One of the fundamentals of fishkeeping involves having an efficient aquarium filtration system. This system with the help of aquarium filter media keeps the nitrogen cycle running and ensures your tank remains healthy.
Here is how aquarium filter media works: a pump draws water through the media. This process removes organic wastes like debris, uneaten food, and decaying plant matter. It also processes dissolved waste, primarily ammonium.
You should generally clean your mechanical filter media once a month using only aquarium water. If you notice water flow slows down, debris has likely clogged the filter. This signals it is time for a cleaning.
There are three main types of media you need to know:
- Mechanical
- Chemical
- Biological
Mechanical Media
Mechanical filters retain solid wastes such as sludge, debris, leftover food, and fish feces. They physically trap dust and particles from the water passing through them.
Manufacturers make these from inert, permeable materials. They come in various levels of porosity, ranging from coarse to very fine. This variety allows them to trap particulate matter of different sizes. To avoid a build-up of waste, you must clean the mechanical media regularly.
Note: Only replace mechanical media, such as foams or sponges, when they can no longer release the dirt they hold or start to fall apart.
Chemical Media
Chemical filters remove specific impurities from your aquarium, such as chlorine, copper, or medications. These filters also remove odors and improve water clarity. This creates a pure environment for your fish.
Activated Carbon is the most widespread type of chemical media. It effectively absorbs unwanted gases and dissolved impurities. It also removes drugs or antibiotics after you finish treating your aquarium.
You should discard carbon monthly. Once it accomplishes its task, it cannot be cleaned. Other examples of chemical filtration include ion exchange resins and phosphate removers.
Biological Media
Biological media is extremely important. It cultivates beneficial bacteria that provide biological filtration. These healthy bacteria remove ammonia released by organic waste, such as uneaten fish food and fish waste.
When the bio-load increases, ammonia and nitrite levels rise. This causes the bacteria to reproduce. One type of bacteria consumes ammonia and produces nitrite. A second type of bacteria feeds off this nitrite. These bacteria work together to maintain a healthy ecosystem.
- Porous, rock-like media: Great for small areas inside canister filters.
- Plastic balls (Bio-balls): Excellent for large wet/dry filters.
Tip
Unlike other media, do not replace biological media frequently. Rinse it gently in tank water every 3-6 months to remove sludge, but keep the bacteria alive
The Correct Order of Filter Media
Different media types perform unique functions. They must work together to create a balanced environment. You must arrange the aquarium filter media order properly for the system to function efficiently.
The optimal arrangement is:
- Coarse Mechanical Media (Traps big particles first)
- Fine Mechanical Media (Polishes the water)
- Biological Media (Protect this from clogging)
- Chemical Media (Final polish)
Never underestimate the importance of an efficient filtration system. Clean and maintain your equipment regularly. Your aquarium will remain healthy as long as the filtration system works properly.
For more details on water chemistry, check out this guide on the Nitrogen Cycle.
