TotallyTropicals

There are quite a few different types of filtration methods that are used in the fishkeeping hobby, some of the most used are as follows:

1. External Box Filters - this type of filtration is one of the most widely used, and is probably one of the easiest to maintain. This type of filter as the name depicts is located outside of the tank. It is much easier to maintain, due to its location, as you dont need to mess around in the aquarium; everything is done within the box that houses all the filter medium. This type of filter works by way of sucking unclean water into the filter and then the filter medium does its job by cleaning the water and then the water is pumped back into the tank. This type of filtration can be quite expensive, depending on what type and make you decide to buy. Most companies that supply fish equipment supply these types of filters and most manufacturers make them.

2. Internal Box Filter - This is widely used filter type also. It is a reliable filter, (well in my experience anyway.) This type of filter is usually contained within an oblong type box (shapes may vary depending of manufacturer etc). The box is usually a fixture within the tank and is usually located at one side of the tank. The box usually contains sponge filter pads, and a powerhead; which forces the water out from the top of the filter through a spout. some of these filters contain a powerhead and a heater. I have 2 juwel aquariums and they have excellent filter systems that are a fully submersible unit that house a powerhead and a heater and of course all the sponges that are needed to house the nitrofying bacteria. These types of filters are one of the best in my view, as the sponge media holds alot of the bacteria needed to keep a healthy, clean aquarium.

3. Undergravel Filtration - This type of filtration is ok for all types of tanks; however if you have Chiclids in your tank or fish that like to dig, they can impair the reliability of the filter. This filter comprises of what are usually interlinking perforated plastic square plates; which are placed on the bottom of the tank, underneath the substrate. The filter is fitted with one or more uplift tubes which extend above the substrate, and reach up to the top of the waters surface. The substrate acts like a filter medium and should be about 3 inches deep to work most effectively. The filter works by way of external pumps which are connected to the plastic piping that is used to pump around the water. The water is pulled down throught the substrate and then back up though the uplifts. The flow speed of the water is not really too important. Most pumps come with a switch that allows them to be turned up and down depending on what best suits your fish. I find that if using an undergravel Filter on a high speed in a tank that houses guppies, they will almost certainly die, due to the pressure of being dragged downwards, and their back will start to arch, and they will then deteriate quite rapidly. Most fish can handle this fine, but its just a word of warning, if you would like to have guppies in your tank, always check the pump speed and adjust accordingly.

Piczo