There are many different kinds of filter media that are avalible for water treatment in aquariums and fish tanks, but which is best for your aquarium and how do they differ? Part of gaining an insight into using the right filter media for your aquarium is understanding the strains on your fish and the conditions of their environment.
The nitrogen cycle begins with any waste products which are produced by your fish. A kind of bacteria known as “nitrofiers” works to break down these waste products (called ammonia) into nitrites. This is later then further broken down by the same bacteria in the final product, nitrates. The first two of these chemicals in the process are both highly toxic to fish and the last may prove to be fatal in large enough quantities. If your fish are experiencing a large level of any of these chemicals, then it is likely your filter is not providing enough purification alone and additional water treatment is recommended.
A simple way to test if your aquarium could use extra water treatment is to look at level of nitrates in the water, this can be done by using a test strip which reports the level of nitrate in your water. 50 ppm is a deadly level for many species of fish and the lower the level of concentration the better. Polyester media and charcoal media work by chemical filtration by trapping particles passing through your water into the media and charcoal in many cases is believed to be more effective.
Foam bloaks of many different brands have also proved popular in many fish and aquarium enthusiasts. Although these may need regular cleaning, they can provide additional filtration as well as allowing the benefical bacteria, nitrofiers, to build up in your aquarium. With a combination of sponges and either a charcoal or polyester filter media, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate should be kept low in your aquarium. Finally, many plants also are useful in the nitrogen cycle and will help you keep on top of providing a healthy environment for your fish.
In conclusion, providing your tank is left to cycle before introducing fish for several weeks, with a mixture of mechanical and biological filtration your water may never need additional treatment. Make sure to check your water regularly and should you find a high level of toxic chemicals to your fish, consider additional plantation and either charcoal or polyester medias.
About the Author: Sean Norman is a fish enthusiast who also keeps terapins. More relevant information about the author and this article may be found by Clicking Here
