I use them in conjunction with sponge and carbon in my canister filter. If they are the porous type, there's alot of bacteria and water flow. I have about 130# of LR and a 4" dsb and have had no water issues in my 125g reef tank for almost 3 years. I also have a 350 gph Skilter for more flow-never run the skimmer, no need to. The point is, in my experience they are great.