Filtration systems

TUDENTS LEARN ABOUT:

• the need for filtration systems in an aquarium

• how different types of filters work

• constructing filters

STUDENTS LEARN TO:

• select and effectively operate appropriate filtration systems on an aquarium

• assemble a sand filter, a bio filter or alga scrubber

A healthy aquarium depends on maintaining clean water. Filtering the water removes contaminants and purifies the water. There are three means of filtering aquarium water:

• Biological filtration: beneficial bacteria break down ammonia and nitrite and transform them into compound nitrate, which is much less toxic. For beneficial bacteria to thrive, oxygen-rich water is needed, as well as a surface that bacteria can attach to, such as rocks or sand. This can be achieved by using "bioballs" in a filter.

• Chemical filtration: chemicals remove dissolved wastes from the water. The most common method for chemical filtration uses activated charcoal. 

• Mechanical filtration: removes solid particles from water by circulating water and straining it through some kind of aquarium filter e.g. sponge, filter wool. Mechanical filtration alone is not sufficient since it does not remove or convert ammonia, nitrate, or nitrite in the water. Mechanical filtration serves to remove free-floating waste before it decays into harmful substances, and to be beneficial the filter material must be cleaned or replaced every two to four weeks. Mechanical filtration also assists in aerating the water.

To effectively maintain an aquarium, a filter should run all the water in the tank through the filter at least four times each hour.

Use the weblinks below to complete this worksheet comparing the different aquarium filter types

The Best Aquarium Filter for your New Fish Tank:

https://aquaproshq.com/blogs/aquarium-guides/best-aquarium-filter-for-your-fish-tank

https://portlandaquarium.net/aquarium-filter/

COMPLETE QUESTIONS ON PAGES 12-17 OF 'THE MARINE AQUARIUM' BOOKLET