does cryptic zones produce plankton

[shrimphead]

Hi I've heard some people talking about cryptic zones in our aquarium and how they can be good for filtration but in terms of producing plankton/food for our tanks are they good for this or bad. I ask because the animals that usually thrive in these areas are thing like sponges and fan worms which I would imagine would be feeding off of the plankton produced in our aquariums but do they give much back? It does seem you see a lot of pods in low flowing areas. I'm guessing it takes and gives off plankton but overall do you guys think these zones give more or take away in terms of food for our tanks?

 

[Timfish]

Yes, cryptic zones are good places to grow many sponges and tunicates but there are a lot of 'pods that will grow in those areas also.

 

[shrimphead]

yes ok, but what i'm interested in is if these filter feeding animals that live in these areas are taking away more food than they are putting in if you know what i'm saying

 

[muttley000]

If I remember what I read on the subject a few years ago correctly, the thought is that they will use up some of the smallest waste particles, and provide you live plankton in return. These zones take a long time to mature into a meaningful part of your filtration and feeding strategy, but in my opinion are worthwhile. Search Steve Tyree who literally wrote the book on the subject and has shared his findings here and all over the web.

 

[dryworm]

http://www.coralscience.org/main/articles/climate-a-ecology-16/reef-sponge-recycling

 

[shrimphead]

thanks for the link.