Biopellet Questions

[reeferstace]

I have no experience with using Biopellets for nitrate reduction. I would love some guidance... Here are some questions I have so far...

1) Could biopellets be used from the very start of a new tank set-up? Just about every account I have read about concerns addition of biopellet "therapy" on an established tank.

2) What is the typical flow rate through the reactor? I know this is somewhat variable because of different tank sizes, bioloads, etc. Too slow and biofilms can form; too fast decreases contact with the surface area of the pellets. But is there a typical range of flow?

I may think of more questions later but this will help me start my thinking and planning process. I have a new 300 gallon to get going.:fish2:

 

[leslie hempel]

interesting and im also keen to know more...

 

[b_s_c1]

I used biopellets from my old tank to cycle my new tank once I got it set up. I was hopeing that the bacteria from the pellets would help seed the new tank. I used dry rock, about thirty gallons of water from the old tank and the bio pellet reactor. The tank cycled in two weeks, and livestock was added o the beginning of week three with no ill effects. Did the pellets help? I am sure they did and I did not see any bad side effects. As far as flow, I dont know the proper amount but every thing I have read is just enough to keep them at a slow roll, so this is going to be different depending on the type of reactor, and amount of pellets used.

 

[kissman]

I dont see why they cant be used from start up.

as far as flow, I have a Phosban Reactor with a MaxiJet 1200, I also have a ball valve that is about 3/4 way open. There is really no set flow rate you just want all of them to tumble.

 

[reefdreams1]

I have no experience with using Biopellets for nitrate reduction. I would love some guidance... Here are some questions I have so far...

1) Could biopellets be used from the very start of a new tank set-up? Just about every account I have read about concerns addition of biopellet "therapy" on an established tank.

Yes they can, I would only add 25% of the recommended amount and add as your bio load increases.

2) What is the typical flow rate through the reactor? I know this is somewhat variable because of different tank sizes, bioloads, etc. Too slow and biofilms can form; too fast decreases contact with the surface area of the pellets. But is there a typical range of flow?

Depends on what kind you are using, I use the Vertex Pro-Bio pellets and have around 1000 ML in a UF-20 reactor. The flow comes off of my main pump and feeds it. I would say its around 500 GPH, just enough to keep them from sticking together.

I may think of more questions later but this will help me start my thinking and planning process. I have a new 300 gallon to get going.:fish2:

Fire off more questions when you think of them, I like them and will use them from here on out. They have become my friend as I have a huge bio load and can keep my Nitrates below 5.

 

[reeferstace]

Do you think a Marineland 350 Magnum canister filter could be converted for Biopellet use?

 

[Lynnmw1208]

Do you think a Marineland 350 Magnum canister filter could be converted for Biopellet use?

I don't believe so since you really can't see the flow. the biopellets are supposed to be tumbled and a clear container will show you that. they sell them at bulk reef supply. or if you had a gfo reactor from them, you can buy the adapter for the biopellets.