External Filters The Filtration System |
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The purpose of the filter on your aquarium is to remove excess food, decaying organic matter, free-floating particulate, dangerous chemicals, and the fish's waste products from the water. The fish excrete waste constantly as they swim around in the water. If this waste is not removed, the toxins that the fish are removing from their systems will rapidly build up to high enough concentrations that the fish will poison themselves. Early stages of this are called ammonia stress - when it becomes fatal, it is ammonia poisoning. In addition, particulate floating in the water and decaying food and other organic matter can contribute to cloudy aquarium water if not kept in check. All fish tanks will need a filter system except for tanks which are too small to have one such as a goldfish or betta bowl. In this case, you will need to provide the fish with fresh water each day. |
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