Bio filter balls work by providing a large surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize. These bacteria then remove harmful ammonia and nitrite from the water in aquariums or ponds, converting them into less toxic nitrates.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Surface Area for Bacteria: Bio balls have a textured surface or complex shape, greatly increasing the area available for bacteria to grow.
- Nitrification Process: Beneficial bacteria, primarily Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter species, establish themselves on the bio balls. These bacteria perform nitrification, a two-step process:
- Ammonia (NH3) to Nitrite (NO2-): Nitrosomonas bacteria convert toxic ammonia, a waste product of fish, into nitrite.
- Nitrite (NO2-) to Nitrate (NO3-): Nitrobacter bacteria convert nitrite, which is also toxic, into nitrate.
- Water Flow: The bio balls are typically placed in an area with good water flow, ensuring that ammonia and nitrite-rich water constantly passes over them. This allows the bacteria to continuously break down the waste.
- Location within the Filter: It is recommended that bio balls are used after mechanical filtration (e.g., filter foam). Mechanical filtration removes debris, preventing it from clogging the bio balls and reducing their effectiveness. If debris accumulates on the bio balls, it can inhibit the bacteria's ability to access the ammonia and nitrite.
In Summary: Bio balls act as a biological filter medium, offering a vast surface area for nitrifying bacteria to thrive and remove harmful waste products from the water. Proper placement after mechanical filtration enhances their efficiency and longevity.
