Is a carbon filter OK

[jaybird101]

I have a 44 gal tank. 2" of crushed coral with 2 1/2" of LS on top. I have 4 lbs of LR and more to come.
I have a Topfin power filter 60 with dual carbon filters with foam sponges.
Is this enough filtration for a FOWLR tank?
The lighting is a Coralife 50/50 20 watt 6,000 k light bulb.
Is this enough lighting for a FOWLR tank?
I use a Mardel master kit using test strips.
Should I use a Pharmaceuticals liquid testing kit?
Which is more accurate?

 

[glowplug]

Ok im a newb but i can tell you about what most on here would---Smart guys would probably say its not enough filtration, and then recomend you get a protien skimmer, if your looking for cheap go with a coralife skimmer. Lighting you should be ok but it will look much better if you get a double bulb 10k and Actinic- Mardel ive never heard of but dip strips really suck- if you want a real test get everyone on here will tell you to get salifert tests, but they dont com in a kit-all individual so its a little pricey but apparently VERY accurate, I have the aquarium pharm. test and im new but I know it sucks-- tested ro/di water and it said .25 ammo--a common probalem apparently, hope this helps

 

[saltfan]

Originally Posted by jaybird101
I have a 44 gal tank. 2" of crushed coral with 2 1/2" of LS on top. I have 4 lbs of LR and more to come.
I have a Topfin power filter 60 with dual carbon filters with foam sponges.
Is this enough filtration for a FOWLR tank? NO
The lighting is a Coralife 50/50 20 watt 6,000 k light bulb.
Is this enough lighting for a FOWLR tank? Not really but you can get by.I use a Mardel master kit using test strips.
Should I use a Pharmaceuticals liquid testing kit?
Which is more accurate?
Liquid
Carbon not necessary, get lots more LR and you'll be ok.