removing biofiltration media to lower nitrates

[keitho]

does anyone know anything about removing bioballs or other biofiltration media in an attempt to lower nitrates? how is that supposed to lower nitrates? i mean, afterall, aren't more nitrifying bacteria just going to grow elsewhere and create the same amount of nitrates? the only thing that i could see is that removing the biofiltration media may prevent detritus from collecting in the filter, but is that really how this method works? i have a deep sand bed (3"-4"), and i can see gas bubbles trapped between the acrylic and the sand. i assume that this gas is nitrogen and that it is being produced by denitrifying bacteria, which seem to be more like a solution to nitrates than removing biomedia. if anyone can offer some info, i would greatly appreciate it.

 

[q]

You might want to look at how much you are feeding and cut back just a touch. If detrius is collecting then it is definatly going to add to the nitrates that are produced because of ecess waste.

 

[crablegs]

I think what Keith wants to know (as well as myself) is whether or not this really helps. I use a large filter pad over the bio-media and rinse it regularly, I don't think any bad stuff is making it past the pad. I'm still a little confused on this so if someone can enlighten please do. My understanding is that bio-balls are so efficient at converting ammonia and nitrite that of course you get more of the by-product...nitrate. I've also been told that live rock somehow removes ammonia and nitrite without as much nitrate being produced, in which case removing bio-media makes sense if you have enough LR. Can someone explain this further???
Thx...the other Keith

 

[burnnspy]

Wet Dry filters are nitrate factories.
Check out my website for indepth information on the Reef Basics page.
BurnNSpy