Sand filter bio filtration Question?

[Ramesh]

I have been reading a few threads arguing the need for special biomedia vs the need for a suitable amount area in your tank/system for bacterial colonisation that will handle your tanks bioload.
This made me think about whether my sand filter while great for mechanical filtration can also once suffiently cycled also act as a biofilter.
I am tossing up whether to buy another FX5 or another sand filter like I have on my 500g.
If surface area is need for bacterial colonisation then the sand filter should do the job hands down over any canister and bio media.
Any opinions on my reasoning??

 

[JakeH]

I've heard a lot of good things about using sand filters. Thats what I plan to use on my big tank...

 

[Ramesh]

I use one on my 500g but I am not to sure of it's bio capacity as I have been told they are primarily for mechanical filtration.
I have about 10kg of sand inside it and want to know if is in effect also a big biological filter?
Any ideas??

 

[hybridtheoryd16]

A sand filter that has been in use long enough to grow bacteria is definetly a bio filter as well.

Bio-bacteria will grow on every surface that is in the water system,
sand
gravel
filter sponges
filter floss
filter pads
plants
drift wood
rocks
glass
acrylic
silicone
etc
etc

The only difference between true bio media and mechanical media. Is that the mechanical media's commonly used are washed out on a regular basis which will limit the bacterial growth on them. And bio media are allmost never washed out. So the bacteria colony can grow and consume the entire are of the media and go unharmed.

So with a sand filter. The media (sand) is never washed out only back flushed with aquarium water. So there for they are an ideal area for bacteria to populate.

I can not think of any reason not to get another sand filter.

 

[Ramesh]

I think your right especially when compared to an FX5 which I think are good filters but the sand filter is only $100 more.