How Do You Get Rid of Waste in an Aquarium?

No matter what size of aquarium tank you keep, waste is an issue you’ll always have to control. Fish waste is part of the biological process. In natural aquatic habitats, this isn’t an issue because ecosystems self-regulate through various biological and environmental processes. In aquarium habitats, fish keepers are responsible for waste elimination, which for the most part is a manual process.

The Importance of Cleaning Waste in Tanks

Fish keeping is a constant exercise in keeping ammonia levels low. Allowing solid waste to accumulate will lead to an increase in ammonia levels, eventually resulting in a toxic environment for fish, invertebrates, and even plants. Some of the excrement will dissolve in the water and break down into nitrates and nitrites. This isn’t a problem because Nitrobacter colonies living in the biological filter will jump into action to avoid a spike of ammonia levels. Whatever doesn’t break down, including plant fragments, uneaten food, and excrement, will need to be removed to avoid further breakdown.

Catch Solid Waste with a Net

In addition to other important fish tank supplies, a net should be on your list. Anything that floats on the surface or above the substrate can be removed with a net. Just make sure to wear rubber gloves and apply a gentle hand when doing so. Keep a close eye on the fish so they don’t get tangled in the net. You can also glide the net close to the substrate if doing so will help you catch waste, but you don’t want to move the rocks or stir up sand.

Use an Algae Scraper

The algae that grows on the tank walls should be removed along with solid waste, and scrapers make the best tools. You may want to do this before using a net so the cleaning process is more efficient, but it’s definitely better to do a partial water change after scraping. Once again, a gentle hand is necessary to avoid disturbing water species.

Clean the Filter

Follow manufacturer’s recommendations with regard to how frequently filters should be changed, but don’t forget to check them from time to time because solid waste may have attached to them.

Vacuum the Aquarium

Gravel vacuums are excellent for removing excess waste from the bottom. You should move the gravel vac straight down then straight up and pinch the tube to slow the flow down and not take out too much water. The idea is to have a crystal clear tank right after gravel vacuuming. If you have a saltwater reef tank with sand substrate, make sure to avoid disrupting the substrate, and hover the vacuum above to pick up any detritus sitting on the sand. This process is easier when performing a 20 to 30 percent water change. A vacuum is also useful to remove algae growth from rocks and decorations.

Promote a Self-Cleaning Ecosystem

If you play a more active role in improving your aquarium ecosystem, the need to remove solid waste will be less frequent. Plants, snails, and scavenger species such as Plecostomus, algae eaters, and ghost shrimp can go a long way toward keeping the substrate clean because they’ll feed on the byproducts of solid waste.

To properly maintain your tank, you’ll need to do more than just clean the waste, which will require having several key supplies on-hand. From aquarium controllers and monitors to filtration systems and LED lighting, Aquatic Warehouse has everything you’ll need. Call us today at 858-467-9297, stop by our store in Kearny Mesa, or check out what we have to offer on our website.