Bio-Reactor or Refugium?

[mfinch99]

Curious if anyone had thoughts on using Bio Reactors instead of a refugium. My thoughts are that it could be easier to maintain and constant lighting over my sump would not be necessary if I used Bio Reactors.

Your thoughts are appreciated.

Mike

 

[humbird2003]

I read about it too...interested in hearing folks exp or opinion on them

 

[reef_doug]

Are you guys referring the zeolith type systems (ZEOvit or UltraLith)?

 

[mfinch99]

[No message]

 

[mfinch99]

I was referring specifically to the Tunze Bio-Hydro-Reactor(3179.000). They are used with Tunze Comline filter 3166/3167.

Mike

 

[rvitko]

They aren't really comparable to a refugium. They are basically a bio filter with a denitrating capacity. You need a 3166 filter and while I find that my 3166 cartridge is always crawling with pods it isn't quite the same as a refugium. The 3179 receives a very slow trickle of water and the top portion has aerobes that decompose ammonia and nitrate and after it matures the lower portion is anoxic and reduces nitrate. You can also use them as a mangrove planter.