Abstract: A method and an apparatus for separating bodies from a liquid in which the liquid is passed through a filter and the bodies to be separated are accumulated on the filter. The filter forms an upper bounding limit of a space therebeneath which is alternately subjected to pressure and vacuum relative to the ambient region above the filter. This is achieved according to one embodiment by producing a reciprocal movement of the filter in the form of an oscillating or pendular movement. The pressurization in the space produces separation of the bodies accumulated on the upper surface of the filter to facilitate their discharge from the filter. The separated bodies can be assisted for discharge by mechanical elements and/or by producing wave motion in the liquid.