[yetti82]

So I have a 14 gallon biocube setup and I would like to use the middle chamber to build my tiered filtration system. I visited my local FS and they had these mesh paddings:

Ammonia
Carbon
Phosphate
Polyfiber
​

how should I layer it and what should I layer? keep in mind that it is 15" tall and 50% will be submerged. I can also set the egg crate levels at any height. Any and All advise will be very welcome!

Thanks ahead of time for the replies!

 

[soc200]

Personally, I only use foam, ceramic biomedia, and poly-filter in mine. I don't see the need for the others unless your tank is uncycled or you are having unstated issues.

 

[kevmo911]

You don't need carbon, phosphate, or ammonia. You can buy the polyfiber if you want, but Walmart has it bigger and cheaper. It's just filler for pillows.

 

[OverStocked]

Better than pillow filler is the quilt batting right next to it. It comes on long rolls.

Don't waste your money on the ammonia and phosphate removers. Carbon really isn't necessary either.

Plants eat up all the ammonia and phosphate you can throw at them.

 

[reignOfFred]

yeah, filtration is seriously overcomplicated these days.

you dont need ammonia media because dealing with this is the whole point of biofiltration. i havent used carbon in 15 years. i dont think phosphate removal makes sense in a planted tank.

to b honest i have seen no difference in filtration between using all these fancy medias that come with new filters and when i use nothing but foam and sponge - all that matters is that the filter is filled with porous media.