There are many types of filtration systems available for your saltwater aquarium. But which is the right kind for you? Biological filtration systems are of course going to be a part of your overall filtration system. They can constitute one hundred percent but that is an option, and you may wish to have mechanical filters working in conjunction with your biological ones.

The filter's purpose is to ensure that waste is removed from your tank, because unlike the ocean, your tank is a finite space where your livestock cannot escape. If you don't have a good filtration system and make the mistake of over-feeding your livestock, then you will quickly have problems inside your tank. This is because most fish process waste into ammonia, which then becomes toxic to your fish unless destroyed by your filtration system.

Let's examine what types there are available.

Biological Filters

Biological filters are going to constitute a portion of your tank because the natural foundation of your reef, from the sand, to the rock formations and plant life you choose all form part of the biological filter. What occurs in nature is that is that natural bacteria form on the rocks and in the sand, which is exactly what you want. The first batch of bacteria that will form will be ammonia eaters, but they will convert the ammonia into slightly less harmful nitrate. Fortunately, nitrate-eater bacteria will form next, thus clearing your tank of harmful waste. It takes more than a rock or two to have a one hundred percent biological filter however. There are many techniques, some of which are visually stunning, used to create a sound biological filter that eliminates the need for mechanical filtration. But the right materials all depend on your choice of livestock. Different fish, corral, and other livestock you may choose for your tank will require different biological filtration set-ups. So do your research based on your species.

Mechanical Filters

Mechanical filters used in conjunction with your biological setup puts you in full control, ensuring that if there is a waste problem that it can be dealt with immediately to ensure the survival of your livestock. But it is important to remember that mechanical filters will not be able to eliminate large solids in your tank, and require effort on your part to keep them from getting clogged. What they primarily do is strain solid particles from your tank to keep the water clear. Working in partnership with your biological filter, the mechanical filter is among the most important components of your entire tank.

Chemical Filters

Chemical filters work by gas activated carbon dissolving waste materials, and usually are used in combination with mechanical and/or biological filters. It is useful to use the carbon-based chemical filter when ammonia levels rise to a high enough level to harm the livestock in your tank, while allowing your biological system to do the regular, every day work.

It is useful to know that all three types can be used in combination or separately. It really depends on the size of your tank, the livestock you have chosen, and your particular tastes and design for your underwater habitat.