A way of trapping any waste materials from the aquarium water. See Aeration and Filtration.

Filtration that mechanically removes particles by passing water through a porous substance such as a sponge, floss or mesh.

Mechanical filters simply remove particulates which are suspended in the water of the aquarium system. With proper maintenance, a mechanical filter will aid in keeping water clear and free of floating debris.

Mechanical filtration of the applied effluent to prevent emitter plugging.

water purification whereby particulate matter passes over medium (floss, foam) to remove it from the tank.

Filtration which serves to eliminate particles from the water. It is usually filters water through a substrate such as polyester, which can remove impurities as it passes through the media.

The use of sponge, mesh, etc., to remove particles from the water.

Filtration whose primary function is to eliminate particlulate matter from the water. It usually filters water through a media such as polyester pads, and may contain supplemental chemical filtrants.

A water filtration method that uses filtering medium to remove particles from the water. Cannister filters, undergravel filters, and wet/dry prefilters are examples of mechanical filters.

The process of removing suspended particles from water by a straining action. The finest mechanical filters can remove bacteria as small as 0.2 microns.