filter cartridge bags

[nitrous]

Smaller tanks can use powerfilters/HOB's, but you need to avoid biowheels. These agitate the water quite a bit, outgassing a ton of CO2. If you're budget only allows a power filter, don't fret...just keep the tank water level high to minimize the 'waterfall effect' of the water return. I've found AquaClear brand HOB's to be the best: partially for their easy-to-customize filter media, and because they don't use those carbon filted, filter-floss wrapped cartridges. (carbon only lasts 7 days, and isn't necessary or desirable in the planted tank)


what does carbon do bad for a planted tank maybe that is why my plants have some resodue of brown on them or am i wrong?

 

[rich311k]

The carbon removes some organic compounds from the water that the plants need. It is kind of debatable if it makes that big a difference and its only good for a week anyway.

The brown sounds like diatoms does it wipe off easily in a dust like cloud?

 

[nitrous]

so ive had the same bag for awhile now so its good for plants?

 

[rich311k]

Yes the AC is spent. It does have a lot of surface area for bacteria growth. Just dont replace it the next time you change media, just use sponges.