Nero 5 Powerhead (3000 GPH) - Aqua Illumination

The Aqua Illumination Nero 5 is a reef-focused powerhead that prioritizes broad, diffuse flow over the concentrated stream produced by conventional propeller designs. At up to 3,000 GPH, it generates enough water movement to eliminate low-flow dead spots and keep detritus suspended for export, while the wide-pattern impeller avoids the direct blasting that can stress or damage coral tissue. The compact wetside footprint — 2.1" x 2.8" — keeps the unit unobtrusive in virtually any tank size.

Flow control is managed through Bluetooth LE via the free MyAi app, eliminating the need to set up a dedicated wireless network. Six distinct flow modes give you meaningful flexibility: Random varies output continuously for natural, unpredictable movement; Pulse generates a rhythmic wave useful for dislodging settled detritus; Constant holds a fixed rate for set-and-forget operation; Schedule chains multiple modes across a 24-hour timeline; Feed mode cuts flow for 10 minutes with a single button hold; and All-Off provides a clean shutdown with manual restart control. The included wired controller handles all of these functions with simple press-and-hold combinations, so app access is optional rather than mandatory.

The Nero 5 supports MXM, the joint protocol developed by Aqua Illumination, Neptune Systems, and EcoTech Marine. This allows the pump to operate within an Apex or Apex Fusion environment alongside compatible EcoTech and AI equipment, consolidating control without switching between apps.

Mounting is handled by a two-part magnetic system rated for glass up to 0.63" thick. The inner and outer magnets couple through the glass panel, and the pump body seats into a beveled inner magnet that isolates vibration for quieter operation. Approximately 15° of angular adjustment lets you direct flow where it's needed without repositioning the entire mount. A fish guard is included to protect slower-swimming inhabitants from impeller contact.