Wave Pumps
Strong, alternating water flow for corals: wave pumps and controller-driven flow pumps for reef tanks.
How to choose?Advice and care
How to choose a wave pump
Pick a wave pump by tank volume and the corals you want to keep.
Volume
Check the tank volume the maker rates each model for.
Variable flow
A pump with a controller varies the flow and makes waves like a natural reef.

Placement
Aim the flow past the corals, not straight at them.
Popular brands
All brandsFrequently asked questions
One large pump or two smaller ones?
In a larger tank, two smaller pumps on opposite sides give more even flow than one large one.
How often should a wave pump be cleaned?
Clean off lime and algae regularly so the output does not drop and the motor does not wear.
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On a natural reef, water moves constantly with waves and currents. In an aquarium, equipment has to create that movement: without enough flow, corals do not get food, debris settles on them and dead spots form between the rocks where cyanobacteria start to grow.
The range includes wave pumps, a wave pump with a controller and a flow pump with a display controller. A controller lets you choose different modes, such as constant flow, pulses or waves, and pause the pump while feeding. Soft and LPS corals prefer moderate, alternating flow, SPS corals stronger flow.
Mount the pump firmly on the glass a little below the water line so it does not draw in air. Increase the flow gradually and watch the corals: if the polyps stay closed or the tissue pulls back, the flow is too strong.
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