow structure that allows users to adjust water flow as needed. With its powerful suction cup, the Electric Gravel Cleaner is securely fixed and won't fall off during use. The adjustable water flow design of the Fish Tank Water Filter allows it to function as an aerator, effectively removing oily surface film. The Water Purifying Pipe is easy to disassemble and wash, with simple installation and maintenance.

Overall, these accessories are perfect for any household aquarium. They are designed to improve water quality and circulation, while also supporting plant and fish health. Their adjustable features and simple maintenance make them a great investment for any aquarium owner.

Pros

  • Improves water circulation and supports plant growth
  • Adjustable water flow
  • Powerful suction cup for secure attachment
  • Functions as an aerator to remove oily surface film
  • Easy to disassemble and wash
  • Simple installation and maintenance

9. Ista Co2 Reactor & Planted Aquarium Surface Film Skimmer – Powered Surfclear Fish Tank Filter

The Light and Compact Surface Skimmer is a highly effective tool for maintaining a clean and healthy aquarium. With its pump action, it helps to reduce surface organism film and dissolve CO2 with the best diffusing rate, ensuring that your aquarium remains free from harmful organic matter. This skimmer has a flow rate of 105 GPH, making it ideal for use in both small and large aquariums. Its energy-efficient 4W pump ensures that it is cost-effective and environmentally friendly, while its compact design makes it easy to install and maintain. This skimmer is specifically designed for freshwater planted aquariums, making it an essential tool for any aquarist who wants to maintain a healthy and thriving aquatic environment.

Overall, the Light and Compact Surface Skimmer is a great investment for anyone who wants to keep their aquarium clean and healthy. With its efficient pump action, high flow rate, and energy-efficient design, it is the perfect tool for maintaining a thriving aquatic environment.

Pros

  • Reduces surface organism film
  • Dissolves CO2 with the best diffusing rate
  • Flow rate of 105 GPH
  • Energy-efficient 4W pump
  • Compact design makes it easy to install and maintain
  • Specifically designed for freshwater planted aquariums

10. Oase Indoor Aquatics Bioplus 50

This compact design integrates three stages of filtration, including biological, mechanical, and chemical filtration, to keep your aquarium's water clean and healthy. The internal corner filter operates quietly to circulate and filter the water, while the diffuser and adjustable water flow nozzle ensure uniform surface movement and additional dissolved oxygen. The filter comes with all necessary fittings and is lightweight with suction feet for easy and discreet vertical installation.

The biological filtration stage uses beneficial bacteria to break down harmful waste and toxins, while the mechanical stage removes debris and particles from the water. The chemical stage uses activated carbon to remove impurities and odors for crystal clear water.

The filter is designed with a low noise level to avoid disturbing your aquatic pets, and the diffuser and adjustable water flow nozzle provide a gentle and uniform water flow for a natural environment. The suction feet ensure that the filter stays in place and is easy to install and maintain.

Overall, this internal corner filter is a great addition to any aquarium setup, providing efficient and effective filtration to keep your aquatic pets healthy and happy.

Pros

  • Three stages of filtration for clean and healthy water
  • Quiet operation
  • Adjustable water flow nozzle for uniform surface movement and additional oxygen
  • All necessary fittings included
  • Lightweight with suction feet for easy and discreet vertical installation

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for larger aquariums

Best Filters For Planted Tanks FAQs

Can activated carbon be used in filters for planted tanks?

Activated carbon is a commonly used filter media in many aquarium setups. However, when it comes to planted tanks, the use of activated carbon can be a bit controversial. While it does an excellent job of removing impurities and pollutants from the water, it can also remove essential nutrients that are vital for plant growth.

Activated carbon works by adsorbing organic compounds and other impurities from the water. It can also remove trace elements, such as iron, that are necessary for healthy plant growth. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies and stunted growth in plants.

That being said, activated carbon can still be used in planted tanks with caution. It's important to use it sparingly and only when necessary. For example, if you need to remove medication from the water or if there's an algae bloom that needs to be cleared up.

Overall, the use of activated carbon in planted tanks is a personal choice. Some people swear by it, while others avoid it altogether. It's important to do your research and make an informed decision based on your individual tank setup and needs.

How do you choose the right size filter for a planted tank?

Choosing the right size filter for a planted tank is a crucial step in ensuring the health and well-being of your aquatic plants and fish. The size of the filter depends on the size of your tank, the number of fish in the tank, and the type of plants you have. Generally, the rule of thumb is to choose a filter that can handle at least three times the volume of your tank. For example, if you have a 20-gallon tank, you should choose a filter that can handle at least 60 gallons of water per hour.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a filter is the type of plants you have. If you have delicate plants that require low water flow, you should opt for a filter with lower flow rates. On the other hand, if you have plants that require high water flow, you should choose a filter with higher flow rates. Additionally, consider the type of fish you have. If you have fish that produce a lot of waste, you may need a larger filter to handle the increased waste load.

In summary, choosing the right size filter for a planted tank involves considering the size of your tank, the number of fish, the type of plants, and the waste load of your fish. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a filter that will provide adequate filtration and help maintain a healthy and thriving aquatic environment.

How often should the filter media be cleaned in a planted tank?

The frequency of cleaning the filter media in a planted tank depends on several factors. The size of the tank, the number of fish, and the amount of food given to the fish are some of the factors that determine how often the filter media should be cleaned. Generally, it is recommended to clean the filter media once a month. However, if the tank is heavily stocked with fish, it may be necessary to clean the filter media more frequently.

The importance of cleaning the filter media cannot be overemphasized. The filter media is responsible for removing impurities and maintaining the water quality in the aquarium. Failure to clean the filter media regularly can lead to a buildup of harmful toxins in the water, which can be detrimental to the health of the fish and plants.

It is important to note that cleaning the filter media should not involve replacing all the media at once. This can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the tank and cause a spike in ammonia levels. Instead, it is recommended to clean only a portion of the media at a time to maintain the balance of bacteria in the tank.

What is the ideal flow rate for a filter in a planted tank?

The ideal flow rate for a filter in a planted tank depends on various factors such as the size of the tank, the type of filter, the type of plants, and the number of fish. As a general rule of thumb, the flow rate should be 4-5 times the volume of the tank per hour. For example, if you have a 20-gallon tank, the ideal flow rate should be between 80-100 gallons per hour. However, some aquatic plants prefer slower water flow, so it's essential to consider the needs of the plants before deciding on the flow rate. Additionally, if you have sensitive fish species, a high flow rate can stress them out, so it's crucial to adjust the flow rate accordingly. Ultimately, maintaining a balance between the filter's flow rate and the plants and fish's needs is essential for creating a healthy and thriving planted tank.

What types of filters are best suited for planted tanks?

When it comes to setting up a planted tank, choosing the right filter is essential to ensure a healthy and thriving aquatic ecosystem. The best types of filters for planted tanks are those that provide both mechanical and biological filtration while also promoting good water circulation.

Canister filters are a popular choice for planted tanks as they offer excellent mechanical and biological filtration capabilities. These filters typically have multiple chambers that allow for the use of different types of filter media, including foam, biomedia, and chemical filtration products.

Hang-on-back filters are also a great option, particularly for smaller planted tanks. These filters are easy to install and maintain and provide good mechanical filtration. They also offer good water circulation, which is important for delivering nutrients to the plants and ensuring proper oxygenation.

In addition to these options, power filters, sponge filters, and internal filters can also be used in planted tanks. Ultimately, the best type of filter for your planted tank will depend on factors such as tank size, plant species, and the number and type of fish you have in the tank.

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