PrettyFishies
Aquarium Advice Addict
Do I need the carbon filter pad in a planted aquarium?
Is it beneficial or detrimental to plant growth?
Is it beneficial or detrimental to plant growth?
Purrbox said:I believe that the emerging concensus is that activated carbon does not do any harm, but in most cases is an unnecessary expense. There has been some rumor that it might absorb some of the nutrients plants need, but never any conclusive proof. Many people use activated carbon in planted tanks with no problems. The only time that you truly need it is for the removal of tanins or medications at the end of a treatment. Water changes will take care of the DOCs.
Purrbox said:Based on the description that the manufacturer provides it is activated carbon, even though it isn't specifically called that.