My nitrates are higher than I’d like them to be between and I’ve read bio balls can be a contributing factor among other things. I recently added some macro algae because water changes and carbon dosing was not helping lower it more than 20 in the long run. Should I remove them and my sponges? Are sponges necessary too? Do they harvest nitrates like bio balls? I know bio balls are more helpful during a tank cycle. I also am really trying not to chase numbers anymore but I am wondering if it would help.