Aquarium Filtration 101
- Thread starter Wolf3101
- Start date
I think an algae scrubber would be a good example of one. I've never actually run one but I've heard good things and might try to make one eventually. Basically you pipe your tank water (probably gravity feed) over a roughed up piece of plastic mesh. It runs off this into your sump or some other tray to be returned (probably pumped) back to the tank. You then provide enough light on the mesh for it to grow lots of algae. The algae uses nitrates to grow. Which is why high nitrates lead to algae growth in the tank. So the water trickles over algae and the algae takes what it wants out and your aquarium benefits. If you do a web search for "diy algae scrubber" or "make an algae scrubber" you will find much more detailed info on them.
I like the idea of incorporating plant-life into the filtration process.... I've come to realize the Fluval 405 that came with the tank I currently run is pretty inadequate filtration for the 150 gallons I was told the tank holds, which is probably why the only fish I have remaining is my GG, who can breathe off the surface. Think I'm going to add a couple of sponge filters and maybe a planter along the back now.... but the algae scrubber sounds pretty good too.
Thanks for the information! I'm new to fish keeping and am using aquaponics & HOB with my 20g. It's funny how fast fish can grow on you.
Very good info. Been kicking around with aquariums for about 6 years now. Have had marineland hob filters and a fluval 305. But his is the first time I've heard about an algae scrubber. I like to keep plants in my tank to do the same kinda job so I have not kept fish that are prone to eating/destroying them. This however would seem to be a good way around this and without spending a small fortune. Thanks.
Very good info, I've always had cannisters which do a great job but thinking of switching to a sump as the cannisters are a lot of work to clean.
Thank you for such an informative post. Between this and the "Lets see whats in your stand" thread, I think I have everything I need to start filtering like a pro. Except the money, resources, or time. If I make any progress, I'll post pics up in the aforementioned thread and show you what you've taught me here.
For "Sealed Pressure systems" what kind of brand names would you look at? I have never seen anything like that at my local aquarium store, just standard canister filters.
Also since its pressurized, im assuming to a degree much greater than canisters wont the lines and anything inline [heaters/co2 reactors] need to be a heavier grade?
Also since its pressurized, im assuming to a degree much greater than canisters wont the lines and anything inline [heaters/co2 reactors] need to be a heavier grade?
