What Is the Purpose of Aquarium Air Pumps?

Aquarium air pumps can improve habitat for fish in many ways.

Aquarium air pumps can serve a variety of functions in the aquarium but are not always necessary. For example, a freshwater setup with an internally powered canister filter would not require an air pump. When an aquarium air pump is needed, it should meet or exceed the flow requirements of the device(s) that it will power. A single, powerful air pump can power several devices.

Gas Exchange

Aquarium air pumps can be connected to submerged air stones by rubber tubing. Air bubbles increase the surface area of air-water contact for gas exchange and therefore improve oxygenation and removal of carbon dioxide. In addition, submerged air stones improve water circulation in the tank and prevent water from becoming stagnant.

Skimmer Filters

Standard skimmer or "bio-wheel" filters are often powered by an aquarium air pump. The aquarium air pump creates a suction, pulling water from the aquarium into the filter. The water then passes through the filter or bio-wheel and returns to the aquarium in a continuous, waterfall-like stream.

Canister Filters

Canister filters provide an inexpensive filtration option for novice aquarists or simple setups. The air pump, located outside the aquarium, connects to the charcoal filter by rubber tubing. The air flow through the filter creates suction, pulls water through the charcoal filter and purifies it. Self-powered canister filters are not only more efficient, but also more expensive. The self-powered units do not require an aquarium pump.

Under-gravel Filters

Under-gravel filters provide an excellent filtration option for a low-maintenance setup and are helpful for maintaining pet turtles. Under-gravel filters function much like canister filters--an aquarium air pump connects to the filter by air hoses and creates suction across the filter. Filtered water is returned to the aquarium above the filter through output tubes.

Decoration

Aquarium air pumps power many decorative elements in the aquarium. Long, thin air stones can be used to create a "bubble wall." Aquarium air pumps connect to submerged decorative elements, providing power to animate them. Treasure chests and castle doors open and close and pirates and skeletons wave--all through air power.

References

• First Tank Guide: Aquarium Air Pumps
• AnimalWorld: Freshwater Aquarium Setup