On any tank bigger than ~20g I use 2 filters & alternately really rinse them in running tap water. Like Bob said, the amount of chlorine or cloramines can't kill all of your beneficial bacteria. Plus there's lots on the substrate, plants & decor too, & it only takes a very short time for BB to multiply back to the levels needed to deal with ammonia & nitrites. I too use Prime to "lock up" ammonia (really changes it to a less toxic form) for the 24 hours it may take to rebuild the BB.
Carbon quickly adsorbs impurities then is pretty much just another place for bacteria to grow. If you have "smells" more water changes & something like Chemipure can help for longer. I haven't kept turtles but have read they're messy.
Carbon quickly adsorbs impurities then is pretty much just another place for bacteria to grow. If you have "smells" more water changes & something like Chemipure can help for longer. I haven't kept turtles but have read they're messy.
