Aquatic Filtering Systems- the Most Important Component to Have in Your Fish Tank

Every aquatic pet owner knows that the most important part of having an aquarium is the filtration system. It is a necessity to have in order to sustain a balanced environment for your fish(es). What the filtration does is filter out all of the added chemicals and pollutants that's inside our tap water, and "cleans" the water so that it is safe for your fish.

Mechanical Filtering Systems

There are three different types of filtration systems: Mechanical, Chemical, and Biological. The difference between these three types of filtration systems will be discussed in this article, so that you may choose which one suits your aquarium the best.

The way mechanical filtration works is that it catches all of the grime and foreign matter that can enter the tank water, and filters out only the clean water. The filter can either be porous, similar to a spongy type of material, or it can be fibrous- like a piece of cheesecloth. The mechanical portion of maintaining your mechanical filter is when it needs to be cleaned or replaced with a new filter, which is usually recommended from every 2 weeks to up to 90 days, depending on the type of filter you are using for your aquarium.

Chemical Filtering Systems

Another type of filtration system is a chemical filtering system. Chemical filtration works by applying active charcoal to balance out the chemical composition of the water flowing into the aquarium. It doesn't necessarily filter out free flowing particles or grime, like a mechanical filter would do, but it does trap the most physically minute sized chemical particles floating about inside your tank water. You will find that there are many popular filters on the market that combine the two (Mechanical and Chemical) types of filters together. Carbon filters also fall under the chemical filter category, in that it's duty is to filter out contaminants in order to produce crystal clear water. It is recommended, however, to not rely on just the charcoal filter without the carbon filter, and vice versa. Both chemical filters should be used in conjunction with each other.

Biological Filtering Systems

The third and last type of filtration system that is also ideal for maintaining your aquarium is a biological filtering system. The science of biofiltration works by removing all foreign particles from the aquarium water. It relies on the natural, biological bacteria and chemical from the fish , to sustain a healthy environment. The biofilter removes radical chemicals and pollutants such as: ammonia, nitrates, and harmful bacteria. It does, however, preserve "healthy" ammonia, nitrates, and bacteria.

There are different systems for circulating aquarium water through your filtration system. Some popular circulations systems may include these types: internal, external, and under-gravel systems. These are all safe to use with your filtration system, whether you are using the internal or external type.

The importance of having a reliable filtration system in your aquarium can not be stressed enough, in that it is a responsibility and necessity for the aquarium owner to have, in order to maintain a healthy living environment for fishes to thrive in. Not having one in place may result in- higher fish mortality rate, foul odors, and very limited oxygen supply. Consult an aquatic professional at your local pet store or online.