Filter Cartridge

[oregon newt]

I was wondering if anyone here used carbon in their filters. I don't considering in about a week it releases toxins into the tank. It provides chemical filtration, but I guess that isn't a filtration requirement, right?

 

[Lasher]

Yes, I use half or a third carbon in all my filters.
If your activated carbon is saturated in a week you have some major problems with your tank!

It is a filtration requirement IMO. Particularly in planted tanks there are plenty more organic waste substances than aquaria bacteria can break down.

 

[Kaysie]

I don't use carbon in my filters. There's little need for it with an efficient biological cycle and appropriate water changes.

 

[michael]

I use carbon in my filters after medication in the tank has run its course. Other than to pull meds out I'm pretty wishy washy about using carbon. Some tanks get it and some don't.

 

[aird3]

Yes. I use a carbon filter as well. I have an underwater filter in the tank, plus live plants. It seems to work well with the set up I have.