2.5 g QT filter question

Just_Pete · Apr 20, 2020

So I just setup a 2.5 QT tank for some corals I have coming in on Friday. I have a heater, power head (not pictured) and a 38 par LED e27 bulb on it. My plan is to do weekly water changes on it from my display tank.

My question, is a filter needed in this scenario? Since I wont be feed the corals, nitrates shouldn’t be an issue. Heater, flow and lights enough?

Just_Pete · Apr 20, 2020

35ppt · Apr 20, 2020

Mechanical filtration is not needed. I ran a 10 gallon coral QT for years with no HOB filter. I would just run a powerhead with a cut off water bottle with filter floss in it for an hour or so every time I'd do a WC. Then I'd take it out. I'd want an ATO and heater controller though. Looks like a big heater for only 2.5g water.

/You mentioned flow but I don't see a wavemaker.

35ppt · Apr 20, 2020

I would also add, I got by with the 10 gallon QT for a long time but it was always so full I was not able to clean it properly. I recently swapped it out for a 20 long and I can't believe I didn't do it sooner. I could see a 2.5 gallon being a challenge for stability.

Just_Pete · Apr 20, 2020

35ppt said:
Mechanical filtration is not needed. I ran a 10 gallon coral QT for years with no HOB filter. I would just run a powerhead with a cut off water bottle with filter floss in it for an hour or so every time I'd do a WC. Then I'd take it out. I'd want an ATO and heater controller though. Looks like a big heater for only 2.5g water.

/You mentioned flow but I don't see a wavemaker.

The heater def is overkill, but its what I have on hand. My LFS has 10g tanks going for $9, I might consider venturing out this week. Flow was added after pic, was taking a citric acid bath. Thanks for the tip.

35ppt · Apr 20, 2020

Just_Pete said:
The heater def is overkill, but its what I have on hand. My LFS has 10g tanks going for $9, I might consider venturing out this week. Flow was added after pic, was taking a citric acid bath. Thanks for the tip.

I know many stores have been offering to let you pay ahead of time and you just drive up and they put it in your trunk. Then you can sterilize it when you get home.