Koi Bubble Eyes

This is definitely something I will be using, then!

Thank you both! I'll be looking for those filters then! They're just so gorgeous looking! ^_^

Can you link your filter(s)? I want it!!!!! Its so pretty!!

Yea, I was just speaking in terms of bettas. Darn goldfish. Being so cute but so messy... xD The tank from this thread has the filter I want, but I really don't know what it is. http://www.kokosgoldfish.invisionzone.com/forum/index.php?/topic/110671-my-new-look-;/

In the betta community, we always talk about the importance of using filters even in NPTs. The only benefit NPTs bring is less water changes and a more stable ecosystem for the fish. I just saw someone who puts their extra plants in their HOB filters, and the roots take hold of the filter media. It looks pretty cool, so I may purchase a plant or two that is semi-aquatic for this purpose, as they can hang over into the aquarium. This leads me to my next question: what is the best type of filter for my 40 gallon? I want two bubble eyes, if that tells you anything. I saw a really cool filter that had two black intakes inside of the aquarium, but it also had a really cool waterfall look from behind. I really really love this look, and was wondering exactly what filter it is.

Also, Its sort of like the Walsted method. It fits it to a T, except I still want a filter incase something goes array.

Omg hahahaha. Yea, NPT means naturally planted tank. LOL. Sorry! So pots are going to be my saving grace? I think I found a good example for what I'm picturing by what Hidr told me. Is this what you're talking about?: http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=84418&thumb=1&d=1360485560

I love NPTs - as I breed bettas and I have seen the amazing benefits that they can hold. However, I know that Bettas and goldfish are clearly not the same. I have a 40 gallon tank, and I would like to get two bubble eye goldfish. I most definitely have decided that an NPT will be the way to go for me. When working with NPTs, it is customary to use organic soil covered with sand substrate. I have read in many other places that goldfish are fine with sand as it is small enough, and many (goldfish) even like picking it up and spitting it everywhere. I want to know if the dirt will cause an issue. If so, have people had a real success with their sand-only NPTs? I am aware that broad-leaf plants are ideal for goldies, which is fine with me as I assume that my I will have more than enough trimmings from my betta sorority (all female) tank once I am finished finally switching it to full NPT (dirt + sand substrate). Also, with bubble eyes being as delicate as they are....will an NPT be something that I actually can't do?