Citric Acid

[ksed]

I was wondering if citric acid could be used as a carbon source? I believe it sits more along the lines of semi- refractory compared to vinegar which is more labile.
From my understanding, if nutrients are not high then a semi refractory carbon source may be more suited as it take longer to breakdown.

 

[Dan_P]

I was wondering if citric acid could be used as a carbon source? I believe it sits more along the lines of semi- refractory compared to vinegar which is more labile.
From my understanding, if nutrients are not high then a semi refractory carbon source may be more suited as it take longer to breakdown.

Are you quoting a study of bacteria growth comparing acetic acid to citric acid as a carbon source?

 

[ksed]

No! Is there such study?

 

[Dan_P]

No! Is there such study?

I only did a quick search for a feel for what I could easily find with Google on the subject. I found that some bacteria assimilate it, some do not, that it is used as a bacteria growth inhibitor at higher levels, and it can chelate metals which in turn might interfere with bacterial growth. So, a mixed bag of information.

The easiest thing to try is to measure the biological oxygen demand (BOD) of a sample of tank water spiked with vinegar and compare that to the BOD of aquarium water spiked with citric acid. This would show it being a refractory carbon source if the tank water BOD was much lower with citric acid.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I was wondering if citric acid could be used as a carbon source? I believe it sits more along the lines of semi- refractory compared to vinegar which is more labile.
From my understanding, if nutrients are not high then a semi refractory carbon source may be more suited as it take longer to breakdown.

why is slower consumption desirable?

 

[ksed]

why is slower consumption desirable?

May I send a PM?