What to use to cover intake tube?

[hlee72ca]

I have a tank with a bunch of baby BNP and some shrimp and I do not want them to be all sucked into the hob filter(AC50). I have tried the white foam that comes with the AC, but that becomes clogged and slows the intake too much after 1-2 days then I have to clean it off and replace it. I tried the black foam of a sponge filter, even worse. Maybe a filter bag? Any input would be valued.

[TomC]

Canadian Aquatics had stainless steel covers.

[CRS Fan]

Hello Howie.

I personally use the 16mm S/S Strainers that Canadian Aquatics sells. Look at the second item in this ad. They are shrimplet safe and will fit snugly on the AC 20, 30, and 50 intakes (as they all are the same diameter).

Hopefully that helps,

Stuart

[hlee72ca]

Thanks Stuart, just the thing I'm looking for.

[discuspaul]

PetSmart has Fluval fine mesh round foam pre-filters that fit on any AC filter intake tube for $2.99 each. Work like a charm & really help with picking up excess food and with water clarification as well. Your filter media will need less frequent rinsing/changing as well. Just remove & quick rinse once weekly - they do a great job.

[Elle]

You can also take a clean, never worn pair of pantyhose, cut off the toe and rubber band it over the filter intake. Low tech, but effective.

It's about the only thing the damn things are good for.

[tony1928]

I buy prefilters made for mag pumps, they slip easily over most tubular styled intakes. They are also black/dark gray which helps hide it too.