The Importance of Filtration
![]() Your filtration system is the guts of your aquarium and what will, experts say, make the difference between success and failure. Filters trap solid wastes from your tank and convert liquid wastes to a relatively harmless form, then return the byproduct to your tank. How you treat and monitor your aquarium water is vital for the health of your fish.
Basic
Filtration Mechanical filters, which remove particulate debris from the water, need to be checked and cleaned regularly. Even though these filters trap particulate waste and make your aquarium look cleaner, the mechanical media needs to be removed and cleaned, to physically remove the waste from your aquarium. Biological filters enable bacterial colonies to propagate and break down wastes. Biological filtration is the action of bacteria in the tank breaking down dangerous ammonia, converting them to nitrites, and then the nitrites to the less toxic nitrates. Nitrates can be harmful to many invertebrates in high concentrations. The process of biological filtration, also known as the nitrogen cycle, involves the movement of harmful wastes through the filter. Biological filters should be checked regularly to ensure particles have not escaped the mechanical filters, clogging the biological filter and decreasing efficiency.
Other Types of Filtration There are many different brands and types of filters on the market making it easy to find one that meets your needs. Which to buy depends on your choice of fish and water climate (i.e. freshwater or saltwater), what size tank you have, how many fish and, to some degree, personal preference. Ideal filters contain at least two of the three basic types of filtration. Chemical filtration is not always necessary.
External vs. Internal
A wet/dry filter (a.k.a. trickle filter) uses gravity to syphon water from the tank through a hang on prefilter. It then directs tank water through a suspended biological filter media which is open to constant air contact (dry filter). They may also contain a submersed mechanical or biological filter (wet filter) and usually have extra space to add various chemical medias if needed. A pump then delivers the filtered water back to the aquarium. Since the biological media is in constant contact with air, it does not consume oxygen needed for the biological process from the aquarium water, allowing a higher level to be available for inhabitants. Internal filters consist of undergravel filters, sponge filters, internal power filters, and box filters. The drawback is that more maintenance may be required.
Protein Skimmers
The Importance of Water Changes Some organisms are good for your tank in low amounts. Algae serve as a food source for some fish; however, you do want to control its growth so it doesn't overtake your tank. Algae will grow as long as there is nourishment, so the key to control is monitoring food and light, and performing regular water changes. Do not overfeed your fish and never place your aquarium where it would be in direct sun.
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