Aquarium that cleans itself, what to do?

Aquarium that cleans itself: how to do it?

Are you an aquarist, but don't have time to maintain your aquarium? Then discover the self-cleaning aquarium. This tank equipped with a hydrostatic device is very easy to set up. Simply add regular tap water to upgrade your aquarium. This action expels all the dirty and polluted water from the bottom of the tank which empties into a container through a pipe. But before going into explaining how it works in detail, let us introduce you to the advantages of the self-cleaning aquarium.

What are the advantages of the self-cleaning aquarium?

The multiple contributions of a self-cleaning aquarium are as follows:
- The water is never renewed in its entirety;

• It always remains clear and limpid;
• The walls of the aquarium remain clean;
• The decorative elements do not take on dirt;
• Artificial water filtration is no longer necessary;
• And the plants are not polluted.

On the one hand, all these advantages save you time. Indeed, the maintenance of all the components of the aquarium becomes automatic. On the other hand, the purchase of cleaning utensils is no longer necessary. Concretely, you no longer have to empty your jar to wash it from top to bottom once a week.

What is aquaponics?

It is an ecological solution which makes it possible to create self-sufficient vivariums. In fact, aquaponics is a process that combines the breeding of fish with the cultivation of plants. This technique makes it possible to create an ecosystem associating the animal with the plant. Originally, aquaculture concerns the breeding of fish in artificial ponds. Hydroponics is an activity that involves growing plants in aquatic environments.

The combination of the two practices creates a self-sufficient, self-regulating ecological system. The waste left by the fish is used as fertilizer for the plants that filter the pond water. This natural exchange allows animals, micro-organisms and plants to develop in harmony. This closed circuit is included in miniature in the manufacture of your self-cleaning aquarium. It offers you the pleasure of admiring both the colors of your fish and those of your flowers.

How does a self-cleaning aquarium work?

Consider setting up your aquaponic self-cleaning aquarium in a location that receives sunlight. To assemble its components, follow these steps:

• Cover the bottom of the tank with sand and gravel;
• Add rocks, roots attached to aquatic plants like fern;
• Place a mechanical pump equipped with a pipe connected to the lid;
• Fill the tank with chlorine-free tap water;
• Install the cover consisting of several compartments;
• Fill each compartment with culture pebbles;
• Plant in each compartment plants with roots or deposit seeds;
• Immerse fish and bacteria in the aquarium;
• Don't forget to feed the fish.

The operating principle of an aquaponic aquarium is based on the sustainable recycling of waste. Concretely, the organic droppings of fish are digested by bacteria. Then, these organic materials are transformed into nutrients for the plants. The water that is constantly fed to the lid compartments contains these nutrients. The plants feed on these fertilizers and purify the water flowing into the reservoir, charged with oxygen.

Can I add roots to the bottom of my aquarium?

To decorate the bottom of an aquarium, we can opt for the roots. But this natural element is not only used to improve the decor. On the contrary, the root perfectly complements the functions of plants, animals and microorganisms.

A root that is weighted down and firmly planted in the floor of the tank stabilizes aquatic plants, creates refuges for fish and supports for bacteria.

Before placing roots in your aquarium, follow these steps:

1. Recover dead roots in nature, such as that of the oak;
2. Remove impurities by using a brush to scrub;
3. Disinfect with bleach soaked in a sponge;
4. Rinse with clean water;
5. Immerse the roots in boiling water for 2 hours;
6. Immerse the roots in clean water and soak for a week;
7. Weight the waterlogged roots with rocks at the bottom of the aquarium.

If you are an aquarist concerned about ecological issues, you can only adopt the new vivariums. Indeed, like any aquaponic aquarium enthusiast, you contribute to the preservation of the environment. What's more, you will have the comfort of satisfying your passion by avoiding the drudgery of repetitive maintenance.

And to learn more about setting up, making and decorating aquariums, check out the other articles on our blog!