Activated Carbon In A Planted Tank

[chrisdoesntmiss]

Just wondering what are the views on activated carbon in an aquarium and if detrimental to plant growth what other methods can be used to remove the phenols and other waste.

Also peoples views on expensive vs diy C02

Thanks

 

[Alex_]

I personal don't use carbon in my filteration just becasue it's purpose is to take out liqiud waste, which will take out any ferts you may be adding. I use filter floss instead, i put about a hand full of it in both of my aquaclears 50s and change it out every other day or when it turns brownish black. filter floss is really cheap and goes along way i think a 7oz bag costs me 5-7 dollars and lasted me about 4 mouths.
For the co2 though how bigg is your tank??? anything above 55 gallons i would go ago and get a pressurized co2 system instead of a suger yeast base unit.

 

[The-Wolf]

IME carbon absorbs many of the micro/macro nutrients and humic acids that plants need for healthy growing.

many of the planted tank gurus recomend not to use carbon in a planted tank

 

[crazie.eddie]

Planted or not, carbon isn't necessary unless you're trying to remove meds. Just as long as the person maintains the tank well.

Regarding the CO2...Expensive CO2, aka pressurize CO2 vs DIY CO2...It's easier to control the amount of CO2 with pressurized CO2. Plus, pressurized CO2 will make more sense with tanks, probably about 40 gallons and higher.

 

[Themuleous]

Have a read of the link in my sig, you'll be surprised the effect carbon has.

Sam

 

[SNAIL]

I don't use activated carbon for the same reasons as the others.
Using plants to remove liquid waste combined with water changes is your best choice,
that is if you have a planted tank.

A pressurized CO2 system gives you a stable level and is good for large tanks.
In a small tank, DIY is good but again, pressurized gives a stable level.