Smaller Canister Filter?

The water is super clear. As mentioned in my first post, I cover the inlet pipe with a sponge.

The flow has reduced because I haven't cleaned it in about 8 months, but it's covered in marimo algae and I don't want to remove it. My bio-load in the tank is very low, so I just rely on the mini filter that came with the tank to make some current.

 

Thanks for the pics. Cool DIY. It even withstands pressure from furry feet.

 

The cat is the reason I have a tie strap holding it down onto the stand...
I think this filter cost me about R120 to make because I already had an old powerhead and some plexi offcuts, so it made sense for my application. It is difficult to clean though, but luckily I've never needed to do anything other than rinse the sponge. Which is one of those air filter sponges if anyone's interested.

I am however looking for a more elegant solution, because my pump doesn't have enough head height to put it under the tank, making it a somewhat messy looking setup.