Best Filtration For 55 Gallon Aquarium
Keeping an aquarium is an amazing hobby that is enjoyed by many people around the world. It requires a lot of effort and care to keep the fish and other aquatic animals healthy and happy. One of the most important factors that contribute to the well-being of the aquarium inhabitants is the filtration system. A good filtration system not only keeps the water clean and clear but also maintains the necessary chemical balance. In this article, we will discuss the best filtration systems for a 55-gallon aquarium.
Hang-on-Back Filters
Hang-on-back filters, also known as HOB filters, are one of the most popular filtration systems for aquariums. They are easy to install and maintain, and they provide effective mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. HOB filters hang on the back of the aquarium and draw water up through the filter media, which removes debris and impurities from the water. They also provide aeration, which is essential for the health of the fish and other aquatic animals.
Canister Filters
Canister filters are another popular filtration system for aquariums, especially for larger tanks. They are powerful and efficient and can handle a large volume of water. Canister filters are placed outside the aquarium and use a pump to draw water from the tank into the filter. The water passes through different filter media, such as mechanical, chemical, and biological, before returning to the tank. Canister filters are easy to maintain and provide excellent water quality.
Sump Filters
Sump filters are another type of filtration system that is commonly used for larger aquariums. They are essentially an additional tank that is placed underneath the main aquarium. The water from the main tank flows into the sump, where it passes through different filter media before returning to the main tank. Sump filters provide excellent filtration and can accommodate a variety of filter media, including mechanical, chemical, and biological. They are also easy to maintain and can be customized to suit the specific needs of the aquarium.
Power Filters
Power filters, also known as internal filters, are a compact and efficient filtration system that is suitable for small to medium-sized aquariums. They are easy to install and maintain and provide excellent mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. Power filters are placed inside the aquarium and use a pump to draw water through the filter media. They also provide aeration, which is important for the health of the fish and other aquatic animals.
Undergravel Filters
Undergravel filters are a type of filtration system that is placed underneath the gravel substrate in the aquarium. They use a series of plastic plates or grids to create a network of channels through which the water flows. The gravel acts as a biological filter, and the water passes through it, removing debris and impurities. Undergravel filters are easy to install and maintain but may not be suitable for all types of aquariums. They are best suited for tanks with low to moderate fish populations.
Conclusion
Choosing the best filtration system for your 55-gallon aquarium depends on several factors, including the type and number of fish and other aquatic animals, the size of the tank, and your personal preferences. Each of the filtration systems discussed in this article has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's essential to do your research and choose the one that best suits your needs. With the right filtration system, you can ensure that your aquarium inhabitants are healthy and happy.