Is carbon really necessary?

[shelbyzman]

I have a canister filter (404) and was wondering if I should take out the two trays that have carbon since I never change out for new carbon.
I thought about adding some more bio filtration in place of the carbon.
Will my water not be clear without carbon? I figured as long as my tank has bio and mechanical filtration and I do regular water changes...carbon isn't necessary. Correct me if I'm wrong

 

[Columbian Shark Catfish]

carbon = goodness

 

[haynchinook334]

carbon is not necessary, as long as you keep up with water changes you'll be good.

 

[fishkeeper25]

many say you dont need carbon i use it once and a while whenever i have money to spend i buy carbon but i dont find it necesary

 

[ewurm]

It removes tannins and medications, but that's about it.

 

[Nic]

because of how often it needs to be replaced in a canister its not worth it... i wouldnt waste my money on it save it and buy another fish

 

[shelbyzman]

thanks for the responses

I will probably end up getting me some more bio rings to take the spot of the carbon.

 

[Pharaoh]

The only time I use carbon is when i am removing medication from my water, which is never.

Now, if we're talking about granulated activated cabon, then I use it every day to remove chlorine and chloramines from my water.

 

[siebertn]

carbon is good when you want to get your water nice and "sparkling" but it only last for a couple of days.I love using carbon.

 

[siebertn]

oh and yes as far as i know you don't need to use it on your tank