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Choosing the filtration system

When choosing the filtration system for your new aquarium, there are 3 types of filtration to consider.

  • Mechanical 
  • Biological
  • Chemical

These fish aquarium filtration types are crucial since they function in ensuring that the environment in which your fish lives in is not only natural but healthy.

Without a good filtration system, you will not be able to nurture your tropical fish. Consequently, no matter how big your fish tank may be, you need to install a filtration system.

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Fish Aquarium Filter Diagram

Aquarium FiltrationAquarium Filtration Inside A Fish Tank


  1. Intake.
  2. Mechanical filtration.
  3. Activated carbon filtration.
  4. Biological filtration medium (rotates in this particular design).
  5. Outflow to tank.


Selecting an aquarium filter can be both confusing and challenging as there are hundreds of brands and models available in the market.

Furthermore, as a result of the benefits that the filtration system offers your fish tank, it is important that you choose a fish aquarium filter that is the right size for your tank.

Prior to choosing the filtration system for your fish aquarium, it is crucial that you comprehend the three different types of filtration mechanisms which every other filtration system utilises.

This, in turn, will allow you to select the right type of fish aquarium filter that will sustain the life in your fish tank. See below for more information on the different types of fish aquarium filters.

1. Mechanical Filtration

This type of filtration mechanism functions by getting rid of debris, grime and other particles that may be present in the fish tank by, draining the water through a foam or sponge-like material.

This functions in trapping debris thus ensuring that the tank is free of dirt and debris. Nevertheless, you need to replace the foam regularly so as to deter back-up in addition to enhancing the efficiency of your fish aquarium filtration system.

2. Biological Filtration

This is the most crucial filtration procedure within your fish tank. Biological filtration functions in getting rid of toxic waste generated not only by fish but decaying matter.

It does this by building a bed of good bacteria within the filter which breaks down destructive toxins, for example, ammonia plus nitrates.

In order to build a bacteria bed, your fish tank has to go through a time-consuming procedure commonly referred to as the “nitrogen cycle”.

3. Chemical Filtration

This type of fish filtration gets rid of dissolved waste matter by passing water through an activated carbon filter which is highly porous.

When water passes through the carbon, dissolved waste matter are trapped inside.

Other types of fish aquarium filters that you can buy for your fish tank include sponge filters and power filters.

Click the link below to find your ideal aquarium filter from Chewy.com today!



Tropical fish tank filters



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