🐢 Optimized Foam Block for Zoo Med 501 Turtle Filter Review

Worked as expected. Flow has greatly improved in this small 10 gallon tank. I change it about every two months. Can compress and get more timeout from them if needed.

This replacement foam filter works and fits the turtle filter exactly as described. The only thing I didn't understand was the need to keep the small tube from the original for use in the replacement foam - so don't throw it away when changing foam!

Despite the blue color that appears online, this sponge is actually black. A coarser sponge than the Fluval pre-filters, this does not impede flow and is a decent size. I use it as a pre-filter for the Aqua Clear 50 HOB filter.

These pre-filters are great. Good finish and durable. I use these on Aquaclear HOB inlet filters and Eheim 2215 inlet filters. Much better than the Fluval Edge pre-filter, although I use an Edge pre-filter on my Edge due to space constraints. Zoo-Med has a larger diameter than Fluval.

Fits well in the canister and catches a lot of very small particles. In the instructions, note that the closed end of the black hose (which is part of the filter and not included in the replacement foam block) goes into the bottom of the sponge and the open end of the same hose goes into the pump connector on the top of the unit . This forces the water through the filter instead of bypassing the filter. So if you're using a foam block and find the water isn't as clean as you'd like, double…