One of the most important features of any tank is the aquarium filters and filtration system. These come in a number of forms, each form with specific uses. If you have a large aquarium of 100 or more gallons, there are only two choices that could be considered practical. For smaller tanks, around 10 to 15 gallons, there is only one practical choice. However, if you have a medium sized tank, between 40 and 100 gallons, you’ll need to choose between all the aquarium filters available. Here is a list of the top 10 filter types and their uses.

1. Overflow filters. These can be used in tanks up to 100 gallons, but anything larger is out of the question. Overflow filters are the only practical choice for small tanks. They do not do well in saltwater aquariums.

2. Canister Filters. These can be used in tandem to increase capacity and water flow can be adjusted easily. They can be used for salt and freshwater, but replacing filter medium can be pricey.

3. Sump Filters. Sump aquarium filters are most commonly referred to as saltwater aquarium supplies. They do, however, do a great job with freshwater tanks too. These are used for medium-large to large tanks.

4. Maintenance can be daunting for beginners, and you’ll need lots of peripheral items to get it up and running.

5. UV Filters. These are used mainly in salt water tanks with algae problems. They are used in line with other filters, usually a canister filter. The UV light kills algae and bacteria in the water as it passes through.

6. Protein Skimmers. These are for saltwater tanks. They are used with sump filters to remove the foamy protein that collects in the sump.

7. Bio Balls. These are also used with sump aquarium filters. They aerate the water as it passes over the oddly shaped plastic balls. This also helps to kill bacteria and algae. These work very well with tropical fish tanks.

8. Carbon. Carbon pellets or powder can be added to most any system. It greatly improves filtration quality. Live aquarium plants help to add oxygen back into the water and remove CO2 and nitrates.

9. Filter feeders. Large tanks should always contain filter feeding creatures. They are natural filter aids.

10. Algae eaters. Algae eaters do just as their name implies. The plecostomus or pleco is a common fresh water algae eater.