Filters & Filtration
A reliable aquarium filtration system is the foundation of clear water and healthy fish. This collection brings together every part of that system - canister, hang-on-back, top, internal and sponge filters, plus the filter media that makes them work - for tanks from nano to large, with delivery across India.
The three types of filtration
A complete aquarium filtration system combines three jobs, and good filter media covers all of them:
- Mechanical filtration traps visible debris and waste, polishing the water.
- Biological filtration grows the beneficial bacteria that convert toxic ammonia and nitrite into safer nitrate, keeping the nitrogen cycle stable.
- Chemical filtration uses media such as activated carbon to remove dissolved wastes, odours and discolouration.
Types of aquarium filter
- Canister filters - the most powerful option with the largest media capacity, ideal for planted and large tanks. Browse Fluval and Aquael canisters.
- Hang-on-back (HOB) filters - easy all-rounders for community tanks, including the Seachem Tidal series.
- Top filters - affordable trickle filters for everyday tanks, including RS Electrical 3-in-1 units.
- Internal and sponge filters - compact, gentle, fry- and shrimp-safe filtration for nano tanks, from Sobo and Blue Pet.
- Undergravel and gravel filters - draw water through the substrate for simple biological filtration in basic setups.
Filter media
Whatever filter you run, quality media is what keeps water clear. Combine sponge or wool for mechanical filtration, porous bio-media for biological filtration, and activated carbon for chemical filtration. This mix of mechanical and biological media is what filters work on to break down dissolved wastes. Leave biological media undisturbed and rinse mechanical media in old tank water so you do not kill the bacteria colony.
How to choose a filter
Match the filter to your tank volume and aim for a turnover of about 4-6 times per hour - a 100-litre tank wants roughly 400-600 LPH. A submersible water pump can add circulation in larger systems. Messy fish such as goldfish and cichlids need the higher end; bettas and shrimp prefer a gentle sponge filter. New to this? Read our aquarium filter guide, types of aquarium filters and canister vs HOB vs sponge.
Frequently asked questions
What is an aquarium filtration system?
It is the combination of a filter and its media that keeps tank water clean through mechanical, biological and chemical filtration working together.
Which type of filter is best for my tank?
For most tanks a canister or HOB filter offers the best balance; nano and shrimp tanks do well with a sponge or internal filter. Match the flow rate to 4-6x your tank volume per hour.
How often should I clean filter media?
Rinse mechanical media in old tank water every 2-4 weeks and leave biological media alone so the beneficial bacteria survive, paired with regular partial water changes.
Browse the full range below, or explore all aquarium filters.
