The undergravel filter is considered by many to be the most effective type of filter because it provides a high level of biological filtration. This filter consists of a plastic plate that sits under the gravel of the tank. Water is drawn through the gravel by pumping air to the bottom of the filter with an external air pump. Some undergravel filters are driven by powerheads mounted on the intake tubes. Both kinds provide excellent water circulation and aeration.
In essence, this filter uses the aquarium gravel itself as the filter media. Thus, very little mechanical filtration is involved and chemical filtration is completely lacking. The undergravel filter relies chiefly on the establishment of a healthy bacterial colony in the gravel. For this reason, certain kinds of gravel are required for this filter, and a longer setup time of many weeks is necessary to establish bacterial colonies. However, once a healthy filtration system is established, this filter can be used for months without intense maintenance and cleaning.
Although this system provides the most valuable kind of filtration, it may be the most complicated for the beginner. Excessive debris in the aquarium can clog the filter bed and must be routinely removed. Aquarists who want to maintain live plants will find that this filter will destroy root systems. In addition, fish may disturb the substrate and upset the filtration bed. The novice would be better off with an external power filter.
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