Filtration question

[Larrimore]

So I’m running a canister filter, a medium sponge filter, and a power head on a 55 gallon with 12 Mbuna (yellow labs, acei, and rusty cichlids).  Could I pull the canister filter and just add another sponge filter?  I’ve always heard Africans need a little more filtration and this is my first time keeping them.  If I can pull the canister, it gives me extra room for another QT tank.  

[Andrew Geiger]

I see no problem, you may find that there are more particles in your water. But I bet if you have or add a medium/large intake sponge to your power head should collect enough.

Filtration is just a balance of biomass of fish and beneficial bacteria. Then water movement and water mass can effect consistency of parameters.

[tolstoy21]

Agree with @Andrew Geiger. 

The drawback will be that your single sponge filter will probably clog sooner without the canister filter also clearing debris from the aquarium. Adding a second sponge filter will help and add additional space for beneficial bacterial to colonize.

[josh world]

you might need to do more water changes.

[Paul]

You’re going to be doing a lot more maintenance if you remove the canister. 

[GardenStateGoldfish]

Yes, never underestimate the power of the sponge filter!