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The Complete Aquarism Glossary

Decode the jargon. Everything you need to know about fish keeping, from "Ammonia Spikes" to "Zebra Danios".

All Terms Anatomy Aquarium Problems Equipment & Hardware
Filtration & Water Flow
Physiology Tank Setup Water Parameters

B

Biological Filtration
Filtration & Water Flow
Biological filtration uses beneficial bacteria to convert toxic ammonia and nitrite into safer nitrate, maintaining a healthy aquarium environment.
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C

Canister Filter
Filtration & Water Flow
A canister filter is an external aquarium filter that provides powerful mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration for medium to large tanks.
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Chemical Filtration
Filtration & Water Flow
Chemical filtration removes dissolved impurities, odors, and toxins from aquarium water using media such as activated carbon or resins.
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F

Flow Rate
Filtration & Water Flow
Flow rate is the amount of water a filter or pump moves per hour and determines circulation, oxygenation, and waste removal.
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M

Mechanical Filtration
Filtration & Water Flow
Mechanical filtration physically removes debris, uneaten food, and waste particles from aquarium water, improving clarity and reducing pollution.
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S

Sponge Filter
Filtration & Water Flow
A sponge filter provides gentle mechanical and biological filtration by drawing water through a porous sponge, ideal for small tanks and fry.
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