Bio Balls vs Ceramic Rings

[itafx]

Do they perform the same function? Are they interchangeable? Which is better? I have both, but am having trouble with the bio balls because they float and wreak havoc with opening and closing my canister filter because they get in the way.

[gheitman]

They are supposed to perform the same function (i.e. host aerobic bacteria) but IMO the ceramic media provides a larger surface area and therefore does a better job. I use Seachem's Matrix myself which is similar to ceramic rings.

[Zagz]

I have both, I also find that non antibacterial plastic pot scrubbers work very well. They have lots of surface and are very porous to hold bacteria very well.

[ReefRaff]

I would have thought bio balls would have more surface area. with all the little posts and all.

[itafx]

Has anyone else had trouble with bio balls getting in the way of the baskets, and other moving parts when you open up your canister filter?

[BillD]

Bio balls are a poor choice in a canister, as they offer little surface area for the space they take up. Even pot scrubbers are better, as mentioned.

[duke33]

Everything I've studied says scrubbies (plastic) are the way to go. Cheap too, until the makers catch on.

[itafx]

I'm not sure what plastic scrubbies are. Does a Scotch Brite qualify if it's not impregnated with any cleansers, or is it something else?

[evercl92]

These:

[itafx]

Found them on amazon.com for $16.23 including S&H.

[Alshain]

Originally Posted by ReefRaff

I would have thought bio balls would have more surface area. with all the little posts and all.

You would be surprised. Ceramic is porous. Under a microscope you can see a large network of "tunnels" that go throughout the ceramic ring. Each of these tunnels provides additional resting surface for bacteria. The bio-balls provide a geometric surface but do not even come close to the amount of surface area as those tunnels.

[itafx]

I wish I'd never bought any bio balls.