Why use chemical filtration media?
Written by
Susan Taylor
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.Chemical filtration media provide targeted purification in the aquarium by adsorbing dissolved impurities. Where mechanical filtration is concerned with removing visible debris, chemical filtration is aimed at invisible contaminants through molecular attraction. These include medications introduced into the tank after a treatment, heavy metal contamination from the water supply, and organic tannins, which discolor the water. Using it at the proper time will help curb many of the common problems associated with water quality.
Adsorption Mechanism
- Media contains microscopic pores trapping impurities
- Activated carbon attracts chlorine and tannins
- Resins capture ammonia through ion exchange
- Phosphate removers bind algae-feeding nutrients
Targeted Contaminants
- Medications like antibiotics after fish treatment
- Chlorine/chloramine from untreated tap water
- Heavy metals including copper and lead
- Organic compounds causing yellow discoloration
Usage Guidelines
- Run carbon 3-4 weeks maximum before replacement
- Use phosphate removers during algae outbreaks
- Employ resins when ammonia spikes occur
- Always place media in water flow paths
Use chemical media carefully during certain conditions. Use activated carbon after medicating fish. This will help remove residue from leftover medication. I add Purigen whenever setting up a tank to control the initial ammonia spike. The use of phosphate removers should be utilized during algae outbreaks. Any media used for a particular task should always be removed once that task is complete.
Chemical media must be replaced every month because it can no longer adsorb at its previous capacity. Saturated carbon will release the toxins that have been adsorbed back into the water, test water parameters weekly when using chemical filtration. In my community tank, I change the carbon every three weeks to maintain a constant level of purification.
Ensure that you do not rely entirely on chemical filtration. Using chemical media constantly is harmful to the fish because it deprives them of their trace minerals. Use chemical filtration, but combine it with a high-quality biological filter to ensure healthy water conditions. This way, you can keep the water crystal clear and still have the fish benefit from their trace minerals.
Read the full article: Aquarium Filter Types: Your Essential Guide
