What is biological filter in aquaculture?

The biological filter, or biofilter, is a key component in the filtration portion of a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS). The biofilter houses the nitrifying bacteria and is the primary site where biological nitrification occurs.

What is biological filter media?

Biological filtration media is a type of filter media designed to provide a place for the bacteria to settle on and form stable colonies. Before we review different biological filter media, let’s take a closer look at the microbes that make biological filtration happen in our aquariums.

Which material can be used as biofilter media?

Most biofilters use media such as sand, crushed rock, river gravel, or some form of plastic or ceramic material shaped as small beads and rings.

How do you start a bio filter?

Steps in starting a biofilter

1. Prepare the water chemistry of the system before introducing either nitrifying bacteria or animal stock.
2. Provide alkalinity, a carbon source.
3. Adjust pH if necessary.
4. Provide ammonia and nitrite.
5. Introduce nitrifying bacteria.
6. Begin monitoring water quality parameters.

How long does bio media last?

Bio-media does clog over time, and it is recommended to provide clean filter media for effective colonization by bacteria. This family of nitrifying bacteria will benefit from partial media changes every 3-6 months to ensure clean porous surfaces are available.

How much Bio filter media do I need?

Each 1000g of FilterPlus is enough bio-media to filter a heavily stocked 55 to 75 gallon aquarium, or a medium-stocked 100 gallon aquarium. We recommend 75 to 100 grams per 10 gallons for medium-stock level, and 150 to 200 grams per 10 gallons for heavy-stock level.

How do you size a biofilter?

Sizing a Biofilter

1. Estimate the maximum amount of feed you will be feeding your fish at any time in the crop cycle.
2. Divide the total amount of surface area required by the SSA of the filter material.
3. Decide on the shape of the biofilter.
4. Sq.
5. Graph 1.
6. Here is an example of a sizing calculation:
7. Water Flow 83 gpm.
8. or.

How long can filter media without killing bacteria?

Reuse the filter media from the old filter. As long as the old filter cartridge is in good shape and not falling apart, you can reuse it for 4 to 6 weeks in the new filter.

What is Alfagrog filter media?

Alfagrog is a very porous biological filter media that has a large surface area for bacteria to congregate in. As part of Swell’s own brand you can increase the quality of the water in your pond at a cheaper price than most other brands, whilst still getting the same rich, high quality material.

How much does a biofilter cost?

Biofilters are easy to design and build, and are relatively inexpen- sive. The costs are a function of specific design and the materials used. Construction costs range between $100 and $150 per 1000 cfm of air to be treated.

Can you clean filter media?

Mechanical filter media (filter wool / pre-filter cartridges) can be rinsed under tap water. They serve no biological activity and need to be as clean as possible. Chemical media (Activated Carbon and Phosphate Remover) can be rinsed if particularly dirty.