Sump filtration systems are generally utilized for saltwater reef systems, but can also be used for freshwater tanks. These systems are especially sensitive to chemical spikes. A sump systems adds the amount of water actually circulating in the aquarium. The sump system is located below the display aquarium and should be about half the size. This tank houses filtration equipment keeping it cool and provides unmatched bio filtration. Having more water available and circulating through the tank means that chemical spikes are less damaging and easier to remedy. Below are diagrams for saltwater and freshwater sump systems.
Protein Skimmer: These are used in saltwater systems. They create tiny air bubbles in water that attract proteins in the water. The bubble rise and pop expelling the proteins to the air and collecting them in a cup. This directly removes waste before it becomes ammonia that needs to be broken down by the nitrogen cycle.
Refugium: The section of the sump that contains the living filtration organisms. This is the largest area of the sump system. It houses aquarium plants and live rock that naturally filter and provide healthy algae for the tank inhabitants. They can even be used to acclimate new tank mates.
