Question: Prevent re-cycling with sponge filter?

[Cardozzza]

Hi! I'm hoping to start my first axolotl tank cycling soon, but I haven't decided on a filter yet.

I keep seeing sponge filters recommended since they offer such minimal water disruption, but my one concern is that when it comes time to replace the actual sponge itself, the whole tank would need to be cycled again.

Is there a way to avoid that? Can you simply add the new sponge in a week or so before removing the old sponge, giving time for the beneficial bacteria to grow in it?

Thank you!

[Karayna]

They really don't need to be replaced very often. With regular cleaning (in tank water) they will last for years!

When it's finally time to replace it I would run another filter parallell to the old one for at least 2 weeks for the bacteria to take hold. :) Good luck!

[Cardozzza]

That makes sense, thank you!

[KitaKhat]

Another thing I have found with sponge filters is if you start getting a lot of gunk in it, just take it out and rinse it off. It can greatly increase the life of the filter and it does not impact the bacteria too badly.

Karayna's point about running them in parallel is really good advice. Unfortunately I learned the hard way with some fish that doing a flat change is not the way to go.

[Cardozzza]

That makes a lot of sense! :) I'm assuming that you'd just rinse it under running water, no soap or anything, right?

[Karayna]

Originally Posted by Cardozzza

That makes a lot of sense! :) I'm assuming that you'd just rinse it under running water, no soap or anything, right?

If you take out some tank water in a bucket and rinse the filter in there, the good bacteria will be preserved better. :) I always put pads/sponges in the old water and squeeze it/swish it around a couple of times. Works like a charm!

[Cardozzza]

Cool, thank you so much, I really appreciate all the help! 💕 I'll definitely do that then!