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How does Ceramic Filter Media work?
How does Ceramic Filter Media work?
Ceramic filter media are often used in aquarium filters due to their effectiveness in maintaining water quality. Here's a breakdown of how they work in this context.
Mechanical Filtration
As water passes through the ceramic media, its porous structure physically traps particles, debris, and waste, preventing them from re-entering the aquarium.
Biological Filtration
The numerous tiny pores in ceramic media provide an ideal surface area for beneficial bacteria to grow. These bacteria play a key role in the nitrogen cycle by converting harmful ammonia and nitrite into less toxic nitrate. This process helps to keep the aquarium's water chemistry balanced and safe for fish and other aquatic life.
Chemical Filtration
Some types of ceramic filter media can adsorb impurities and dissolved substances from the water, further enhancing water clarity and quality.
In an aquarium setup, ceramic filter media is usually placed in the filter chamber, where water can flow through it consistently. This helps ensure that the mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration processes work effectively to keep the aquarium environment healthy.
Are Oyster Shells a Good Filter Media for Aquariums?
Yes, oyster shells can be a good filter media for aquariums.
Oyster shells provide a large surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize. These bacteria help in breaking down harmful ammonia and nitrite into less toxic nitrate, which is essential for maintaining a healthy aquarium environment.
Oyster shells are primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which can help stabilize pH levels in the aquarium. This is particularly useful in soft water aquariums where pH levels can fluctuate.
While not their primary function, the rough texture of oyster shells can also trap some debris and particles, contributing to the overall filtration process.
It is important to note that oyster shells should be cleaned thoroughly before use to remove any potential contaminants. They are often used in combination with other types of filter media to provide a balanced filtration system.
To browse our range of ceramic filter media online please click here.
To browse our range of internal filters for aquariums please click here.
Photo credit(s): Canva Pro Licence (main image: ceramic rings); Real Aquatics stock images (inserts: filter box, zeolite rocks, oyster shells. Copyright asserted)
