Common Aquarium Filter Media: Types and Uses

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Common Aquarium Filter Media and Cleaning Methods

1. Filter Fleece. This fibrous material is essential for trapping larger organic particles. Typically placed at the top layer of the filter, it's usually used in 3 to 4 layers. When cleaning, you only need to wash the top 1 to 2 layers. Filter fleece should be cleaned and replaced regularly, as it readily supports nitrateforming bacteria. Aquarium owners can clean the fleece during water changes by rinsing it thoroughly with fresh water. Generally, a cleaning every 10 days is sufficient, with complete replacement needed after some time, involving the removal of the innermost layer and placing new fleece beneath the old one.

2. BioFleece. This material fosters nitrateforming bacteria and filters out large particles. It's usually positioned below the filter fleece but requires regular cleaning due to its tendency to clog.

3. BioBalls. Widely used for their biological filtration properties, bioballs support nitrateforming bacteria and improve water quality. However, they should not be submerged in the aquarium water indefinitely, as this can lead to insufficient oxygen for the bacteria, reducing their effectiveness. It's best to place bioballs where water and air mix, maximizing their impact.

4. Ceramic/Glass Rings. Ceramic rings provide an anaerobic habitat and strong biological filtration, often placed beneath bioballs. The larger the surface area of the glass rings, the more beneficial bacteria they can support, enhancing filtration and aeration. Glass rings have a surface area 6 to 8 times greater than ceramic rings, offering more space for nitrateforming bacteria. They usually don't require frequent cleaning unless they are covered in dead bacteria, which is a sign they need to be cleaned.

5. Activated Carbon. This chemical filter material is placed beneath the filter fleece or biofleece and has a strong adsorbing capacity. It removes impurities, bacteria, and fine particles from the water. However, when the pores are completely blocked, activated carbon loses its filtering ability and should be replaced promptly. It's generally recommended to change activated carbon every month or so.

6. Coral Sand. Available in both large and small grain sizes, coral sand increases water hardness and supports nitrateforming bacteria. It's typically used in aquariums with moderate hardness and doesn't usually require cleaning.

7. Ammonia Remover. This porous filter material removes ammonia ions from the water,吸附 harmful organic substances and gases, and helps purify the water. It also protects fish from ammonia toxicity. However, it's less effective in marine or highsalinity freshwater tanks.

9. Aquatic Plants. These plants are excellent biological filters, absorbing most inorganic salts and harmful substances from the water while also beautifying the aquarium.

This concludes our overview of common aquarium filter media and their cleaning methods. Many aquarists overlook the importance of cleaning and replacing filter media. It's crucial to maintain a regular cleaning schedule to ensure a healthy environment for your fish.

This revised text aims to provide a more informative and engaging read for aquarium enthusiasts.