Seeded Sponge Filter, Medium
A living piece of a Father Fish tank. This isn’t a new sponge. It has run in one of Lou’s aquariums for at least six months and is full of beneficial bacteria, biofilm and microfauna. Add it to your tank and you’re adding a working ecosystem.
The problem
New tanks take weeks to cycle, and bottled bacteria are hit or miss. Sterile tanks also lack the microfauna that fry and shrimp feed on.
The Father Fish way
The Father Fish method is built on life in the tank. Seeding from a mature system is the oldest trick in fishkeeping, and this sponge comes straight from ours.
Your plan
- Open it right away. Keep the sponge wet, and don’t rinse it under tap water.
- Install it with its bag water. Connect it to your filter and add the water from the bag to the filter system.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium |
| Origin | Seeded from a mature Father Fish tank |
| Contains | Live bacteria, biofilm, microfauna |
FAQ
How long should I wait before adding fish after installing the sponge?
It’s recommended to wait at least 2-3 weeks after installation to ensure the biological cycle is stable before adding fish.
Can I rinse the sponge before using it?
Please contact customer service
Is the sponge safe for use with shrimp and fry?
Yes, the sponge contains microfauna that fry and shrimp feed on, making it suitable for sensitive species.

Edward Campbell –
I added the sponge to my 10-gallon tank last week. My neon tetras and cherry shrimp are active and healthy. The water clarity improved within days. No need for bottled bacteria—this really helped with cycling.
Molly Parr –
The sponge arrived quickly and was easy to install. My tank has been cycling smoothly since I used it. The microfauna are visible under the hood, and my shrimp are thriving.
Diane Gibson –
It took a bit longer than expected for the tank to stabilize, but after two weeks, the water parameters were stable. The sponge seems to be full of life and works well with my community fish.
Sophie Oliver –
I’ve used this before with a different tank and it worked perfectly. This medium size fits my filter well and the bacteria are active. My fry have started eating the microfauna—great for a beginner setup.