I just purchased a baby Oscar. My tank is 55 gal (US) and currently has a Marineland "hang on back" style filter. Before my little fellow grows too much, I want to upgrade my filtration system. A few models that catch my attention are the Eheim Pro II series (250 gph / 100 gal tank); Eheim Pro III 2080 (450 gph) and the Fluval 405. The Fluval FX5 is out for me because it won't fit in my cabinet:(

The Eheim seems to have more flow capacity. I've been keeping low-maintenance tropical fish for over 10 years but I'm a bit overwhelmed by the canister setups. Do the tubes simply fit in the existing holes where my HOB filter resides? I'd appreciate advice or other things I should consider.

This is a great forum - very informative and helpful! I'm looking forward to hopefully long and healthy life for my little fellow.

I would purchase what u like personally i have the fx5 but for a 55 gallon yea that would be alittle to much. the Eheim Pro ll would work great for a 55 but if u plain on getting a bigger tank i would go for the Eheim lll
Oyea and welcome to the site...

like dalton has pointed out it comes down to your personal preference on which type of canister to get. for a 55 my recommendation would be a fluval 405. it would be more than adequate for your current needs. both fluval and eheim make quality filters and are highly recommended by most fish keepers.

the only other thing i can think of is if you are going to upgrade you tank in the future it is better to plan ahead with the fitration.

I don't think many people would disagree that Eheim are the Rolls-Royce of the filtration world. They really are top notch filters that get the job done. However large canister filters are not cheap by any means. But as the old cliché states "you get what you pay for". For what it is worth, I would opt for an Eheim if you have got the money. If money is tight and Fluval would be my next choice.

I would go with fluvals. I find them very good filters that are easy to use

ive had an eheim for 5 months on my 55 and i love it only have to clean it once a month!!

thanks for the advice everyone - the eheim pro III is on the way. The tip given about possible tank upgrade was very good:) thanks again