Anaerobic

Said of a biological process taking place in the absence of oxygen. The species (bacteria in particular) presenting this type of metabolism are also qualified as anaerobics.

The term "anaerobic" means a condition in which there is no oxygen. In the field of aquarophilia, this can happen in certain parts of the aquarium filter or in the substrate of the bottom of the aquarium.

In an aquarium, most biological processes occur thanks to the presence of oxygen. However, there are certain anaerobic bacteria that can live and develop in conditions where there is no oxygen. These bacteria play an important role in the nitrogen cycle, which is essential for the health of the aquarium.

The nitrogen cycle is a process that transforms organic waste produced by fish and nutrient plants that can be used by plants. This process is carried out by anaerobic and aerobic bacteria (that is to say that need oxygen). Anaerobic bacteria transform amines into nitrites, then nitrates. Nitrates can be used by plants as a source of nutrients.

It is important to maintain a good balance between anaerobic and aerobic bacteria in an aquarium. If anaerobic bacteria proliferate too much, this can cause an accumulation of nitrites, which can be toxic to fish. In addition, if the oxygen level in the aquarium is too low, it can also be harmful for fish.

There are several ways to promote the growth of anaerobic bacteria in an aquarium. For example, by adding a "neon" or "peat" type substrate at the bottom of the aquarium, you can create anaerobic areas that promote the growth of these bacteria. Similarly, using a gravity filter or a decantation filter, you can create anaerobic areas in the filter which also allow the growth of these bacteria. It is also possible to use specific products to promote the growth of anaerobic bacteria, such as organic sludge or anaerobic bacteria crops.

In summary, the term "anaerobic" designates a condition in which there is no oxygen. In the field of aquarophilia, it may be interesting to promote the growth of anaerobic bacteria in certain aquarium parts in order to promote the cycle of nitrogen and maintain good health of the aquarium. However, it is important to maintain a good balance between anaerobic and aerobic bacteria, and to ensure that the oxygen level in the aquarium is not too low, in order to avoid any health problem for fish. There are several ways to promote the growth of anaerobic bacteria in an aquarium, as using a "neon" or "peat" type substrate, using a gravity filter or a decantation filter, or using specific products like Biological sludge or crops of anaerobic bacteria.