Nextreef MR1 and Vertex pellets

Hi Everyone,
I just bought a nextreef bioreactor and put vertex pellets in it. The pump that came with the MR1 is an eco 132. It does not move the media enough. My LFS suggested I take out the sponge on the bottom of the MR1. He said that in the long run it would be bad for the bacteria build-up. If I take the sponge out some of the pellets slip through. Should I leave the sponge in and just hook up a bigger pump or does anyone have any ideas on what I maybe able to place on the bottom of the MR1? I know it was a long one any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

Problem solved

I have solved the problem (thanks to my wife). Went to Joann's fabric and bought a little plastic mesh screen from cross stitch section. It works great. She just looked at me and said "who's hobby is this again."

Thanks.

 

At least you figured it out between the two of you! LOL. I had to research that

 

It's the most common solution in use. You don't want to "clean" the media, and a sponge requires cleaning and reduces flow. A cross stitch screen is the best solution.