Internal filters operate by drawing water from the aquarium, passing it through filter media to clean it, and then returning the purified water to the tank.
Understanding the Process
The mechanism of an internal filter is quite straightforward. It's designed to be placed inside the aquarium, typically submerged.
Here's a simple breakdown:
- Intake: Water enters the filter. According to the reference, The water is sucked in through the openings in the module or the attached sponge. These openings or the sponge itself act as a pre-filter, trapping larger debris.
- Filtration: The water then moves through various stages of filter media contained within the unit.
- Output: After passing through the media, the cleaned water is transported through the filter media to the outlet nozzle, which pushes it back into the aquarium, often creating circulation.
Filter Media Types
As mentioned in the reference, depending on the filter model, these units can be equipped with different filter media. These media are crucial for different types of filtration:
- Mechanical Filtration: Typically uses sponges or pads to physically trap particles like uneaten food, fish waste, and plant debris, keeping the water clear.
- Chemical Filtration: Often uses activated carbon or other specialized resins to remove dissolved impurities, odors, and discoloration from the water.
- Biological Filtration: Utilizes porous materials like ceramic rings or bio-balls that provide a surface area for beneficial bacteria to colonize. These bacteria break down harmful substances like ammonia and nitrite into less toxic nitrates.
Many internal filters combine these types of media within a single unit to provide comprehensive filtration.
Why Use an Internal Filter?
Internal filters are popular for several reasons:
- Simplicity: Easy to install and maintain.
- Circulation: Often provide good water movement within the tank.
- Compact: Don't require external space.
- Versatility: Suitable for various tank sizes, especially smaller to medium ones.
By effectively circulating and cleaning the water through multiple stages of filtration, internal filters help maintain a healthy environment for fish and other aquatic life.
