Nitro Zorb

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damion

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Feb 23, 2003
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Is it possible to have a tank w/out any substrate/gravel and still have a healthy environment?
Anyone ever use Nitro Zorb? Ater trying Ammo Carb, Amquel it was suggested because the ammonia was still high
 
Yes you can have a tank w/o gravel/substrate and still have a healthy environment. Is there a specific question you had as to why the gravel/substrate is necessary?

Only use Ammo-something. It was zeolite (which removes ammonia). I used it b4 I had test kits while starting a new tank. I know that's not much help though.
 
I wuz told that the gravel was necessary for bacterial growth 4 the tank. That the lack of bacterial might b the cause of the ammonia spike.
 
You do need to supply a media for the bacteria to grow on, but most power filters are adequate to the job. Obviously, running an under gravel filter without any gravel means you don't have a filter, just some mild water movement.

Some of the chemical filters are decent to use in emergencies, but I do not think they should be relied on exclusively for ammonia/nitrite removal.
 
Gravel/sand or any other substrate is not at all necessary to have a cycled tank. There is a long history of bare tanks for breeding and fry raising, or just for simplified maintenance. I have a number going right now - all with fully competent biofilters.

Statements to the contrary reveal more lack of information and understanding than fact.
 
I like having a bare tank due to ease of cleaning but understand the bacteria needs a "foundation". Just got some type of liquid that is supposed to add bacteria in the tank that was advised by lfs. Guess I'll have to get a canister filter to replace the Emperor 400 that will provide sufficient bacteria for the tank.
Thanks
 
There is no liquid that will provide attachment for nitrification bacteria.
Click to expand...
That's why it was recommended that I keep some substrate/gravel in the tank.
Just got some type of liquid that is supposed to add bacteria in the tank that was advised by lfs.
Click to expand...

Know anything about Microbe-lift special blend?
 
Do you have a filter or filters? Filters are optimum locations for nitrification bacteria as they have constant flow (bringing oxygen and nutrients to the bacteria) and plenty of surface area for bacterial colonization.

Gravel as biofilter substrate is required only with UG/RFUG. Otherwise it is an aesthetic choice to provide a more "natural" appearing environment for the fish, or for anchoring and as a nutrient reservoir for rooted plants.
 
Bacteria will cling to every surface. So it attaches to the walls, decorations etc...

The main concern you will have is that you not change out the filter cartidge during tank cleanings. Just rinse it out in old tank water. Normally if people change out their filter cart. there is sufficient bacterial growth elsewhere int he tank to help avoid any spikes.

You should be fine. But I also agree that the bacteria in a bottle stuff is mostly a waste of money. I would not purchase it in the future. A healthy tank will have all the bacteria it needs.
 
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