Filter Media

[rdd1952]

I have seen several threads lately where people say they don't use carbon. If you don't, what do you use in the filter in place of carbon for the bacteria to colonize on (biological filter). I know my Fluvals came with the ceramic rings along with carbon.

 

[George Farmer]

I replaced the supplied carbon in my Fluval 204 external canister with more purchased ceramic rings.

 

[Inchworm]

Hi rdd1952

I don't use carbon, but fill my AquaClears and box filters with filter floss. It's inexpensive, easy to rinse out and lasts just about forever.

 

[Isis_Nebthet]

I use polyester quilt batting on the pond outsiside. I used the same in five gallon bucket filter for the knives and dempsey. Two handfulls from the pond kept up with those guys while they were in the drum. It's probably too high maintenance for most people since it doesn't shake out like most medias made for aquaculture do.

The filter on my 75 community is a combination of ultima 2 and thin white filter mat.

My smaller filters are poly flo.

The one hob I have has what it's had since I bought it (it's running with one of my small canisters in the same tank). I've thought about just dumping the carbon out since it should have been replaced two months ago

 

[Sky042]

Bacteria aren't meant to colonize on the carbon.
In my fluval I have ceramic rings and lots of floss from big als'
Same thing in my cascade.

 

[Inchworm]

I use polyester quilt batting on the pond outsiside. I used the same in five gallon bucket filter for the knives and dempsey. Two handfulls from the pond kept up with those guys while they were in the drum. It's probably too high maintenance for most people since it doesn't shake out like most medias made for aquaculture do.

Actually, 100% polyester fiberfill, the same product used to stuff pillows and toys, is identical to the filter floss sold in the lfs. I've used it myself and even used the quilt batting in a pinch. It works just fine!