Activated Carbon

[SPLiSH]

i use it cuz its all ready in the filter media bag

Same here. But since my tank is new and the carbon came with it, when it is ready to be changed I might not buy any more. From what you guys have said, I gather it doesn't do anything special other than remove meds. So I'll only use it when I need to.

 

[Inchworm]

I used carbon for years, until I learned on this forum that it's not necessary.

What I do now, is just fill the chamber in my AquaClears (over the sponge) with filter floss. That's the same thing I use in my box filters. It's inexpensive and lasts for a long time if it is rinsed in used tank water and replaced.

This not only catches a lot more dirt, but provides a lot more area for beneficial bacteria to grow. This helps to increase the amount of fish I can safely keep in the tank.

 

[Rattler71]

I have decided to try it without the carbon. I have a rena xp3 filter. I put the foams in the bottom basket, ceramic rings in the middle, and lava rocks in the topbasket. Above that are 2 micro filters. will see how all this works.


Scott