is my filter harming my plants?

[paulgpa]

I've got a HOB filter in my 20 gallon planted tank, and my Anubias are looking rough. The leaves are turning yellow, and some are even melting. Could the flow be too strong? I've got it on the lowest setting, but I'm not sure if it's still too much.

[starwave9]

Anubias are pretty hardy, but they don't like strong flow. What's your substrate like? If it's bare bottom or sand, the roots might not be anchored well, making them more susceptible to damage. Also, check your lighting. Too much light can cause algae, which might be competing with the plants.

[haply]

Anubias are pretty hardy, but they don't like strong flow. What's your substrate like? If it's bare bottom or sand, the roots might not be anchored well, making them more susceptible to damage. Also, check your lighting. Too much light can cause algae, which might be competing with the plants.

I agree with this. I've had similar issues with my Anubias in high flow tanks. Try moving them to a quieter spot, maybe near the substrate or behind a rock.

[pipit22]

Yo, my Anubias were getting wrecked by my filter too. I switched to a sponge filter and they're chilling now. Maybe your HOB is just too much for them, even on low. Sponge filters are cheap and gentle, worth a shot if you're not married to the HOB.

[dreamon7]

It's not just the flow, but the oxygenation. High flow can increase oxygen levels, which might be stressing the plants. What's your CO2 situation? If you're not injecting, the plants might be struggling to compete with the oxygen. Try reducing the flow or adding a diffuser to balance it out.

[Sailor]

I've got the same issue with my Java Fern. The leaves are getting torn up. Maybe it's the filter type? I'm using a canister filter, but it's set to low flow.

[koala]

I've got the same issue with my Java Fern. The leaves are getting torn up. Maybe it's the filter type? I'm using a canister filter, but it's set to low flow.

Java Ferns are similar to Anubias in that they don't like strong flow. Even low flow can be too much if it's direct. Try positioning them where the flow is broken up by decor or other plants.

[paulgpa]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try moving the Anubias to a quieter spot and maybe look into a sponge filter. Appreciate the help!

[starwave9]

Let us know how it goes. If the problem persists, it might be worth checking your water parameters. Sometimes nutrient deficiencies can mimic flow damage.

[pipit22]

For real, keep us posted. I'm curious if the sponge filter works for you like it did for me. Plants can be finicky, but they're worth the hassle.