Biological Filtration
Definition
Biological filtration is a crucial aspect of maintaining a thriving aquarium ecosystem, primarily centered around the vital role played by beneficial bacteria. The process involves the conversion of harmful substances, specifically ammonia and nitrites, into less toxic forms, ultimately contributing to the overall health and stability of the aquatic environment.
Function in the Aquarium
In the aquarium setting, the function of biological filtration is achieved through the colonization of surfaces by beneficial bacteria. These surfaces include the substrate (the material at the bottom of the tank), filter media (materials within the aquarium filter), and decorations. The bacteria responsible for biological filtration belong to specific strains that are capable of breaking down ammonia and nitrites.
Ammonia is produced as a natural byproduct of fish waste and the decomposition of organic matter within the aquarium. High levels of ammonia can be toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms. Beneficial bacteria convert ammonia into nitrites through a process called nitrification. Nitrites, while less harmful than ammonia, can still be detrimental to aquatic life. However, the same bacteria further break down nitrites into nitrates.
Nitrates are a relatively less harmful compound compared to ammonia and nitrites, but they can still pose a risk if they accumulate in high concentrations. Regular water changes are necessary to remove nitrates from the aquarium. This entire process of converting ammonia to nitrites and then to nitrates is part of the nitrogen cycle, a fundamental biological process in aquariums.
The nitrogen cycle is a continuous loop that starts with the introduction of ammonia, progresses through the actions of beneficial bacteria, and concludes with the removal of nitrates through water changes. By facilitating the nitrogen cycle, biological filtration ensures the removal of toxic substances and supports a stable and healthy environment for aquatic life in the aquarium. It is a cornerstone of successful aquarium management and is crucial for the well-being of fish, plants, and other inhabitants.
Here are is a breakdown of some leading products and brands that are commonly associated with biological filtration:
1. Seachem:
Matrix: A highly porous bio-media that provides a large surface area for beneficial bacteria colonization.
Stability: A concentrated blend of live bacteria that aids in the establishment of the nitrogen cycle.
2. Fluval:
Fluval Biomax: Ceramic rings designed to provide optimal biological filtration in Fluval filters.
Fluval Cycle: Beneficial bacteria supplement to kickstart and enhance the aquarium's biological filtration.
3. API (Aquarium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.):
API Stress Zyme: Contains live bacteria to support biological filtration and break down organic waste.
API Quick Start: A product to add live bacteria and reduce the time it takes to cycle a new aquarium.
4. Eheim:
Eheim Substrat Pro: High-quality biological filter media for use in Eheim canister filters.
Eheim BioMECH: A combination of mechanical and biological filter media for effective filtration.
5. Aqueon:
Aqueon Filter Cartridges: Designed to fit Aqueon power filters, containing mechanical and biological filtration.
Aqueon BioCeramic Media: Ceramic media for additional biological filtration in aquarium filters.
6. Marineland:
Marineland Bio-Wheel: A patented biological filtration system that provides a wet/dry surface for beneficial bacteria.
Marineland Ceramic Filter Rings: Ceramic rings designed for use in canister filters.
7. Hagen:
Fluval FX Series Canister Filters: Known for their high-performance canister filters suitable for larger aquariums.
Fluval Biomax: Biological filter media with a large surface area for colonization.
8. Hydor:
Hydor Professional External Canister Filter: Canister filters known for their efficiency and reliability.
Hydor Seltz D Controllable Aquarium Pump: Pumps that can be used in combination with filters for enhanced water circulation.
9. Aquaclear:
Aquaclear Power Filters: Hang-on-back filters with customizable filter media options for biological filtration.
Aquaclear Biomax: Ceramic rings designed for biological filtration in Aquaclear filters.
10. ATI (Aqua Technology Inc.):
ATI Hydro Sponge Filters: Sponge filters known for their biological and mechanical filtration capabilities.
ATI Bio-Rings: Porous rings designed for biological filtration.
11. Tetra:
Tetra Whisper In-Tank Filter with BioScrubber: Internal filters with a bio-scrubber for biological filtration.
Tetra SafeStart Plus: A product containing live bacteria to accelerate the establishment of the nitrogen cycle.
Finally, there are also various products designed to support and enhance biological filtration in aquariums. Here's a list of products commonly associated with biological filtration:
Biological Filter Media:
Ceramic Rings
Bio Balls
Porous Sponge
Bio Ceramic Rings
Biological Filter Foam
Filter Systems:
Canister Filters
Hang-On-Back (HOB) Filters
Internal Filters
Beneficial Bacteria Supplements:
Aquarium Bacterial Starter Cultures
Nitrifying Bacteria Additives
Live Bacteria Supplements
Substrate:
Porous Gravel
Live Sand
Specialized Biological Filter Substrates
Aquarium Water Conditioners:
Ammonia Detoxifiers
Products that neutralize harmful chemicals to reduce stress on bacteria
Test Kits:
Ammonia Test Kits
Nitrite Test Kits
Nitrate Test Kits
pH Test Kits
Aeration Equipment:
Diffusers
Protein Skimmers:
For marine aquariums, protein skimmers help remove organic compounds, reducing the load on biological filtration.
Filter Media Bags:
Mesh bags for holding biological filter media, making it easy to place them in specific areas of the aquarium or filter.
Aquarium Decorations:
Decor items that provide additional surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize, such as rocks, driftwood, and artificial caves.
Automatic Dosing Systems:
Devices that automate the addition of beneficial bacteria supplements or water conditioners.
Remember to choose products based on the size and type of your aquarium, the specific needs of your aquatic inhabitants, and the goals of your filtration system. Regular maintenance, including monitoring water parameters and cleaning filter media, is also essential to ensure the effectiveness of biological filtration.
