In this newsletter we will focus on the 3 basic types of filtration, and of course the filters themselves. Biological Filtration Biological filtration is the term used to describe beneficial bacteria, which is established during the initial cycling of the aquarium. This bacteria breaks down ammonia and nitrite and converts them into the less toxic compound nitrate . It is widely acknowledged throughout the aquatic community that this bacteria requires a surface to attach to as well as oxygen rich water.
Biological filtration is essential and needs to be adequately established.
Live rock and sand, are by all means biological filtration as well. In theory you could maintain a fish tank with these alone, however the tanks fish population would be restricted to small numbers. Back to top Chemical Filtration Chemical filtration removes dissolved wastes. The most common type of chemical filtration is activated carbon . Others, such as Algone absorb ammonia, silicate, phosphates and so on.