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A FISH TANK FILTER: WHY, AND WHAT KIND?Fish tank filters are one of the only things that make aquariums possible. In nature, the sheer size and biological complexity of your fish’s natural environment help keep the water clean and free from most contaminants. Your aquarium has no such natural process. Therefore, as waste accumulates, there must be some means for removing, either physically, chemically or biologically. That’s the role of the fish tank filter. It’s the main mechanism that allows you to do only minor and routine maintenance on your fish tank, and still maintain the health and welfare of your fish. The Old Box Probably the most common type of fish tank filter you see at discount stores is the box filter. These both hang on the inside or the outside of the tank, and usually have a charcoal filter cartridge in the main box. The water from the tank is circulated up into the box, through the filter and then back down into the tank. They are rather slow but steady and can usually be found fairly cheaply. They’re not the best fish tank filter you can buy, but they can do the job, are easily found and are readily available. Under-Gravel Filters Another type of fish tank filter is a filter that covers the bottom of the fish tank floor and is then covered with rocks. These are among the best filters available. They promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gravel, which help to break down the waste products that naturally accumulate in your fish tank. Under-gravel filters therefore more closely approximate the natural processes that occur in the fishes native habitats. Do It Yourself There are plenty of instructions on how to build your own filters as well, and these can be the best fish tank filters you can find. Wet/dry tank filters sit on the edge or rim of the fish tank. The tank water is slowly trickled over filter media, which can be one of several kinds. As the air and water mix along with the filter media, the water is filtered and several chemical processes occur. This is probably one of the better fish tank filter ideas, and it is fairly easy to do yourself at home. Directions can easily be found online, and often buying the materials for the filter is cheaper than buying a ready made wet/dry fish tank filter. A fish tank filter is a vital component of your fish tank. It not only cleans the water, but also allows more oxygen to be mixed in with the water. Fresher, cleaner water helps keep your fish healthy and will help them live longer lives. A tank filter doesn’t have to be a really expensive item, one that competently does the job can be used and doesn’t have to be top of the line. |
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