Can Seachem Matrix Really Reduce Nitrates? (The Matrix Experiment)

[@KaveManAquatics]

Have you used Seachem Matrix media? What was your experience? And how are your nitrate levels?? 😁 We discuss topics like this during our members only live streams, join here - kzbin.infojoin

[@losangeles_cichilds]

Great Video Kev ! Ordering Matrix today

[@KaveManAquatics]

lol, thanks my bro! Curious to here your results as well!

[@markvarites510]

Love your videos …you always explain everything so well for us in the novice level of aquarium keepers…keep up the good work

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪💪

[@Burnell_jr]

I love your content. I’m new to the hobby and you explain everything in away I can understand without making me feel dumb. Keep up the great work and I can’t wait to see you at the 1 million subscribe mark!!

[@KaveManAquatics]

lol thank you bro! I hope to see you there too! 😊💪

[@OriginalMindTrick]

For anyone reading this, Matrix is nothing but specifically sourced and washed pumice stone. Not all pumice is made alike but you can find excellent quality porous pumice for a fraction of the cost of what Seachem sells it for. Just google what you can find near you.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Yes Pumice is another excellent media, so is Lava Rock. If you can get some.

[@cannibus78]

My man happy Saturday!!!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you bro!

[@madmaxt6871]

I’m glad you made this video. I’ve been having a problem controlling my nitrates

[@KaveManAquatics]

Just keep in mind that you'll always have nitrates in a normal system. Our scheduled water changes is what keeps them in check. But hopefully this Matrix media is an additional way of keeping them low 😊

[@georgeminer266]

Thank you for being automatically you. I absolutely love watching your videos. Everyone needs sponsors to make things happen, but you are not a sell out! Keep it real my friend ✌

[@KaveManAquatics]

I really appreciate that! The real ones know how long I've been using Seachem, and those viewers are my priority 😊💪

[@tonycannell7939]

Excellent brother kev 👏

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks my bro, glad you enjoyed it! Get your Matrix in quick so we can dual test! lol

[@tonycannell7939]

@@KaveManAquatics I'm picking it up soon. Ready for the fx6 12 month tear down 🍻🧐😉☘

[@KaveManAquatics]

Nice

[@HotPockets88]

Been using matrix for a long time been working wonders for me It's the only bio media ive used never needed to change it

[@KaveManAquatics]

Glad to hear that bro, I'm hoping to also get great results!

[@GeraldGonzalez757]

hey bro Im doing my first tank 75 gallon with 18 juvenile Mbunas…mostly yellow lab. and a common pleco…you have really helped me have a nice healthy tank and it’s only a month old. I appreciate everything you do.

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁

[@xuanzheng1960]

After reading the other reviews, I thought I will give it a try and in the end De*nitrate really works, brings down my 60 gal overstocked freshwater tank from 80ppm nitrate to a constant 10ppm, however it takes a lot more effort, brain and money on top of the product itself to create an ideal environment for it. And I think it's worth it. First, you need a few things: 1. A media reactor cylindrical and clear 2. Liquid flow meter 3. Flow control valve 4. A pre-filter 5. An after-filter 6. A submersible aquarium pump 7. Shut-off valves 8. Stainless/plastic hose clamps and strong cable ties 9. Clear aquarium vinyl tubing 10. 50 micron filter pads Then you connect the submersible pump to a shut-off valve, through a pre-filter, then through media reactor, out through the liquid flow meter, through the flow control valve, then finally an after-filter which is a 50 micron polishing pad tied to the end of the tube submerged in the aquarium. You want the flow rate to be at around 35gph consistently. To do that, you will have to adjust the flow control valve once in a while as the pre-filter catches more and more debris while it slows down the flow little by little. A few things need to be taken into consideration: 1. You need a pump that has a flow rate of at least three times of 35gph just to handle the media reactor and pre-filter, then add roughly additional 100gph for 50 micron polishing pad because it slows down the flow significantly. Finally another 50gph as the flow rate gets slowed down little by little in the long run while it catches more and more debris. 2. You need to use your liquid flow meter to read your current flow rate easily and adjust accordingly. De*nitrate takes about 2 weeks for me to work. 3. Do not cheap out on a pre-filter, make it big, in diameter, not in length. The bigger diameter it has, the longer it takes to slow down the flow significantly hence the longer time periods it provides until maintenance. 4. Put a 50 micron filtering pad inside your pre-filter. This will provide longer working time for your media reactor before it gets clogged up by debris which then it would require a complete rinsing of the media itself. 5. It can be pain in the ass when it comes to the tubing size. The best case scenario would be one size fits all when your pump, your pre-filter, your media reactor, your flow meter all require the same tube size, if not, then you would need multi-hose adapter which adds to the work and cost. 6. Always use clamps in every joint to prevent potential leak. Use plastic cable ties or hose clamps instead of metal clamps for underwater applications. 7. Add shut-off valve at the ins and outs of your pre-filter and media reactor for easy maintenance. 8. After every time you rinse your media, add tiny bit of sugar at the bottom and middle of your reactor as the anaerobic bacteria need a carbon source to thrive.

[@bradleyviljoen7740]

What are you using to house the pre-filter?

[@pdiz]

Oh man, the pot scrubbers idea is genius. I could probably put a few in my HOB instead of the course sponge.

[@KaveManAquatics]

They would work pretty similarly yes 😊

[@scudmac]

I use this too. Seems to be doing good. But, I do love this pot scrubber idea. brilliant

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks, check out the series here - kzbin.info/aero/PLP5OXTIIDO8MN8NdRvlfuvcNkS8GUbAdt

[@jacobsisk2188]

First view first comment let’s go Kaveman thanks for another great video

[@KaveManAquatics]

Nice! 😊💪

[@sosonic12000]

Awesome vlog Mr K… I’m running a 4ft planted tank 25 l Jbl substrate with volcanic/ coral base layer… Eheim 2180 pro 3 external filter (beast) … Haven’t cleaned it in 5 months and the fish look like they are floating in the air… Got my eyes on a 8ft tank but may have to dispose of my sofa set.. Worthwhile compromise?!? Yes, I think so also 😁

[@KaveManAquatics]

I would have to agree! 🤣

[@sosonic12000]

@@KaveManAquatics Keep up the great work Mr K. We appreciate you in London. You help so many 🙏🏽

[@elrenegadowranglerx9193]

Great video man . . .

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it

[@jzan8616]

Thank you for doing this experiment. I have been experimenting with different medias for years, and I too fell victim to the bio home ultimate trap. Please keep us posted on this!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Absolutely will do!

[@f_youtubecensorshipf_nazis]

its not a trap and he didn't use it right, if he put the same amount of it as he did the matrix the same shit happens he's full of shit and sponsored by seachem ffs dude

[@tommyg1502]

Another great video. Can’t wait to see the results. Hopefully it goes well for you. Love the experimental content

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks bro, Glad you enjoyed it!

[@julzzee5976]

Awesome video Kev, I use matrix and my tank parameters are good enough for me to water change monthly.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Nice 👍 Glad you enjoyed the video Julz! 😊

[@jacklawer6389]

Gr8 video thanks brother Question are you sure pot scrubbers have no chemicals in them ?

[@mraquaticnews5676]

Your tank looks beautiful such colourful fish! Good info

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you bro! 😁

[@mraquaticnews5676]

@@KaveManAquatics 🤙🤙🤙

[@ers18619g]

In my experience seachem matrix does keep my nitrates down ! Ive been using seachem matrix and do 75% water changes every two weeks ! When I check my nitrates the day before my water change, nitrates are always still low. I change the water anyways but according to the nitrates I dont even need to change the water !

[@madmaxt6871]

Is it safe to say that we can now use seachem matrix along with the pot scrubbers????

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thats awesome! I'm hoping to get those same results! 😁💪

[@Unknown-jl5oj]

@@madmaxt6871 yes

[@DeepikaAditya]

how much do you use

[@ers18619g]

@@DeepikaAditya I was using about 25% of my Bio-media is Seachem matrix. If I wasn t using sponges, pot scrubbers etc, I would use more seachem matrix

[@MyAquaticDiary]

I mixed like 50KG of Seachem Pond Matrix and 15 Boxes of XL Mountain Tree media for my 2500 gal pond. Works like a charm for the cycle. I still get nitrates cause I keep big predators but not more than 80ppm.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Cool Pond!! Thanks for that feedback

[@DB49ers80]

Great video Kev. Have you thought about using Seachem Pristine as well while testing the Matrix for reducing Nitrates?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Pristine is great but wont help in reducing nitrates. Its a different strain of bacteria more for cleaning sludge and keeping your tank clean and cycled. 😁

[@johnjr47]

Awesome info video

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you bro, Glad you liked it

[@ingobatalla6948]

Hey Kevin I’m a big fan of your page question I was thinking going pot scrubber route but I’ve seen when you changed your bio media you didn’t put back the pot scrubbers . Are you not going the pot scrubber route no more ?

[@mamascott1317]

Just found your videos even though I’m classed as a veteran 😂I love your videos and learning new information keep it up

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Glad you're enjoying the content! 😁💪 BTW, you should check out my new Aquarium Keeping APP - aquabuildr.com

[@daveeatmon4718]

Nice video! Just wondering how much Matrix did you end up using! I’m thinking of using the pond matrix, I have a 130 gal tank with a 50 gal sump. I’m going to be moving my Frontosa, a hap. Moori and a peacock over to this tank! Thanks !

[@sebatcaballero9832]

Super man, thanks a lot . Always have nitrates problems / I will try this thanks 🙏

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure, Glad you enjoyed it!

[@raysander5159]

Kev those white pads look thick, what are they? Thanks

[@KaveManAquatics]

Fluval pads, link in the description 😁

[@raysander5159]

Thanks Kev but you have only PolyFill and the Aquatics Experts pad listed. It just looked thicker. Great video

[@KaveManAquatics]

OH MAN, YOURE RIGHT! Thank you bro, didnt even notice! Just updated the links in the description....but here they are as well - Fluval White Polishing Pad - amzn.to/3qCjZb2 Fluval Blue Polishing Pad - amzn.to/3tFA0yR

[@PazLeBon]

waterchanges still the best nitarte fixer I guess, along with less feeding

[@KaveManAquatics]

Always! Even if this media does reduce nitrates it’s never a substitute for water changes.

[@MarcoAlexiii]

Hey is purigen ok for planted tanks?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Absolutely

[@brockg6194]

I really appreciate the videos 👍

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁

[@Chris-pl2rh]

Whats the update on the Nitrate? Im based in UK theres a product here called C3 nitrate resin have very good review.

[@carlheller6648]

I can't wait for this video. I just order some martix for my new 55 gallon saltwater tank I'm building.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Nice! I'll be sure to put it out asap! 😊

[@kenbeck6779]

Love your videos. Would love to get a 90 day feedback on how the Seachem Matrix is performing. I am getting ready to start up a new 120 gallon tank and want to know if this is worth the price. Thank You

[@kristalynn7877]

I just bought some matrix biofiltration and it came in a mesh bag with a plastic zipper, but I have a saltwater tank so should I take the biomedia out of mesh bag and dump it directly in the basket or still keep it in mesh bag? Btw great content 👍❤

[@KaveManAquatics]

Either way works fine, totally up to you. The mesh bag doesnt alter its effectiveness 😊

[@jayjackson5459]

At what point will nitrate crash a cycled aquarium what ppm?

[@jacklawer6389]

How long does that seachem purigen last ?

[@polarb3ar894]

Love your videos brother..... an love your tanks as well i just purchased a 215 my self but i got a question where can i find L.E.D. lights thats 72" long thanks for your time have a good day

[@KaveManAquatics]

Congrats on the new tank! I have 72" long lights in my shop! Check them out under the equipment tab - koji.to/kaveman_aquatics

[@John-xn6sn]

Great video, thank you for sharing. Since I am new and new with my canister, I feel like this vid helped a lot. I do have a question though. What fine pads are you using for your FX6 and can it work with an fx5? Thank you.

[@Its_about_that_time]

Thanks for this video

[@KaveManAquatics]

My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁

[@aquariumhacksbymarcus5653]

I've been doing aquariums for about 28 years used to have an African cichlid tank with mbuna 2 canister filter with Matrix pond Matrix on top of that ran for about 2 years and I have never seen a nitrate- reduction in my aquarium that's the honest truth but I would like to see this honest and real time lapse and see if this truly works because I have not found a biomedia yet that can truly reduce nitrates and I have tried just about all of them

[@KaveManAquatics]

I hear you! I've been skeptical of these nitrate-reducing medias myself for a long time. Like I said in the video bio-home was a total waste for me. But still, there are some people out there that swear bio-home works, many also swear that Matrix works. Don't know the details of their tanks or maintenance schedules or live plant levels...but they swear its the media 🤷‍♂️ I failed with Bio-home but wanted to give Matrix the same respect to test it as well. I am looking forward to these results just as much as everyone else! lol And I will be giving honest results, Seachem is aware of that! 😊

[@aquariumhacksbymarcus5653]

@@KaveManAquatics yeah Overstock tanks would be even more difficult to achieve low nitrates with biomedia it might and I mean might be possible with under stock tank but your tank is definitely Overstock just like any African cichlid tank can't wait for the results kaveman I'm sure it will probably take many months

[@alfredvara1385]

Totally correct Sir😎👍

[@alfredvara1385]

Totally correct Sir Freddie Vara👍🤔

[@TaylorMurphy-d5d]

So, if I have a pro 50 power filter (50gal) where would I put the bag of matrix?

[@RH_01779]

Hey Kev. Love these sort of experiments. I have a FX6 loaded with bio home ultimate and a Oase 600 loaded with seachem matrix running on my 120 gallon tank. The tank is medium stocked. I still have to do water change every week as Nitrate shoots up to 80 ppm after just 5-6 days or so. Good luck with this experiment though. Maybe need to get rid of the biohome once and for all.

[@KaveManAquatics]

I tried and failed with bio-home...if this Matrix works I will definitely let you now! 😊

[@MM-tj3je]

I am REALLY pumped to see the outcome! I run 3 Tidal 110's and a FX6 filter on a 125 gallon aquarium. The tidal 110's are loaded with matrix and I run them "about" half of their flow capacity. The FX6 I devote an entire tray to Matrix, no red insert, just the center round section packed to the brim with Matrix. I have a VERY overcrowded community tank. Prior to adding Matrix on any of the filters I would constantly get above 80ppm nitrates prior to a 75% water change. When I added the Matrix to the 110's it dropped to around 20 ppm prior to water change. When I added the FX6 filter with Matrix it dropped to less than 10 ppm. I experimented for a month without doing any water changes, just top offs, and the nitrate level never exceeded 10ppm. Depending on the outcome of your video, I may slowly decrease the matrix in one or two of my 110's to zero matrix, that way I can add more/other media. FWIW I don't bag any of my Matrix. I run it loose in all 4 filters. I find I can get much more Matrix in the filters this way. Thanks for the videos!!

[@KaveManAquatics]

That’s great to hear you’ve found success with Matrix. I haven’t gotten results like that yet but I see that matrix is helping for sure! Your timing is great because the update video is currently in final editing and will be up next week! 😁 Make sure you don’t miss it!

[@KaveManAquatics]

BTW…any live plants in your tank?

[@MM-tj3je]

No live plants but they would have thrived prior to the Matrix!!

[@josephescobedo6122]

Hey Kev… bro I just wanted to say thank you.. you inspired me to take on a challenge of a over stocked community tank.. So I think I have finally got the fish to live plant ratio down. Checked my water peram. This morning and we're sitting bout 20-25 ppm. That's awesome cuz by this time I'm usually at 80 ppm. it's been a full week and no water change and I'm at 20... I think I've done it bro

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thats awesome, congrats! 😊

[@mojeaux13]

I have a 5 gallon Fluval Spec V and I have just recently ordered a 100 ML packet of Seachem Purigen. How much should I use in my 5 gallon tank?

[@patrickmaloney9762]

Good video, will definitely be following. What size media bag did you use for the Matrix?

[@KaveManAquatics]

In the video I used a big and a small one. But the big one is best size for the fx6 tray. Heres what I use - amzn.to/3JNWp2O

[@charlesl.1530]

Good afternoon Kev, absolutely great video! You mentioned with an older set up mine is about a year old 90 gallon bow, I can change my trays in my fx4 from ceramic rings to matrix about once a month? My stock is about 9 fish. Thank you very much for your videos.

[@KaveManAquatics]

With a mature setup you can change 50% of your biomedia at once...Wait 2-3 weeks before changing the other 50%

[@AndyAquatick]

I put in aquarium the treatment from swimming blade and is coloring my matrix i kill him or is still good to use?

[@madmaxt6871]

Is it safe to say that we can now use seachem matrix along with the pot scrubbers????

[@KaveManAquatics]

Absolutely, you always could. Matrix has always worked great for ammonia and nitrite conversion, just like the Pot Scrubbers 😁

[@frankguerra3879]

Great information Kev!! But I wanna know does your second fx6 have the same media as the one you cleaned??

[@KaveManAquatics]

Now it does yes. The second FX6 was loaded with Matrix about a month after this video. 😊

[@btkatie]

Hey Kev enjoy what you’re sharing right now even though it’s three days later laugh out loud. Just to update you on my 75 with the 2307 Fluval‘s I also have a sponge filter in there and today I made a jump and decided to add a 101 title just for polishing and I’ll let you know how that goes take care

[@KaveManAquatics]

Awesome! You should definitely see an improvement in your water clarity 😊

[@ghingzofficial1640]

Nice to meet friend.. I amaze your video. And I like to see your beautiful aquarium many different kinds of fish very cool and colorful. Thanks for sharing friend.. And I visit your live today.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you! Glad you're finding the channel helpful! 😁💪

[@johnpotenski8921]

What works best the fluval 407 or the fx6

[@everydayaquariums1624]

Wow 160 ppm nitrates, I stress when mine touches 50 ppm, it obviously doesn't harm your fish because your tank and fish are always amazing bro

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thank you bro! Yea They can tolerate alot more than many talk about in the hobby. But since its good to keep nitrates low anyway the industry set the standard around 40. But they're ok even if it gets much higher.

[@everydayaquariums1624]

@@KaveManAquatics thanks man that's good to know , might keep my stress levels down a bit lol

[@Matttheprat]

Love the videos man, you’ve taught me so much in this hobby, I have fx4 on my main tank would you recommend this setup Minus one of the media trays? Thanks bro

[@KaveManAquatics]

Absolutely! Same setup even if missing a tray. Glad you've been enjoying the channel!

[@tiffanypalm2368]

Great videos Kev. I always enjoy watching them. Question-I'm switching from a HOB to the fluval 207 on my 37g. Would I just keep my HOB running for a few months with my canister? Not sure the filter media from my HOB would fit inside my canister 🤔

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks! This is a great way to get your new filter seeded with beneficial bacteria! You dont need to keep it running that long. 1-2 weeks with both then you can remove the hob if you wanted to...😊

[@ohno316]

@@KaveManAquatics Please answer me my bro I had 11 very young orandas in a 41 gallon tank 0 ammonia,0 nitrite, nitrates are always between 20-40ppm All fish are fine,but my favourite panda oranda refused to eat for 2 weeks and died He was very active before that I don't know what happened He got white spot(treated) then fungus on the wen(treated) in the proper way and dosage,and died I tried everything, salt in aquarium, garlic,meds,personal epsom salt bath,lights turned down,but he died I change 30-50% of water weekly,with conditioner, bacteria,good temperature, filtration, but I'm lost why he died Any ideas? All I can think of is he was the biggest,boss of the tank so to speak,I then bought another panda oranda,friendly but a bit larger,maybe he did like another fish to be bigger? I'm lost

[@fihimsadiq8779]

Have you tried Kevin Novak Ph.D. Biocenosis Clarification Basket?

[@rockyt9878]

I have two FX 6 canister filters do you recommend the same media in both?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Yes I do. 😊

[@huachipipis]

Hey brother, how can I remove the snails from my aquarium?

[@Agentshadowolf]

I loved the video on using pot scrubbers and they worked wonders for me but now I want to use Matrix based on what Jeff from the FB group has been telling ppl about it and what you are doing now. I have 2 FX6 filters running on my 125 tank, so can I take one of my FX6 filters and completely clean it out and replace the current media with Matrix and then wait a month before I switch out the other FX6 filter media to give the first filter time to grow BB?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Absolutely! Just like I did in this video. But I would recommend dosing with Seachem Stability when changing the media, just like I did 😊

[@Solim-l7d]

Hey Kev, do you need a light rinse for the Seachem Matrix every now and then for it to actually work and not become clogged because it's pumice rock? If so how many weeks or months until Matrix doesn't become effective after rinsing it

[@KaveManAquatics]

You only need a light rinse whenever you do a FULL filter cleaning, which shouldnt be very often. Matrix is always effective as long as it isnt clogged with gunk and detritus. If your filter is setup correctly, it shouldnt ever be clogged.

[@Solim-l7d]

@KaveManAquatics thanks Kev

[@arlindveseli1152]

Hei Kev, I’m new to the hobby and my question is can I use ceramic rings with Seachem Matrix on the same tank

[@KaveManAquatics]

Absolutely. It's all just surface area for beneficial bacteria to grow on 😊 I highly suggest you check out my playlist for beginners. It'll be very helpful for you 😁 - kzbin.info/aero/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er

[@johnmaude5065]

I did the scrubby thing for about six months, it was good but now ALL my canister filters are run with Seachem matrix 👍

[@jlmm3968]

Nice video been using all types of bio media over the years, use matrix in one of my canisters , only problem flow rate is to much in an fx6 to really do anything of great value for any type of bio media for nitrates.

[@KaveManAquatics]

I believe this to be a big factor as well. But many claim it can still do it even in an FX6. Thats why im testing it myself 😊

[@Shadow-wn5fw]

What's up Kev! Thanks for the guidance as always. I am gradually replacing the bio-home ultimate and bio-media balls in both of my canister filters with matrix. In the video you mentioned that you were putting Seachem Purigen at the top of your FX6. My question is do I need to put a Purigen in one of my canister filters as well as the Tidal 110?

[@KaveManAquatics]

You dont ever HAVE TO use chemical media. But if you wanted to it will help in improving your waters clarity. 1 bag is good for 100 gallons so use what you need according to your tank size.

[@yancyhammondjr]

So in my FX6 I should have Chemi pure, Matrix and purigen?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Chemical media is always a preference, never a "must have" You must have bio-media and Matrix is the best! IMO

[@johnnyaguilarjr.9920]

I have two brand new fx6’s I’ll be setting them up just like yours

[@KaveManAquatics]

Nice! Glad I could help! 😁

[@MRFLIP]

Hey boss is the Bags you have the 8in or 12in bags ? Thank you in advance

[@KaveManAquatics]

Dont remember, but link in the description should take you to the exact one I used.

[@Eques099]

Ist this even good for a tank with many plants? And is siporax or matrix better?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Yes this is fine for planted tanks

[@michaelborjas8059]

Do you buy the seachem purigen prebag? I bought it before but it come bulk in a bottle

[@KaveManAquatics]

Yes, its pre-bagged. Easier that way. Link to the bag is in the video description.

[@fishytales]

Hey Kev, love your work! Quick question. I'm upgrading from 260 litres to 550 litres (UK). I have a new FX6 and an old 307 which is cycled. How would you approach this to make sure the new tank cycles ASAP? Would you connect both pumps to the new tank for 1-2 week? Would you also add some of the filters or a matrix of the FX6 to sit in the old tank for a week prior to the new setup? All advice welcome!

[@joshj3502]

@Fishy Tales, Run the cycled filter together with the new filter. It will cycle your tank quicker. I would also transfer some water from your old tank to the new tank

[@fishytales]

@@joshj3502 Thanks Josh. I'll run them both on for two weeks, maybe longer if possible.

[@peytonhenny4814]

I make my own anoxic filters

[@dennispeleg7843]

I use matrix and bio rings in my 407 and matrix in both my bottom trays in my fx6 on my overstocked 75 gallon peacock and hap tank. 20 fish and nitrates at 10ppm with 75% water changes weekly.

[@1206theskippy]

Hello again I recently bought some matrix but I'm not understanding how I use it and how much do I use out of the bottle to be put in my filter Thank you so much for your time and hope all is well 🙂

[@KaveManAquatics]

I have videos on setting up your filter with media...What type of filter do you have?

[@1206theskippy]

I have a Aquaclear hang back filter

[@KaveManAquatics]

This may help - kzbin.info/www/bejne/q5_Pd5itormleNk

[@1206theskippy]

Thank you 😊

[@ludamanna7228]

Kev I have a question for you I posted The same question on Facebook on my New 150 gallon tank I’m installing an FX six and I’m installing my 407 .now should I put One inlet on one side And The other inlet on the opposite side and both outlets on one side I trust your opinion .couple of guys said to put both outlets and inlet on the same side I think it’s more efficient to separate the two inlets them to keep them together even though I am using a wave maker I’m waiting for your instructions what you say is golden I appreciate you

[@KaveManAquatics]

I would put inlets on opposite sides. (fx6 inlet should be on same side as your wavemaker) outputs dont matter as long as they're pointing in same direction as the wave maker on top. I have this video scheduled to be produced soon as I get this question a ton.

[@ludamanna7228]

You are the man I was thinking the same thing I appreciate you and like I said what you say is law to me

[@tayyabmuhammad4144]

I just bought matrix seachem. Where should I put it? In my canister filter or hangon filter or just in zipper bag and put it inside tank?

[@KaveManAquatics]

It can go in either of those places. Preferably in one of your filters though. Canister or HOB...or both! I highly suggest you check out my playlist for beginners. It'll be very helpful for you 😁 - kzbin.info/aero/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er

[@chadpruitt8851]

Gonna try the matrix!! Quick question…I just removed my Mbunas from the aquarium and have 11 1.25-2 inch peacocks of different varieties. I was feeding the Mbunas Northfin Cichlid pellets, veggie pellets, and krill pellets mixed with Garlic Guard, Zoo Plankton, Vitality, and VitaChem. Should I feed the little guys Cichlid flakes?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Those 2"ers will do great with the same pellets and supplement mix. 👍

[@BenDavey34]

I use matrix on my external filter, will the way you set up your filter work just as good on a Fluval 207?

[@KaveManAquatics]

The water flow in a 207 is different than the FX series. Check the playlist tab and find the 07 series playlist.

[@muhammadhadi6391]

Hi bro congrats on your 100k! Any update on matrix media?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks! Maybe next month

[@muhammadhadi6391]

@@KaveManAquatics thanks for the update 👍😁

[@coldtex9324]

Hey K . When we getting the part 2 to this video ? Did it work ??

[@KaveManAquatics]

I’m thinking Aug to Oct. to see results, if any.

[@coldtex9324]

@@KaveManAquatics can't wait. Thanks

[@cubanracer1]

Hey there @Kev, How is the experiment going? I bought the media today but was hoping to see some results from you before I installed in on my filter. Thanks for the amazing videos brother!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Still on going. It takes months for anaerobic bacteria to grow. So I’m making sure I give it a good amount of time before making a results video 😁

[@cubanracer1]

@@KaveManAquatics Alright, I’ll get mine setup today. I’m going to use 2 times the amount of media recommended for the tank size since I plenty of space in my filter. Keep up the great work! Love your videos…

[@rojzkiezl2582]

How long before we have to replace the matrix?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Never! 😁

[@HotPockets88]

Hey boss man I had a random question maybe a dumb question but I run purigen on my cichlid tank and i also have a show tank for my huge Oranda Goldfish will purigen be safe to use for them as well? I wouldn't think it would matter the type of fish but I just wanted to make sure. I want to upgrade their tank to a cannister filter and want to run purigen in it. Thank you so much

[@KaveManAquatics]

Absolutely bro! Purigen is safe for all fish. When it comes to chemical media there are some studies that activated Carbon may be linked to HITH disease in Oscars. Besides that I've never heard of any other problems with chemical media 😊

[@HotPockets88]

@@KaveManAquatics thank you!!!! That's why you the man💪

[@Dirty_3hirty1776]

Fluval needs make a fx7 with four trays for more bio media

[@KaveManAquatics]

Lol great idea!

[@gregorydubya]

Great stuff as always, but I disagree with needing to dose bacteria in the filter on a fully cycled tank with another fully cycled filter running. The bacteria is going to take about month to fully populate the matrix whether you dose or not. Is there a follow up video tracking your current nitrates?

[@KaveManAquatics]

When both filters have been running on the tank and you remove an entire filter you are losing 50% of your bacteria. The tank can not continue to convert the same amount of ammonia and nitrite with only 50% of the bacteria. (Roughly speaking) While I agree that the new media will eventually catch up and grow bacteria, dosing with stability in the meantime is a great way to speed that up. Dosing with prime ensures any ammonia not being converted is detoxified. I would never remove 50% of a tanks established bio-media and assume everything will be fine. The update to this video is actually in work right now. Keep an eye out for it, coming in the next few weeks.

[@gregorydubya]

@@KaveManAquatics Right, but isn't most of what you pour in from the bottle going to dilute out into the tank? And wouldn't all of those pre-existing bacteria pour in from the water column, strata and other filter, in this cycled tank, anyway? It's still going to take a while for the bacteria to actually grow to a thriving colony in that new filter, either way. Thanks for responding, I'm looking forward to the update video.

[@anonamoss78]

@@gregorydubya when u dose with stability you are adding more bacteria to compensate for the bacteria u have removed thru media.....he removed 50% of his bacteria, i don't get whats hard to understand here? have you read up about stability? its not like the other instant bacteria products

[@gregorydubya]

@@anonamoss78 He removed 50% of the filtration capacity, but bacteria is only a part of it. The necessary bacteria is already thriving in his substrate, water column and other filter. This bacteria won't repopulate the new filter media instantly, because it requires something to consume. So when the mulm and detritus builds up, the populations of bacteria will begin to grow. He would have been better off rinsing the new media in the dirty bucket from the old filter which also contains high amounts of detritus for the bacteria to thrive on. So even if you were able to add the perfect amount of bacteria to your new filter, most would die off until the filter saturated with enough nutrients anyway. That's why cycling a new tank takes a month, give or take, anyway. If you want to risk it, you have to keep testing and adding bacteria every couple of days as the populations rise and die off. Instead of dosing stability, he could have just threw the old seachem purigen, which can be reused indefinitely, back in the new filter, and mitigated recycling the filter altogether. ...but if y'all just trying to sell product, I ain't mad atcha.

[@jeevanviknesh8793]

Hi, looking for to see the future results video..This matrix says it needs 200l/h flow right? Any comments on that?

[@KaveManAquatics]

I havent heard of any flow requirements for Matrix. Any flow that a filter produces will produce results with Matrix. Definitely with growing Beneficial Bacteria. The anaerobic bacteria require low flow so that wouldnt be a problem either 😊

[@jeevanviknesh8793]

@@KaveManAquatics got it thanks. I have a 1000l/h canister, so thought might not be suitable. Anyhow looking forward to see your updates.

[@sodapresh123]

Hi there, I have had seachem matrix in my tank for over 1 year. The matrix now seem to be looking smaller is that suppose to happen?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Not sure, I've never noticed a difference in the size of my matrix...

[@tonysmmaclass9507]

I added a seachem tidal 110 to one of my big salt water predator tanks to give it a little extra for media. I loaded it up with seachem matrix and bio balls. It’s been running for about a month and a half, today I’m going to test the nitrates and see how well it’s done.

[@KaveManAquatics]

It may not do much if its only in your 110 in a big tank. You may need to add much more depending on your bio-load.

[@brettm5419]

I've been using Matrix for probably a good 6-8 months in 2 filters on a 150ga, and it hasn't done crap for nitrate levels.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Very Interesting. thanks for that feedback. I've heard both success and failure stories...thats why I wanted to test for myself.

[@patricostlund4526]

@@KaveManAquatics you probably going be just as happy, as with the biohome and we all know what that is, C****!

[@winooi5012]

What’s the update sir ?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Results in Aug-Oct.

[@DeepikaAditya]

i have 4 litres of matrix lying around that i swapped out for full foam. it was just reducing the flow of the filter. waiting for your results to see if I need to give the matrix a second try

[@KaveManAquatics]

Im hoping to get good results. If not I'll be going right back to my pot scrubbers! 😊

[@DeepikaAditya]

@@KaveManAquatics It might take around 6 months to complete the experiment

[@ashtondennis9058]

Hello! I am setting up a 75G for my Angels and I know they aren’t a fan of flow, so I’m going to get a 75G sponge filter, but what would you recommend for another filter? Canister? Two sponges? I definitely want crystal clear water, thank you!

[@KaveManAquatics]

A canister works great on a 75 gallon. I would go with a fluval 407. Its powerful but you can adjust the output flow to make your angels comfortable. Check it out here - amzn.to/3lz8qwM

[@danaquatics4031]

I've been eyeballing matrix for a while, stuff is damn expensive tho. I currently use lava rock combined with live plants. My tank is mostly American cichlids. How can I have live plants with American cichlids? I added so many plants, they can't munch them all! weekly nitrate levels before water change day has been around 7.0ppm. It might change as my fish are still mostly juvies. Will keep a close eye and if I find my nitrates are getting higher than my personal preference (I prefer 20ppm or lower), I'll definitely switch to matrix. Nice video, looking forward to your results!

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thanks Dan, yea its more expensive than lava rock but much cheaper then other products that claim it can reduce nitrates. But your planted tank seems to be doing a great job so far! 👍

[@whatthesnell]

Love your channel, you are actually the only one I subscribe to because of how well you get to the point. I have a question, if I'm planning a new tank and want to take advantage of my existing tank by adding a sponge filter or something, how long would it take for that to colonize before I could move it to the new tank and help cycle it?

[@KaveManAquatics]

Thats a great question! Unfortunately the answer varies. It depends on the bio-load in your original tank. To be very general, anywhere from 1-2 weeks and that sponge filter should have some good growth on it 😊

[@whatthesnell]

@@KaveManAquatics thanks very much!

[@purecarnage4653]

ive tested my were and i have a tidal filter and my nitrates always test at 0ppm

[@lboogie738aquatics]

Dope video bro. You can just keep reusing the matrix with our replaceing it right? Just wash it off with tank water and throw it back in.

[@KaveManAquatics]

Exactly, never needs to be replaced.