Canister-filter.com

There are several filter types and systems available but which one is the most suited for your situation? A decision is not easily made and depends on several factors. It's easy to assume that a certain aquarium needs a certain filter but this is true to only a certain extent. Personal preferences, space and budget also play a roll in choosing an aquarium filter. This site is about my personal favorite type of filter which is the canister filter. I think the canister filter suits most situations in various ways. If you are in doubt of which type of filter you want to obtain for your aquarium setup, read on and decide if a canister filter is what you need for your aquarium.

First of all it's necessary to know and understand the functions of an aquarium filter. So we'll start with that.

Filter functions

• Mechanical filtration. With no doubt this is the most obvious function of a filter. The filter separates dirt particles from the water.
  
• Bio filtration. The filter actively supports the break down of waste with the help of bacteria that reside inside the filter.
  
• Chemical filtration. Extract certain substances from the water or add them. Water circulation inside the aquarium. This movement of water can also be used to supply water to other components of your setup like a CO2 reactor.

A canister filter can be set up to make use of all three types of filtration.