7 Best Filters for Shrimp Tanks – Clean Environment for Your Aquatic Animals

We've done the research to find the best filters for shrimp tanks and ranked them according to their pros and cons.
By
James Palmer
James Palmer
Editor
James is a leading resource for unbiased and reliable reviews on fish products. Throughout his career, he has honed his writing skills through his contributions to several f read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Keily Brown
Keily Brown
Expert Writer
Keily is a valuable asset to the team and a dedicated contributor to the site's success. Keily's education in veterinary science has given her a deep understanding of the an read more
Last updated: August 07, 2023
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If you are a shrimp enthusiast, then you know that keeping your tank clean is one of the most important aspects of shrimp care. One way to keep your tank clean is by using a filter. It provides a constant flow of water, which helps to remove debris and keep your tank healthy, and creates a more natural environment for your shrimp.

There are a variety of filters available on the market, so it can be difficult to decide which one is best for your tank. In this article, we will discuss the best filters for shrimp tanks. We considered the size, filtration, flow rate, protection features, and types of filters when choosing our top picks.

Quick Summary

  • "3 stage filtration with carbon and Bioholster, as well as a protective intake grid provide the safest environment for your shrimp"
  • "Double filter with physical and biochemical filtration and a 360° water outlet do the best for the tank inhabitants "
  • Best Corner Filter: Aquapapa Corner Filter
    "Multi-layer sponge filters and the convenient corner form are an excellent option when you don’t have much space in a tank"
  • "The cylindrical shape of this bio sponge filter provides a comfortable and healthy environment for your small aquatic friends"
  • "Multiple installation and 4 suction cups make this filter the most versatile and easy to use"
  • "Super small 3-layer ribbing shape provides a necessary level of filtration and oxygenation"
  • "With this device, you get an activated carbon filter, a powerful water pump, and quiet operation at a low cost"

Top 7 Filters for Shrimp Tanks Review 2024

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Features
  • Dimensions: 3.5 x 4.38 x 5.75 inches
  • Tank size: up to 10 gallons
  • Filtration: 3 stage filtration with carbon and Bioholster

More features: includes a small carbon cartridge, media sponge and bio-grid, protective intake grid, pre-filter sponge

The Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Shrimp Filter is our Editor’s Choice for its high efficiency and powerful filtration system. Its three-stage filtration system provides maximum water flow and superior biological, chemical, and mechanical filtration for your shrimp tank. The media grid can be used with carbon cartridges or bio-grid refills. It also features a protective intake grid that prevents shrimp from being sucked into the filter.

The Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Shrimp Filter is more suited for your shrimp than the QuietFlow Internal Power Filter, also from the same brand. Unlike the latter, the Internal Shrimp Filter provides self-priming for easy startup. It also comes with a media sponge, small carbon cartridge, and bio-grid for biological filtration, all of which are helpful in taking care of your aquatic animal.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Self-priming
  • Protective intake grid and pre-filter sponge prevent shrimp from entering the filter
  • 3 stage filtration efficiently cleans and filters water
  • Hanging design
  • Includes carbon cartridge, media sponge, and additional biological filtration
  • Easy to clean
  • Powerful suction
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Only one cartridge is included
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Features
  • Dimensions: 8.15 x 6.85 x 3.07 inches
  • Tank size: S (10-40 gallons), M (15-55 gallons)
  • Filtration: double filter with physical and biochemical (bioceramic media balls) filtration

More features: ≤30db noise level, 360° water outlet, 1-year warranty, 5.6 ft. cord length, height adjustment of water outlet, suitable for saltwater and freshwater, 2 spare sponges, 1 bag of bioceramic media balls, 110V

Looking for a powerful and quiet aquarium filter? Look no further than the AQQA Aquarium Electric Power Sponge Filter. This double filter with physical and biochemical filtration is perfect for shrimp tanks 10-55 gallons in size and features a noise level of ≤30db. The 360° water outlet ensures even water flow, while the height adjustment of the water outlet allows you to customize your filter to your needs.

The AQQA Aquarium Electric Power Sponge Filter comes with cartridges, a sponge, and biochemical filtration, making it a bit similar to our Editor’s Choice, the Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Shrimp Filter. But, the AQQA model is better for those who want something more advanced, unlike the Aqueon which is simpler. The AQQA filter comes with an upgraded electric power filter, quiet operation, and a water outlet that can be adjusted up to 360 degrees. It is designed for saltwater and freshwater.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Powerful motor
  • No air pump is needed
  • Long service life
  • ≤30db noise level
  • Double filter with physical and biochemical (bioceramic media balls) filtration
  • Increased water circulation and oxygen content in water
  • 360° water outlet
  • 1-year warranty
  • Easy to clean
  • Comes in 2 sizes
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Pricy
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3
Best Corner Filter

Aquapapa Corner Filter

Features
  • Dimensions: 2.75 x 3.15 x 11 inches
  • Tank size: up to 40 gallons
  • Filtration: physical and biochemical (bio-sponge and ceramic rings) filtration

More features: multi-layer sponge filters

The Aquapapa Corner Filter is a multi-layer sponge filter that features both physical and biochemical filtration. The two layers of this aquarium filter are the bio-sponge layer and ceramic rings. This corner filter can be used for up to 40 gallons of water. With its unique design, it has been made to fit around corners so that it does not take up too much space in your aquarium.

The Aquapapa Corner Filter also has a 20-gallon version, which has similar features. Both filters come with quiet operation and easy maintenance, but you get more capacity and filtering accuracy with the 40-gallon filter. It is also best for those who have bigger tanks and need to remove toxic waste.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Multi-layer sponge filters for better filtration
  • Physical and biochemical filtration
  • The filter provides increased oxygen content in water
  • Bio-sponge and ceramic rings support creating beneficial bacteria
  • Quiet operating
  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Light color frame makes it unnoticed in water
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Air pump and airline tubing are not included
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Features
  • Dimensions: not stated
  • Tank size: S (up to 10 gallons), M (up to 20 gallons), L (up to 60 gallons)
  • Filtration: mechanical and biofiltration

More features: cylindrical shape

AQUANEAT’s aquarium bio sponge filter is perfect for small to medium-sized tanks. The cylindrical shape increases the surface area of the sponge, providing more space for bacteria to grow and remove harmful toxins from your tank. The filter also features mechanical filtration, which helps to remove larger particles from the water.

Like the AQQA model which is our Premium Pick, the AQUANEAT filter offers biochemical filters. But, the AQUANEAT filter is best for those who don`t want a big filter standing out in the aquarium landscape.

    What makes it stand out?
  • Mechanical and bio filtration provide clean and fresh water
  • Increased oxygen content
  • Soft sponge material is absolutely safe for shrimp and small fish
  • Easy to clean and use
  • Excellent for small size tanks
  • Comes in 3 sizes
  • Low price
  • Small size allows easily hide it among aquarium accessories
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Air pump and airline tubing are not included
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Features
  • Dimensions: 1.6 x 3.7 x 1.2 inches
  • Tank size: 2-5, 5-10, 10-20, 20-40 gallons
  • Filtration: mechanical and biological filtration with bio foam

More features:  40 gal/h, 3.5W, comes with four suction cups, adjustable air regulator, suitable for freshwater and saltwater tanks, 4.3 inches tube

NICREW Aquarium Internal Filter is a highly effective filtration system. The product comes with four suction cups that allow you to easily place it on the aquarium glass or side panel. It helps remove debris, impurities, and other harmful particles from your tank water. This internal filter is suitable for freshwater tanks and saltwater tanks as well. It has an adjustable air regulator that lets you control the amount of air flow into the filter.

The NICREW Aquarium Internal Filter offers mechanical and biological filtration like Aquapapa Corner Filter. However, it is more versatile in installation, with 4 suction cups, it can be placed in different positions and suitable for different tanks. It also offers more wide range of tank volume capacity than Aquapapa Corner Filter from 2 to 40 gallons. The air regulator makes it easy for you to provide a delicate water flow for your shrimp, thus providing a superior water environment.

    What stands out?
  • The filter traps debris and waste
  • Eliminates odors
  • Water oxygenation
  • Water circulation with rainfall effect
  • May be installed in different ways to suit different types of tanks
  • Adjustable air regulator provides security for small fish and shrimp
  • Quick and simple assembly
  • Excellent suction power
  • Low level of noise
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • Some buyers note that it may be too powerful for very small tanks
Also Product Ranking:
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9.3
Features
  • Dimensions: 5.3 x 4.1 x 1.6 inches
  • Tank size: 0.5-5 gallons
  • Filtration: bio and physical filtration

More features: 3-layer ribbing shape sponge design, oxygenation, 0.59 inch inside circle diameter

Aihotim Submersible Foam Filter is an excellent biological and physical filter that is ideal for your fish or shrimp tank. The foam filter has a 3-layer ribbing shape sponge design, which makes it very efficient in filtering water and helps keep your tank clean and healthy. It can also be used to oxygenate the water, thus making the environment more comfortable for your aquatic animals. In addition, its super small design allows it easily hide among aquarium accessories.

The Aihotim Submersible Foam Filter provides good filtration as well as AQUANEAT Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter. Both of them are very compact, Aihotim Submersible Foam Filter, however, is even smaller and is suitable for a small tank with 0.5-5 gallons volume – the smallest on our list. Besides, a suction cup makes it more versatile to install anywhere in a tank.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Super small size allows using it in 0.5-5 gallons tanks
  • 3-layer ribbing shape sponge design
  • Bio and physical filtration
  • Water oxygenation
  • Traps floating debris
  • 1 suction cup is included
  • Tiny size allows easily hide it among aquarium accessories
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Pump, air hose, media balls are not included
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Features
  • Dimensions: not stated
  • Tank size: 3-10 gallons
  • Filtration: bio-foam and research-grade activated carbon

More features: 2.5W water pump, ≤35db noise level, 42 gal/h rate, durable ABS shell, water flow adjustment, 1-year warranty, waterfall design, ultra-thin

The DaToo Aquarium Hang On Filter is the perfect addition to your aquarium. It will keep the water clean and healthy, and it’s easy to use! The hang on filter comes with a waterfall design, which gives a natural environment for your fish and shrimp. This hang on filter also has a bio-foam compartment and activated carbon that helps to give your aquatic animals a comfortable habitat. It’s ultra-thin and quiet, so you don’t need to worry about disturbing your or other people’s rest.

Unlike the AQUANEAT which features a soft sponge material, the DaToo Aquarium Hang On Filter does more in terms of durability. It features a super-strength ABS shell, so you don’t have to worry about external force damage or chemical corrosion. The filter also has a prolonged service life.

    What do we love it for?
  • Quiet filter system with ≤35db noise level
  • Water flow adjustment
  • Powerful 2.5W water pump
  • Activated carbon
  • Eliminates odors, discoloration, and impurities in water
  • Sturdy ABS shell
  • Bio-foam at the inlet of the filter prevents shrimp and small fish from being sucked
  • Water oxygenation
  • 1-year warranty
  • Energy saving
  • Waterfall design
  • Ultra-thin frame
  • Good value for the quality
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Some buyers note that it is difficult to find replacement filters

Things to Consider

Filter helps to maintain water quality and clarity, as well as provide a place for beneficial bacteria to grow, which helps to break down waste products in the tank. A shrimp tank filter is important for keeping the tank clean, and there are several factors you need to consider when choosing a filter. The first is the size of the filter, it depends on the tank volume. The next factors to consider are effective filtration, flow rate, and protection features of the filter. Finally, the type of filter is also worth mentioning.

Size

You need to make sure that the filter is big enough to handle the amount of water in your tank. Some filters are designed for tanks up to 50 gallons, while others can handle tanks up to 125 gallons. If you have 10 gallons aquarium, you can find a perfect match among best filters for 10-gallon tank.

Filtration

7 Best Filters for Shrimp Tanks – Clean Environment for Your Aquatic Animals
There are three main types of filtration: mechanical, biological, and chemical. All three are important for a shrimp tank.

It is also important to make sure that the filter is effective at removing debris, bacteria, and algae from the water. If the filter is not effective, your tank will become dirty and the shrimp will not be able to thrive.

Mechanic filtration works by trapping particles in the best aquarium filter media. This type of filtration is usually used in conjunction with biological filtration to provide a complete tank filtration system. The three most common types of mechanical filter media are pads, sponges, and floss.

Biological filtration removes toxins from water. It works by using beneficial bacteria to convert toxins into harmless substances and creating a safe environment for aquatic life. This type of filtration is usually used in conjunction with mechanical filtration to provide a complete tank filtration system. The most common type of biological filter media is ceramic rings.

Chemical filtration is the process of removing pollutants from water. It works by using a chemical filter to remove harmful substances from the water. This type of filtration is not as important for shrimp tanks as biological and mechanical filtration, but it can still be useful in some cases.

Flow rate

The flow rate of the filter is also an important factor to consider. The flow rate is the amount of water that the filter can move through the system in a given period of time. A higher flow rate means that the water will be filtered more quickly, but it also means that there will be more turbulence in the water. A lower flow rate means that the water will be filtered more slowly, but there will be less turbulence in the water.

Protection features

Shrimps are very small and can easily be sucked into the filter. To avoid this, you need to choose a filter with a protective intake grid. This will prevent the inhabitants of the tank from being sucked into the filter and help to keep them safe.

Types of Filters

7 Best Filters for Shrimp Tanks – Clean Environment for Your Aquatic Animals
Filters can be either internal or external. Internal filters are designed to be placed inside the tank, while external filters are designed to be placed outside the tank.

The type of filter is another important factor to consider when choosing a filter for your shrimp tank. There are several different types of filters available, and each type has its own advantages.

The first is undergravel filters – they are very popular among shrimp enthusiasts. They work by using a pump to create a flow of water through the gravel at the bottom of the tank. This helps to remove debris and keep the tank fresh. However, it can be difficult to clean, and it can also be difficult to find replacement parts.

Canister filter is the next type which is popular because it is very efficient and can handle a large amount of water. It helps to remove debris, bacteria, and algae from the water. At the same time, it can be expensive, and it can also be difficult to install.

HOB or “hang on the back” filters are a popular choice for shrimp tanks because they are affordable and easy to install. The downside of this type of filter is that it can be noisy, and it can also be difficult to clean.

Best sponge filters are a popular choice for shrimp tanks because they are affordable and easy to use. They work by using a sponge to filter the water. The downside of this type of filter is that it is sometimes difficult to find replacement parts.

FAQ

Do filters remove beneficial bacteria from the water?

No, filters do not remove beneficial bacteria from the water. In fact, most filters actually contain a material that helps to support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the water. This material is typically called a biofilter, and it is designed to help keep the water clean and healthy by encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria.

How often should I change the filter in my shrimp tank?

The frequency with which you need to change the filter in your shrimp tank will depend on a number of factors, including the size of the tank, the number of shrimp in the tank, and the type of filter you are using. In general, it is a good idea to change the filter every four to six weeks. However, if you have a lot of shrimp in your tank or if you are using a very powerful filter, you may need to change the filter more frequently.

How to maintain a filter in a shrimp tank?

Maintaining a filter in a shrimp tank is not difficult, but it is important to do it regularly. Most filters can be cleaned by simply rinsing them off with water. Some filters also come with a special cleaning kit that can be used to clean the filter more thoroughly. It is important to clean the filter regularly, as it can become clogged with dirt and algae which can be harmful to the shrimp.

Our verdict

Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Shrimp Filter is a three-stage filtration system that provides superior water quality for your shrimp. It features 3-stage filtration and includes a protective intake grid and prefilter sponge. The BioHolster provides an ideal environment for beneficial bacteria to grow, making it the best filter for shrimp tanks.

AQQA Aquarium Electric Power Sponge Filter is a double filter with physical and biochemical filtration that removes dirt, debris, and other impurities from the water, while the 360° water outlet ensures even circulation.

The DaToo Aquarium Hang On Filter is a simple, affordable, and easy-to-use aquarium filter. This hang-on back filter features a water pump that delivers 2.5W of power, allowing you to easily maintain your aquarium even if you don’t have an external power source available.

References

1.
Aquarium Components: Filtration
Filtration is a very important aspect of an aquarium system. Filtration is comprised of three main components: mechanical, chemical and biological. Sterilization using ultraviolet (UV) or ozone systems can also be added.
2.
Aquarium filter - Wikipedia
Aquarium filters are critical components of both freshwater and marine aquaria. Aquarium filters remove physical and soluble chemical waste products from aquaria, simplifying maintenance.
9,8
Total Score
Aqueon QuietFlow Internal Shrimp Filter - Editor’s Choice
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