SICCE Shark PRO Nano 320 Internal Aquarium Filter – 15 to 25 Gallons
The SICCE Shark PRO Nano 320 Internal Filter delivers compact, customizable filtration for freshwater aquariums between approximately 15 and 25 gallons. With a maximum flow rate of 85 GPH, adjustable output, modular filter cartridges, and several included flow accessories, it provides flexible water movement without taking up the space required by a larger internal filter.
The Shark PRO Nano 320 combines mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration in a slim, tool-free design. It includes two mechanical filter sponges, one biological sponge, and one activated-carbon sponge, giving customers a complete multi-stage filtration system directly out of the box.
A submerged magnetic mounting system secures the filter to aquarium glass up to approximately 0.25 inch thick. The modular cartridges can be removed independently for cleaning or media replacement while the main filter body remains in position.
Key Features
- Designed for 15–25 Gallons: Suitable for lightly to moderately stocked freshwater aquariums
- 85 GPH Maximum Flow: Provides efficient circulation in nano and small aquariums
- Adjustable Flow: Side control allows the water output to be reduced or increased
- Multi-Stage Filtration: Supports mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration
- Modular Filter Cartridges: Individual modules can be removed and serviced without tools
- Magnetic Mounting System: Secures the filter without conventional internal suction-cup mounting
- Multiple Output Options: Includes a standard outlet, Venturi aeration, directional deflector, and spray bar
- Expandable Design: Optional additional cartridges can increase filtration capacity
- Compact Profile: Fits neatly into a corner of smaller aquariums
- Horizontal Installation Option: May be configured for turtle and shallow-water setups
Product Information
- Brand: SICCE
- Product: Shark PRO Nano 320
- Filter Type: Fully submersible internal aquarium filter
- Recommended Aquarium Capacity: 15–25 US gallons
- Metric Aquarium Capacity: 60–100 liters
- Maximum Flow Rate: 320 L/h / 85 GPH
- Power Consumption: 6 watts for the 110–120V U.S. model
- Flow Control: Adjustable
- Maximum Glass Thickness: Approximately 0.25 inch / 6 mm
- Power Cable Length: Approximately 7.5 feet
- Installation: Internal, fully submerged
- Maintenance: Tool-free modular cartridge removal
Included Filter Media
- Two Mechanical Sponges: Trap suspended debris and particles
- One Biological Sponge: Provides surface area for beneficial nitrifying bacteria
- One Activated-Carbon Sponge: Provides optional chemical filtration
The biological sponge is included specifically with the Shark PRO Nano 320 configuration. The smaller Shark PRO Nano 250 has a different included-media arrangement.
Included Flow Accessories
- Standard open-flow outlet
- Venturi aeration attachment
- Air tube with adjustable silencer
- Rotating directional deflector
- Spray bar
These accessories allow the filter output to be adapted for different aquarium layouts and livestock requirements.
Best Used For
- Freshwater aquariums from 15 to 25 gallons
- Lightly to moderately stocked community aquariums
- Planted aquariums
- Betta community setups with reduced flow
- Shrimp aquariums with appropriate intake protection
- Small cichlid grow-out tanks
- Quarantine and observation aquariums
- Turtle tanks and shallow-water setups
- Aquariums where external plumbing is not practical
Mechanical Filtration
The two mechanical sponges capture suspended debris such as uneaten food, fish waste, loose plant material, and other visible particles.
Using mechanical media on both sides of the filter increases the filtration surface and allows water to enter through a broad area. This helps distribute intake flow rather than concentrating it through one small opening.
Mechanical sponges should be cleaned when debris buildup reduces water flow. Rinse them in removed aquarium water or conditioned water rather than untreated chlorinated tap water when preserving beneficial bacteria is important.
Biological Filtration
The included biological sponge supplies porous surface area where beneficial nitrifying bacteria can colonize. These bacteria help convert toxic ammonia into nitrite and then into less toxic nitrate.
The biological sponge does not instantly cycle a new aquarium. A new filter must be given time to develop a mature bacterial population, or established media must be transferred from a healthy aquarium.
Avoid replacing all filter media at the same time. Doing so may remove a substantial portion of the aquarium’s biological filtration.
Chemical Filtration
The activated-carbon sponge provides optional chemical filtration. Activated carbon can help remove discoloration, odors, and certain dissolved organic compounds.
Carbon is not required for every aquarium at all times. The carbon sponge may be removed when treating the aquarium with medications that would otherwise be adsorbed by activated carbon.
After treatment, fresh carbon may be installed when appropriate to help remove residual medication according to the medication manufacturer’s directions.
Adjustable Water Flow
The Shark PRO Nano 320 includes a side-mounted flow regulator that allows the output to be adjusted for the aquarium’s inhabitants and layout.
Use a reduced setting for bettas, long-finned fish, delicate plants, or animals that prefer gentler circulation. Increase the flow when stronger circulation, surface movement, or debris transport is required.
Reducing flow does not eliminate the need to keep the filter media clean. A clogged sponge can restrict circulation beyond the selected setting.
Four Water-Flow Configurations
The included accessories provide several ways to configure the output:
- Open Outlet: Produces a direct stream of water
- Venturi Attachment: Draws air into the output to increase visible aeration
- Venturi with Directional Deflector: Adds aeration while directing the water flow
- Spray Bar: Distributes output across several smaller openings for a broader, gentler current
The directional deflector may also be used without the Venturi attachment.
Magnetic Mounting System
The Shark PRO Nano attaches to the aquarium using a magnetic holder. One portion remains with the submerged filter while the external magnet is carefully positioned on the outside of the aquarium glass.
The magnetic holder is intended for aquarium walls up to approximately 6 mm, or 0.25 inch, thick. It should not be assumed to work securely through thicker glass or acrylic panels.
Keep fingers clear when bringing the two magnetic sections together. Strong magnets can snap together suddenly.
Modular Filter Design
Each filter-media section functions as an independent module. This allows one cartridge to be removed for service while the other remains attached to the operating filter.
The tool-free design simplifies routine maintenance and reduces the need to remove the entire filter from the aquarium.
Optional cartridges may be added to expand mechanical or chemical filtration capacity, provided the installation remains appropriate for the aquarium’s available space and glass thickness.
Installation Directions
- Inspect the filter, electrical cord, magnetic mount, cartridges, and accessories.
- Select the desired output configuration before installation.
- Place the assembled filter inside the aquarium.
- Carefully align the external magnet with the submerged magnetic holder.
- Confirm that the filter is secure and fully submerged.
- Adjust the directional outlet or spray bar as needed.
- Create a drip loop in the power cord below the electrical outlet.
- Connect the filter to power.
- Adjust the water flow using the side regulator.
- Observe the aquarium to confirm suitable circulation.
Always review the included SICCE instruction manual before installation and operation.
Filter Placement
Install the filter where it can create circulation across the aquarium without directly blasting delicate fish, shrimp, or plants.
Positioning the unit near one rear corner can help conceal it while allowing water to move across the length of the tank.
Keep sufficient space around the filter intakes. Plants, substrate, decorations, and aquarium walls should not obstruct water entry.
Is It Suitable for Shrimp?
The Shark PRO Nano 320 can be used in shrimp aquariums, but it should not automatically be described as completely baby-shrimp-safe.
Adult shrimp may generally use the broad sponge intake safely, but extremely small shrimplets could potentially enter openings depending on their size and the filter configuration.
Inspect the intake carefully and add finer prefilter material when necessary. Any added material must be monitored and cleaned regularly to prevent excessive flow restriction.
Use with Bettas and Delicate Fish
The adjustable flow and included spray bar make the Shark PRO Nano adaptable for fish that prefer gentler circulation.
Begin at a low setting and direct the output toward an aquarium wall or across the surface. Watch the fish for signs that the current is too strong, such as persistent struggling, hiding, or difficulty resting.
The filter’s official 15–25 gallon rating means it is not intended for very small betta bowls or pico tanks.
Use in Planted Aquariums
The compact profile helps preserve swimming and planting space in smaller aquascapes. The directional outlet can be used to circulate nutrients and carbon dioxide throughout the aquarium.
Avoid aiming a strong concentrated stream directly at delicate stems or newly planted carpeting species.
The filter does not supply fertilizer, carbon dioxide, or lighting. These must be managed separately according to the needs of the plants.
Use in Turtle Tanks
SICCE allows horizontal positioning of the Shark PRO Nano for turtle and shallow-water applications. The filter must remain installed according to the manufacturer’s minimum-water-level and submersion requirements.
Turtles generally produce more waste than fish, so the published aquarium capacity may need to be reduced in heavily stocked or high-waste setups.
Frequent sponge cleaning and regular water changes may be necessary.
Freshwater and Saltwater Use
The Shark PRO Nano may be used in suitable freshwater and marine aquariums. Its official aquarium-volume rating is based on lightly to moderately stocked freshwater systems.
Marine systems may require additional circulation, biological media, protein skimming, or other filtration depending on livestock and waste production.
Saltwater users should inspect the impeller, housing, and magnetic mount regularly for salt and mineral buildup.
Cleaning the Filter
- Unplug the filter before placing hands in the aquarium.
- Remove one filter module at a time if preserving biological filtration.
- Rinse reusable sponges in removed aquarium water or conditioned water.
- Replace exhausted chemical media when required.
- Inspect the central water passage for accumulated debris.
- Clean the spray-bar openings and flow accessories.
- Inspect and clean the impeller and rotor chamber periodically.
- Reassemble the modules securely.
- Restart the filter and confirm normal water flow.
Cleaning the Spray Bar
Inspect the spray-bar openings regularly. Algae, biofilm, and debris can clog the small holes and significantly reduce filter performance.
Remove the spray bar and clear each opening using a soft aquarium-safe brush. Do not enlarge the holes with sharp tools.
Cleaning Frequency
There is no single maintenance schedule suitable for every aquarium. Cleaning frequency depends on stocking, feeding, plant debris, substrate, and filter-media configuration.
Inspect the filter weekly at first. Service the mechanical sponges when:
- Water flow noticeably decreases
- Debris becomes visible on the sponge
- The spray bar produces uneven output
- The filter becomes noisier than normal
- Waste begins bypassing the media
Avoid sterilizing every sponge and cartridge simultaneously.
Quiet Operation
SICCE designs the Shark PRO Nano for smooth submersible operation. However, “silent” or “whisper-quiet” performance can vary according to installation, debris buildup, trapped air, and contact with aquarium glass or decorations.
If abnormal noise develops:
- Confirm the filter is fully submerged
- Check that the cartridges are installed correctly
- Remove trapped air
- Clean the impeller and rotor chamber
- Confirm the filter is not vibrating against décor
- Inspect the spray bar and output for blockages
Important Aquarium Filtration Note
The Shark PRO Nano 320 is rated for 15–25 gallons in lightly to moderately stocked freshwater aquariums. Heavy stocking, large messy fish, turtles, or substantial feeding may require additional filtration or a larger filter.
A filter does not replace aquarium cycling, water changes, gravel cleaning, appropriate stocking, or regular water testing.
Continue monitoring ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, temperature, and other parameters appropriate for the aquarium.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size aquarium is the SICCE Shark PRO Nano 320 designed for?
SICCE rates it for lightly to moderately stocked freshwater aquariums from approximately 15 to 25 gallons.
Is it only suitable for tanks up to 20 gallons?
No. Twenty gallons falls within its range, but SICCE’s published rating is 15–25 gallons.
What is its maximum flow rate?
The maximum flow rate is approximately 320 liters per hour, or 85 GPH.
How much electricity does it use?
The 110–120V U.S. model is rated at 6 watts.
Is the flow adjustable?
Yes. A side-mounted control allows the output to be adjusted.
What filter media are included?
The Shark PRO Nano 320 includes two mechanical sponges, one biological sponge, and one activated-carbon sponge.
Does it provide biological filtration?
Yes. The included biological sponge supplies surface area for beneficial bacteria.
Can chemical media be used?
Yes. An activated-carbon sponge is included, and optional modular cartridges can expand chemical filtration.
Is it safe for shrimp?
It can be used in shrimp tanks, but very small shrimplets may require additional fine intake protection.
Is it suitable for bettas?
Yes, in an appropriately sized aquarium. Reduce the flow and use the spray bar or directional outlet when gentler movement is required.
Does it use suction cups?
The main mounting system is magnetic and is rated for aquarium glass up to approximately 0.25 inch thick.
Does the magnetic system release the media cartridges?
No. The magnetic system secures the filter to the aquarium. The filter cartridges use a separate modular, tool-free design.
Can the filter be positioned horizontally?
Yes. SICCE provides a horizontal configuration for turtle and shallow-water applications.
Does it include a spray bar?
Yes. A spray bar is included along with a directional deflector and Venturi aeration accessories.
Can it add air to the aquarium?
Yes. The included Venturi attachment can draw air into the water output when properly installed.
Can it be used in saltwater?
Yes, although the published tank-size rating is based on lightly to moderately stocked freshwater aquariums.
How often should the media be cleaned?
Clean it when debris accumulation reduces flow. The required schedule depends on stocking and feeding.
Should all sponges be replaced at once?
No. Stagger cleaning and replacement whenever possible to preserve beneficial bacteria.
Does the filter make aquarium water crystal clear?
Properly maintained mechanical and chemical media can improve water clarity, but results also depend on stocking, feeding, maintenance, and overall water quality.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
The SICCE Shark PRO Nano 320 Internal Filter delivers adjustable 85 GPH circulation and modular mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration for freshwater aquariums between approximately 15 and 25 gallons.
Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to shop SICCE internal filters, replacement sponges, aquarium media, circulation pumps, nano-aquarium equipment, and water-quality supplies.
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