To use a sock or not????????

[thebradybunch]

I have a fuge below my tank that has LR and sand and is producing quite a few pods. I want to buy a Green Dragonet but want to make sure there is enough pods in the DT for him to eat. I know having a filter sock cuts down on the number of pods in the system that survive. I also know by removing the sock I have no way to trap debris that gets caught up in the water column. What is the best answer? What about alternating sock/no sock? Suggestions appreciated.

 

[urchinkiller15]

I would go without a sock unless you want to replace it every day. IMO they are just nitrate factories which could lead to annoying algae growth.

 

[greggnyce]

I second no sock constantly needs cleaning and replacing. Just syphon out where the det. collects with 1/2" tubing.

 

[brians4671]

you may find going without a sock is less maintenance and never use one again. regarding the dragonet if your fish are not aggressive try a smaller size so its demand is less.

 

[billdogg]

add me to the no sock crowd - just one more thing to clean that you will get tired of and start to neglect - haven't had one - or a prefilter at all - for a long time now - it is much easier IMO

 

[thebradybunch]

Thanks everyone for your comments. I started out without a sock and it was really nice but I added one because my water always seem to have particles floating in it that couldn't settle due to the flow in the tank. I added the sock and within a day the water was crystal clear. I do have to change it about every 3 days. I think what I will do it remove the sock and keep it nearby in the event I need to add it temporary to clear up some debris.

Thanks again