Marinepure vs sponge

shoelaceike · Aug 22, 2017

What's the difference between a marinepure block and a sponge? Why is one considered a nitrate factory and the other isn't?

tdileo · Aug 22, 2017

Marinepure has a ton of surface area. More SA= more beneficial bacteria. I rinse my prefilter sponge for my overflow like twice a week and its just fine

shoelaceike · Aug 22, 2017

Sponges also have a ton of surface area.

saltyfilmfolks · Aug 22, 2017

In theory a marine pure can actually have the same problems. But generally how they are used is different. A sponge is placed in a high flow area with water going through it, a mechanical filter straining large particles, thus high organic build up.

A marine pure is generally set in the bottom of the sump with passive flow around it, reducing build up of organics. If the the organics are high and allowed to build up, it to will become a source of nutrients.

My .02 anyway.

shoelaceike · Aug 22, 2017

So pretty much if I were to put a sponge in a low flow area it will be just as good?

saltyfilmfolks · Aug 22, 2017

Eh, dunno. I've never done it.

Personally , I'd use a piece live rock. Rock is cool.

I kinda have a collection in the sump. For that dream tank.

Big G · Aug 22, 2017

I keep a "sponge" filter in my sump at all times incase I need to setup a hospital tank, etc. I keep it in the section with my return pump. That being said, I keep a Marinepure 8 x 8 plate in the center of my sump with the chaeto. Works pretty well at keeping nitrates down. I like'm both.