biOrb Filtration – The Complete Guide

biOrb aquariums by Reef One are celebrated for their sleek design and user-friendly features. The iconic globe shape of the original biOrb and the modern aesthetics of the biOrb LIFE Collection make them stand out. But what truly sets biOrb aquariums apart is their advanced and unique filtration system. This guide will help you understand how the biOrb filtration works, its benefits, and how to maintain it effectively.

Understanding biOrb Filtration

One of the most distinctive features of a biOrb aquarium is its central bubble tube, which is key to its three-stage filtration system. This system combines biological, mechanical, and chemical filtration to maintain a clean and healthy environment for fish. Let's break down how this filtration works and why it’s so effective.

How biOrb Filtration Works

The biOrb filtration system works in three main steps:

1. Biological Filtration: Water flows through porous ceramic media that provides a large surface area for beneficial bacteria to thrive. These bacteria break down harmful waste products like ammonia into less toxic substances, ensuring the water remains safe for your fish. The ceramic media stays in the aquarium, continually supporting the biological filtration process.
2. Mechanical Filtration: As water passes into the filter cartridge, solid waste is trapped in the mechanical segment. This process removes debris and uneaten food particles, keeping the water clear. The filter cartridge is located at the lowest point in the aquarium, where waste naturally settles, making it highly efficient.
3. Chemical Filtration: In the final stage, the water flows through pre-measured chemical media inside the cartridge. These chemicals help neutralize any remaining toxins, ensuring a balanced aquatic environment. The water is then re-oxygenated by the air-powered system before being recirculated into the aquarium.

biOrb’s Oxygen-Rich Environment

Tests have shown that biOrb aquariums often have higher levels of dissolved oxygen compared to traditional aquariums. This is primarily due to the shape of the biOrb and its air-powered filtration system. The steady stream of small bubbles circulates the water effectively, creating constant surface turnover. This increases oxygen exchange, ensuring that even if the surface area of the water is small, the water remains well-oxygenated. A well-oxygenated environment is crucial for the health and longevity of your fish.

Simple Maintenance with the biOrb Filter Cartridge

The biOrb filtration system uses a replaceable cartridge containing both mechanical and chemical filtration elements, making maintenance easy for even beginners. This single-cartridge design removes much of the confusion that novice aquarists often face when maintaining an aquarium. The ceramic media provides biological filtration and is never removed from the tank. This design gives the biOrb one of the largest biological filtration capacities in its size category.

Common Misconception

Some aquarists mistakenly believe that the disposable filter cartridge is part of the biological filtration. However, this is not the case. The ceramic media handles the biological filtration by providing a large surface area for beneficial bacteria. The filter cartridge is strictly for mechanical and chemical filtration.

How the Cartridge Works

The filter cartridge is strategically located at the lowest point of the aquarium, where fish waste naturally settles. Solid waste is drawn into the cartridge, trapping it away and helping to keep the water clear. When the cartridge is replaced, the trapped waste is removed, resulting in a cleaner and healthier aquarium environment.

When to Replace the Cartridge

The cartridge should be replaced when the chemical media is exhausted, and the mechanical segment is full of waste. By replacing the cartridge, you ensure that the water conditions remain optimized and stable. Since the chemicals in the cartridge are pre-measured, there's no need to purchase additional supplements or guess the right amounts.

Cost: The biOrb Service Kit, which includes dechlorinator and a bacterial supplement, costs around £1/$2 per week. This is similar to purchasing maintenance items for any other aquarium but offers greater convenience. The pre-measured media eliminates guesswork, ensuring balanced water quality.

Maintenance Tips for Your biOrb

• Weekly: Check for visible waste buildup in the cartridge. If there is excess waste, consider replacing the cartridge sooner.
• Bi-weekly: Gently rinse the ceramic media with aquarium water to remove excess waste, ensuring it continues to support beneficial bacteria effectively.
• Monthly: Replace the filter cartridge to maintain optimal water quality.
• Water Changes: Perform regular partial water changes to keep the water fresh and free of toxins. Aim for a 20-30% water change every 2-4 weeks, depending on the tank's bio-load.

The Benefits of the biOrb System

biOrb aquariums offer more than just style; their sophisticated filtration system is designed for efficiency and ease of use. The multi-stage process, combining biological, mechanical, and chemical filtration, creates a stable, oxygen-rich environment that supports fish health and longevity. This makes biOrb a suitable choice for both novice and experienced fishkeepers.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: How often should I replace the ceramic media?
  A: The ceramic media should not be replaced unless it becomes too clogged to function. Rinsing it in aquarium water during regular maintenance is usually sufficient.
• Q: Can the biOrb filtration system handle a heavily stocked tank?
  A: The biOrb system is designed for light to moderately stocked tanks. For heavily stocked tanks, more frequent maintenance and water changes may be necessary to maintain water quality.
• Q: What fish species are suitable for biOrb aquariums?
  A: Small, peaceful fish species such as guppies, tetras, and small catfish are ideal for biOrb aquariums. Avoid large, aggressive, or high-waste-producing fish.

Conclusion

In summary, biOrb aquariums are not just visually appealing; they are designed with a sophisticated filtration system that ensures a clean, healthy, and oxygen-rich environment for fish. The multi-stage filtration process simplifies maintenance, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned aquarists. By following regular maintenance tips, you can keep your biOrb aquarium thriving and beautiful.