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As you probably know, during the nitrogen cycle ammonia gets converted into nitrite and that into nitrate. Unfortunately, the nitrates stay in the aquarium water until you change the water, and they are toxic to fish in large amounts. In some areas, even water changes will not solve the problem, because some tap water has a lot of nitrates in it. So, there is a device that removes nitrate from water. It's not designed to eliminate water changes, but rather to help the fish have less stress.
There are two types of bacteria, aerobic and anaerobic. The bacteria that convert ammonia into nitrite and nitrite into nitrate are aerobic, and that means that they need oxygen. However, there is a type of bacteria that converts nitrate into nitrogen gas, which then escapes into the atmosphere. Unfortunately, it's anaerobic, so it can't live in the presence of oxygen, and that's why it doesn't exist in regular biological filters. However, denitrators create anaerobic conditions which permit the bacteria to live and work. Most of these devices cost $100-200. Nevertheless, I have made one which costs about five bucks, and seems to work pretty well.
For this device, you need a power filter, which can be also used as a filter. In other words, the device doesn't hog up the filter. You also need some place to put the device where it's dark, such as a box or the bottom of a cabinet. The only other thing you need is 25 feet of 3/8 to 1/2 inch tubing. Roll the tubing up, but let both ends stick out. The ends should be long enough to reach to the aquarium, and an extra foot or so. Take the roll and put it into the box or cabinet, letting the ends stick out. Put one end into the output of the power filter, and make sure that it wont fall out. Then, suck a bit on the other end, to start the siphon. As the siphon starts, the tube should fill with water. Once that is done, lower the end of the tube until the water level is around the end of the tube, and plug it with your finger. Stick it into the aquarium, and let go. Then tape it, rubber band it, etc. to the edge of the aquarium, making sure that the end is either in the water, or just above it. If the end is just above the water, you should see the water flowing. Then, give it some time. It should take about a month for the bacteria to grow on the filter, but in a month, you should see a real drop in your nitrate levels. Remember to still do water changes, because nitrates are not the only bad things in old water.
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