Potential Filstar XP2 bio-media

Here's what I've got in my XP2 (bottom to top):
Coarse sponges (2, fills 1/2 a basket)
Fine sponges (2, fills the second half of the basket)
Bio-Max (this is AquaClear filter media, the store was out of FilStar bio-stars - fills 1/2 - 2/3 of the basket)
Floss (2 layers, to catch any bits/dust before the water hits the impeller, fills the top of the second basket)

IMO, all you need are sponges - they'll act as biological and mechanical media. A specifically biological media is a good idea (stars, bio-max, gravel, Fluval noodles, etc.), and a little floss is nice because it helps keep the water clear.

For the xp2's, I just use the sponges that come with the canister (Filstar foam 30 and foam 20) and filter floss. IMO,the sponges that come with xp2 could provide enough bio-filtereration, along with being the mechanical filter, once the filter is cycled. But this all depends on the size of your bio-load.

IMO, the Filteration rules that someone came up with is a paradox. In general, the more bio-media the better, but also the faster the water flow the better. You can't have both unless you give up your mechanical filteration, which in turn will clog up your bio-media.

For my XP2 I use the coarse sponges that come with the filter on the bottom and bio chem stars on the top along with a fine filter pad.

On my XP3 i also use the coarse sponges on the bottom, ceramic noodles in the middle, and the top is empty for now (haven't had a chance to grab anything yet), but will probably be more noodles

On my XP1 I use:
1 foam 20
1 foam 30
BA's filterfloss
Bio chem stars packed into the basket

Thanks for the feedback. Interesting that no one is using the Biochem-Zorb that comes with the filter.

Click to expand...

Its just carbon