Reef Interests All In One Biopellets
How does it work?
The AIO BioPellets contain a solid energy source for bacteria normally found in, for instance, bio filters or life rock. When the AIO BioPellets are placed in a fluidized filter or trickling filter, connected to your tank, bacteria will start to grow under aerobic conditions while consuming nitrogen (ammonia, nitrite and nitrate) and phosphate simultaneously. This conversion of inorganic nitrogen and phosphorus into microbial biomass is called immobilization. In contrast to anaerobic denitrification, the biopellets are used aerobically (in the presence of oxygen) and under these conditions they do not produce N2 gas or the toxic H2S, which is often observed in anaerobic denitrification systems.
How do I use the AIO BioPellets?
In contrast to our “old” biopellets, we have observed that the All-In-One Biopellets work best with very high water flow. For example, a 700 liter tank with a fluidized filter containing 2 liter of AIO Biopellets already requires a minimal flow through of 2000-3000 l/h. On Note, this particular tank contains approximately 50 fish and after 10 months of testing both nitrates and phosphates were undetectable with standard nitrate and phosphate kits.
The surplus of bacteria will be consumed by filter and suspension feeding organisms, such as sponges and corals, or skimmed off by a protein skimmer. Placing the outlet of your AIO BioPellets filter prior to a protein skimmer has the additional benefit of increased gas exchange (CO2-removal and O2-addition). The pellets should never be used without sufficient aeration, as this may lead to low oxygen and pH levels, especially during night time. Proper aeration can be established with air pumps and protein skimmers.
In addition, with a high feeding regime, we advise to use a simple filter sponge on the outlet of your fluidized filter to remove excess of bacteria which will otherwise cloud your water slightly.
