Are Bacteria Visible

[pkppv]

Ive had some filter issues over the last 2 days and had to do some serious taking apart and cleaning of filters. All the while i have been scared about killing my bacteria. I used warm tap water, but before you kill me, know that my tap water is completely chlorine free, as I live in the middle of nowhere. This brought a question to my mind. The filters and media were awfully brown, is that bacteria or just gunk? Theres still brown on them, i just got off all the solid waste.

 

[Noahs ark6]

when you clean the filter you should gently squeeze it in the bucket of dirty tank water to get the particulate debris of the sponge, but the sponge should still be brown after you've cleaned it

 

[Fintastic!]

I've been asked this before and I was told the brown stuff is indeed the beneficial bacteria. I'm sure someone with more knowledge will correct me if that's wrong.

 

[mike455555]

its junk from the tank. although it probably does contain bacteria as well, its best to clean it... or your flow in the filter will slow down and not as much bacteria will get oxygen/other stuff they need

 

[MBOU]

You cant see the bacteria

The brown is the gunk from the tank, yes there is beneficial bacteria there... no... humans cant see it with our feeble eyeballs.

 

[pkppv]

wish i could see it, then it would be easier to keep track of!

 

[CezzaXV]

You 100% sure it's chlorine free? Unless you're getting your water from a well, I'd be doubtful.

 

[pkppv]

yes my water is from a well, and ive tested it many times. Lucky me!