What's in the water filter?
There are many things. Biological filtration systems should include ceramic rings (glass rings) and biochemical cotton (or other mediums)
Different media can be added according to process requirements. Quartz sand is used to remove suspended particulate matter in water, and to improve the temperature of the effluent. Activated carbon: used to remove color, flavor, residual chlorine and organic matter.
The filter cotton may also include activated carbon that removes color and odor in water. There are also plant filters that use plant filters.