BIOHOME FILTER MEDIA - QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

[@jgillam741]

7 years later, wanted to give update. First of all thanks again to Richard, he knows his stuff! This Biohome Ultimate is the bomb! Turn my tank into a lake! After years of struggling with all sizes of tanks, I came across Richard.. The Pond Guru, and I’m telling you, His set up rocks!! I was down to cleaning tank three times a year, my fish were always healthy, never had a problem. Loved it and then went through divorce and sold it all. Starting over and setting up same way!!

[@ThousandYardStare]

(my other channel) It's embarrassing how long it has taken me to see this comment but in my defence my main channel has been critically shadow banned since early 2020. Thanks for the awesome feedback and best of luck with the tank.

[@davidewart5524]

It's saying this video is ten years old but it's still fresh and as important especially for guys like me just starting off in this amazing world of aquariums etc. Excellent I watch you all the time very informative.

[@ThousandYardStare]

(my other channel) I'm glad you see the value in those older videos since the message relayed here has not changed - a full cycle can easily be achieved with enough of the correct media in any tank. As long as you avoid using 'treatments' which claim to control / bind / lock up ammonia, nitrite and nitrate the beneficial bacteria will be free to do what it it does and deliver a perfect cycle.

[@edwardsdeacon]

This is absolutely my preferred media to use. I have been using the Biohome Mini Ultra for three years at this point. The only complaints I have about it is 1) after a couple of years it breaks down. 2) the black bacteria balls will stay in your filter unaltered for a super long time ( up to a year or more) 3) Sellers in the United States charge way to much for this media. $25+ for a pound of media which isn’t very much media. For these reasons I have pumice in many of my filters and only use the Biohome Mini Ultra in my larger cichlid and saltwater aquariums where I can’t use a deep sand bed or grow plants.. If this stuff was longer lasting or was about $5 less per pound of media I would a lot more of it. I still think it’s the best manufactured filtration media I have used and I will continue to use it. I have suggested it for use to the people in the various fish groups I’m in and to those at the pet shops looking lost and confused about what to get. You really can’t go wrong with this media and I will use it until something better comes along.

[@lostmangos]

He hasnt replied to any comments about them breaking down after a few years. I would like to know about this also

[@edwardsdeacon]

@@lostmangos I believe there never will be a honest response to any such questions about this product. There will also most likely never be a comparison with the other higher end/higher priced bio-media. But it is what it is and more simply can’t be expected and it’s up to the end user to except it. 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@lostmangos]

@@edwardsdeacon I am very undecided about what to buy tbh

[@oliverskinner8962]

I've had Fluval biomax the large powdered glass type with very small hole in the middle for almost 5 years without need to replace. It doesn't do the full cycle but at £15 for 1.1kg it's good value for money. I use 750g in a tall 3L food container with sponge on the bottom and a 550 lph power head on top. This deals with one block of bloodworm or krill a day for a messy pufferfish I believe you need a very slow flow rate in a lager volume of water than 3L to get a full cycle as the water flow in my DIY filter is just too fast even for biohome ultimate. I'm sure biohome ultimate is good it just probably won't last as long as Fluval biomax and is definitely more expensive. I am considering getting an external filter and would definitely try biohome ultimate in one of the trays though and if it did break down I'd replace with Fluval biomax I'm just struggling to find a big external filter with slow flow rate as restricting flow rate causes motor and impeller damage.

[@madmartigan8119]

He does talk about it in another video I can't remember the major thing you can do is have filter pad under or top of it to filter the big stuff and so they don't rub alot plus just extra mechanical

[@rickybell6356]

I have bio home media in my canister filter , I have NOT done a water change in over 6 months , my water tests fine and my fish are very happy , I have over 50 fish in a 200 litre aquarium , excellent product , thank you very much , I hated water changes :)

[@christophergan682]

Solid media. Was doubting claims. But first , after putting it on day 15 of cycling, in 2 days, day 17, fish tank fully cycled. Also, was doubting 0 Nitrates . Did not test Nitrates for past 2 months. But, in my freshwater tank, now that its 5 th month, i tested. Guessed what 0 Nitrates with API test kits. Used to be 10 ppm!!! Great Biohome Ultimate

[@bimbolimbo]

Yong Heng, Christopher Gan you do water changes

[@artashesharutyunyan3693]

Thanks for the very good service. I just got the Biuhome Ultra for my crayfish tank. It arrived with free gel balls and I just finished the setup. Crayfish are very messy and have a high requirement for water. Will post more after a month as it shows the performance. But one thing for sure, Richard does not leave your comments hanging and provides very detail answers for all the questions. Thanks Richard!!!

[@pondguru]

That's no problem and I'm glad it arrived in good time. Bear in mind that in a month the ammonia and nitrite should hit zero if you have a suitable amount of media in the filter but the reduction in nitrate (full cycle filtration) may take 4-6 months.

[@off-roaddirtbags9090]

just received my biohome ultimate. pumped its in my external canister filter cant wait to see the differance. thanks for all the tips and appreciate your time. thank you

[@pondguru]

No worries, any time and I'm glad you enjoy the videos.

[@stoicaalex90]

How is going with biohome, are you happy?

[@deep6ed]

I am using Biohome Mini Ultra in my Eheim 2011. I bought 1 kg from Tyne Valley Aquatics. After using coarse and fine filter foam there was room for about 1/2 kg. I also put in half the bacteria gel balls supplied with the media. I ran the Eheim alongside 2 internals for a couple of weeks then removed one of the internals. Though testing daily with an API master kit there was no spike in ammonia or nitrite. I have used sintered glass for over 20 years but this is the best I have tried. Brilliant product, love it.

[@pondguru]

That's a good point I forgot to mention in the video that the media does help to iron out ammonia and nitrite spikes associated with setting up a new system. Thanks for the great feedback.

[@BlatentlyFakeName]

I've been running ultra for about 7 months now and I have very close to 0 nitrates in my (a bit overstocked because a new platy was pregnant) 110Ltr tank. But it is quite heavily planted so that might also be the reason :) I'm running an Oase canister with just one tray of it. The others being ceramic rings.

[@glennshrieves7234]

just bought some bio home mini for my biorb life 60 litre tank running a marina cf20 external filter set up, this is my first ever fish tank and found this media by chance, watched his videos about the correct filter sponge set up too, am soooo glad i found this guy.. now its just a waiting game to get my water tested in a weeks time to see if im ready to add fish.. looking forward to happy fish time.. thanks

[@pondguru]

+glenn shrieves No worries and I'm glad you found the video useful - If you stock the tank gradually the filter will develop in line with the fish stock.

[@C-MAGs]

The Ultra mini (and Richards' longer filter setup video) changed my filter setup for ever. Ive still got loads left for my little Fluval Edge but I'm already looking forward to trying the Ultimate when I next need to restock. You have to try this stuff. It's awesome.

[@pondguru]

Thanks for the positive feedback, man. It truly is great stuff and the filter set-up really simplifies the process in external filters (and reduces the cost associated with additives, sachets etc. which aren't needed in 99.9% of filters)

[@aleksandarstix3097]

Ovo je klasicna prodaja i marketing.ne budi u zabludi,fluval koristi istu keramiku poreklom iz China.nemoj da ti uzimaju pare,sve je kinesko,kvalitet je odlican

[@iskierka34]

Hi, I brought biohome plus media and have to say, it's works!!! I have a goldfish and my water always was little bit cloudy, I put in biohome plus filter media 3 weeks ago and I couldn't believe, water condition it's much better and clear :) Thank you very much. . .

[@pondguru]

+Katarzyna Ambicka Sounds like the bacteria were possibly causing a bloom and needed a place to live. Good to hear, thanks for the feedback.

[@pondguru]

+joel Kletke Good stuff indeed. Thanks for the positive feedback. Everyone who comments will aid others making the choice between medias when setting up their filter so all reports back are much appreciated. Tried to comment directly back to you but I am 'not allowed to comment on this post'. Jesus wept, this is my video....

[@EastLondonKiwi]

I use BioHome Mini Ultra, and Biohome Ultimate. It's easy to use and very effective. As I am new to fish keeping, I also followed Pondgur's canister filter setup. As a result my tank is very stable and extremely easy to look after. I wouldn't use anything other filter media. I have also fond Pongru great to deal with. He is very helpful and responsive to questions. I have made a number of purchases from his eBay shop and have no issues recommending him as a great supplier.

[@pondguru]

Ease of maintenance and effective filtration is what most people want so I'm glad you appreciate that. Thanks for the glowing feedback.

[@pondguru]

Hit 'READ MORE' for full video desciption and important links - watch in HD. Biohome filter media and upgrade kits here: www.filterpro.co.uk Decent external filters: geni.us/2LnO 2.3 litre booster filter for externals: geni.us/2bj1 1.2 litre booster filter for externals: geni.us/1pBh Frozen food: geni.us/LNA8 (select type - loads to choose from) This is a detailed video which explains exactly what Biohome filter media is and how it benefits your filter. Biohome filter media has a massive surface area for aerobic bacteria colonisation and also has a great capacity to provide an environment for anaerobic bacteria on the interior of the media. Hugely porous and extremely efficient, the Biomotion media converts ammonia and nitrite (as normal media would) but also reduces nitrate due to the anaerobic bacteria which live in it's core. This reduces the need for large water changes so creates a more stable environment in your aquarium (freshwater and marine) and pond. It is inert and will not release any chemicals / minerals into the water but it is advisable to rinse before use as dust may be generated during transit. Although I supply worldwide from the UK, details of distributors in other countries to follow here.... Types of Biohome media are as follows: 1 - Biohome Standard A compact media suitable for overhead filters, trickle filters, sumps, external and internal filters. 2 - Biohome Plus As above but with additives to ensure much faster colonisation by bacteria. 3 - Biomotion A rounded media with neutral buoyancy. Suitable for moving bed filters, overhead filters, trickle filters, sumps, external filters and internal filters. Has montmonrolite clay coating to condition water. 4 - Biohome Ultra (large) A larger version of Biohome standard with rougher feel. Extremely porous. Suitable for trickle towers, sumps, larger external filters, overhead filters and multi chamber koi filters. 5 - Biohome mini Ultra A smaller version of Ultra, perfect for external filters, sumps, overhead filters, trickle filters and internal filters. Has the ultra porous structure in a more convenient size. 6 - Biohome Ultimate* This is Biohome mini Ultra with added trace elements (as in biohome Plus) which are essential for bacteria to rapidly colonise a filter. Cuts down the already quick maturing time of Biohome media and has the ultra porous structure and convenient size of Mini Ultra. Trace elements in 'plus' and 'ultimate': Silica, Titania, Alumina, Ferric Oxide, Lime, Magnesia, Potash, Soda, Phosphorus Pentoxide, Chromium Sesquioxide, Manganic Oxide, Zirconia, Hafnia, Zinc Oxide, Barium Oxide, Strontia, Stannic Oxide, Sulphur Trioxide. (from XRF analysis) Is this the best filter media ever? Very likely. *In the UK the Biohome Ultimate is my exclusive product and has been made to my specifications making it the 'Ultimate' filter media and ending my search for the best filter media. All of the above filter media will be available from my ebay selling page, plus any new media which I discover works well enough to confidently sell. Link here: www.filterpro.co.uk (also has other suppliers links on website) I deliver worldwide. How to set up an external canister filter (long version): goo.gl/T1OSHl **PLEASE NOTE I HAVE CLOSED TYNE VALLEY AQUATICS AND NOW SELL MEDIA FROM HOME ONLINE. COLLECTING MEDIA IS NO PROBLEM JUST RING OR EMAIL ANY TIME.** My phone number 07772848730 My email address [e-mail] Additional tags: Biohome filter media, bio home media, sintered glass filter media, sinterd glass, filter media for sale, best filter media, filter media surface area, filter bacteria, gel balls, filter balls, pondguru, biohome ultra biohome mini ultra, biohome ultimate, bio motion, biohome plus, biomotion, external filter, how to set up an external filter, how to set up canister filter, how to make a filter, biohome media for sale, tyne valley aquatics, DIY filter, sintered glass vs ceramic, aquarium filter media, aquarium filter, sump filter media, tropical fish, marine fish

[@Emery98]

Pondguru Outdoors How can one become a USA distributor of the Biohome media?

[@pondguru]

You would have to go through the company which brings the media in: Greatwave Engineering www.greatwaveeng.com

[@richie73]

Pondguru Outdoors where to find ebay shop

[@modelotime3608]

Can I by biohome mini from Amazon if you have a Amazon store??

[@besircaner5964]

Türkiyedeyim ürünlerinizi nereden temin edebilirim lütfen cevap verirseniz sevinirim

[@tamaradammers6874]

Just got my first fishtank (350 liters) for oranda goldfish (dirty little fishies) and ordered a fluval fx6, after watching your video's ordered Biohome media and filter(s). Gonna start up the aquarium this week. Thank you so much for shearing this info! Greeting from the Netherlands.

[@hokkku]

Richard thanks, got my biohome ultra and bio motion i use for internal filter and the excess i put on my trickle filter and i got zero amonia and crystal clear water on my 230 gallons arowana tank. Aquarium filtration set up for trickle filter

[@pondguru]

Looks like a decent filter system there and there is a nation of different media in there, lol

[@hokkku]

Pondguru lol thanks man, im just wait to matured the biohome ultra mini and biomotion and i will change the ceramic rings to biohome ultra plus.

[@pondguru]

hokkku Sounds groovy to me.

[@johnm4875]

I watched this video close to a year ago and bought some biohome ultimate for my first tank after about a 40 year layoff from the hobby. Since then I have used it in 2 other tanks and am about to use it on a third. This product is the best thing I have ever used. My nitrates rarely go above 20ppm and my ammonia and nitrites remain at zero. I have told many friends in the hobby about it and those that tried it give the same review. Thank you for sharing this information.

[@pondguru]

Thant is a great result as 20ppm won't be noticed much by the fish. How much do you use for the volume of water and what is the stock? It should be possible to reduce it further.

[@johnm4875]

All tanks are Nano tanks the largest being 16 gallons, which is a bit overstocked. And because of the small water volume I was told that I would have problems with my water chemistry. But that was resolved after using biohome. I only use about a handful in each tank. (The 2 smaller tanks run between 5 - 10ppm). I will be going a bit larger with my next tank, a 40 breeder after the holidays and will let you know how that works out.

[@pondguru]

That is an incredible result for 16 gallon tanks if you only use a handful of biohome for the filtration (unless you have huge hands, lol). A breeder tank / tank for growing fry may require more media as the bioload will be heavier.

[@EquivalentBear]

"ULTRA" has reduced my indoor turtle tank nitrates by 1/2 !

[@pondguru]

That is a great result for a turtle tank as they produce so much waste. To get a 50% reduction means the media is allowing the filter to do a great job.

[@scapinggarden5687]

I've order biohome standard and it's doing a fantastic job. I'm quite new in the fish hobby but I can tell that my nitrites and nitrates were low at the end of one month. Tempted to try biohome ultimate.

[@pondguru]

Groovy - sounds good to me and I'm glad you're pleased with it.

[@markwhite2156]

This stuff works. Fact. I added 500g to a 55 litre tank. Testing with a Master Test Kit. On day one my nitrates were teetering from 5-10ppm ( new set up ). By week four I'm down to 0ppm! The tank is planted so nutrients were added at the same time and also liquid carbon. Thanks again!

[@pondguru]

No worries, man - the liquid carbon really seems to make a difference to how quickly bacteria sets up on and in good media and we are routinely getting reports back of people achieving full cycle while using liquid carbon - it is something I think I'll have to start selling alongside the media on the website as it really does make a difference.

[@aleksandarstix3097]

kupi mleveni zeolit u prahu za jelo,pospi u akvarijum,malo ce se zabeleti,nitrata nece biti

[@danniman]

Hi Richard, thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us. I've watched many of your videos and setup my canister filter to how you recommended and I am very happy with how it's been working so far. Since at the time there were no suppliers of biohome in the US, I had to settle for less. I'm super excited to see that Biohome is now available here in the states and I plan on making the switch very soon!

[@pondguru]

It really is an awesome media so thanks for appreciating that.

[@dlibby4979]

Iv bought some BioHome media. It should arrive next week. I'm setting up a new canister filter with it, but on a newly "established" tank. The filter that its replacing is a plastic ball, and sponges on top system. I will put the new canister in the order you taught on other vids, and I have the black food bacteria balls coming as well. I will simply put the plastic balls at the bottom of the canister, then course, medium and then fine pad sandwich and then the BioHome Media. I understand it takes 6 months approx for the nitrates to fall then.......but I will give a update at the 3 month mark anyway.

[@pondguru]

Sounds good to me and a full cycle could take anywhere from 1-6 months but it is normally between 4-6 months. Using liquid carbon plant food like Flourish Excel seems to speed up development of anaerobic bacteria.

[@pondguru]

DAVID RIVERA I don't sell any marine equipment so it's not a product I have ever used or sold unfortunately. The newest form of Biohome (Biohome ultimate) is the best media for both freshwater and marine from the reports I'm getting back as it actively reduces nitrates as well as ammonia and nitrite.

[@DAVIDRIVERA-nu5ou]

THANK YOU I WILL TRY BIOHOME I LIKE WHAT I HERE AND SEE

[@fisharefriends598]

Excellent media, but you need the correct amount for the tank. With my 40 litre and 500g of biohome mini ultra. It stabilised my ammonia and nitrite to 0 in 2 weeks. Don't think of it as a miracle product, just a very good media. It's an excellent place to grow BB In my new 125, the 500g wasn't enough. I had ammonia 0 nitrite 0 nitrate 100 at the end of the week. With the addition of another kilo of biohome, the nitrate has reduced to 50. Highly recommended!!

[@pondguru]

Yes I always tell people it's not a magic bullet but when a suitable amount is used it will work wonders. The anaerobic bacteria responsible for reducing the nitrate can sometimes take 4-6 months to develop to the point where nitrates fall but if not enough media is used that fall will not occur. There is a guide to how much media is required to achieve full cycle filtration (reduction in nitrate) for various stocking scenarios in the Q&A section of my website www.filterpro.co.uk

[@michaelhingston3772]

Such a simple idea, but a great idea.they say the best ideas are the the simplist. well done Richard.

[@pondguru]

Michael Hingston I didn't invent the biohome but suggested the size and porosity of the mini ultra which turned out to be perfect for external filters. To have a media capable of supporting aerobic and anaerobic bacteria is great as the nitrogen cycle can be completed in the system.

[@sparkymark68]

Thanks for the second lot of filter media. I used the mini ultra for my fluval canister filter. Then I was inspired to upgrade my pond filter. I re-routed the oase filtoclear into a home made filter made from a plastic lidded box, through course-medium then fine foams, onto a bed of Biohome ultra, flowing back into the pond. Excellent, thanks for the inspiration and great service.

[@pondguru]

No worries, man. Glad you are pleased and thinking about filtration the biohome is great media but it does need protecting so well done on that.

[@sparkymark68]

Pondguru A year on and I'm so happy with its performance I've just bought another kg from you (as well as some fish science tabs). Thanks

[@pondguru]

Groovy, thanks very much. Just got the orders through and refunded postage on the food. I will be doing an aquatic related give away soon so look out for that video.

[@sparkymark68]

Pondguru Usual fantastic service Richard, thanks. I've got your media in my pond and 3 tanks. My water parameters are always constant whether the media is in a external canister, trickle tray or moving bed. It also shows no sign of decay, so I'll guess it'll run for years? I look forward to the give away video. Thanks again.

[@pondguru]

Although lifespan will depend on application and water flow, disturbance, protection from dirt etc. a god 6-10 years should be easily achievable at high efficiency. After that the successive generations of bacteria will clog up the internal structure and efficiency will decrease but it will still be better than 99% of new ceramic or plastic media, lol

[@MrBryanstepanian]

I received my media today I'm so excited. I have a Aqueon 55/75 Quiet Flow. Has extra space in for extra media if needed. I wanted your expertise in the total amount needed. I know not to completely change out media but to slowly replace. I know you said 1kg for 100 litters. Hopefully you might get a kick out of figuring out this situation and hopefully my answer is same as yours. Thank you.

[@pondguru]

Without knowing the size of the tank I am clutching at straws unfortunately. 1kg per 100 litres to see a good reduction in nitrate is a good guide and if you can get the suitable amount into the HOB filter its all good. I have a new media which is perfect for HOB so that will hopefully be shown in a video this weekend if I can edit all the footage down in time.

[@markroberts6322]

Richard, we LOVE your fish videos AND your metal detecting ones as well! You are a natural at making videos and making them interesting to boot. Our question is once Biohome Ultimate has done its work in cycling a new tank, are the trace minerals no longer needed? In other words, won't Biohome Mini Ultra do essentially the same thing as the Ultimate but just initially takes longer?

[@pondguru]

The trace elements aren't lost into the water and are there to make the tasks performed by bacteria easier and quicker. It's like them being in a fully furnished office with the fastest computers and all the gear they need to get the job done. That stuff is not used up but it is there to work with. A sterile media takes time to build that up but can still support a nation of bacteria once all the necessary elements have settled within the media so yes it will end up doing the same job eventually but ma not do it as efficiently as the ultimate for quite some time.

[@teaforthree1]

I’m from Rowlands Gill but live in Mallorca. I can buy Biohome cheaper from you than the Spanish supplier in Barcelona because his shipping charge is way higher than yours! So I will. Great videos BTW, cheers

[@fishtales2597]

Hi thanks for sending the Bio home ultra pellets so quickly, ordered some off ebay and came this morning. Have put them in my Aquastyle 620 filter now comes the fun part seeing how my marine tank gets on with it. But from all the other accounts i've read it should be okay.

[@pondguru]

Marine fish keepers love the biohome as it actually becomes 'live' like live rock and can be taken from tank to tank to seed more rock or media. A specific form of marine media is in the works but the only difference is that it will have added trace elements specific to marine bacteria to create the ultimate home for saltwater bacteria strains.

[@MrBryanstepanian]

Great videos. I was sold on the media and can't wait for it to help with our high waste issue. I'm going to try with our overhead filter. Plus the bio balls are a plus. Thank you for the advice.

[@pondguru]

No worries. For best results use around 1kg per 100 litres.

[@bryantsmith9045]

can't wait been watching the videos for a week and just got my cascade 1500 canister filter in the mail today so I ordered a kg of bio home ultimate for my 55gallon cichlid tank I can't wait to get this set up going also I loved your canister setup up video it taught me a lot thank you

[@pondguru]

+Bryant Smith Glad you enjoy the videos. Adding 1kg in 55g(US?) will help but it probably won't impact on the nitrates if it is overpowered by nitrate producing media making up the rest of the biological media. Ideally you would use around 1kg per 100 litres to achieve full cycle filtration (reduction of ammonia, nitrite AND nitrate) but that may rise to 1.5kg or even 2kg per 100 litres if the tank is heavily stocked, large cichlid tanks, marine tanks etc. where bioload is much greater than a normal community tank. See how it goes and if the nitrate has not moved after 4-6 months it may be time to swap out some of the other media for more biohome.

[@bryantsmith9045]

+Pondguru Outdoors Ok might have to order more I have about a 5 inch dovii with a common plec and a sand floor my tank is pretty minimal for the most art my canister has five smaller trays compared to eihimes 3 large trays so would it be a good Idea to set that up like your video with the 3 layers of foam on the bottom tray and fill the other four with bio home? as good as the stuff is I didn't see a need for any bio balls or rings

[@pondguru]

+Bryant Smith Yes if you have 5 trays then the bottom one would be for foams and the rest for biological media. Always better to have a big filter and not need it than need it and not have it.

[@tomrissi]

this clip is very informative and the presenter is very sympatic on top. Got it, now I try to get these filter medias for my new eheim external filter. Thanks and pls continue this way!

[@abdulhussain6396]

I started using biohome ultra about 9 months ago in my sump and I've never had any issues with ammonia nitrite nitrate spikes since, would defitnely recommend.

[@pondguru]

Awesome - that's what it was made for. Glad you're impressed with it, man.

[@TheFishGuy23]

Hi Richard. I just wanted to say if you use Biomotion tumbling over time it wears away and falls to the bottom rendering it useless. This is even with using the best foams and pre-filters. I would say the lifespan of this media is 2 years, unless you use it in a static/vibrating method. Big fan of your channel

[@pondguru]

Yes the biomotion does best gently vibrating or static. If you can achieve a cyclical motion (where the balls look like they are chasing each other around a track) it lasts a very long time but in chaotic motion in a small container it quickly gets smashed up within a few months or even weeks. A 'donut' shape would be perfect for biomotion but those shape containers are very difficult to find. I have one in the shop and it was pump driven. Worked perfectly so maybe I need to resurrect that idea for the biomotion. The other types of biohome should have a sensible life of between 6-10 years in an external filter (best place for them) and after that the internals will likely be quite clogged although there is a market for second hand biohome in the far east where people sell it after 10-12 years, lol

[@jennroxursox08]

Pondguru

[@craigtolhurst3717]

i love watching your videos which is why i run 3 all pond solution filters with biohome mini in 1 and biohome ultimate in the other 2 my aquariums are spotless with 0 ammonia and nitrite and very low nitrate i do water changes weekly but my nitrates are still really low just before i do it. i am setting up some more tanks soon so i will get a couple more aps filters and will order some more ultimate from you then. keep up the good work and keep the biohome coming. also what is your personel view of all pond solutions filters

[@dean8553]

Nice video, only just discovered the biohome media, but better late than never right 😀. Question is, where would be the best place to house biohome ultimate in a redsea reefer 250 sump, would it be OK to bag it place it under a filter sock? I want to use it for mostly for Nitrate, not Ammonia or Nitrite reduction.

[@elmee96]

I just ordered 5kg for my Fx5 finally! Excited too se what happens!

[@JohnSmith-nm5sg]

Update?

[@stoicaalex90]

How is going with biohome, are you happy?

[@CZdrum]

Hi Richard. I purchased the Ultra (larger media) my mistake. However, I was able to use it all in two baskets in my Hydor 450 canister. Is that ok still? I set my filter up as you did in your "pimp my filter" video for my 75g. Thanks again for all your efforts and sharing of knowledge.

[@ethanlin9925]

That is absolutely alright

[@richardsharp9514]

Just ordered mine hope it’s as good as you say it is, I do struggle with my ammonia 🤨 even with 2 water changes per week 😊

[@internationalaquaticallian5033]

The biohome ultra is very good. We use it and have had zero problems with filtration. This product is a great one and an absolute gem. #IAA #Mo

[@pondguru]

Glad you like the media. It is indeed the most effective media on the market so I'm proud to have had a hand in the development of some of the forms it takes.

[@neilfinning7989]

Hi I've been using multi bay and very happy with it ,but I'm using alpha grog in last bay , and for a while been thinking of changing it for biohome would this work And which biohome would you recommend

[@LowTechTank]

Love this stuff. I have got some in my diy filters and the water is crystal clear and that is saying a lot because it is a hold water goldfish and juvenile koi tank. Great stuff guys keep it up!

[@stoicaalex90]

How is going with biohome, are you happy?

[@blackcoalboy]

Hi Great video I’ve been using this media for ages but can you tell me please how often would one clean the filters? Thanks

[@Skiingandfishtanks]

I Cant wait until this hits the US, this looks very impressive.

[@pondguru]

The company who will be distributing in US has taken delivery, they have constructed their website but until all the import taxes are calculated they won't have a final price. As soon as the prices are finalized I'll make a video announcing the name of the distributor and show their website as well as having a direct link in the video description to their website.

[@daves1020]

I just got some Biohome Plus. I have a Hang on the Back filter and am currently using a biobag with some activated charcoal inside. Also have a small sponge filter running. This is a new tank (38L). I have used some Seachem Stability to start the beneficial bacteria. I have a few live plants already and a couple of zebra danios. Would it be good to add some Biohome Plus in a small mesh bag or loose in front of of the activated charcoal bag? There is plenty of room to put your media in front where the water returns to the aquarium. THANK YOU!!

[@anthonywarrington9224]

Hi pondguru i have an fx6 if I put lots of mechanical filtration on the top then bio home the next 2 trays down which tray would I put the balls in...and also would I need a sponge of some sort right after the purigen so the balls dont eventually get blown out in to the tank...thanks mate love you vids

[@danielallington5152]

I haven't heard of this before, but it seems to cover the whole subject of of water filtration that I tried to to get across to our customers over the years. This medium makes sense, I think, to most who have been in the business long. Do you have list of places in the U.S. that carry this? Great vidios! Keep 'em comin'!

[@tonypaoliello2011]

Will the media be more effective if we slow down the flow in a canister filter?

[@EhDewd]

How does one clean Biohome in the canister? And by clean I mean rinse in tank water, not tap water obviously. Or do we only clean the foam pads and never touch the Biohome?

[@papaann4]

This Man is a Genius.

[@onlyfins5729]

Great video , I'm learning alot . I have one question, I'm setting up a Fluval FX6 and I plan to use Bio home media in my canister. What trey should these gel balls go in and should I spread bio home under it ??

[@azndragonbuster]

One of his pimp my filter video i saw him putting the bio balls on the same tray as the bio home. I did the same thing cept I used bottled bacteria.

[@jennyspencer7898]

Hi Pond Guru! Thank you for your helpful videos! I was wondering if the bacteria balls can get damaged during shipment if they are exposed to freezing temperatures?

[@frank21621]

very good information, thanks . Would a UV sterilizer that's put on the output of your canister filter for a 90 gal fresh water tank do more harm then good for both bacteria your trying to colonize, aerobic and anaerobic bacteria

[@pondguru]

Once the media is mature it shouldn't make a difference if you have the UV on but for the first 2-3 weeks leave it off to give the filter the best chance of maturing.

[@glennshrieves7234]

just hd my water tested after only a week and and all the tests were zero so they said my water was perfect, really pleased. have decided to add a heater so going to go tropical too, this way i get alot more choice as to what to stock the tank with

[@pondguru]

+glenn shrieves Sounds good to me - just remember to stock gradually.

[@paulsampugnaro6919]

+glenn shrieves How are you making out. Was it a new tank? because if it was your Nitrates have to show something or else your tank isn't cycle. It's great stuff I use it in all my tanks but you can't cycle a tank in a week.

[@glennshrieves7234]

I added my fish and after a water check my nitrates had gone really high.but after a few weeks and regular water changes I tested the water yesterday and all was normal

[@paulsampugnaro6919]

Glad things worked out. I'm putting my fish in next week it will be a little over three weeks. It's been 0 0 0 for the last 7/10 days but I wanted to wait and give the Bio balls more time. After testing I fully expect the Ammonia and Nitrite to be 0 and if the Nirates are in the 60/80 range I will do a large WC which should knock them down right away. Nice talking to you and glad your buddies are doing well.

[@paulsampugnaro6919]

Forgot to add it's some great stuff have it in two canisters and will be in the 3rd shortly. Just foam and Bio Home Ultimate Media and that's all you need although was thinking about Seachem's Matrix in the top basket because it also takes nitrates down.

[@Reedo321]

Richard, I have biohome in a few of my externals and planned to put some purigen in them as well. However, I read a comment on another video saying that purigen shouldn't be used with biohome, could you shed any light? Is this true? Thanks

[@busterperriss]

Is this media really able to process nitrates to a degree that levels fall even with larger fish or heavy stocked aquaria like Malawi chichlids? If so which one is recommended for a Malawi aquarium? Thanks really enjoy your videos.

[@pondguru]

+Paul Perriss There isn't anything super special about what the media is made of but the magic happens inside it due to the excellent environment and varied pore space for anaerobic bacteria (which reduce nitrate). Because there are thousands of small pockets of anaerobic zones in the media it supports a good balance of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria making it very effective. You'll need 1.5kg - 2kg per 100 litres if you have a predator tank or heavily stocked cichlid tank and the best type would be biohome ultimate (for external canister filters) or biohome maxi ultimate which is a larger media more suited to sumps.

[@Woo-7073]

I just ordered some of the Biohome Ultimate . I have a Fluval 306 canister filter . How long can I expect this biological media to last ? I do monthly cleanings of the mechanical filter media of my fluval .

[@pondguru]

+Artie Woo It should last a good 6-10 years at high efficiency in a properly set up filter. Your filter will take approx. 1kg of mini ultra or ultimate types of biohome (best types for an external) and as you have 3 trays in the filter, assuming you use the bottom tray for coarse, medium and fine foams that would leave you needing 2kg for the 2 media trays.

[@russaification]

Question for you, I want to test this stuff out in a low flow reactor. The reactors dimensions are 2.4 inch diameter / 15 inch height. It's volume is 1.17 gallons or 4.45 liters. I'm trying to get the best results for anaerobic bacteria. Which type of biohome would you use. I'll be putting this test up against Seachem matrix or Seachem de-nitrate, which will be in the same exact reactor. I'll do daily samples directly from outlet hoses, to see which media matures first and which one really performs by removing nitrate. Nitrate reduction is the holy grail in aquatics , this should be a fun long term experiment.

[@pondguru]

If you have 4.45 cubic litres to fill the best form of biohome would probably be the biogravel as you could get around 5kg in there. I'm assuming that you are in the US since you're using inches? Therefore if you contact Don from Greatwave Engineering he may give you some media for testing purposes.

[@russaification]

Pondguru I was looking at that gravel and thinking the same thing. Thanks for your advise, I’ll contact him. Yes I’m from the US, California to be exact.

[@pondguru]

No worries, best of luck with that.

[@russellkeller3634]

Will a filter pad that removes phosphates from my aquarium effect anaerobic bacteria growth in my canister filter

[@ichokimsh]

is biohome standard and ultimate's difference is just nutrient? the performance is the same?

[@Calbreos]

I was wondering have you seen or used Brightwater Aquatic bio media? It's a ceramic sphere and absorbs water much like Bio Home. It claims to help with nitrates as well. I have a little over a pound of it and I have 3 pounds of Bio Home so I was wondering if I could use them together for a complete cycle in my 55 gallon using your calculations.

[@jimkihn1475]

Ty for being so descriptive of each item, old but I'm still learning ,, TY

[@seselapaz]

Do you know any video on KZbin about how ceramic rings are made?

[@rogermims9119]

Do the little black live bacteria balls need to refrigerated if not used right away?

[@haystephen]

I couldn't wait for it to get to the US so I just ordered biohome ultimate from you

[@pondguru]

lol. Groovy, man. I will post out monday morning.

[@lakemalawifishkeeping2599]

I use biohome mini for my 407 since it's so. Small do u think I'm ok for my 55 gallon African cichlid peacocks tank will I get a full cycle I have sponges on the side an floss on the bottom an the rest of the trays is biohome mini

[@ianstowe3402]

Can you place bio home straight into the tank just so the bacteria can grow before i replace the media in the filter?

[@footballsfuture6616]

I’m upgrading from a 55l to 125l so will need a bigger filter. Could I place the biohome in nets in my existing tank to get the bacteria started before I get the new filter up and running In the new set up or does it need to be placed into the filter before it will start to grow.

[@mohankanagasabai27]

which filter is better the fluval fx6(suitable for aquariums up to 1500 filters 3500 liters per hour) or the eheim professional 3 2075(suitable for aquariums to 600 liters filter up to 1250 liters of water per hour) this is for a 200 liter tank by the way. Which brand is better in your opinion and experience. Thanks Richard you are the best.

[@pondguru]

I personally prefer the eheim but both are well made and will do a great job. The FX6 will hold approx. 4kg biohome ultimate and the 2075 will hold around 3.75kg ultimate so they will both filter around the same amount of water. The eheim rating is more realistic than the FX6.

[@jvidia]

Richard, make an update to this video with the super bio gravel !

[@jordanroos13]

What is the best water conditioner to use with Biohome Ultimate? I see that Seachem Prime isn’t the one to use since it detoxifies ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. So what do I use??

[@TheKris2112]

I have a few kg of new ultimate marine. Will it be ok to use in my 8 year established freshwater tank if I swap it with my current media slowly.. I'm concerned about the marine traces affecting my freshwater bacteria....

[@bettylilly6120]

i have change my 29 gal. tank to poly fill the black sponge and the peigen. i dont have the little hard media. do i need charco too how do i put first the poly fil the black sponge and the peigen last thank you

[@dpg7558]

Hey Pondguru, first off I want to say great videos regarding the Biohome media. I had a quick question, I just bought a eheim pro 2236 and I was wondering how I can set up this canister filter with the Biohome media and the foam pads?

[@pondguru]

+donald garcia That one has a prefilter foam in top of filter so leave that where it is and set up bottom tray with coarse, medium and fine pads as in my externals filter videos. Then trays above that will be for media. The trays work like an ordinary external filter - bottom to top so all mechanical filtration (foams) can be done in bottom of filter with biological trays above (biohome).

[@geoandroid5573]

Hi, my name is George and I'm from Romania. I start watching your videos a month ago. I like how you explain about filters, I learn a lot from you. I want to know how to buy biohome media from Romania. Thank you very much.

[@karennation3580]

Is this good for marine? How good is seachem matrix because thats what I used for my marine and after i removed my nitrates went up, but I also started feeding corals with messy reefs roid and maybe overfeeding because my new corals wouldnt eat and I have no skimmer either. How does this compare to marine pure?

[@RASNOHIO]

how would you set up a fluval 405 filter? what type and placement would you put your media for a fresh water 55 gal tank

[@pondguru]

Provided the water goes through the foams first in correct order the goes through media you can't go wrong.

[@david_Soh]

Will the ultraviolet light inside the filter KILLS all the good bacteria too ? So should we choose those filter which or which out the UV lamp ? Please advice ...

[@melainkinney7213]

well here go saw ur video taking a small leap replaced media in my two hob filters with biohome media marine . not sure 2 pounds going to make huge test but we will see . if i see benefit in couple weeks . i'll remove last of my seachem media in my canister filter . i was perplexed wear to start so chose put hob filters first use bio marine ball in my canister filter glad watched video before bought wrong set of balls . funny part was forced buy to many guess they sit on the shelf for 2 yrs lol

[@michaelwellner1333]

Richard thanks for sharing your experience with the community - I'm running a heavily planted 4ft freshwater tropical set up outdoors & wanting to cut down on the "labour of samson" ie cleaning the sponges in the external canister filter; I came up with an alternative method of mechanicaly & biologically filtering the water 1st stage by attaching the uptake tube via an undergravel system (silica gravel and crushed coral sand over a thin layer of washed riversand - there is a geotextile fabric over the filter plate which sits atop 20m of perforated piping ) the water is then circulated thru the cannister (2 trays pourous ceramic noodles and 1 activated charcoal - no sponge) and back into the tank - have you seen this type of experimental filtering and can the biohome media perform as a carbon replacement? - I succesfully trialed this setup for eighteen months in a previous tank the only maintenance was gravel siphon during water change and carbon replacement - General Rid Stump!!!

[@pondguru]

I should do a video on what carbon does in a tank, lol Carbon is not a biological filter media and it is there to draw in excess treatments, chemicals and colour from wood etc. Biohome is a biological media, just like the ceramic rings but it does its job many times better as nothing supports more bacteria or eventually reduces the nitrate like biohome. Your set-up is a good idea and has the components in the correct order. I have just uploaded a new video about the nitrogen cycle and I mention carbon toward the end of that. In the video I explain how the biohome completes the nitrogen cycle but other media only does 2/3 of the job (which results in high nitrates and water changes)

[@michaelwellner1333]

Yes, I add the replaceable carbon in pouches as a last stage to remove some of the excess tanins leaching from the woody root system I have placed in the tank - Do you know of any alternate tanin treatment? - I was hoping the Biohome media may also serve this purpose; I am using the surface area of the undergravels 3 selected substrates to primary mech/bio filter prior to the cannister. Very few hobbyists seem to use an undergravel system now, especially since the market explosion in marine setups; It is my understanding the substrate lower layers have anaerobic colonies and the upper most layers aerobic - which once well established convert the nitrite - there is also a symbiotic relationship between the fungal hyphae which colonise the living plant roots growing within the substrate - the trick is to gravel siphon the very topmost substrate during water change (replacing cannister sponge rinsing) - this regular water maintenance provides outdoor plants with a nutritious liquid fish fertiliser. I am congratulating, you've put a lot of thought into improving the filter media adding the trace elements and dual pourous structure - it reminds me of volcanic scoria or fulgarite glass from lightning strikes - I will definately use your media for a pond trial when it becomes available in Australia.

[@pondguru]

Michael Wellner No doubt there will be a distributor in Australia soon. Obviously I send out to AU from UK but the shipping is a real killer for the small amounts. For a distributor over there who was willing to take a sensible amount the shipping would only work out about £1 per kilo. I think one of the Seachem products will draw in tannins but like most of their stuff I expect that it costs way more than something already available that does the same (or better) job. There aren't many people using gravel in general although for cold water tanks it still is the most popular choice. As all the loaches, corydoras and catfish available for tropical set-ups prefer sand that is becoming more popular and ordinary sand allows the easier reduction of pH to a level which suits 95% of the tropical fish. I do still recommend ordinary aquarium gravel in some tanks when people want a higher pH (for livebearers) as they appreciate the harder water with higher pH. I guess the way you have yours set up will not keep the pH high since there are many elements to it and it may be mature enough to maintain a lower pH.

[@michaelwellner1333]

After running it the first time I choose to use fine coral sand as the primary substrate which is a breeze to siphon and the plant roots & sterbai corydoras love it - the plate is protected by a Geotextile fabric which I have used in landscape projects which remains permeable & stops the fines from clogging the system - can you post a link re the distributor here at some stage in the future & if I get the ponds set up in the next couple of months prior I shall contact your site - thank you again - General Rid Stump!!!

[@pondguru]

Michael Wellner Will post links to other suppliers as they become available, no worries.

[@ryanpratt9746]

have you ever looked at or tried using extruded clay balls as a media ?. These are used in hydroponic grow systems ,very porous meterial . I have half a bag in the shed and thought this maybe great in my sisters koi pond filters in place of the plastic crap she uses .

[@ryanpratt9746]

Ps I have bio ultra in my canister filter , most likely bought from you on eBay 😂

[@C6R1S]

Very nice absorption rate. Do you think this material would be suitable for a growing media as well say for a aquaculture/ponics media bed?

[@pondguru]

As hydroton is so cheap compared to biohome it makes the best growing media no question. It would cost a fortune to use biohome as a growing media given that most people will vigorously clean htdroton after every crop. It is smaller, harder and will withstand this treatment better than biohome. Maybe the bio-motion would compare to hydroton? as it is smaller and harder than the other biohome products but as it is buoyant it wouldn't behave properly compared to hydroton?

[@teddygas9689]

I’m buying a Aquael 500 internal filter for a 68litre aquarium. Will the small stuff be adequate in this filter please?

[@sbart6591]

Rinse or don't rinse before running your filter?

[@cokeboysrep]

Great video Richard mate just wanted to ask you would bio ultimate be best for nitrate removal really need to find a media which drastically lowers my nitrate levels water changes don't make a flying difference considering the water coming out of my tap is reading 40-50 ppm so it's really stressful for my fish even if I keep up with changes what would you suggest thanks a lot

[@pondguru]

If you use around 1kg biohome mini ultra / ultimate (best ones for canister filters) you can expect the nitrate to reduce down to maybe 5-10ppm on average. Some people can't measure it who previously had very high nitrates. It will be held back by nitrate producing media (e.g. moving bed filters using plastic media, ceramic rings, plastic balls etc.) so bear that in mind when adding biohome to a filter. If it is the only biological media you will have no problems with nitrates once the anaerobic bacteria get built up sufficiently (4-6 months). All the biohome will reduce nitrate but different types are more suited to different types of filters due to their size.

[@cokeboysrep]

So basically if I use around a kilo of bio home ultimate and only that for my biological media together with my course medium and fine sponge in my canister that would be all I need to deal with for my high nitrates but I mustn't be using plastic media, ceramic rings, plastic balls aswell otherwise it will effect what I'm actually trying to get done?

[@lou7758]

hi there!! can this product be used in external and/or internal filters instead of ceramic rings? as you said fantastic results in bi orb. many thanks

[@pondguru]

The different types of biohome are really for different types of filters so while the biogravel is perfect for the biorb and very small internal filters it would be an expensive way to fill an external filter. The best media for the external filters would be either the mini ultra or ultimate and the best media for an internal could be either biohome standard, plus, mini ultra or ultimate depending on the available space for media.

[@RagTagRecycling9988]

Hi Pondguru, i was thinking since the dense inner structure of Biohome can encourage anaerobic bacteria growth, would arranging and packing more Biohome media tightly into a small compartment create more anaerobic conditions for a bigger population of anaerobic bacteria? Theoretically, if we pack more pellets tighter together, the aerobic bacteria colonies would be larger per cm3 and thus the oxygen consumption would increase in that small area and the larger number of pellets, the water flow would also slow down, thus in turn creating a bigger anaerobic area. So if we pack bio media tighter together (i.e like a can of sardines) we would have created more anaerobic conditions to grow more bacteria that removes nitrates. Just by arrangement and the way you pack the media into your filter, you can create conditions for the kind of bacteria you want. What do you think?

[@pondguru]

It will help yes but with some types of media it wouldn't matter how tight you packed them in as the internal structure of media is most important factor. Many people do pack the biohome in tight and so far I haven't seen that it makes it any more or less effective at nitrate removal but no proper experiment has been done with regard to media packing. I do know that if a suitable amount of biohome is used it will almost totally remove the nitrate no matter how it is arranged in the filter.

[@RagTagRecycling9988]

ic, I understand. Thanks for the reply.

[@russellbrunet3924]

My bio home ultimate is on the way from great wave engineering. I’m super excited and cannot wait to get it!!! I have an FX 4 and plan to swap out my current media slowly. I plan to do one tray every 1 or 2 weeks. Do you just mix in the gel balls when you start the media change?

[@javierafanador1830]

Magic question is your media good for saltwater aquarium?

[@pondguru]

+Javier Afanador Yes it will all work fine in a marine filter but there is a marine specific version out now called 'biohome marine' which works best due to the added trace elements in it specifically for the benefit of marine bacteria. They help by acting as a catalyst for marine bacteria processes. www.filterpro.co.uk

[@tferfon2672]

So many comments to read; hope this isnt down below. Moving to a 110g tank w/canister from 45g HOB. Containing 6 mixed cichilds, 1 clown loach , ...and 2 plecos. All pretty young. Need to know what canitster to use. Your "pimp fluval x6 " w/ upgraded media sounds the right fit BUT my first concern is: my fish hide while the 4 hr circulator/ power head is on. ¿How will they stand a full day of the output pressure of the fx6? Also, you mention that the filter (fx6 ) is costly but the media is only a little bit more. *The media would be 11 lbs x 25$. That's a whole lot of money. More costly than the filters itself. How does the Eheim classic 600 compare to fx6? Only the 2262 seems to be big BUT TOO BIG AND EXPENSIVE. Which canister to get for my tank without too big of an outtake ( that keep my fish hiding) ...and is there a place to buy media for cheaper than Amazon, USA?

[@anthonyfromkansascity7943]

Hello there from the USA, I WAS WONDERING WHERE YOU MAY AQUIRE THE MEDIA USED IN THE CANNISTER FILTER REBUILD, AS I ALSO HAVE THE EHEIM PRO 2 AND IT IS, ACCORDING TO WATER TEST IS NOT DOING A VERY GOOD JOB. I HAVEN'T RUN ACROSS THE BROWN FILTER MEDIA AT ALL AN THE ULTRA YOU SAID WOULD ACTUALLY BE IN THE STATES HOPEFULLY SOONER than LATER. THANKS

[@T_bomb99]

HI well i have bought some. i have an fx6 so i bought these to up it to keep my heavy stock of cichlids healthy and alive plus i just received my sun sun so i will have 4kilograms of this stuff so i think i should be ok. another great video

[@pondguru]

Glad you enjoyed the video - happy fish keeping.

[@T_bomb99]

hi my email is not working but it was me that wrote you on ebay. i am having trouble with a seller and i did not realize that you shipped to canada. so if the seller does not get my stuff out on time i will definatelly buy from you that was what i was trying to get at. i am having a very bad expeirience with him. the other seller on ebay that sells this stuff. so if i dont get it on time i will try and get a refund and buy from you if you can just respong to my ebay acounti wrote you earliercuz my pc is messed up i cant log in here or my email when i have to so i can communicaqte with you on ebay. regards Nick

[@grantgreenwood522]

So is it ok to brake up the bio home ultimate to fit better in my fluval 207??

[@ObieWanKenobi1]

So you mentioned in the video the biohome wont last forever but a long time provided the filter is setup correctly, and slightly less in an external filter. I was wondering so in an external filter specifically an APS 2000ef how long would it last roughly provided the proper mechanical media was in place? Thanks for another great video! Im subscribing

[@pondguru]

I'd imagine at least 6-8 years as all it would need is taking out (in the trays) to get to the foams while maintaining. As with ceramic media if it is shaken hard on a regular basis it will wear away quickly but under normal circumstances it will last long beyond the point where bacteria population starts to decline (when internal structure is eventually becoming blocked by successive populations of bacteria). Hope that helps. Thanks for watching and appreciating the videos.

[@1959Berre]

How about expanded clay pellets? Dirt cheap, massive surface area and perfect for biological filtration. I use it in a trickle filter with a layer of wool on top. Water is perfect.

[@justinp9451]

Hey Richard, I am using 2 emperor 400 HOB filters on my tank. Do you think it would be practical to replace my carbon and foam filters with some of this filter media? just trying to get the best filtration I can out of them.

[@pondguru]

They aren't really designed for biological media but if you can fit it in then go for it, man. You will still need some mechanical filtration before the water hits the media to prevent it clogging.

[@SteveNyhart]

How much do I need in a 30gal saltwater aquarium?