Applications of air pumps in aquarium filtration systems Continued

Continued from Page one - Such filtration systems apply to both salt and fresh water tanks, though salt water can also be filtered using what is known as a protein skimmer. Particularly effective with salt water aquarium, this involves the use of surface tension to separate large protein molecules from the water. The large molecules of proteins stick to the interface between the bubbles and the bulk of the water (or the air/liquid interface) and get a ride up to the surface where the bubble burst. The proteins are left at the top as a foam that can be disposed of.

Each of these three different types of filtration systems are powered by an air pump. Not only that, but many fresh water fish are require well aerated water to survive. The same is true of many crustaceans in a marine aquarium. There are both fresh and salt water fish that need a lot of water movement.

Both oxygen and movement can be provided by an air pump. This movement also helps to prevent the solid waste, especially fine solids, from settling to the bottom and strangling any bottom-dwelling creatures or plant life. If they are kept moving, solids are more easily filtered, especially by the under-gravel air pump driven filters.

Aquarium air pumps are not essential for fresh water aquarium, but are needed for a marine aquarium that runs a protein skimmer. Tropical aquarium have different needs, but generally look a lot better with a fine stream of bubbles sparkling under the light. Their greatest use is for powering pumping systems since most tanks have a surface area that allows sufficient oxygenation, although the water movement and circulation that can be provided are beneficial to many species of fish and inverts.

While not essential for every aquarium, an air pump creates water circulation, aids filtration and also provides a degree of oxygenation. Each of these is beneficial to your fish, and may be essential to some - especially marine inverts that rely on water movement for their feeding.

<< Page One