Oto got his head stuck inside sponge filter cap

[Stef]

While squeezing out my sponge filter in  old tank water, I found my poor oto dead with his stuck in the top of the cap where the lift tube connects. So how do you prevent this from happening again?  I don't have other otos, he was it.  Can you use some kind of netting, mesh or panty hose? Does it disrupt or block the flow?  Cut out some of the "spokes"?  I'm bummed 😞

[xXInkedPhoenixX]

Awww @Stef very sorry. Sadly this happens, not just with sponge filters but intakes, decorations, etc. It's not your fault, but it is sad. My Otos have done this kind of thing too. I've used fishnet stocking material stretched it over stuff and used a rubberband to secure it. You don't want to interrupt too much flow. Others might have better suggestions. 

Edited November 13, 2021 by xXInkedPhoenixX

[Guppysnail]

I’m interested to see if someone has a solution. My baby bristlenose constantly clean the inside of the uptake tubes and it worries me every time 

[Torrey]

I have traditionally used the plastic canvas mesh "craft fabric" to keep fish and snails out of areas they don't belong. 

Fry will still get past it, though.