Best Aquarium Filters for Shrimp Tanks of 2026

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2026

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Aquarium filters are essential for maintaining the water quality in shrimp tanks. With their delicate nature, shrimp require clean and well-filtered water to thrive. There are various types of filters available for shrimp tanks, including sponge filters, hang-on-back filters, and canister filters. Sponge filters are gentle and efficient, making them a popular choice for shrimp keepers. Hang-on-back filters are easy to install and maintain, while canister filters provide strong filtration and are suitable for larger shrimp tanks. Whatever type of filter is chosen, it is important to ensure that it is properly sized for the tank and that the flow rate is not too strong for the shrimp.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Pawfly Aquarium Corner Sponge Filter Cover #TOP 1
Pawfly Aquarium Corner Sponge Filter
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Pawfly Internal Aquarium Filter Cover #TOP 2
Pawfly Internal Aquarium Filter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
AQQA Aquarium Sponge Filter Cover #TOP 3
AQQA Aquarium Sponge Filter
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Aquarium Filters for Shrimp Tanks

Pawfly Aquarium Corner Sponge Filter

Pawfly Aquarium Corner Sponge Filter Cover
Pawfly Aquarium Corner Sponge Filter Quiet Betta Fry Shrimp and Small Fish Bio Foam Filter with Natural Stones Gravels and Ceramic Rings for Fish Tanks up to 30 Gallons (Air Pump Not Included)

The Pawfly Sponge Filter is designed to keep your aquarium clean and healthy. Its multi-layer fine sponge effectively filters out debris while ensuring your fish remain safe and unharmed. The bottom gravels work to absorb harmful substances and release essential trace elements, promoting a balanced environment. Additionally, the ceramic rings help cultivate beneficial bacteria, further enhancing water quality. With its quiet aeration system, you can enjoy a peaceful home while ensuring your fish receive optimal oxygen levels. This filter is perfect for tanks up to 30 gallons, making it versatile for various setups.

What We Like
Effective filtration system
Promotes healthy water quality
Quiet operation
Customizable filter materials

Pawfly Internal Aquarium Filter

3-10 Gal
Pawfly Internal Aquarium Filter Cover
Pawfly Internal Aquarium Filter, Submersible Power Filter with 55 GPH Water Pump for 3 to 10 Gallon Fish Tanks Filtration Circulation and Oxygenation

The Pawfly Aquarium Filter is a submersible power filter designed for 3 to 10 gallon fish tanks. It features fine sponge filtration, which effectively traps debris and waste without harming shrimp or fry. This ensures that your fish tank remains crystal clear and healthy. The filter also comes with a powerful 55 GPH water pump that promotes water circulation, keeping the water fresh and oxygenated. With two types of water outlets and an adjustable water flow knob, you can easily customize the water flow according to your needs. Additionally, the filter is equipped with clear airline tubing to enhance oxygen solubility in the water. Cleaning the filter is a breeze, thanks to its removable pump and sponge. Simply rinse the sponge every two weeks with aquarium water. The Pawfly Aquarium Filter is perfect for the breeding and feeding of various ornamental fish, shrimp, or fry.

What We Like
Effective sponge filtration
Powerful 55 GPH water pump
Adjustable water flow
Oxygen supplement for aquatic life
Easy to clean
#TOP 3

AQQA Aquarium Sponge Filter

GUS-AQ046-S
Grey
Small
AQQA Aquarium Sponge Filter Cover
AQQA Aquarium Sponge Filter Submersible Fish Tank Filter Ultra Quiet Aeration Bio Sponge Corner Filter for Breeding Fry Betta Shrimp Fish Tank (Small for 5-20 Gallon)

The AQQA Aquarium Sponge Filter is an air-powered filter that combines mechanical and biological filtration, aeration, and water circulation in one. It comes with two replaceable sponges and bio ceramic media balls, and is suitable for 5-20 gallon tanks. Customers have praised its good quality sponge material and efficient filtration, though some have noted that the filter can be difficult to install and may take up swimming space in smaller tanks.

What We Like
Good amount of biological media
Very dense and good quality sponge material
Ultra-quiet operation
#TOP 4

hygger Small Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter

Black
hygger Small Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter Cover
hygger Small Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter Mini Fish Tank Filter for Breeding Fry Betta Shrimp Tank 2-5 Gallon (Small)

The hygger Bio Sponge Filter is a fish-safe, seamless design without any moving parts, perfect for shrimp tanks, quarantine tanks, or fry tanks. It requires an air pump and airline (both sold separately) to run, and is suitable for 0.5-5 gallon tanks. Customers have praised its compact design, low noise, and ease of cleaning, though some have noted that the foam filter is too fine and thick to draw air in.

What We Like
Fish-safe, seamless design
Compact design with low noise
Easy to clean and maintain
Suitable for 0.5-5 gallon tanks
Protects small fish from getting sucked up
#TOP 5

AQUANEAT Air Powered Sponge Filter with Ceramic Media

black
Middle
AQUANEAT Air Powered Sponge Filter with Ceramic Media Cover
AQUANEAT Aquarium Air Powered Sponge Filter with Ceramic Media Balls, for Betta Fry Shrimp Fish Tank, with 2 Spare Sponges, up to 40Gal

The AQUANEAT Sponge Filter is designed to keep your aquarium clean and healthy with both mechanical and biological filtration. It traps debris while supporting beneficial bacteria growth, helping you maintain a balanced tank environment. The unique air infusion chamber creates tiny bubbles that increase oxygen levels, which is essential for your fish’s well-being. With two media containers filled with ceramic balls, you have the option to customize the filter media to suit your tank’s needs. Setting up and cleaning this filter is simple—you just connect an airline and air pump, and rinse it in used tank water. This makes it perfect for tanks up to 40 gallons and ideal for delicate fish like bettas or shrimp.

What We Like
Mechanical and biological filtration
Oxygen-enhancing air bubbles
Customizable ceramic media
Easy setup and cleaning
#TOP 6

DEGGOX Aquarium Electric Sponge Filter S (10-20 Gal)

YU-228C
black
10 to 20 Gallons
DEGGOX Aquarium Electric Sponge Filter S (10-20 Gal) Cover
DEGGOX Aquarium Electric Sponge Filter with Submersible Water Pump Silence Motor for Shrimps,Bettas with Bio Ceramic Media Balls and 2 Spare Sponge,Venturi Nozzle and Rain Mode (S for 10-20 Gal)

The DEGGOX Sponge Filter S offers a convenient and efficient way to keep your aquarium water clean. Its venturi nozzle and rain mode create a gentle water flow, making it safe for delicate fish like fry and shrimp. You don’t need an extra air pump since this filter runs quietly when plugged in, which simplifies setup and reduces noise. It combines physical and biological filtration, using ceramic media balls and sponges to trap debris and support beneficial bacteria growth. Plus, the detachable sponges are easy to clean and reuse, so you can maintain your tank without hassle or worrying about harmful chemicals affecting your water.

What We Like
Gentle water flow
No extra air pump needed
Physical and biological filtration
Reusable, easy-to-clean sponges
#TOP 7

KZS Slim Aquarium Filter 42 GPH

KZS
3W Aquarium Filter
Transparent Gray
3W Filter
KZS Slim Aquarium Filter 42 GPH Cover
Slim Aquarium Filter 42 GPH Small Fish Tank Filter for 2.5 to 5 Gallon Tanks, Adjustable Flow Pre-Filter Sponge for Betta, Shrimp, Turtle Nano Reef Ideal Fish Tank Pump

The KZS Slim 42 GPH Filter offers a powerful water flow that cycles a 2.5-gallon tank over 15 times per hour, keeping your small aquarium clean and healthy. You can easily adjust the water flow to suit delicate fish like bettas or shrimp, which helps create a calm environment without losing filtration quality. It includes a soft pre-filter sponge that protects tiny fish and shrimp from getting sucked into the pump while improving water clarity. Plus, its compact 3W motor runs quietly and efficiently, saving energy while fitting perfectly in tanks from 1 to 5 gallons.

What We Like
High-efficiency water flow
Adjustable flow control
Protective pre-filter sponge
Compact, energy-saving motor

Yaubay Quiet Internal Aquarium Filter

IF01-B20
Black
Yaubay Quiet Internal Aquarium Filter Cover
Yaubay Quiet Internal Aquarium Filter, 3-Stage Bio-Filtration Low-Level Waterfall Small Power Filter with Protective Grate for Up to 10 Gallon Fish Turtle Shrimp Tank Filtration (Filter) (Filter)

The Yaubay Aquarium Filter is a 3-stage bio-filtration system designed to keep your fish tank clean and healthy. With its patented bio thick filter cartridge, it effectively removes odors and discoloration from the water, providing excellent filtering. The built-in culture structure establishes a nitrification system, simulating a natural aquatic environment and promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms. This internal filter operates quietly, emitting less than 35 dB of sound, ensuring a peaceful environment for your aquatic pets. The top protective grate prevents animals from entering the filter, ensuring their safety. The detachable filter box design makes cleaning and cartridge replacement a breeze. Suitable for aquariums up to 10 gallons, the Yaubay Aquarium Filter is easy to install and saves space with its triangular shape. Experience the convenience and efficiency of the Yaubay Aquarium Filter today!

What We Like
3-stage bio-filtration
Ultra quiet operation
Easy to clean and replace cartridges
#TOP 9

hygger USB Single Sponge Aquarium Filter

HG176
Black
hygger USB Single Sponge Aquarium Filter Cover
hygger USB Single Sponge Filter, Small Aquarium Filter with Adjustable Hanging Clip and Suction Cup, Duckbill Outlet, Rain Pipe Outlet, Extra Spare Sponge

The hygger USB Sponge Filter offers a simple yet effective way to keep your aquarium water clean. It uses a microporous sponge that physically traps debris, ensuring thorough filtration without any dead spots. This helps maintain clear water for your aquatic pets. The filter also includes ceramic bio-balls that provide a second layer of cleaning, breaking down harmful substances and keeping your tank healthy. With two replaceable sponges and a ceramic filter box, you can easily clean or swap parts every few weeks to keep the filter working well. Overall, this filter makes aquarium maintenance easier and helps create a safer environment for your fish.

What We Like
Two-stage filtration system
Replaceable sponge and bio-balls
Effective impurity absorption
Easy cleaning and maintenance
#TOP 10

Aquapapa Bio Sponge Filter

XY-2822 x 2
white
XY-2822, 2-PACK
Aquapapa Bio Sponge Filter Cover
Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter 2 PCS for Fry Betta Shrimp Fish Tank Up to 55 Gallon Each., Quiet, Double Sponges

The Aquapapa Pack of 2 Bio Sponge Filter for Fry Betta Shrimp Aquarium Fish Tank Up to 55 Gal ea. Double Sponges provides both mechanical and biological filtration for aquariums. It's easy to set up and keeps water clean and clear. It's useful for breeding filter or as secondary filter, or as pre-filtration unit. Customers are pleased with the quality of the product, and the fast shipping. It's perfect for shrimp tanks and provides great output.

What We Like
Provides both mechanical and biological filtration
Easy to set up
Keeps water clean and clear
Perfect for shrimp tanks
Provides great output
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can shrimp live in a tank with a filter?

Shrimp will not survive without a biological filter and air supply. If you have *tons* of plants in the tank, then the plants provide both functions, so shrimp can usually survive in those tanks.

2. Do my shrimp tanks need a filter?

It can be done without a filter. But you'll need water flow and just the right balance of light and plants.

3. Do you need carbon in filter for shrimp tank?

Registered. I do not use carbon in my planted shrimp aquarium. Carbon will adsorb chelated iron, so is generally not used in planted aquariums.

4. How do you make a shrimp filter safe?

Aquaneat Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter Breeding Beta Shrimp Nano Fish Tank Water Corner FilterPenn Plax Cascade Canister Aquarium FilterCorner Filter Aquarium Fish Tank Internal Air Driven Filter with Media Xy-2008Fluval 206 External FilterAquapapa Corner Filter Air Driven Bio Sponge Ceramic for Fry Shrimp Fish Tank Aquarium XY-2010Aquaneat Double Bio Sponge Filter Quiet Aquarium Filter with Ceramic Media BallsAquaneat Aquarium Air Driven Bio Corner Filter Sponge 20 Gallon Fish Tank w/AccessoriesC2 Bio Sponge Filter Breeding Fry Betta Shrimp Nano for Fish Tank Aquarium Up to 10 GallonDennerle NanoAir DRIVEN Bio Corner Filter Sponge Fry Shrimp Nano Fish Tank AquariumSEACHEM TIDALBio Sponge Filter Betta Fry Shrimp Aquarium Fish Tank Double HeadImagitarium Undergravel FilterAqualexs Aquarium Filter Guard for Shrimp and FishUnique Bargains Fish tank Aquarium Breeding Fry Betta Shrimp Sponge FilterMini Aquarium Filter Fish Tank Shrimp Tanks Pond Air Pump Sponge Filters U-shaped Mini Toilet Biochemical Filtering DeviceAquapapa Bio Sponge Filter Up Fry Betta Fish Tank AquariumMarineland Magniflow Canister FilterAquaneat Double Sponge Filter for Betta Shrimp Nano Fish Tank 55 Gallons 4 pcs

Editor's Notes

During our aquarium filter for shrimp tanks research, we found 24 aquarium filter for shrimp tanks products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 21,673 customer reviews through our big data system to write the aquarium filters for shrimp tanks list. We found that most customers choose aquarium filters for shrimp tanks with an average price of $13.60.

The aquarium filters for shrimp tanks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of aquarium filters for shrimp tanks, including Pawfly, AQQA, hygger, AQUANEAT, DEGGOX. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,253 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Janie Foster Avatar

Janie Foster is a writer & pet blogger from Los Angeles, she enjoys living with her two cats and three dogs. She owned her first dog 10 years ago and then started her personal blog to record her dog's daily life. Throughout her personal life, she has developed specialized knowledge in pet care, pet nutrition, feeding habits, and more.