Replacement Filters & Media

Red Sea REEF-SPEC™ Carbon is the ultimate choice for marine & reef aquariums due to its unique technical characteristics. Red Sea REEF-SPEC™ Carbon’s granule size and its micro/macro porous structure, ensures a very high total adsorption capacity and rapid extraction of the specific organic pollutants that are found in Reef aquariums. REEF-SPEC™ Carbon has extremely low phosphate leaching and minimal ash content while also not affecting the pH of aquarium water.Red Sea REEF-SPEC™ Carbon needs replacing less frequently than carbons that are not reef-specific or are of a lower quality and represents an effective, cost-efficient solution for providing the very best water quality in marine & reef aquariums. Main features: Rapid removal of organic pollutants High total adsorption capacity Ultra-Low phosphate output Ultra-Low ash content Suitable for Marine & Freshwater Filter Bag included( 250g, 500g, 1000g) REEF-SPEC™ Carbon Specification Table Specification Shape 0.6 – 2.3 mm flakes Density 0.48 g/ml Pore Volume (PV) 1.04 ml/g Total Surface Area (TSA) 1000 m2/g TSA/PV 990 m2/ml Small organic molecules adsorption 1000 mg/g Large organic molecules adsorption 280 mg/g pH in distilled water >8 Phosphate output 0.000001 g/ml   The role of Activated Carbon in the reef aquarium Why do we need to use carbon in a reef aquarium? There are organic pollutants that can only be removed from reef aquarium water by active carbon. The reef aquarium is a closed artificial ecosystem where living creatures continually produce organic waste consisting of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, organic acids and phenols. If allowed to decompose the organics will fuel the activity of many unwanted microorganisms in the aquarium, increasing the total oxygen demand (BOD, COD) which will cause a reduction in Redox potential, as well as causing excessive production of CO2 by bacterial respiration, which will reduce pH. Furthermore, there will be an increase in nitrogenous and phosphorus compounds, encouraging growth of nuisance bacteria and eventually of nuisance algae. The accumulating organics also has a significant effect on light penetration, especially in the blue and near UV spectrum that stimulates coral growth. Stripping out the organics from the water is therefore crucial for the success of the aquarium. Using strong protein skimming, fine mechanical filtration and healthy biological filtration (nitrification and de-nitrification) will treat the large organic particles and the end products of the organic decomposition processes. However, there are many small organic particles that can only be treated by very fine mechanical micro-filtration using activated carbon. How does activated carbon filter water? Scientifically speaking, carbon removes the organics from water by a physical process called adsorption. Within a reef aquarium, the submicroscopic pores of activated carbon is the final stage of the mechanical filtration process, adsorbing the organic molecules that are too small to be removed by even the finest mechanical filters or physically removed from the water by protein skimming. Adsorption can be thought of as the adhesion of a molecule to surface by attractive forces. This occurs within the submicroscopic pores of the carbon because the attractive forces between the organic molecules and the internal surfaces of the carbon are far greater than the attractive forces that keep them dissolved in solution. This will continue until all of the surface area inside the carbon is used up and it becomes saturated with organics. What is activated carbon? Activated carbon is an extremely porous material with a sponge like structure but with a very large internal surface area relative to its physical size. It is produced from many organic materials that have a high carbon content such as coconuts shells, nutshells, lignite, bituminous coal or anthracite. The carbon-based material is “activated” through physical modification and thermal decomposition in a furnace, under a controlled atmosphere and temperature. The activation process significantly increases the surface area per unit volume of a fine network of submicroscopic pores which is what gives activated carbon its ability to act as a filter material. The specific source of the carbon and the specific activation process determines the physical characteristics of the finished product. There are many different grades of activated carbon and therefore they must be selected specifically for each and every application. What makes a specific carbon ideal for reef aquariums usage? There are a number of internationally accepted tests for evaluating and comparing activated carbon. However, the most significant parameters for selecting a carbon for reef aquariums are the Iodine Number and Methylene Blue Number. These two parameters measure the ability of the carbon to adsorb all of the organic waste from a reef aquarium that is not removed by the mechanical filtration and protein skimming. The higher the number the more organics will be removed from the aquarium per gram of active carbon used. Both of these numbers are about as important as each other and should always be considered together when evaluating test data. Some manufacturers quote a Molasses Number, however the molecules in the molasses size range are typically removed by protein skimming and therefore this number is irrelevant when evaluating the suitability of activate carbon for reef aquariums. In the past, carbons have been known to leach phosphate into the water, which is undesirable for a reef aquarium and therefore the lowest levels of Leachable Phosphate are considered better. In reality, as long as the leachable phosphate is below a basic threshold level, any differences below that level is not measurable in reef aquariums and is therefore irrelevant. The cleanliness or dustiness of the product is also a consideration and is measured as the Ash Level. The lower the better as higher levels indicate a larger quantity of particles will be released to the water and a lower actual mass of carbon left to do the filtration. Ash levels are often quoted by manufacturers however it is easiest visualized by viewing the turbidity on adding the carbon to water. In addition to these important indicators, the overall efficiency of the activated carbon will be effected by its physical parameters such as Product Density, TSA, Pore Volume and Mesh Size. Activated carbon produced from lignite and anthracite are not recommended for reef aquariums due to an excessive amount of fine powder released to the water (which may lead to lateral line necrosis “HLLE disease” in some fish). Coconut shell or bituminous coal are the preferred sources. Tips on using Reef Spec Carbon in a reef aquarium The adsorption activity of the carbon media relies on a good carbon/water contact and therefore moderately active water flow will increase the efficiency. Strong water flow will reduce the contact time and interfere with the adhesion process of the organic molecules to the carbon. Strong water flow may also cause the granules to grind against each other, releasing carbon material to water. For best results: Remove any fines, by rinsing carbon under tap water. Due to air trapped in the pores carbon will float and therefore it is recommended to soak the carbon in RO water until all of the air has been released. Place the carbon in a location with an active flow of 1000-1500 lph (250-400 gph) per 50 gr carbon. Replace carbon every 1.5 – 2 months. Note: When carbon becomes saturated with organics, it may start adsorbing some of the trace elements from the seawater. Usage Guide Organic load and yellow tint removal: The recommended dosage of Red Sea’s REEF SPEC Carbon is approximately 50 gr (100 ml) per 200 L (50 gallons) for a period of 1-2 months for a moderately stocked reef aquarium. Post-medication treatment: The recommended dosage of Red Sea’s REEF SPEC Carbon to adsorb medication residuals is approximately 100 gr (200 ml) per 200 L (50 gallons) for a period of a week. Ozone post-treatment: The recommended dosage of Red Sea’s REEF SPEC Carbon to remove residual ozone is 50 gr per 50mg/hr of ozone injection. The carbon should be placed at the ozone reactor/ protein skimmer outlet. Carbon should be replaced once it has reached approximately 50% of its original volume. Technical Terms Iodine Number: Standard testing done to estimate the adsorption capacity of small molecules, in the range of 10 Å to 15 Å. Recommended levels for reef aquariums are above 850 mg/g but the higher the number the better. Methylene Blue Number: Standard testing done to estimate the adsorption capacity of medium size molecules in the range of 15 Å to 40 Å. Recommended levels for reef aquariums are above 250 mg/g but the higher the number the better. Molasses Number: Non-standard testing done to estimate the adsorption capacity of large molecules above 40 Å. There is no recommended level for reef aquariums these molecules are removed by protein skimming. Ash Level: A measure of the non-carbon content of the activated carbon. This is normally a dust that will be released from the carbon to the water. The less Ash the better. Leachable phosphate: A measure of the amount of residual orthophosphates PO4 that may leach from the carbon to the aquarium. The less phosphate the better and for reef aquariums should be below 10 mg/kg. Highest quality carbons will be below 2 mg/kg. Product Density: Density of the carbon at maximum packing efficiency, reported in g/ml. TSA – Total Surface Area: Amount of pore surface available for adsorption for a given mass of carbon, measured using techniques such as BET nitrogen adsorption; reported in units of m²/g. Recommended levels are above 800 m²/g. Pore volume: The amount of macro, meso and micro pores. The ratio between TSA to pore volume estimate the active surface area in m2/ml. Mesh Size: Measure of particle size range of the granular product. Recommended mesh size for water treatment is 8 x 30 mesh (0.6 x 2.4 mm).

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Matrix™ is a high porosity biomedia that provides efficient biofiltration for the removal of nitrogenous waste. Matrix™ is a porous inorganic solid about 10 mm in diameter. Each liter of Matrix™ provides as much surface (>~700 m2) as 170 liters of plastic balls! Plastic bio-materials provide only external surface area, whereas Matrix™ provides both external and internal macroporous surface area. These macropores are ideally sized for the support of nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria. This allows Matrix™, unlike other forms of biomedia, to remove nitrate along with ammonia and nitrite, simultaneously and in the same filter. Matrix™ is completely inert and will not breakdown. It need not be replaced. Since the majority of the bacteria are internal, Matrix™ may be rinsed when needed without damaging the filter. Matrix™ is compatible with all types of wet or wet-dry filters.

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Inert ceramic material with open flow architecture and largest use-able surface area.Higher efficiency relative to conventional media results requirements to achieve treat NH4-N and NO3-N.Most technically advanced bio-filtration substrate.The surface of the block is a microporous and has a large specific surface area. It is suitable for the growth of various microorganisms and forms a stable and highly active biofilm on its surface.The three-dimensional void (3D) formed by the sphere and the sphere produces a powerful bactericidal effect. They are a great base for sponge growth, micro-fauna, and even coral frags.Bio-Filter Block will work in sumps, trickle filters, wet/dry filters, hang on the back filters or directly in the tank.Suitable for use in fresh, marine and pond water!  2 Blocks included, (1080 metres squared of surface area per block)

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High quality aragonitic calcium carbonate in a small rubble size, perfect for your fragging projects, a jawfish or firefish habitat, creating a cryptic zone or, on the freshwater side; use it as a pond filter media or for your African Cichlids. The only limits for it's use are your imagination! Enjoy the perfect refugium and so much more with Rubble Zone

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DeNitrate is an economical, natural, porous material with a pore distribution and geometry that promotes both aerobic nitrification within the first few millimeters of depth and anaerobic denitrification at the core. The material has a high surface area and supports a high density of bacteria. Although DeNitrate has capacity to trap nitrate, this, as with other nitrate retaining materials, such as certain zeolites and synthetic resins, is quite limited and the primary mechanism of nitrate removal is anaerobic. “Live”rocks or reef rocks remove nitrate by anaerobic denitrification. DeNitrate removes nitrate by the same process. Efficiency is magnified several folds by forcing the water to filter through the porous DeNitrate. As with reef rock, anaerobic conditions are achieved by the porosity and the depletion of oxygen by the aerobic process at the surface. Excessive flow rates should, therefore, be avoided, as they may impede development of an adequate anaerobic environment to support denitrifying bacteria. DeNitrate is also an excellent media for aerobic nitrification and it makes an ideal biological filter in drip trays, canister filters, sumps, or even box filters. At high flow rates (greater than 100 US gallons per hour), it will function solely as an aerobic filter. At slow flow rates (less than 50 US gallons per hour), it will function as both an aerobic filter and an anaerobic denitrifying filter.

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Unique element intended for biological filtration of water in freshwater and saltwater aquariums. Aquael Ceramic Rings boast tremendous surface area for nitrifying bacteria. Great for larger aquarium filtration systems. It has the form of cylinders made of fine-pore sintered glass ensuring exceptionally high filtration surface (1200 m2).

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Reef Reactor is a high-purity source of aragonite, which supplies all important elements for optimal ionic balance and robust coral growth and coloration in reef aquaria. It has a grain size of approximately 0.5–1 cm (Reef Reactor Lg is 1 - 3 cm). It is intended for use in calcium reactors where it is dissolved slowly with the addition of CO2. As it dissolves, it provides calcium, magnesium, strontium, potassium, and carbonates among other important elements for reef aquaria. It is excellent at increasing and stabilizing alkalinity, which also supports a stable pH and encourages the rapid formation of coral skeletal material. With high levels of both calcium and magnesium, it offers an excellent means of balanced supplementation for rapid growth and propagation of corals and calcareous animals in reef aquaria. It possesses the highest level of soluble potassium of all competing brands while exhibiting the lowest levels of both aluminium and phosphorus.

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Reef Reactor is a high-purity source of aragonite, which supplies all important elements for optimal ionic balance and robust coral growth and coloration in reef aquaria. It has a grain size of approximately 1-3 cm. (Reef Reactor Md is 0.5 - 1 cm). It is intended for use in calcium reactors where it is dissolved slowly with the addition of CO2. As it dissolves, it provides calcium, magnesium, strontium, potassium, and carbonates among other important elements for reef aquaria. It is excellent at increasing and stabilizing alkalinity, which also supports a stable pH and encourages the rapid formation of coral skeletal material. With high levels of both calcium and magnesium, it offers an excellent means of balanced supplementation for rapid growth and propagation of corals and calcareous animals in reef aquaria. It possesses the highest level of soluble potassium of all competing brands while exhibiting the lowest levels of both aluminium and phosphorus.

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A unique blend of sediments that duplicate tropical fringing coastal mangrove environments. Mineral Mud™ particles are in a size range compatible with soft, burrowing infaunal, macro animal assemblages. Ideal for mud refugiums, seagrasses, macro-algaes, and mangroves, Mineral Mud™ provides a variety of trace elements plus calcium, strontium, iron, sulfur and free carbon. In addition, Mineral Mud™ contains live marine bacteria to complete the tropical ecosystem. Frequently Asked Questions In what type of reactor would I use Mineral Mud™? Mineral Mud™ is actually a refugium media that is meant to be used in a refugium type aquarium with lighting and with plants and algae growing in it. Mineral Mud™ quickly establishes an anaerobic denitrifying bed and acts as a wonderful media for growing most types of marine aquatic plants and algae. This creates an ideal environment for nutrient export, (through algae and plants), and micro faunal growth. It can be used alone or with a ½ to 1” cap of live or dry aragonite Directions For mud filters, empty jar into filter, then mix slightly, and add water (a “cap” of approximately 1/2 to 1 inch of live or dry aragonite sand is suggested). Wait 2-3 days, then begin pumps, and allow system to clear water (may take 1-2 days). Then add macro-algae, seagrasses, or mangroves. Allow tank to cycle, then add fish and corals into main tank. If using Mineral Mud™ in main tank, mix into a small area where you intend to plant your macro-algaes, seagrasses, or mangroves. Do not cover the entire tank bottom. Run pumps for a day or two until water clears, then add plants. NOTE: This substrate contains marine organics, and was created to mimic coastal marine mangrove environments. It is designed to reach anaerobic conditions within an inch of the sub-strate/water interface. Once established, avoid disturbing the bed.

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The ATI Phosphat Stop Filter Media for Aquariums is a high-efficiency phosphate absorber based on iron hydroxide. It is capable of removing phosphate from both seawater and freshwater quickly and efficiently. It eliminates phosphate, silicate, arsenic, and other dissolved organic waste while also preventing algae formation and improving coral health. The phosphate cannot be released once it has been bound. Even if it is left after its service life has expired, nothing is leached back into the water. ATI phosphate stop is ideal for use in reef aquariums because it does not introduce any harmful substances into the water and may aid in the reduction of certain heavy metals

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CaribSea ARM Coarse Reactor Media contains calcium, carbonate, and trace elements. Nearly 50x the Strontium of other brands (7390ppm) Precision grading allows for maximum carbon dioxide penetration No gastropod shells means the lowest phosphate content (less than 1/10th of 1ppm) Highest solubility of any reactor media (metastable at 8.2 One of the most trusted media for calcium reactors in the industry. The media is a complete solution which includes both calcium and carbonate as well as essential trace elements. The media comes in three forms Small, Coarse and Extra Coarse. Small – Provides the most surface area which maximizes the amount of calcium and carbonate which can be added to the tank. *The small size can clog many reactors and may require on-going maintenance. Coarse – larger size granules which are less likely to clog equipment. Extra Coarse – Largest size granules and the least likely to clog equipment which results in the lowest maintenance option.

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Must-have chemical filter media for freshwater aquariums to keep toxic ammonia at bay. Removes ammonia as well as odours and heavy metals. It has a form of grit made of specially selected zeolite ensuring very large sorptive capacity. 1000ml

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NitroMAX Pro – it has the form of sacks of non-fusible interlining material filled with ion-exchanging resin. This is a high-capacity nitrate removing media which rapidly removes nitrate for improved aquarium water quality. 3 x 100 ml

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CarboMAX Plus – a unique element for filtering aquarium water in fresh and saltwater tanks, made of high quality active carbon. It has a form of durable, dust-free granules. 1000 ml

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Unique element intended for biological filtration of water in freshwater and saltwater aquariums. Aquael Ceramic Rings boast tremendous surface area for nitrifying bacteria. Great for larger aquarium filtration systems. It has the form of cylinders made of a porous ceramic material ensuring very large filtration surface (600 m2). 1000 ml

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Unique element intended for biological filtration of water in freshwater and saltwater aquariums, paludariums, aqua-terrariums and terrarium pools. It has the form of bowls made of fine-pore sintered glass ensuring exceptionally high filtration surface (1600 m2). 1000 ml

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