activated carbon vs ferts?

[Linda S]

Does activated carbon work agains and remove fertilizer for my plants? Is carbon neccessary for a planted tank with fish?

 

[jpappy789]

No, I have yet to see any scientific study proving AC to noticeably impact plant health via fertilizer removal...and no, its not needed in a tank, but can have its benefits (removing meds, for example). I personally dont want to spend the money.

 

[James0816]

Unless you are removing meds, unwanted odors or even...eh hem...tannins (which I don't know why one would want to remove them )....don't use the carbon.

As for removing ferts...up for debate...but mine is no.

 

[coach_z]

i vote no on fert removal, and definately agree that it is not necessary at all

 

[TechAquaria]

Does activated carbon work agains and remove fertilizer for my plants? Is carbon neccessary for a planted tank with fish?

Carbon does NO harm which I am aware of.

This page:

http://www.aquarticles.com/articles/management/greenfield straughan_activated carbon.html

contains two articles, written by two different authors. I find myself to be in, almost, total agreement with them. I don't think I could express their views on carbon better ... carbon is one key to polishing water until it appears fish are suspended in air, in your aquarium(s.)

Anyway, that should give you "everything you want to know about carbon, and more!"

Regards,
TA

 

[Linda S]

thanks for the replies

 

[customdrum]

carbon is a waste of money imo, its good for after you use meds like said above but thats about it. if you had alot of goldfish or big fish i may use the carbon. i use filter floss or 100% polyfill in the hob filters i use and a sponge. its alot cheaper than carbon for sure.

 

[kreesdqban]

How about Purigen? Will it take out ferts?

 

[gagaliya]

the only chemical(not counting plant ferts) you ever need in your tank is prime. the end.

 

[Nue]

How about Purigen? Will it take out ferts?

no