coffeebean

i bought a fluval 305 filter for this new tank. it comes with 6 spaces to put various media as well as 4 sponges at the front. it came with 3 carbon bags and 3 packets of the ceramic rings.
ive been reading around here a lot of ppl not using carbon, this is news to me!! would love some input on what you would put in these 6 compartments. there seems to be a lot of different items on the market.

cerianthus

What ever you decide to pack with, use judgement call. Always macro to micro. Water going in should hit big media then to finer and as last media micro pad. Thus it wont clog up too fast as it will when you pack in reverse.

Dozey

I use two layers of foam, then carbon, followed by two layers of bio filtration and finally a layer of micro cloth.

My bio levels include a layer of bio-balls (remind me a bit of practice golf balls but smaller) and the second layer is ceramic (look like ceramic pipes about 1/2” long).

Many folks do not use carbon as it needs to be replaced every 3 to 4 weeks depending on your stock level. I had stopped using it and my water was still very clear. But recently I re-introduced it to my filter and have notice a significant difference in my water clarity. It is now crystal clear as apposed to simply clear.

If you choose to use carbon I would suggest purchasing it in bulk. You can also purchase carbon bags. They are basically stocking with draw strings at one end. It very easy to exchange the carbon and this method if FAR cheaper then purchasing the disposable pouches.

aquarist48

Personally I think all fresh water tanks should use carbon. I know some will disagree. It's been my experience that NO carbon = foul smelling tank and cloudy water. I suggest activated carbon, also White Diamond (it looks like carbon but it's white and not black) for help in controlling ammonia, and as much ceramic rings as you can fit into it. Dr. Foster and Smith and thatfishplace.com has the best prices (Marineland is what I use) when buying in bulk that I can find.