Is carbon needed?

[DaveyCrocket]

Is carbon really needed in the filter?

I have heard conflicting stories on whether carbon is actually needed or not.

Right now I have no live plants but am considering adding some live (low light, low maintenance) plants to help improve water quality.

I have heard that without live plants you need the carbon but with live plants you do not need the carbon.

So what's the facts?

 

[LongTime]

IMO, no. Take a look at this discussion:
http://aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=32563

 

[DaveyCrocket]

Thanks.
that helped clear up some things.

 

[Bigguppy]

In some cases but in most, not really.

 

[aquariumfishguy]

Carbon is good to remove unusual smells, dyes, and yes... medications. Is it needed on a regular basis? Not at all.

 

[DaveyCrocket]

What are some good low maintenance plants?

Maybe one or two tall ones and a few short ground covers.

 

[StreetCypher]

water sprite!

fast growing and low light requirements.