Media Reactor Questions

[BigEZ77]

Hi All,

I have a new tank (only been up for two weeks), the main question I have is when does it make sense to start using a media reactor on a new tank? I've searched all over and can't seem to find any suggestions about this.

The other question is what media would you suggest using if this were the only reactor you had in a new 45G AIO system...and why? I am leaning towards using biopellets since they seem to kill two birds with one stone (no need for GFO), but I'm open to other options.

Thanks,

Russell

 

[thegrun]

What type of a tank do you plan on keeping? For a mixed reef, yes I would run carbon 24/7 since many corals release toxins in their fight for territory. In our closed systems these toxins can build up to a point of impacting the corals in your tank, carbon will absorb most of those toxins. For other tanks I would run carbon if you are having clarity issues, GFO if your phosphates are elevated.

 

[BigEZ77]

Yes, that would have been a good idea to mention, lol. I plan on keeping inverts, 7 fish, and softies or LPS corals. Being a beginner, I'll be keeping fish and corals that are relatively easy to keep...or "beginner" care as listed on live aquaria

 

[thegrun]

I like to run carbon, some do not. I would not bother to run GFO or biopellets until there is a need to do so.

 

[BigEZ77]

Thanks. So when it comes to carbon, you say you run 24/7 but others say they run it once every few days and others even longer. Any good advice or internet links you could recommend on this?