In a way, your aquarium is a simulated ecosystem-- to maintain it, you must recreate what the natural environment does to keep fish alive and healthy. Supplying oxygen to the fish is one of the two most important things in recreating the ecosystem, and constant flowing water is the other. To simulate the effect of flowing water, aquarium pumps are needed.
A good aquarium pump keeps the water flowing, which is important for the air inside the tank to circulate and to allow the water to flow to the filter and remove contaminants.
The two types of pumps
Aquarium pumps can be either internal or external. Internal or submersible pumps - as the name suggests - are mounted inside the tank and encased with water-resistant materials. They are usually placed close to the ceiling and can also be integrated with filters. External pumps are placed outside the tank and a small hose connects to the aquarium, delivering pressure to the water. These are usually used for small tanks that have limited space inside the aquarium.
Size and turnover rate
The size of the aquarium usually determines how powerful the pumps should be. Powerful pumps can generate a lot of heat and can raise the water's temperature to unsafe levels. This is why you should fit your tank for the right size of pump. Naturally, larger aquariums will require more powerful pumps. Some may even require two pumps in one aquarium. For constant supplies of clean water and air, pumps with a high turnover rate are desired. Closed aquariums generally need higher turnover rates than open aquariums.
IMPORTANT SAFETY/SHOPPING INFO
A complete Guide to AQUARIUM PUMPS is available in Picky Guide, one of the fastest growing online magazines giving free consumer advice and product information.
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