Fish Tank Filters Regulate Water Quality
Water
means everything to your fish. In addition to regulating
pH level and temperature, you will need to ensure
that it's free of waste and chemicals and rich in
oxygen. If the water becomes contaminated, the tank's
inhabitants can become poisoned. Proper filtration
helps your fish stay in the "swim" of
things.
Fish Filters Remove Toxins
Toxins
are removed from the water in three ways. Mechanical
filtration is the trapping and removal of wastes
and uneaten food. Chemical filtration involves the
passing of water through a media that removes ammonia,
changes the pH or softens water. Beneficial bacteria
living in the tank and filter break down toxins
to complete biological filtration. There are many
filters available that combine two or more of these
processes in one single unit.
You'll need to take into account the type and number
of fish you have, as well as the size of the tank,
when selecting a filtration system.
If
you have a 10-gallon aquarium, or are setting up
a small isolation tank or nursery, a box filter
attached to the corner or inside wall of the aquarium
is a good choice. In this simple system, water is
drawn into the filter, where it is passed through
a special fiber and activated charcoal. These materials
will need to be changed when they've become soiled,
and
keep in mind that activated charcoal must be rinsed
free of all dust before placing it in the filter.
Although they are easy to remove and clean, box
filters don't get many points in the looks department.
Freshwater Fish Tank Filters Can Be Under Gravel
Low-maintenance
undergravel filters will work well in 10- to 20-gallon
tanks with adequate water flow. This flat plastic
"platform" is placed on the bottom of
the tank and covered with gravel. Water is filtered
under the platform and up through tubes; bacteria
cultures in the gravel then go to work breaking
down waste. Since it's hidden, this system won't
take away
from the beauty of your tank. On the minus side,
you'll need to break down the aquarium to clean
under the platform, and you should periodically
use a siphon or pump to "vacuum" up any
trapped debris in the gravel.
Fish Tank Filters Outside the Tank
Outside
power filters hang on the side or back of the tank,
and use an electrical pump to draw large amounts
of water into a box containing filter medium and
activated charcoal. These filters can support more
fish than can other methods, provide good aeration
of the water and are easy to clean--just make sure
to get the right size for your tank. If you do opt
for one, it is recommended that you use gravel on
the tank's bottom so
beneficial bacteria will have a place to grow and
carry out biological filtration.
If
your filtration system doesn't incorporate an air
pump, it is suggested that you get one. Air pumps
provide essential oxygen for your fish, and can
be used in conjunction with air stones to properly
aerate the water. And some fish owners consider
the resulting bubbly background in the tank to be
quite beautiful!
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