So years a ago I switched my bio media in my xp2 to bio balls thinking it was better than the bio media that came with the filter. But after reading a bit on here I have seen that apparently bio balls work better in an "open air system" like a sump? Would it be better for me to switch to pond matrix like I have in my other filter? Or at this point will it really not matter?
Bio balls vs. pond matrix?
- Thread starter rrcoolj
- Start date
KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid)
If the bioballs are working for you (in housing all the benefical bacteria), I don't see any point in changing.
If the bioballs are working for you (in housing all the benefical bacteria), I don't see any point in changing.
I think the bio balls perform just as well as the bio matrix in the filter. I believe the bio matrix would perform just as well as the bio balls in a sump.
If your tank does not seem affected by the inefficiency of submerged bio balls then no you need to change nothing. Personally I would use the bio media that is designed to work most efficient for the type of filter. If more people would do this, they would find there is no reason to run 5,6,or 7 filters on a single tank.
Can you go into more detail please, trying to learn. I can't afford to run 5 or 6 filters. lol
Regardless of the fact one may be better suited for an application, if you have no water quality issues, I wouldnt worry about it too much. Although, you may be limiting your bioload by using a less effecient type of media. Your filter will certainly handle a larger load with the right media.........in theory
I agree, I wouldn't change it if it is working, however I just finished reading the article An empirical approach to marine aquarium filtration in the Aug issue of TFH and would highly recommend checking it out, learned alot about the different attributes of ceramic and plastic media that apply in fresh or salt which has me rethinking my next set up.
See the thing is it is working for me NOW, but all my fish are only half grown and although I plan to reduce my stock a little the fish will emit a larger bioload when older so would it be worth it to change for a(im assuming) more effecient bio media for a canister(in this case pond matrix) or would it not matter that much.
right now the stock is...
3 cuban cichlids(2-3")
1 pair of midas(Male=6" female=4")
6 silver dollars(3")
My planned stocklist will be...
1 pair of midas(12-14" for males 10-12" for females)
maybe 6 silver dollars(5-6")
or
1 pair of cubans(male 10" female 6-8")
6 silver dollars
right now the stock is...
3 cuban cichlids(2-3")
1 pair of midas(Male=6" female=4")
6 silver dollars(3")
My planned stocklist will be...
1 pair of midas(12-14" for males 10-12" for females)
maybe 6 silver dollars(5-6")
or
1 pair of cubans(male 10" female 6-8")
6 silver dollars