Aquarium Water Filter

Why do we need an aquarium water filter? This is one of frequently asked questions for beginners in the aquarium hobby. If this is your first time to have a pet fish or turtle, then you’d probably be wondering why you need to buy all these extra accessories for your aquarium. Over time, you will understand why it’s necessary to keep the aquarium clean and free from harmful bacteria.

Basically, the purpose an aquarium water filter is to remove dirt. These waste materials come from excess or uneaten food, any decaying plants or organic matters, free-floating particulates, toxins and chemicals that can cause detrimental effects to other organisms in the ecosystem, and the fish’s excrements on the aquarium water.

Cloudy aquarium water is a basic dilemma caused by particulates and decaying matters. However, the bigger issues brought about by unfiltered aquarium water is fish (or whatever pet you place inside the aquarium) poisoning and mortality.

Fishes excrete waste as they swim around the aquarium. If these waste products are not removed, the toxins that they remove from their system can build up rapidly. These can increase up to a point that toxin concentrations are high enough to poison the fishes. This phenomenon is referred to as ammonia stress, when the contamination is in the early stages. When the concentrations become fatal, the tragedy is referred to as ammonia poisoning.

An aquarium water filter works in three ways, particularly through biological, mechanical, or chemical processes. Each filtration process is important in their own right as they serve different essential purposes. Biological filtration is important in reducing the aquarium maintenance that is required. Mechanical filtration is necessary in maintaining water clarity. Chemical filtration is vital for removing contaminants from the source water and for the removal of fish medication or specific toxins inside the aquarium.

Filters are available in a number of varieties. When selecting a filter, find one that will fit the aquarium’s filtration needs and ensure that they are appropriate for the kind of fishes you have. Multiple filters usually deliver the best results. Plus, it provides immediate backup in cases of equipment failure.

To keep your fish healthy, it is necessary that they be provided with an aquarium water filter. The filtration process not only makes the aquarium look nicer and cleaner but it will also reduce the cleaning and maintenance required. However, don’t take other fish care responsibilities for granted just because you already have an aquarium water filter. Proper feeding, water changes and regular inspections are still vital in the handling of pets.

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