Nutrients reducing combo?

kevensquint · Jun 6, 2015

Hi, there is a 250 mixed that no matter what I do NO3 and PO4 stay somewhat elevated. In the past months with a bio-pellet reactor, GFO reactor, large water changes and a huge skimmer. NO3 went from 50 ppm to 25ppm. PO4 dropped from 1.17ppm to 0.66 ppm. But it is a battle to keep those levels. I now ask, since I have heard good reviews on NOPOX, would adding this product to the current solutions help further? Cause a problem? Or likely not do anything? Thanks

Downbeach · Jun 6, 2015

How long have you been running the BP's? They can take 6 to 8 weeks to fully colonize. NOPOX is just another form of carbon dosing.

kevensquint · Jun 6, 2015

The pellets are at about 10 weeks now. This tank is set up to be a nutrient factory with lots of fish and a 3" crushed coral bottom ( yikes). But I'm trying to help the guy out. I understand NOPOX is just carbon dosing, but I guess what I'm wondering is if by adding a variety of carbon sources, will nutrients be reduced more aggressively, or will it provok another problem?

Downbeach · Jun 6, 2015

Ultimately, I think its best to either use the pellets or a liquid source, i.e. NOPOX, Vodka, Vinegar, etc. I know of a couple circumstances where a liquid carbon source used in conjunction with pellets, caused the pellets to form a heavy mulm, ultimately blocking the flow through the reactor, and causing hydogen sulfide to develop. I think, at least in part, your problem is that 3" crushed coral substrate. Does it ever get cleaned?

Randy Holmes-Farley · Jun 6, 2015

NOPOX is primarily a mixture of vinegar and vodka. I don't see a reason to pay for the commercial brand.

kevensquint · Jun 6, 2015

I see, I suggested to the fella to vacuum it out at each WC until its gone and leave bare. Or a thin layer of sand but he doesn't want the bother. I certainly don't want to suggest anything to him that will cause a huge bacteria bloom. So I guess it will just stay as-is.