Filter Media Question

[modaz]

if i collect my own filter media from when i change my filters, how long do you reckon it will be ok for in a sealed plastic bag? i pressume that it would go a bit on the YUK side, or am i best to set my spare tank and keep it in there for the time being until i need it for it purpose.

 

[archamfr]

do you mean as mature filter media? the bacteria will die off in minutes once in the air.
if you mean just the actual filtration it will be ok for a few days.. setting up ya spare tank would be the best idea.

 

[modaz]

yeah meant the the actual filteration, sorry, thanx

 

[rdd1952]

If you keep it wet, the bacteria will last a couple days but without a food supply, they will die off. There's really no need to save filter media. If you run into a situation where you need cycled filter material, you can easily remove up to half of the media from your existing tank and use it. The bacteria in the existing tank will double and replenish itself in about 24 hours and you will have added a large seed bacteria colony into the new tank.