continue use of active carbon?

[irishstout]

My tank has been established since mid september. When I change my water, I also change the floss in my tidepool as well as add fresh active carbon. Is it neccessary to keep using the carbon, or is the floss sufficient?

 

[irishstout]

I was asking whether or not I should continue adding active carbon to my tidepool at every water change. I do the changes every 4-6 weeks and the tank has been established since september. Can I just use filter floss, or is the active carbon a neccesity? Any replies appreciated. Thanks

 

[barracuda]

As far is i know the active carbon is not neccessary in the reef tanks as it takes all the trace elements out of water. If your tank contains inverts and corals, you want these elements to be available for them all the time.
Some people don't use carbon filteration at all. Some people put the bag with carbon grains to the place with maximum flow only for a few days. After that the bag should be removed from the system and disposed of. You will need to add trace elements and iodine, as it was removed by carbon during the filteration. I use this method and IMO this is the right one.
Dima.

 

[efrank]

I use carbon all of the time becasue it keeps the water so clear. If it is not ness. I would love to cut that cost. Does anyone else have opinions?

 

[barracuda]

I use Kent Marine reef carbon. With this carbon u need only a half dose and it's pretty much cheap. Visit their web site and find the relevant info about the product.
Good luck.

 

[byrself]

i used to use carbon all the time, then decided to discontinue use after i read it removes trace elements. if your tank is newly set up, i would use it for a while, then remove it. also, when i do a water change (not very often, i debate the need), i will use it for a few days, then remove it, mainly as a precautionary measure. i really don't think it's all that necessary in a reef with a lower bioload. fish only and high bioloads i say use it constantly.