Carbon

[danfrith]

I just put some Carbon in my phosban reactor because I seem to have more luck with it than GFO. So, what does carbon remove from the water? I know it makes the water more clear, but does it remove phosphate and nitrates? Thanks.

 

[tmz]

No it does not remove phosphates or nitrates.
It binds organics some of which are complexed to metals and toxins such as those produced by certain corals to harm neighboring corals(alleopathic compunds). Without export these organic compounds can accumulate and become toxic to the life in the aquarium. Generally a 3 way approach to removing organic compounds is used including: water changes, skimming and gac( activated carbon). The following articles give much more information.

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-10/rhf/index.htm

http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/august2003/chem.htm

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2006-09/rhf/index.php

 

[danfrith]

Thanks Tom.
I had some Carbon in a phosban reactor a few months back and removed it for a little bit. My SPS started to decline and the Cyano went out of control on my live rock. Do you think there's any correlation?

 

[tmz]

Hard to say.Removing the carbon would likely lead to an increase in organics in the water some of which could be harmful. I use carbon continuously.