ABSORBTION
The process by which a filter media traps unwanted molecules.
ACCLIMATIZATION
Gradual introduction of new fish to an aquarium by equalizing the temperature and chemical parameters of their container water with that of the tank. Minimizes Stress.
ACIDIC
Water with a pH less than 7.
ACRYLIC
A plastic material used to construct fish tanks, filters and accessories.
ACTINIC
A type of fluorescent bulb that gives off blue colored light often used in marine aquaria to make corals appear to glow with brilliant colors and to give the tank a ""deep ocean"" feel to it.
ACTIVATED CARBON
A Filter Medium used to remove organic contaminants or residual medications from aquarium water. If used it must be renewed at regular intervals.
ADIPOSE FIN
A small fleshy fin located behind the dorsal fin in some fishes, e.g. certain Characins.
ADSORPTION
The process by which filter media attracts unwanted molecules to its surface via a chemical charge.
ADVENTIOUS ROOT
A root which develops from the node of a stem or similar organ, such as a Rhizome, Stolan or runner.
AEROBIC
Existing or active in the presence of free oxygen.
AGA
All-Glass Aquarium, Aquarium manufacturer
AIPTASIA
Aiptasia are small light brown anemones of the species A. pallida and A. pulchella. The anemones are typically less than 1.5" long and frequently much smaller. They are semi-transparent, hence the common name of Glass Anemone. They are photosynthetic, but will eat things that are small enough for them to catch.
AIR LIFT
A type of non-traumatic pump used here in the facility is an airlift pump, the Water Blower. Pressurized air is pumped to the bottom of a well that contains a long pipe. Air bubbles rise up the pipe, driving water up and into distribution boxes built high above our systems.
AIRSTONE
A device that attaches to an air pump to create various bubble effects.
ALGAE
Plant-like organisms which grow in water and attach themselves to aquarium glass, plants, rocks, decorations, etc. There are many types of Algae. An overgrowth of algae is generally considered unsightly and a nuisance (but see Aufwuchs) and can create water quality problems. Always present in water, their growth is stimulated by excessive nutrients (overfeeding fish and / or phosphates).
ALGAL BLOOM
An explosive growth of Algae which discolors the water and can lead to oxygen depletion.
ALGAE SCREEN
A double layer of stitched nylon screen used as a medium to support algae.
ALGAE TURF SCRUBBER (ATS)
A layer of screen material used to support algal growth.
ALIMENTARY CANAL
The tube of the digestive system through which food passes, where digestion takes place.
ALKALINE
Water with a pH between 7 and 14. Also known as Basic.
ALKALINITY (ALK)
The ability of water to maintain a stable pH. Controlled by the amount of carbonate ions present in the water. Also called Buffering Capacity. See KH.
AMMONIA (NH3)
An extremely toxic byproduct of fish metabolism and the decay of organic materials. In a fully Cycled tank the ammonia is totally converted to Nitrites and eventually Nitrates by the Bio-Filter.
AMMONIUM (NH4)
ANADROMOUS
A fish that is born in fresh water then migrates to a brackish or full salt environment as it grows. Compare Catadromous.
ANAEROBIC
Existing or active in the absence of free oxygen.
ANAL FIN
Single fin mounted vertically below the fish.
ANOXIC
Low Oxygen.
APICAL BUD
The principal growing point of the stem.
ARAGONITE
A form of calcium carbonate which constitutes the shells of corals and other marine creatures. Crushed Aragonite sand is sometimes used as a Substrate when it is desired to raise the pH/Hardness of the tank water above its natural level, e.g. for African Lake Cichlids or salt water.
ARCHIMEDES SCREW PUMP
This is one type of non-traumatic pump. Internal fins, located within the spinning tubes, are twisted in a screw-like pattern. Turning slowly, they carrying the water gently up through the pump housing without damaging the planktonic life within the water.
ARTEMIA
See BBS.
ASTAXANTHIN
Carotenoid pigment supplement and antioxidant added to many foods to enhance reds, oranges, and yellows in fish. May be purchased already added to foods or separately as a powder additive.
AUFWUCHS
A German term that is used to refer to Algae growing on rocks, driftwood, etc. If not excessive it can be decorative and provides food for some types of fish and Inverts.
AUTOMATIC TOP-OFF SYSTEM (ATO)
A system whereby fresh water is added to the tank or sump to replace evaporation and maintain salinity.
AXILLARY BUD
A bud, capable of developing into a lateral shoot, present in the angle between the stem and a leaf.
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