Lava rock intead of bio-balls?

[kdlbem]

I asked this question in another post already, but no answer. Is this a realistic option? It seems like the rock would be a better media because 1. the lava rock has lots more holes and uneven surface for aneroebic bacteria 2. it's a natural substance, and what really sticks to plastic?
Just want to see if this will work. Thanks guys and girls,
B

 

[dgs174]

I thought it was bad because it could put trace elements into your water that you didn't want. The only real bonus of it was that it looked good, other than that its function is bad..........i thought.

 

[gnelson]

I have heard of this as an option. However as with bio-balls you will still have a build up of nitrates in your sump. Lava rock may be a better host for the bacteria, but I think you would find better results if you put live rock in your sump, and handled your nitrogen cycle in this manner.
Graham

 

[kdlbem]

Hmmmm,....liverock. Never thought of that. So would you have to get monster lighting for it too?

 

[gnelson]

A small PC unit works well for lighting over the sump. Will grow coraline and some other good plants like caulerpa(sp). You can get a small PC unit that fits over your sump for about $100