Chemical Filtration

Chemical filtration removes dissolved impurities, odors, and toxins from aquarium water using media such as activated carbon or resins.

What is Chemical Filtration?

Chemical filtration uses special media to remove dissolved substances that cannot be captured by mechanical or biological filtration.

Common media

  • Activated carbon (removes odors, discoloration, and toxins)
  • Zeolite (removes ammonia in emergencies)
  • Ion-exchange resins (adjust water hardness or remove heavy metals)

Importance

Chemical filtration is often used:

  • After medications to remove residual chemicals
  • To improve water clarity
  • To manage odors or discoloration

It complements mechanical and biological filtration but should not replace them.