Reefing Art Ceramic Bio Filter Media Blocks (24 pcs)

Reefing Art Ceramic Bio Filter Media comes as solid porous blocks rather than loose rings. Each box holds 24 pcs, about half a gallon by volume, and weighs 1.75lbs. The blocks give nitrifying bacteria a large surface to colonize, which helps remove ammonia and nitrite from aquarium water.

Blocks versus rings

Loose rings tumble into any shape, which is handy in a small filter. Blocks stack neatly, which is handy in a sump chamber or a large canister tray. They are also easy to lift out as a unit if you ever need to clean a compartment, and they do not spill into pumps.

Where they fit best

• Sump bio chambers, stacked after filter socks or sponge.
• Large canister trays.
• Pond filters, where the brand also lists them for use.

For hang-on-back and small internal filters, loose media such as Reefing Art bio rings is usually easier to fit.

Material

The blocks are 100% aquarium safe, non-metallic ceramic. Reefing Art states they will not leach aluminum or any heavy metal, which matters most in reef tanks with sensitive corals and invertebrates. They work in freshwater and saltwater.

Getting started

Rinse new blocks in dechlorinated water to remove dust. Place them where water flows through and around them, not where it just passes over the top. Bacteria take weeks to build up, so a bottled starter like Tetra SafeStart Plus can help a new system along.

Care

Leave the blocks alone most of the time. If detritus collects on them, swish them in a bucket of tank water. Do not use tap water or soap, which would kill the bacteria you want to keep.

Because the blocks are heavy for their size, they stay put in high-flow sump chambers where light media can drift or float out of place.