Filtration For Planted Tank

[viperbot]

I read here that activated carbon is a no no in a planted tank setup. Is this true and if so why? Should I use peat instead along with the usual media. Its a 30 gal setup with tiger barbs and planning on planting hardy plants with no special requirements as im new to planted tanks.

 

[msjinkzd]

You don't need to use peat if you are going to go low light low tech. The carbon is not usually used in a planted tank as it will remove any dosed fertilizers and absorb organics that the plants use for growth.

 

[mgamer20o0]

also minerals in the water. no need for peat also like msj said. i run mostly sponges in my filters in my planted tanks.

 

[Adhlc]

Same here, I run nothing but mechanical and biological filtration in a Rena canister filter on my planted.

 

[jcardona1]

x4. in fact, ive never used carbon in any tank, ever.

 

[Pharaoh]

x4. in fact, ive never used carbon in any tank, ever.

x5, +2

 

[msjinkzd]

lolol

 

[viperbot]

Thats grand, thanks for the heads up guys...out it comes.

 

[MadRussian79]

Same here, haven't used carbon in years. I use peat, plus mechanical and biological filtration.

 

[barbarossa4122]

I have 2 (30g and 55g) goldfish planted tanks and always used carbon. My plants need trimming every month. I also use ferts.