[TimsViv]

I have a low tech planted tank (paludarium). I dose with over the counter liquid ferts, Flourish.

Is it okay to use activated charcoal in the filter? Will it remove the ferts?

Are there any other products that would work better? I especially need to control phosphates.

Thanks,
Tim

 

[volatile]

Purigen supposedly does not remove any ferts. There are also items that remove Phosphates here.

 

[talontsiawd]

Purigen is a common replacement and does a much better job of what carbon does, and more, for alot longer. Plus it never really needs to be replaced, it can be recharged.

It is OK to use charcoal though. It may remove a bit of your ferts when you have a new cartrige. I used a HOB filter forever and it only had an all in one cartrige, never had issues.