Do I need filter media? Do I have it already?? How does it work???

[Ophy]

Hi all! I had a question about filter media. I know they're basically something that has a lot of surface area for good bacteria to grow on, and there are what feels like a billion different options.

The question is- do I need some, and if I do, where does it go??

I have a Tetra whisper hob filter with the carbon cartidge, the bio grid thing and a piece of organic sponge in the back reservoir area. Also some more bits of carbon and sponge in a filter media bag in the intake cage thingy.

 

[GaryE]

We have a few members with no filter tanks, but that's a specialized approach for new hobbyists. I prefer filtering my tanks.

The media can almost always be modified. A good piece of cut to fit wide pored sponge can replace the cartridges, and with an occasional squeeze out in water you've removed it's good for about 10 years. I find the easiest sort to get is aquaclear sponges. A good pair of scissors, and you're set.

 

[Ed Pursell]

Get rid of the Carbon, add a small layer of filter floss after the sponge filter, and maybe bio balls/media. Check which way this filter does the filter action, first should be the sponge, next some floss for finer partials , bio stuff on top…. Like Gary said, the first layer should last forever, squeeze and put it back in. I like floss, a little over the sponge, filters a little more small particles.
Ed