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Optimizing tank flow
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 7:32 pm
by VitalMind22
I've been tweaking my tank's flow for weeks, but my Betta still seems stressed. Running a Fluval 207 in a 20-gallon long, with a spray bar pointed at the back wall. Any tips to dial it in without stressing the fish?
Re: Optimizing tank flow
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 7:46 pm
by Dream
Bettas prefer slower flow, so the spray bar might still be too much. Try adding more plants like Java Fern or Anubias to break up the current. Also, check if the filter's output can be adjusted. What's your water temp?
Re: Optimizing tank flow
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 8:36 pm
by kaylornix
Dream wrote: ↑Wed Jun 25, 2025 7:46 pm
Bettas prefer slower flow, so the spray bar might still be too much. Try adding more plants like Java Fern or Anubias to break up the current. Also, check if the filter's output can be adjusted. What's your water temp?
Yep, plants are a game-changer. I've got a bunch of Hornwort in my Betta tank, and it's like a natural flow diffuser. Also, maybe try a pre-filter sponge on the output if you can't adjust the flow directly.
Re: Optimizing tank flow
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 9:10 pm
by flair
I'd second the pre-filter sponge idea. It's a cheap fix and works wonders. Also, what's your substrate like? A finer substrate can help reduce turbulence near the bottom where the Betta hangs out.
Re: Optimizing tank flow
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 9:32 pm
by Flaremax
Dude, just crank it down to the lowest setting and call it a day. Bettas are chill fish, they don't need all that flow. My guy's happy with a basic sponge filter and some floaters.
Re: Optimizing tank flow
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 10:30 pm
by dynamon
If you're set on keeping the Fluval 207, try adding a baffle. I used a piece of plastic cut from a water bottle to redirect the flow upward. Works like a charm and costs nothing.
Re: Optimizing tank flow
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 11:15 pm
by Sapphe
The spray bar might not be the issue. Have you checked your water parameters? High nitrates can stress Bettas more than flow. What's your nitrate level?
Re: Optimizing tank flow
Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2025 11:43 pm
by Trailfox
Sapphe wrote: ↑Wed Jun 25, 2025 11:15 pm
The spray bar might not be the issue. Have you checked your water parameters? High nitrates can stress Bettas more than flow. What's your nitrate level?
Good point. Flow's important, but water quality is king. If your nitrates are above 20 ppm, that's likely the bigger problem. How often are you doing water changes?
Re: Optimizing tank flow
Posted: Thu Jun 26, 2025 12:29 am
by Jack
I've got a similar setup. Try lowering the water level a bit. It reduces the flow's intensity by increasing the distance the water falls. Works for me.
Re: Optimizing tank flow
Posted: Thu Jun 26, 2025 1:18 am
by VitalMind22
Thanks for all the suggestions! I'll try the pre-filter sponge and add more plants. Water temp's at 78, nitrates are at 10 ppm, and I do 25% changes weekly. Appreciate the help!