Biopellets or GFO?

BP may have some effect on P, but mostly for N. So, depending on goals may need both.

 

I use GFO and agree that it can be a pain. But I also have had some pretty extreme issues with PO4. Its clear that EcoBak can and will produce results when used properly. I am personally looking to switch to EcoBak in the near future.

 

I'm using PhosGuard, and GAC. Seems to work for me.

 

Why EcoBak?

 

they work i add them slowly a little each week till i reach the amount i need i have 40 breeder with a 20 gallon sump so far everything has been fine

 

Biopellets are in effect carbon dosing (Please correct me if I'm wrong).
it is necessary to seed your tank with Bacteria when using Biopellets

GPO simply absorbs phosphates and if not changed regularly it will release the phosphates back into your system

 

Yes they are the same thing basically, it is sometimes referred to as "solid carbon dosing". It does take time to seed itself with bacteria, sometimes several weeks. Also GFO does bind to phosphates and should not release them back into the water as the iron oxide forms a new chemical compound with the phosphates. This new compound would remain stable in the average reef and would be simply thrown out with your exhausted GFO remains during cleaning. I personally use GFO for PO4, cheato for nitrates, and a huge skimmer for organics. I have low nutrients and zero algae.

 

Necessary to "seed" the tank before introducing pellets?

 

So far so good. I didn't know about the seeding at first but it's all good now.

 

Yes you need to supplement is bacteria with Bio pellets something like Brightwell Aquatics MicroBacter7