An aquarium air pump is a mechanical device that plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy aquatic environment for your fish. Aquarium air pumps pull atmospheric air into airline tubing, which is then passed across an air stone. The atmospheric air is released as bubbles into the aquarium water. These bubbles create disruption at the water surface, increasing gas exchange between atmospheric air and the water column. As the bubbles rise, water is displaced and agitated, allowing some of the air to be transferred into dissolved oxygen. Carbon dioxide and other gases are also displaced and forced to rise with the bubbles, eventually escaping from the aquarium. Oxygenation- Fish rely on dissolved oxygen available in the water column to breathe. Air pumps increase the availability of breathable dissolved oxygen, especially in low-current tanks or heavily stocked aquariums. Preventing Stagnation- Air pumps help displace stagnant water, preventing areas where oxygen levels might become depleted. Even Gas Exchange- Air stones placed at the bottom of the aquarium even out gas exchange within the aquarium water.