Filtration

     As a hobbyist of over 20 years experience I have seen this hobby change throughout the years. One area that I have seen great advancement in is filtration. Today a new fish keeper has vast choices in designing a filtration system. These advancements are a god send to experienced hobbyist's. However, these same choices may overwhelm the newcomer. The following intends to simplify these choices and to teach the newcomer too what all these filters actually do.

     So here we go ! There are only three types of filters out there. ( I know what your thinking, Why are there shelves and shelves of filters at the pet shop ? ). But honestly that's all there is. I'll explain,

     MECHANICAL   filtration is the physical removal of particulates from the water column. This means that uneaten food and fish wastes are trapped by some sort of media. Usually a foam or poly type material. The thing to remember here is even though the filter traps the debris it is still in the water column until the media is replaced. Just because you can't see it doesn't mean it isn't there.

     CHEMICAL   filtration is the process of using carbon, vermiculite, resin and liquids to either remove or chemically alter harmful chemicals in your tank i.e., nitrite, ammonia and dissolved organics. The thing to remember here is the chemicals must either be replaced or recharged as they are used up.

     BIOLOGICAL   filtration is a process we call the nitrogen cycle. By giving bacteria a place to grow, ammonia can be transformed into nitrite which can then be transformed into nitrate which is easily removed with water changes. The thing to remember here is you need a good porous surface for the bacteria to grow. This surface should not be change or cleaned for the bacteria colony will be destroyed. Also remember that time is needed to grow this bacteria colony. So at the start these filters are relatively ineffective for about 6 weeks. After that time these filters are very effective providing a safe environment in your tank.

     OK it's that simple. So what are all those filters on the market?  I want the beginner to know that one particular type of filtration doesn't do it all. It's best to have a combination like mechanical and biological. Some filters provide for multiple filtration all in one unit. However some specialize in only one.

     I am by no means going to tell anyone to buy any particular filter but I will try to explain how some of these filters work.

     If you look to the left.  You will see some links.  These links will show you how certain filters work.