Using Activated Carbon in Marine Aquarium

Using Activated Carbon in Marine Aquarium

What is activated carbon?
Popularly known as charcoal, activated carbon is positively charged variant of carbon. It is porous in consistency and is used in solid or powdered forms. It also comes conveniently designed as carbon sponge or pads for placing in an aquarium tank. Charcoal is obtained from the anaerobic combustion of carbon-rich matter, like wood, coal, etc. Activated carbon is often treated with steam to increase its porosity for effective use.

What are its uses?
Activated carbon is one of the most effective agents for the removal of impurities in water. Its positive charge is ideal for attracting impurities, such as heavy metals (specific), antibiotics, dies, fertilizers, disinfectants, chlorine, chloramine, dissolved organic molecules etc. The perforated form of active carbon further facilitates the superficial process of adsorption such that the impurities are locked inside it. Due to its efficiency, active carbon often forms a part of RO (reverse osmosis) units. Carbon helps in maintaining the right pH balance and absorbs unhealthy pheromones that the marine animals release.

However, it is significant to note that charcoal cannot catch all kind of impurities. It is ineffective on inorganic salts, phosphates, nitrates, nitrites, iodides, ammonia, and the like. In fact, the commercially available charcoal may contain the traces of phosphate that are introduced in the tank accidently.

The adsorption capacity of the available charcoal in the marine aquarium water is greatly influenced by the relative proportion of charcoal and impurities in the tank. The length of time and degree of exposure of the impurities to the activated carbon also has a bearing on the effectiveness.

How frequently should it be used?
The use of activated carbon is not mandatory, especially in well-maintained saltwater tanks. If the water replacement is made regularly, supplemented by protein skimmers, additives etc, charcoal may be dispensed with. In addition, the loss of some important trace elements proves to be a deterrent against introducing active carbon in a fish tank. If it becomes necessary to put charcoal, also add the requisite trace elements in the tank. Ideally, carbon should be used as and when the need arises.

Does it need replacement?
Yes, it needs replacement as a matter of requirement. Another consideration can be cost. Some of the aquarium filtration systems come laden with active carbon. Therefore, the change of cartridge automatically replaces the old carbon. Manufacturers also provide estimations about the length of the time during which their products will be effective. The granulated form has longer life than the others do.

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