Water movement is essential for fish well-being. Standing water in the aquarium can cause several problems in the health of fish.
Stagnant water in the aquarium can cause indigestion and muscle weakness and can affect the reproductive system of the fish.
The aquarium water flow can address all these but it also deals in the elimination of fish waste. Here is the guide on why water movement is important for fish health.
Understanding Water Movements in Aquariums
Water movement is best described as the circulatory system of the aquarium. It maintains the flow and water health. It helps in gas exchange, nutrient distribution, filtration and, physical and mental health of the fish. The aquarium’s water movement is controlled by filters and pumps. The movement of water can be controlled according to fish species.
Types of Water Movement in Aquarium
There are several types of water movement in the aquarium. Here is the list:
Wave
A continuous movement of water in the form of waves that keep water flowing in corals and helps in the distribution of food. It also helps with nutrients and removes the waste from the water.
Laminar Flow
Laminar is a slow, one-directional flow that is created by pumps and power heads. You can use pipes and fittings to create multidirectional flow.
Surge
This water flow movement is similar to laminar flow but it’s short and strong. This is more suitable for reef tanks to create water movement deep in the aquarium.
Turbulence
It generates multiple water directions in the water. It happens when water hits another object in the aquarium.
Steady Stream
A simple and consistent water flow. It is usually used in reef tanks. You can enhance the water flow by using different pumps. If you want water to flow at a specific place you can adjust the mood.
Importance of Water Movement for Fish Health
Here are the reasons why water movement is important:
Balance Oxygenation in the Tank
The water movement in the tank is essential to maintain a perfect oxygen level in the tank. Water movement helps in exchange of gases at the surface of the tank and creates an apple of oxygen. Every living being including fish and organisms needs oxygen for their survival. It is important for the living of beneficial bacteria residing in tanks. It plays part in eradication of carbon dioxide to maintain the perfect balance in the water.
Provides Stable Water Conditions
Stable water conditions contribute to the overall health and environment of the tank. It helps in the perfect distributions of nutrients and water temperature across the aquarium. The spot where water stagnates can create growth of algae, and bacteria that can harm the water quality.
Waste Management
Water movement is essential for the waste management of the tank. It helps in removing the waste, uneaten food by pushing them towards the filtration. It also helps in eliminating the toxic buildup.
Fish Activity and Health
Water movement plays a vital part in the swimming behavior of the fish. It provides the natural mimic of nature and that strengthens the muscles of the fish by swimming. It impacts positively on the physical and mental health of the fish. Every fish has their own preference for water movement. Install the pump for water movement according to the species you have.
Setting the Water Movement in the Tank
When setting up the water movement, there are several points that you can keep in mind:
Tank Layout
There can be dead spots in the aquarium due to the decoration. Water stangate there causing poor quality of the tank. Install pumps and filters to make sure there is no dead spot in the tank. Do not place the pumps near the aquarium floor; it can make the water cloudy.
Consider the Fish Needs
Before installing the pump and filter make sure what type species you have. Some fish like the gentle flow of water and some like to thrive in strong flow. Movement of water according to fish type elevates the health of fish by swimming exercise.
Choose the Right Filter
You can use different methods for different types of water movement:
- The first method is the use of an air stone and an air pump. This creates water flow at the stangate areas of the aquarium. Make movement by forming bubbles that move the water, popping up to the surface
- The next method is an easy flow sponge filter. This method provides the best possible movement for slow moving fish without causing them stress.
- The next method is the use of a power head. It is a small AC device that creates flow in the water. It sucks in the water and sprays it out as a strong powerful stream.
Challenges and Solutions
Here are the challenges and solutions that you can face:
Change the Water Flow
You can disperse the water flow by adding a spray or by changing the direction towards other objects. It will change the flow of water.
Reduce Water Pressure
To reduce the water pressure, you can use the baffle filter to block or change the direction of the water. You can install a canister filter and point it towards the surface or back wall. This way, it will hit the wall or surface, and it will lose its kinetic energy. You can also use a prefilter sponge on the output to decrease the water current.
Use of Filter or Power head
Use a less powerful filter or power head. Different species of fish and plants have different requirements of water current. Use a less powerful object to maintain the aquatic life needs.
Adjustment of Air Pump
If your air pump has an adjustable mode you can adjust the pressure of the water. If your air pump does not have the adjustment mode you can use a valve to control the currents.
Conclusion
Water movement plays a huge part in the well being of the fish. It helps in the mental and physical health of the fish. The movement of the water strengthens the muscles of the fish and provides the natural habitat. It also distributes nutrients across the aquariums.
Help in the elimination of waste from the aquarium by pushing the waste towards the filters. The place where water stagnates in the aquarium due to decoration or plants the growth of algae and bacteria can cause.
Keeping in consideration the different movements of water according to the fish type and their maintenance can balance the perfect living environment for the fish.