Oxygen (O2) is the basis of all life – even underwater. But while we often spend hours dealing with nitrate levels, pH values, or perfect fertilization, oxygen saturation often fades into the background. Yet, especially shrimp and crayfish are extremely sensitive when the air in the tank becomes "thin."
In this article, you will learn why your aquarium can become an oxygen trap at night and why the Söchting Oxydator is one of the smartest accessories in aquaristics.
The Oxygen Trap: Why it becomes dangerous at night
Many beginners believe: "I have many plants, so I have a lot of oxygen." That's true – but only half of it.
The Principle of Photosynthesis vs. Respiration
During the day, plants produce oxygen under the influence of light. But as soon as the light goes out, the process changes.
- Daytime: Plants perform photosynthesis and release oxygen into the water.
- Nighttime: Without light, plants no longer produce oxygen. Instead, they consume it, just like your fish, shrimp, and – often forgotten – the billions of filter bacteria.
The result: In the early morning hours, just before the light comes on, the oxygen level reaches its lowest point. If high temperatures, which allow less gas binding, or a high germ density are added, it can become critical for invertebrates.
Why Invertebrates are Oxygen Junkies
Shrimp and crayfish have a different physiology than fish. Their oxygen-binding protein in the blood, hemocyanin, is less efficient than our hemoglobin.
- Molting Stress: During molting, metabolism is in high gear. Oxygen deficiency immediately leads to failed molts.
- Bacterial Breakdown: Your filter bacteria need enormous amounts of O2 to break down pollutants like ammonia and nitrite. If the oxygen level drops, filter performance collapses and toxins accumulate.
The Söchting Oxydator: The Revolution in Oxygen Supply
Normally, aquarists use air stones, air pumps, or strong surface movement. This can work, but it has disadvantages: It expels valuable CO2 that your plants need to grow, and it is often noisy.
This is where the Söchting Oxydator comes in. It works completely without electricity, without hoses, and without noise.
How does it work?
The Oxydator uses a chemical reaction. Inside is a solution of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which is split by a special catalyst stone. This produces pure, activated oxygen.
The Advantages over Conventional Air Pumps
| Advantage | What this means in the aquarium |
|---|---|
| Activated Oxygen | The oxygen distributes itself much better in the water than coarse air bubbles and even reaches deeper areas in the substrate. |
| No CO2 Expulsion | Since no gas mixture is swirled through the water, the important plant fertilizer CO2 remains in the water. |
| Pollutant Breakdown | Activated oxygen helps to oxidize pollutants and germs in the water. This ensures a low germ density – ideal for sensitive shrimp species. |
| Emergency Reserve | Should the power go out, the Oxydator simply continues to run. It is a life insurance for your animals in case of technical failure. |
Söchting Oxydator
We are absolute fans of this system, which is why we carry the various sizes – from Mini for nano tanks to size D for large aquariums – permanently in our assortment. It is compact, discreet in design, and requires no maintenance other than occasional refilling of the solution.
Conclusion: Breathe Deeply – and Let Your Animals Do So Too
A stable oxygen supply is the backbone of a healthy aquarium. It protects your animals during the critical night phase, supports filter biology, and prevents diseases. The Söchting Oxydator is an efficient tool to ensure a stable underwater climate silently and without CO2 expulsion.
Give your shrimp and fish that extra portion of "fresh air" – they will thank you with vitality and reproductive joy.
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Söchting Biotechnik GmbH
Söchting Oxydator Mini for up to 60 liters
Regular price 1295 €Unit priceIn stock -
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