Activated Carbon

[newfishaddict]

Do you use Activated Carbon for your planted tanks? I have asked this question before but didnt get many responses.

I am concerned about micronutrients being removed that the plants could use. I have read that activated carbon has a greater afinity for organic molecules than metals (Iron is my main concern)...

Do weekly water changes eliminate the need for carbon?

In my 55g I have an "oil slick" on the surface , I have wondered if this is due to me not using activated carbon....I do remove this my skimming occationally.

Cheers

 

[smithrc]

Firstly - I believe you are correct in thinking it will remove any ferts you add (not sure to what extent) but I've never used it.

The film is caused by decomposing organic matter and is nothing to worry about.

 

[zig]

Do weekly water changes eliminate the need for carbon?


Cheers

Weekly or regular water changes stop the excessive buildup of nutrients in a planted tank mainly nitrate and phosphate we dont use carbon as it can remove some trace elements from the water that plants may find benificial.