I have always used activated carbon in my filters. I found it useful for removing tannins and dicoloration. Two weeks ago i removed alll the carbon from both of my canister filters and replaced it with bio cubes(biomax) so now all i have is different grades of mechanical sponges and bio cubes in the filters. Anyway, i have not noticed any difference in the apperance of the water, even with the same amount of malaysian wood in it. so my question: is activated carbon a must? and what are the real pro's and cons to it????? i've always wondered if i really needed it. and without it, will my fish be harmed in any way????
