Lava Rocks As Bio Media?

I've heard a lot lately about people using lava rocks as bio media in their filters, and wondering if anyone could add more info about it's effectiveness?? Can they be used in HOB filters, or just canisters? Do they work if they are part of aquarium decor??

I also saw something that they are superior as bio filtration as they can house the type of bacteria needed to eliminate nitrates as well. Is their any truth to that?

 

As long as they are used as a 'submerged' media then they are pretty excellent for the task.

 

I only use lava rock because it was super cheap. Basically I break it up to about dime size pieces to the the most out of it. It does also work as decor but if you get algae on it that it's a pain to clean.

 

Where do you guys purchase lava rocks from?

 

Home center. Any place that sells propane grills. The beauty of it is that it isn't actually an aquarium product so you don't get ripped off.

 

Where do you guys purchase lava rocks from?

They are usually in hardware stores or anywhere that sells barbecues. They are sold to disperse heat in barbecues but can also be used to house beneficial bacteria.

 

Many media work fine. I wouldn't say that they are automatically superior to something else necessarily, but as far as free or cost/items, lava rocks are great.

 

Thanks guys.