Blue Pet XF-380 Aquarium Sponge Filter

The Blue Pet XF-380 is an air-driven sponge filter for aquariums up to 380L, providing gentle, effective biological and mechanical filtration that keeps water clear and well-oxygenated without a strong current. Its multi-layer sponge hosts beneficial bacteria for biological filtration while trapping debris mechanically, and because it runs on an air pump it is quiet, energy-saving and completely safe for fry, shrimp and betta. A reliable primary filter for breeding and community tanks, or a back-up biological filter for larger setups.

Why choose the Blue Pet XF-380?

• Gentle, fry- and shrimp-safe flow — no risk of small fish being sucked in.
• Biological + mechanical filtration from a large multi-layer sponge that houses beneficial bacteria.
• Quiet and energy-saving — runs on an air pump, no motor in the tank.
• Improves oxygenation as rising bubbles boost surface agitation and gas exchange.
• Easy to clean and reuse — rinse the sponge in tank water to preserve bacteria.

Specifications

Which tanks is it best for?

The XF-380 suits aquariums up to 380L as a primary biological filter, and is ideal for breeding tanks, fry and shrimp tanks, betta tanks and hospital/quarantine setups where gentle flow matters. It also works as a supplementary biological filter alongside a hang-on or canister filter in larger community tanks. You will need an air pump (and airline) to run it. See how it compares in canister vs HOB vs sponge filter.

How to set it up

Attach airline from your air pump to the filter, place it in the tank, and let bubbles lift water through the sponge. Keep the filter running 24/7 — the beneficial bacteria need constant oxygen and flow. When cleaning, rinse the sponge gently in old tank water, never tap water, to protect the bacteria colony. See how aquarium filters work for why this matters.

Frequently asked questions

What size tank is the XF-380 for?

Aquariums up to 380L as a primary sponge filter, or as a supplementary biological filter in larger tanks.

Do I need an air pump?

Yes. The XF-380 is air-driven, so you will need an air pump and airline tubing to run it.

Is it safe for fry and shrimp?

Yes. The gentle flow makes it one of the safest filters for fry, shrimp and betta.

How often should I clean it?

Rinse the sponge in old tank water when flow slows — typically every few weeks. Never use tap water, which kills beneficial bacteria.

Should it run all the time?

Yes. Like all filters, keep it running 24/7 so the beneficial bacteria survive. See can you turn the filter off at night.

New to filtration? Read our complete aquarium filter guide and types of aquarium filters.