CHEAP biological filter media

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
lp85253 said:
drinking straws will work (plastic)...just cut them up , to about an inch long
Click to expand...

1,000 standard plastic drinking straws has a surface area of only ~ 38.8 sq/ft (less than 20 cubic ft). And, the straws have large null points and a high compression rate.
There are way better inexpensive materials that can be used besides drinking straws.
 
But does bio bacteria adhere to all surfaces equally? Personally I wouldn't think so. It would be interesting to run two bio towers side by side and compare various media, one such as Duane has set up with lava rock, and one with nylon surfaces such as pot scrubbies. I'm actually quite shocked to see lava rock listed with such a low amount of surface area, as I always assumed that it would be an ideal media if it was prefiltered to prevent clogging. Thanks for posting that chart, Phil.
 
Oddball said:
1,000 standard plastic drinking straws has a surface area of only ~ 38.8 sq/ft (less than 20 cubic ft). And, the straws have large null points and a high compression rate.
There are way better inexpensive materials that can be used besides drinking straws.
Click to expand...
true ...but it is an option for those who wish to spend next to nothing to get something in return...they do work...if a guy can't access better options....my personal preference is lots of aqua clear sponges cut to size(except in canisters) , and forget all the expensive crap
 
Last edited:
I understand what you're saying. IMO, if someone is trying to justify a cost savings between $10 in straws and $30 in scrubbing pads then, they need to find another hobby that won't be so grueling on their checkbook.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Red_Man
20 bucks gets you 9 liters of growstones. they have an insane surface area and are very lightweight
 
Oddball said:
I understand what you're saying. IMO, if someone is trying to justify a cost savings between $10 in straws and $30 in scrubbing pads then, they need to find another hobby that won't be so grueling on their checkbook.
Click to expand...
That is certainly AN opinion...just not one I share...peace
 
Seachem Pond Matrix is dirt cheap and very effective. Its a nice happy medium to the super expensive Eheim, Siporax and Marine Pure media.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
MonsterFishKeepers.com
Top Bottom