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Building a freshwater nitrate filter, is it worth it?


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I have a couple filter projects and will switch to SeaChem Matrix instead of the bio-macaroni I am using.  This lead me to SeaChem de❊nitrate product which is quite similar to the Matrix media. Pricing may be the only difference between them, both are just porous rocks. 

From Seachem, a nitrate filter requires low flow (50gph) in an anaerobic environment. An easy way to build one, get a piece of pvc pipe with end caps with a hole drilled out. Attach a tiny fountain pump to one end, fill pipe with de❊nitrate. 

But where to place the filter? Burying in the substrate may be the best option as this secondary filter may need little maintenance. Or I could place it in my sump under the Matrix media. 

I like making stuff and tend to lose my common sense at times. Common sense says, a freshwater nitrate filter is not needed with water changes and it most likely wouldn't work due to the lack of an anaerobic environment. 

I think common sense should win on this one 🙂 

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In this thread some great information on the volume of media you would need to significantly impact nitrates. This article came from work our forum member @dasaltemelosguy did with the Aquarium of the Pacific. It’s fantastic information. The reality is you need so much media it’s crazy and not easily done in a Home Aquarium. 

 

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On 7/3/2023 at 8:47 AM, Guppysnail said:

In this thread some great information on the volume of media you would need to significantly impact nitrates.

Big thanks for posting that, SeaChem de❊nitrate™ has been removed from my cart 🙂 

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Water chNges are very effective for decreasing nitrate levels as is growing plants, trimming them and removing plant matter.

In fact these two methods are so cheap and effective I have a hard time understanding why people might want to avoid them….

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