Filtration is without a doubt the most important aspect of successful aquarium keeping. Besides churning the water and creating surface movement, what exactly does an aquarium filter do?
To put it simply, an adequate filtration system will fitler your aquarium water in three different ways; mechanically, biologically and chemically.
Mechanical filtration implies the removal of debris and other particles such as solid fish waste or uneaten food from the water column. This type of filtration is achieved through the use of sponges and dense filtration floss, pads or wools. Mechanical filtration media should be replaced on a monthly basis, or as often as needed.
Biological filtration implies the filter's ability to house a healthy bacterial colony. Great care should be given when cleaning out filtration media, not to expose biological support to chlorinated tap water. A healthy bacterial colony will be able to detoxify fish waste by transforming lethal ammonia into far less dangerous nitrates. Common biological support products include Fluval Biomax and Eheim Substratpro. Biological filtration media has a longer lifespan than other filtration media.
The last and final aspect of filtration is chemical filtration. Chemical filtration implies the use of water-altering substances in the aquarium filter. These include substances that either remove certain undesirable elements from the water column or alter them on a chemical level. Chemical filtration media includes products like carbon, purigen, peat moss and Fluval ClearMax.
Our store carries a wide array of filters suited for different tank sizes and biotopes. Feel free to consult one of our in-store specialists for advice about filtration systems that fit your needs.
