When you have an aquarium at home, one of the most important aspects of ensuring a healthy environment for your fish is having a proper filtration system. Filters are essential to maintaining a healthy aquarium. cleaning y balanced aquarium water, allowing the fish to live in optimal conditions. Next, we will explore the different types of filters that you can use in an aquarium, their characteristics and which one is most suitable for your specific needs.
Types of filters for aquariums
Aquarium filters are mainly classified into two categories: internal filters and external filters. Within these categories, there are a wide variety of options designed to cover different needs depending on the size of the tank, the amount of water de peces and the characteristics of the aquarium itself.
Internal filters
Internal filters are placed inside the aquarium, take up little space and are ideal for small or medium aquariums. Below we explain Its main subtypes:
- Corner filter: This type of filter consists of a transparent plastic box that is placed inside the aquarium. They work by means of an air stone connected to a tube that forces the water to pass through a filter medium. These filters are economic, but they require regular maintenance, since it is necessary to wash or partially change the filter material to preserve the bacterial flora that helps balance the habitat.
- Plate filter: This filter is placed under the aquarium substrate, allowing water to pass through gravel or sand. It uses a pump or suction head to draw water through a plastic tube, returning it already filtered to the tank. They are very suitable for specific aquariums, but are not recommended for aquariums with natural plants, since their roots could clog the system.
- Sponge filter: It is one of the simplest and most economical systems. It consists of a sponge with a porous structure that allows the passage of water, while encouraging the development of beneficial bacterial colonies that neutralize ammonia and other toxic compounds. This system is ideal for aquariums of breeding, gambarios or infirmaries, since it is very safe for fry and zoeas.
External filters
External filters are those that are placed outside the tank, allowing save space inside the aquarium and provides superior performance in terms of filtration capacity. These include:
- Backpack filters: Also known as HOB (Hang On Back) filters, they hang on the edge of the aquarium and work by means of a suction mechanism that removes the water from the tank, filters it and returns it in the form of a waterfall, improving the oxygenationThey are ideal for small and medium-sized aquariums.
- External filters: This type of filter is especially useful for large aquariums, as they have a large capacity to hold different filter media. They work by means of hoses that extract water from the tank, filter it in an external chamber and return it clean to the aquarium. They are easy to manipulate and customize, but they tend to be more expensive.
Filtration methods and their importance
In addition to the types of filters, it is essential to understand the Filtration methods that they offer. Each method fulfills a specific function, and many filters combine several techniques to ensure an optimal environment for fish:
- Mechanical filtration: This method focuses on the elimination of solid particles such as food scraps and leaves. It usually uses materials such as sponges or mesh to retain these wastes and keep the water transparent.
- Biological filtration: It is essential to maintain a healthy ecosystem within the aquarium. In this process, beneficial bacterial colonies break down toxic compounds such as ammonia and nitrites, transforming them into less harmful nitrates. It is important not to excessively clean this type of filter so as not to remove the harmful substances. beneficial bacteria.
- Chemical filtration: This method uses materials such as activated carbon or special resins to remove chemical impurities, odors, and medications from water. Although useful, it should be used with caution. caution and renewed frequently to prevent materials from releasing unwanted compounds.
Proper maintenance of filters
For filters to work efficiently, it is crucial to perform a periodic maintenanceThis includes cleaning the filter media or replacing it as needed. Additionally, it is important to clean the hoses and other components to prevent blockages that can affect filter performance.
With the right type of filter and proper maintenance, you not only ensure the health of your fish, but you also minimize common problems such as cloudy water, chemical imbalance or algae growth.
Taking care of an aquarium involves attention to many details, and the filtration system is one of the most important. Choosing the right filter for your aquarium type and performing the necessary care will ensure that your fish enjoy a healthy environment. Safety y healthy for a long time.