Aquarium Wave Makers and Powerheads
Serious aquarium hobbyists will always find ways to simulate nature in their close tank systems. Waves in the natural environment can also be replicated in the aquarium by using certain powerheads and wave makers. But the question is, is there really a need to buy these aquarium supplies and recreate these waves in the tank?
Water movement plays a crucial role in reef aquariums. Corals and reef inhabitants can greatly benefit from constantly moving waters. This is necessary for their growth, for removal of waste and for the overall health of the fish.
Moving water brings dissolved food and microscopic particles to corals and other invertebrates. The current also helps the anemones sway and capture suspended food substances from the water. Nutrients can be easily delivered to these corals by the simple water movement.
Another important function is the removal of waste. With moving water, waste doesn’t get stuck and accumulated at the bottom of the tank. Instead it keeps suspended and is easily removed from the water by filtration devices. One more thing is that corals produce slime or mucus when foreign particles attached to them. With vigorous flow of water, these can be readily washed away too.
There are certain reef fish that thrive well with vigorous water movement. In case you have these types of species in your tank, then you have to own the necessary devices. Moreover, water circulation is important in the exchange of gases in the aquarium.
Powerheads and wave makers can reproduce these waves. Most hobbyists use powerheads which produce movement of water in one direction. This is otherwise known as laminar flow. On the contrary, wave makers can make natural sea water currents. It can replicate the alternating surge of water that we see in the ocean. Using both these items, you’ll definitely see a difference in the growth of your corals and reef fish.
