I know it is funny, that's why I love it. Luckily there is no fish in there, but it seems to work. Can't say how efficient it is, because I've never tested, but the plants are doing well. I can't even explain the parts -- they were just a bunch of parts that I had that came with my powerheads from a now un-used hang on back, wet/dry trickle filter.
I hope this works