Always choose the current in the aquarium carefully / photo credit: silviarita @ Pixabay
What is the current in the aquarium good for?
So that fish and plants can survive in the aquarium, oxygen is also very important in addition to the water values. The water gets this from a good current. Of course there are fish species that require or prefer less current and others that require less current. However, most fish and aquarium invertebrates love a gentle vortex. A good flow also supports the filter in its work. The air circulation makes it easier for the water to circulate around the filter throughout the pool. This is also good for the fish and plants.
How do I create a good current?
With the help of a filter, a gentle current is created in every aquarium. The flow is stronger or weaker depending on how the filter outlet is adjusted. For many species of fish and aquarium lovers, this type of current is not enough. But there are other ways to get a nice flow into the pool. With a flow pump and an air vent, you can increase the flow in no time at all – and for little money. Many species of fish love the movement it creates so much in the water that they throw themselves into the middle of the current and perform a dance there. Shrimp are also true surfers and many aquarists enjoy watching them play.
The disadvantages of a strong current
However, if the air vent is adjusted too strongly or incorrectly, this can have negative consequences for the aquarium. Especially with regard to the plants one should be careful with an «overflow». If the jet of the air vent is directed at the pane or at plants, algae growth can increase. These algae are difficult to get under control and in no way make it easier to care for the aquarium. Therefore, the flow pump should be adjusted with care. If the current is too strong, the plants can also be uprooted. This is a problem especially when a pool is running in. It is best to set the flow only after the aquarium has been running in. This gives the plants time to develop roots in peace.
Set the flow correctly
So, to get the flow right, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- fish stock
- pool size
- Running time of the aquarium
- algae growth
- direction of outflow
It is best if the current does not flow through the entire pool, but at certain points. So the fish can decide for themselves whether they want to swim through the current or not. There should be enough retreats that are not affected by the current. Before purchasing a flow pump, you should find out whether it is the appropriate pump for the stock and the size of the tank. The aquarium should be set up in such a way that the outflow is directed towards the center of the tank. There should only be a few plants there so that algae formation does not occur in the first place. If you follow these rules, you can relax and enjoy the benefits of the current.