Can I use these filters?

jester805

Member
Hey guys....I'm brand new to saltwater aquariums, but I've been researching it quite a bit. I have a 29 gallon tank that I just put about 30 pounds of crushed coral in last night. I'm gonna let it sit for a few days before I add the Instant Ocean.
My main question right now is about filters. I have a Top Fin 30 on it, but I'm going to get an Emperor Bio-wheel 280 soon. I'm just curious if I can use the 2 together??? I wouldn't see why not, but just wanted to make sure.
Thanks!
:yes:
 

robchuck

Active Member
Jester,
Using both filters together won't hurt anything and will help give you more flow in the tank than if you were just to use one or the other.
 

jester805

Member

Originally posted by DEdwards
The filters sound fine. My question is why did you choose crushed coral?

AS opposed to what? Sand? It seemed like it might be easier to setup and maintain. As I said, I'm brand new to salt water. What would you suggest?
 

darknes

Active Member
jester, Many people will argue that sand is much better than using crushed coral, and that crushed coral is unattractive, but let me tell you these are just opinions..
Personally, I have a 29 gallon with part crushed coral and part sand, and I couldn't be happier! I had problems with diatoms growing at first, but now that the tank is established it looks great!
I just wanted to let you know that some may try to convince you to switch, and maybe you won't like the crushed coral, but just make sure you do lots of research before taking any one opinion.
Also, good luck and have fun with your tank!!!
 

jester805

Member

Originally posted by Darknes
I just wanted to let you know that some may try to convince you to switch, and maybe you won't like the crushed coral, but just make sure you do lots of research before taking any one opinion.
Also, good luck and have fun with your tank!!!

Ok cool. Thanks for the input. When you say you did part coral and part sand, did you mix the 2 together? Or is one side of your tank coral, and the other side sand? Do you have any pictures of it?
 

darknes

Active Member
Yeah, I mixed half crushed coral and half argonite sand together (15 lbs of each). Let me see if I can get some pictures for you.
 

dedwards

Member
The reason that I asked was because for a beginner crushed coral is harder to maintain. It traps waste and causes issues with nitrates.
 
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