Bio Pellet Reactor Question

[Raptor72]

I'm running a Two Little Fishies Phosban Reactor with Biopellets. The specs state that is will run with the following: "Recommended flow rate: 20-30 gph for 130 grams PhosBan, 30-40 gph for 200 grams". I'm running it with a Mag 3 which has a flow of 350 gph at a 1 ft. depth. I'm getting a weak turnover on the biopellets and can't figure out why. I can re plumb my main return pump to also also run the reactor, but since I already have this set up like this, I don't want to change any of my main plumbing. I only have about 2 inches of pellets in there, however many grams that may be. The specs state it can run with "Normal operation with 130 grams (250ml) to 200 grams (385 ml) of PhosBan, filling up to 1/2 the column".

Any ideas or recommendations to get a better turnover?

 

[ebacon]

When it comes to bio pellets you only need a tablespoon or two at a time with lots of flow otherwise they clump and sour easily


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[Raptor72]

Let's say you're right. I'm trying to figure out if I should switch to Phosban seeing as how the pellets don't appear to be making much of a difference on the GHA problem.

 

[downbeach]

Did you remove the sponges and replace with plastic mesh?

 

[shananagans]

I used way above the recommended flow and they still clumped. Not sure how long they have been using them, but you may not see results right away. I have seen tanks use pellets with great success and other have major crashes. One thing I do know is long term clumping will crash the tank, and that's why I ditched them. I could not keep them moving well, if you can keep them moving you should be good.

 

[brettinteriors]

Bio pellets/carbon dosing doesnt replace gfo and is really a better nitrate solution. Most people including my self find it to not have as much effect on phosphate. Carbon dosing can cause some GHA. If your No3 is OK I would switch to gfo/(phosban).

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[Raptor72]

Did you remove the sponges and replace with plastic mesh?

Yes, I've been running it for about 4-5 months.

Bio pellets/carbon dosing doesnt replace gfo and is really a better nitrate solution. Most people including my self find it to not have as much effect on phosphate. Carbon dosing can cause some GHA. If your No3 is OK I would switch to gfo/(phosban).



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I'm debating whether to run GFO or just stay away from any type of artificial remedy. I'm not sure if this sea hare will be able to do much at the stage that this GHA is at. Someone has recommended that I use some form of chemical algae remover also.