Having an aquarium at home can be rewarding, although most new hobbyists have a bunch of questions in mind. It goes without saying that the water of the fish tank needs to be clean at all times for ensuring that fishes thrive. Ammonia and nitrites are two things that can ruin the healthy environment of an aquarium, and that’s where a fish tank filter comes in the picture. In this post, we will talk of a few basic aspects about fish tank filters before you buy a product.
Why use a fish tank filter?
Understanding the functions of a simple fish tank filter will come in handy in comparing different choices. Fish tank filtration can be classified into three categories –
- Fishes product ammonia through waste and while breathing, which can be toxic if not checked for. A good filtration system should ensure biological waste is removed, for which the fish tank filter needs to offer an environment for the good bacteria to thrive.
- Mechanical. All fish tank filters are designed to remove particulate matter from the fish tank, which includes solid waste and plant particles. This ensures that the visibility of the water remains intact and the water is healthy for the fishes.
- Chemical. While chemical filtration is not always as necessary as the above two, it is important for certain situations. If the water contains metals and substances that can impact the fishes, a special fish tank filter is required that can ensure chemical filtration.
Options in fish tank filters
Below is an overview of fish tank filters based on the function and how each one works.
- Internal fish tank filter. If you have a compact aquarium, this kind of filter is what you need. These are air-driven and super easy to afford and install. New hobbyists don’t need to know a lot for using such filters.
- Under-gravel filters. Such filters are placed under gravel, which allows the pass through the gravel that ensures both mechanical and biological filtration. Some of the new filters have cartridges with activated carbon, which also aids in chemical filtration.
- Power filters. If you are seeking biological, mechanical, and chemical filtration at the same time, you need a power filter, which is usually placed on the back or side of the aquarium. The filter has cartridge that’s replaceable.
- Canister filters. Another great option, this kind of filter ensures all-round filtration. The name is derived from the body of the filter, which appears like a canister. Since the body of the filter is huge, it has more filter media.
- Wet/Dry filters. If biological filtration is your first priority, you can rely on wet and dry filters, which are called so because the filter media can be exposed to the water or air as required.
No matter what kind of fish tank filter you choose, please check the product reviews and select something that’s enough for the fish tank you own. There are dedicated websites that offer more information on the same.
