Molasses in Filtration?

[JK47]

While watching one of my favorite shows yesterday (How It's Made) they did a snip on caviar production. I'll post a link to the video below.

They add molasses to the filtration to aid the benificial bacteria in filtration. What is the concept/math behind this? Similar to sugars in alcohol for anaerobic bacteria?

Link:
http://youtu.be/qj75FbpcvUA

 

[tlindsey]

Wow ! That was very interesting, thanks for sharing.

 

[smarties]

Similar question was posted here:
http://www.koianswers.com/discussion/2033/molasses-in-bio-filter/p1


Sent from my iPhone using MonsterAquariaNetwork app

 

[rodger]

It is added as a carbon source to help denitrification. I have been doing a lot of research on this. Salt guys dose with alcohol directly to the tank and I have also read about using vinegar. All of my research indicates in fresh it is only done with a separate unit for the process as normally denitrification is only done in anoxic conditions. Molasses will discolor the water so would not be acceptable for us that want clear water. I am still up in the air in this matter. I have major nitrate issues and hate changing 2-300% water changes in a week. Duanes on here, I believe, has some first hand experience in this from being in the aquaculture industry.

 

[Redearsunfish]

Yes, i believe it has to do with the bacteria eating the sugars in a anaerobic environment, to de-nitrate.