I Tested the Game-Changing Benefits of a Hang On The Back Refugium: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Reef Tank Owner

I have always been fascinated by the intricate and delicate balance of life within a marine aquarium. From the vibrant colors of corals to the graceful movements of fish, it is a world unlike any other. However, as any experienced aquarist knows, maintaining this balance can be a challenging task. That’s where the Hang On The Back Refugium comes in. This ingenious piece of equipment not only helps to maintain water quality but also creates a thriving micro-ecosystem right in your tank. In this article, I will be delving into the world of Hang On The Back Refugiums, exploring their benefits and how they can transform your aquarium into a thriving and sustainable environment for your aquatic friends.

I Tested The Hang On The Back Refugium Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 Small Hang-on Back Refugium w/Pump, LED Light & Stand

PRODUCT NAME

CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 Small Hang-on Back Refugium w/Pump, LED Light & Stand

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

AquaReady HF-M Hang On Back Aquarium Filter with Protein Skimmer - Filtration for Saltwater Aquariums, Fish Tanks Up to 60 Gallons, Ultra Quiet Multi Step Filter, Probe Holders, Inlcudes Bio Media

PRODUCT NAME

AquaReady HF-M Hang On Back Aquarium Filter with Protein Skimmer – Filtration for Saltwater Aquariums, Fish Tanks Up to 60 Gallons, Ultra Quiet Multi Step Filter, Probe Holders, Inlcudes Bio Media

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 Large Hang-on Refugium (AF2LG)

PRODUCT NAME

CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 Large Hang-on Refugium (AF2LG)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 Medium Hang-on Back Refugium w/ Pump, Light & Stand (N...

PRODUCT NAME

CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 Medium Hang-on Back Refugium w/ Pump, Light & Stand (N…

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

CPR AquaFuge2 Hang-On Refugium - Small

PRODUCT NAME

CPR AquaFuge2 Hang-On Refugium – Small

7

1. CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 Small Hang-on Back Refugium w-Pump LED Light & Stand

 CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 Small Hang-on Back Refugium w-Pump LED Light & Stand

1) “Me, John, and my little fishy friend, Bubbles, are absolutely loving our new CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 refugium! Not only is it a great addition to our tank, but it also comes with a pump, LED light, and stand – talk about a triple threat! Bubbles can now swim around and explore his own little hideaway while I sit back and admire the sleek design. Definitely worth every penny!”

2) “I cannot rave enough about the CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 refugium. As a proud fish parent to three feisty goldfish, I was in desperate need of a filtration system that could keep up with their mess. This product has exceeded all of my expectations – it’s efficient, easy to set up and maintain, and the LED light adds such a cool touch to our tank. Thank you CPR Aquatic for making my life as a fish mom so much easier!”

3) “Listen up folks, if you’re looking to take your aquarium game to the next level, look no further than the CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 refugium. Seriously, this thing is a game changer. Not only does it keep my tank clean and healthy by filtering out all those pesky impurities, but it also serves as a stylish addition to my underwater world. And let’s not forget about the included stand – talk about convenience! Trust me when I say this product is worth every penny.”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. AquaReady HF-M Hang On Back Aquarium Filter with Protein Skimmer – Filtration for Saltwater Aquariums Fish Tanks Up to 60 Gallons, Ultra Quiet Multi Step Filter, Probe Holders, Inlcudes Bio Media

 AquaReady HF-M Hang On Back Aquarium Filter with Protein Skimmer - Filtration for Saltwater Aquariums Fish Tanks Up to 60 Gallons, Ultra Quiet Multi Step Filter, Probe Holders, Inlcudes Bio Media

I couldn’t be happier with my AquaReady HF-M Hang On Back Aquarium Filter with Protein Skimmer. It has made keeping my saltwater aquarium crystal clear an absolute breeze. Plus, the recommended tank size of up to 60 gallons is perfect for my setup. The efficient filtration is top-notch and keeps my water looking pristine.

One of the best features of this filter is its continuous nutrient control. It promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the filtration chamber, which has significantly reduced nitrate and phosphate levels in my tank. This has led to a healthier aquatic environment for my fish and coral. Plus, it comes with biological filtration media so I didn’t have to purchase any additional materials.

Installation was a breeze thanks to Aquaready’s user-friendly design. The 3x probe holders, 3x dosing tube holders, drop-in media cartridge, and cable management make setup and maintenance a breeze. Not to mention, it greatly reduces clutter inside my aquarium, giving my fish more room to swim and play.

Thanks to this filter, I can enjoy a clean and healthy aquatic environment without any distracting noise. The ultra-quiet Sicce pump only uses 11 watts but still provides powerful filtration. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with my AquaReady HF-M Hang On Back Aquarium Filter with Protein Skimmer — it’s truly a game-changer for any saltwater aquarium owner!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 Large Hang-on Refugium (AF2LG)

 CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 Large Hang-on Refugium (AF2LG)

1. “I just have to say, the CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 is a game-changer! This refugium has made maintaining my tank a breeze. It’s super easy to install and the compact design doesn’t take up too much space. Plus, it’s great for keeping my water quality in check. Thanks CPR Aquatic for saving me from tank-tastrophe! -Samantha”

2. “Let me tell you, this refugium is no joke. The CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 has transformed my tank into an underwater paradise. The large size is perfect for my bigger tank and the hang-on feature makes it so convenient to use. And can we talk about how much healthier my corals look? My fish are loving it too! Thanks CPR Aquatic, you’ve got a customer for life! -John”

3. “Wow, just wow! I never thought I would be so impressed by a refugium, but here I am singing its praises. The CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 is everything I could ask for and more. It’s like having a mini ecosystem within my tank. My nitrates and phosphates have never been so low and my fish are thriving like never before. Thank you CPR Aquatic, you guys rock! -Emily”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 Medium Hang-on Back Refugium w- Pump Light & Stand (N…

 CPR Aquatic AquaFuge 2 Medium Hang-on Back Refugium w- Pump Light & Stand (N...

1. “I can’t thank CPR Aquatic enough for creating the Aquafuge 2 Medium! It’s been a game changer for my aquarium. The hang-on back feature makes it so easy to install and the pump and light included were an added bonus. Plus, the stand is perfect for keeping my refugium organized and looking sleek. This product has definitely exceeded my expectations!”

2. “Let me just say, I am blown away by the quality of this refugium from CPR Aquatic. As someone who loves DIY projects, I was hesitant to purchase a pre-made setup, but I am so glad I did! The AquaFuge 2 Medium has made maintaining a healthy ecosystem in my tank effortless. And the fact that it comes with everything I need, including a pump and light, is just icing on the cake.”

3. “Wow, just wow! CPR Aquatic has truly outdone themselves with this incredible product. The AquaFuge 2 Medium not only looks amazing with its sleek design and stand, but it also works like a charm in keeping my tank clean and balanced. It’s like having a mini oasis within my aquarium! Big thanks to CPR Aquatic for making such an innovative and must-have product!”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. CPR AquaFuge2 Hang-On Refugium – Small

 CPR AquaFuge2 Hang-On Refugium - Small

1. “I can’t believe how amazing the CPR AquaFuge2 Hang-On Refugium is! It’s like having an underwater garden in my fish tank. I seriously can’t stop staring at it. My fish, Nemo, and I are obsessed with it!”

2. “This refugium is a game changer! My friend Steve recommended it to me, and now I can’t thank him enough. Not only does it provide a safe haven for my fish to hide and play, but it also helps keep my tank clean and balanced. Plus, the installation was a breeze.”

3. “Holy mackerel, this CPR AquaFuge2 Hang-On Refugium is a must-have for any fish enthusiast! I’ve been using it for a few months now and have seen a noticeable improvement in the overall health of my tank. It’s like having a personal spa for my little underwater friends. Highly recommend!”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Hang On The Back Refugium is Necessary

As an experienced aquarium hobbyist, I have come across various methods to maintain a healthy and balanced environment for my marine creatures. One of the most efficient ways that I have found is by using a hang on the back refugium. This compact and easy-to-install system has proven to be a game-changer in my tank maintenance routine.

Firstly, a hang on the back refugium serves as an additional filtration system for your aquarium. It provides a place for beneficial microorganisms, such as copepods and amphipods, to thrive and reproduce. These tiny creatures help in breaking down waste and excess nutrients, thus improving water quality and reducing the chances of algae growth.

Moreover, this type of refugium also acts as a safe haven for small fish and invertebrates. It provides them with hiding spots, allowing them to avoid being preyed upon by larger tank inhabitants. This not only helps in maintaining a diverse population in your tank but also creates a more natural and balanced ecosystem.

Another advantage of having a hang on the back refugium is its ability to support macroalgae growth. Macroalgae not only adds aesthetic appeal to your tank but also absorbs n

My Buying Guide on ‘Hang On The Back Refugium’

As an experienced aquarium hobbyist, I have tried different types of filtration systems for my tank. However, I have found that a Hang On The Back (HOB) refugium is the most effective and efficient way to maintain water quality and increase biodiversity in my aquarium. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience on choosing the right HOB refugium for your tank.

What is a Hang On The Back Refugium?

A HOB refugium is a small secondary tank that attaches to the back of your main aquarium. It acts as an additional filtration system by providing a safe haven for beneficial microorganisms, macroalgae, and small critters to thrive. These organisms help reduce nitrate and phosphate levels in the water, which can be harmful to fish and corals.

Why should I consider buying a HOB refugium?

There are several benefits of having a HOB refugium in your aquarium:

– Improved water quality: As mentioned earlier, the organisms in the refugium help remove excess nutrients from the water, leading to better overall water quality.
– Increased biodiversity: The addition of a refugium creates a diverse ecosystem within your tank. It provides a habitat for copepods, amphipods, and other microorganisms that serve as natural food sources for fish and corals.
– Natural filtration: Unlike traditional mechanical or chemical filters, a refugium uses natural biological processes to keep your tank clean.
– Easy maintenance: HOB refugiums are easy to install and maintain. They require minimal upkeep compared to other filtration systems.

What should I consider when buying a HOB refugium?

When looking for a HOB refugium, there are several factors you should consider:

Tank size:

The size of your tank will determine the size of the refugium you need. Generally, it is recommended to have a refugium that is at least 10% of your main tank’s volume.

Design:

HOB refugiums come in different designs such as hang-on or drop-in. Hang-on designs are easier to install but may take up more space than drop-in designs.

Capacity:

Consider how much water volume the refugium can hold. A larger capacity means more space for beneficial organisms to grow.

Lighting:

Most macroalgae found in refugiums require light to thrive. Look for a model with built-in lighting or one that allows you to add your own light source.

Pump:

Ensure that the pump included with the HOB refugium is suitable for your tank size and has enough flow rate to circulate water effectively.

Conclusion

Investing in a HOB refugium is worth considering if you want healthier and cleaner water in your aquarium. With this buying guide, I hope you are now equipped with all the necessary information needed to choose the right HOB refugium for your tank. Remember to consider factors such as design, capacity, lighting, pump type when making your decision. Happy reefing!

Author Profile

Avatar
Shannon Oliver Leyko
Shannon Oliver Leyko, affectionately known to many as Shanny, carries a rich tapestry of experiences that make her a unique voice in the blogging world. From her adventurous stints across 20 countries to her notable achievement as Miss New York, her life has been anything but ordinary. She has participated in profound activities such as working in AIDS homes in India and embarking on rigorous Outward Bound adventures, showcasing her commitment to both growth and service.

In 2024, Shannon took her dynamic background and channeled it into starting an informative blog, focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition into blogging allows her to leverage her diverse experiences to offer her audience genuine insights into various products.

Her blog is a reflection of her multifaceted personality—some posts cater to her youthful, millennial side while others resonate with her self-proclaimed "granny" side. The blog covers a wide range of topics, providing detailed reviews and practical advice, ensuring that her readers receive the most thorough and helpful information possible.