Is the Zeolith reactor still a tool?

[Billyreef-ita]

Hi everybody,
From time to time I see some people using a zeolith reactors (very few to be honest) to manage nutrients. I was wondering if this tool is still to be to considered a good one or it’s maybe something from the past and due to recent discoveries it’s maybe outdated.
When I refer to recent discoveries I refer to the beneficial role of ammonia for corals that according to Randy’s thread is not to be considered an enemy after all (in the right proportions obviously).
If understand well the zeolith works directly neutralizing ammonia, that’s why I wonder if it could be more harmful than beneficial for a reef tank.
Waiting for your thoughts.
Thanks

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I do not believe the ammonia claims have merit or utility, but the media is a fine support for bacteria that can be shaken off to feed filter feeders.

 

[Billyreef-ita]

So if understand well, no risk to reduce too much ammonia, in any case the bacteria element is beneficial enough

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

So if understand well, no risk to reduce too much ammonia, in any case the bacteria element is beneficial enough

The idea that it bound ammonia and held it in a way that bacteria would preferentially get it was not sensible. I certainly don't doubt that it may bind some ammonia and potassium for a period of time until it is loaded to equilibrium, but if you keep reusing the same zeolites, that effect is likely insignificant.

Other materials may work fine for bacteria, though may not be as easy to shake up. I found my GAC (ROX 0.8) served similarly, though maybe not as well.

 

[DanP-SD]

It’s still in use but mostly among those running a full zeovit system. I use it on my tank and it’s a very efficient way to reduce nutrients when dosed regularly with bacteria and food for the bacteria. My tank runs at barely detectible levels of phosphate (typically around 0.02ppm on the Hanna ultra low range test) and nitrate (consistently less than 0.5 ppm) despite heavy feeding, no turf scrubber and a refugium only for pods (little to no algae).

It can be used apart from the full zeovit system but, if I weren’t using the full system, I’d consider other approaches to nutrient export. If you do go with a zeovit reactor, I’d highly recommend the automated one from zeoprs.jp. Send them an email for current price, which changes with exchange rates. They’re quick to respond.

 

[rishma]

If I recall @SunnyX uses one, I think the bacteria as food for corals being his goal. As far as nutrient management, I think there are other simple ways to achieve this.

 

[Billyreef-ita]

It’s still in use but mostly among those running a full zeovit system. I use it on my tank and it’s a very efficient way to reduce nutrients when dosed regularly with bacteria and food for the bacteria. My tank runs at barely detectible levels of phosphate (typically around 0.02ppm on the Hanna ultra low range test) and nitrate (consistently less than 0.5 ppm) despite heavy feeding, no turf scrubber and a refugium only for pods (little to no algae).

It can be used apart from the full zeovit system but, if I weren’t using the full system, I’d consider other approaches to nutrient export. If you do go with a zeovit reactor, I’d highly recommend the automated one from zeoprs.jp. Send them an email for current price, which changes with exchange rates. They’re quick to respond.

Thanks very clear now!