DIY Matten filter for aquariums

In this video we discuss the Matten filter, also known as the Hamburger Matten Filter, or HMF - and how to build one of your own DIY. This large air driven sponge filter has a huge surface area that provides excellent mechanical and biological filtration. Using a Jet-lift equipped uplift tube it provides very good water flow at low air volumes. I run Matten filters in most of my breeding and rearing tanks for guppies, Killifish, shrimp, and other fish at BlueBlade Fish.
Jet-lift:
printable STL: www.thingiverse.com/thing:620...
Buy here: getgills.com/product.detail/4822
BBF website:
www.bluebladefish.com
Music:
“True_Art_Real_Affection_Part_2” from the KZbin music library
“So_Long_Analog” from the KZbin music library
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[@douglasstone1684]

Would it be beneficial to put something behind the mat like those ceramic bio tubes or a bag with ceramic rings just for some extra surface area?

[@BlueBladeFish]

I haven't found it necessary. the 2" thick open cell foam offers a huge surface area. but, if your situation calls for more, i would suggest just getting thicker foam for the matten filter - say 2.5 or 3 inch.

[@caesarscichlids9829]

hello, where can i found those jet lift? thanks in advanced

[@BlueBladeFish]

Hello! there are links to the STL file to print your own, and to my store on GetGills to buy pre-made ones in the description.

[@9095kids]

Hey Where did you buy your urethane foam at?

[@BlueBladeFish]

Hi! I have tried several sources. Lately I have been happy with those sold by "SHUNTING" on Amazon.com - search for "Cut-to-Size Foam for Aquarium Fish Tank 19.6"x19.6"x1.57" " - they come compressed and you have to wet them to expand them back to full size, but after that they work well.

[@SirKingHoff]

Looking at getting some of your jet streams but I dont have a bare bottom tank. Can I make the long "feeder" pvc stand 2-3 inches off the substrate and everything will still work?

[@BlueBladeFish]

that should be fine. the length of the uplift tube doesn't seem to matter much for flow. it's more about moving water from the bottom of the tank to the top as an additional way to avoid any stagnation. but for deep tanks, it isn't always practical to put it all the way at the bottom as smaller air pumps may not produce as many bubbles at the bottom - if any at all. There probably is a minimal length where some efficiency is noticeably lost, but i haven't seen it yet - somewhere less than 4 inches.

[@BlatentlyFakeName]

These work great until you eventually do have to clean it. It will clogg enough that the water level drops behind it. The.n it makes a hell of a mess when you disturb it

[@BlueBladeFish]

Yes, to clean them I usually do a full (100%) water change at the same time. every few years. i have never had one clog to that extent, but I can see it being possible.