Ceramic Bio Filter as filter media

[Bmaytime]

Hey everyone, has anyone tried running ceramic bio rocks in the intake chambers of an Innovative Marine 25 AIO in place of the filter socks? My plan is to rinse the rocks in the tank water I remove during each water change. If you’ve tried this, was that enough to keep detritus from building up?

I’ve also seen a few reports of elevated aluminum levels with ceramic media, but most of the posts I’ve come across seem to mention the same brand. Has anyone seen this with other brands? I’d love to hear which media you’ve used and how it’s worked out for you.

 

[sixty_reefer]

I’ve used the Maxspect Bio Spheres myself they did a great job imo.

 

[slingfox]

Filter socks physically filter out particles form the water. Biomedia provides surface area for bacteria to consume nutrients. These two methods serve related but different purposes. The filter socks will remove more nutrients assuming you change them out consistently.

 

[Fish Fan]

I wouldn't bother with the ceramic bio media. Your rock and sand is the primary biofilter in a reef tank, and in my opinion you don't really need more than that.