Glossary

Ammonia - A small and toxic chemical that is the byproduct of converting proteins into energy.

Ammonia Oxidation - The process by which ammonia is used in a chemical reaction to be changed into nitrite and nitrate. SEE Nitrogen Cycle

Bioload - the total amount of waste produced by all living organisms in an aquarium—primarily from fish, invertebrates, and uneaten food. A higher bioload means more ammonia, which puts greater demand on your filtration system and beneficial bacteria. Managing bioload is key to maintaining stable water parameters and a healthy tank environment.

Biological Filtration - Filtering that covers the biological processes. Ammonia oxidation is a good example of one of the functions biological filtration. There are many more functions of the biological side of filtration, but it is the most important for keeping fish alive. 

CUC - Clean Up Crew abbreviated. Refers to animals kept to keep a tank free of debris and excess food. Think snails, crabs and other detritivores. 

Filter Media - The stuff that goes into the filter that provides space for microbes and chemical reactions to happen. SEE PAGE Filter Media 

Inverts - Invertebrates. Any animal that does not have a central spine. Think shrimp, snails and corals

Mechanical Filtration - Filtering meant to take particles out of the water. This is achieved by using a much finer and replaceable/cleanable media.

Nitrogen Cycle - Term used to refer to the biological processes that use and change nitrogenous compounds from one into another. In the aquarium, the focus is mainly on ammonia, nitrite and nitrate.

Reef Safe - Attribute given to animals that will cohabitate with sessile invertebrates (corals) without any problems. Reef Safe with Caution describes fish that may or may not pick at corals depending on individual behavior and food availability.

Sump - Secondary tank used for filtration. Usually positioned underneath the main tank. SEE PAGE Types of Filters