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biofilter and nitrates


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  1. #1
    Registered User
    Join Date
    Jan 2006
    Location
    Montgomery, Al`abama
    Posts
    12

    Default biofilter and nitrates

    In addition to a skimmer in my starter tank, I am also running a bio-wheel filter with a poly filter and carbon pad. I read where these filters generate nitrates, am I better off without them?
    Thanks
    :?:

  2. #2
    Whoyah - Reefkeeper CR Member
    Join Date
    Sep 2004
    Location
    Grants Pass, OR
    Posts
    1,267

    Default

    Probably. With out constant maintenance, it will turn in to a nitrate trap. A skimmer and live rock is all you really need.

  3. #3
    dakar - Reefkeeper CR Member
    Join Date
    Sep 2004
    Location
    NOLA
    Posts
    4,336
    First Name
    Dave

    Default

    If the tank is just cycling now, yes they will ultimately cause more harm than good. You want nitrifying bacteria to colonize your live rock and substrate not a removable filter (they will become nitrate factories), or worse a biowheel that in reality kills as much beneficial bacteria as it helps create. By design the wet/dry will remove ammonia and nitrite but not nitrates, they are best suited for FW tanks. SW the more natural approach results in a far more stable system.

    Removing the filter pads and biowheel and replacing them with a media bag with a bit of carbon to run it passively would be the best option if you are relying on the filter for circulation. Otherwise removing it from the system completely would work too.
    Every electronic device is manufactured with smoke stored deep inside... only a true genius can find a way to set it free.

  4. #4
    Registered User
    Join Date
    Jan 2006
    Location
    Montgomery, Al`abama
    Posts
    12

    Default

    Thanks! It's cycled and running fine with a couple fish and live rock, just seems to keep nitrates high. All other params are great.

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