Biological Filtration Options

Punchanello · Nov 1, 2017

Hi all,

I'm in the final stages of researching and planning my reef tank and needed some advice. I've read many of the threads on biological filtration, marine pure and some related topics. Here's my admittedly low level dilemma -

I'm planning an aquascape with minimal rock. I intended to use a manufactured rock product to avoid hitch-hikers (I'm cautious like that).

I'm wondering if the use of manufactured rock in smaller quantities will affect the system's capacity to house bacteria for denitrification)? It it does I was looking at products like Marine Pure but would prefer to avoid some of the unanswered questions about aluminium. Can people suggest alternative methods/products that have been reliable?

Thanks in advance for your wisdom!

cgdcinc · Nov 1, 2017

I really like Seachems Pond Matrix. I put it in a bag in my sump. There are many ways you can utilize it. It will help replace what you may be lacking in rock in the display. I have 4 tanks two of which are heavily stocked fresh water tanks. 2 are Reef tanks and they are both light on rock in my display. I’ve never struggled with ammonia or nitrates. Research it a bit and see what you think.

Randy Holmes-Farley · Nov 2, 2017

I’m not sure if such media is needed or not, but there are a number of brands available that will do the trick.

Gablami · Nov 2, 2017

I started with reef rock, and yes I do believe that if you do a minimal aquascape that you should add something more porous in your sump to house bacteria. It can help control your nitrates (though these days there are many other ways to reduce nitrates).

Try drilling, cutting or chiseling the artificial rock. It is solid! With pukani or other natural rock, you can almost use coral clippers to cut through it.

I added a big block of marine pure, but then switched to stacked siporax. They don't take up much space but give you a huge amount of surface area for your biologic filter.

If I were to start over I wouldn't go with reef rock. Get dry pukani or something like that, cure it (many threads on how to do that) and use that. No marine pests can survive if the rock is thoroughly dried.