Some questions about filtration.

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
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fishkeeper4244

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Jan 20, 2011
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Atlanta, Georgia
i noticed that in those overpriced filter packets at petco all it is is a bag of activated carbon. so my question is what is activated carbon and what does it do for your tank?
Another question i have is about ultra violet light. i heard it sterilizes your water and people run their water under it as part of their filtration setup. i would like to know if this is true and if i should include it in my DIY filter plans. thanks :headbang2
 
Carbon filters by absorption and adsorption...... chemical filtration. I use part time on my tanks as a safety net for bio and mechanical filtration. Carbon absorbs things like dissolved organics,tannins,medications, aerosol sprays, soap residue, etc. It's a great addition to a well functioning filter setup but avoid overusing it. It can delpeat o2 levels in large doses and it can strip water of trace elements....and even tough some claim to not leech things back into the water I think all of them can once their absorption ability is exhausted.... If you do use it, change it every couple of weeks
 
It has a highly porous surface area......

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Activated_carbon

As far as uv, I personally thinks it's overkill for most systems. Alot of reefers use it... An ultraviolet bulb is used to kill micro-organisms in the water column...... to me, an expensive solution to a good water change schedule.....

If you don't qt fish and or have sensitive species I could possibly see a benefit, but for most well-kept tanks it's overkill.... IMO
 
Everything carbon does for running in a tank on a regular basis I think Seachem Purigen does better IME. Carbon is good to keep on hand for removing meds, I wouldn't run it regularly. Purigen can also be used over and over by treating it, so it's a lot more economical than carbon. You do not need chemical media for a healthy tank though.

UVs, at a low enough flow rate, kills free floating parasites, algae, etc. Also can make your water clearer. If you've got extra money I think they're a great add on. No real downside to using one.
 
I never use carbon.
 
thanks guys that helps. i am making a filter DIY setup for my future 2-300 gallon. :)
i planned to post a vid of my new pleco last night but didnt get to it, i will have the vid up today before i go to the store to get my new Bichir.
 
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