Submerged bio media VS trickle filter?

[batang_mcdo]

I'm just wondering, which would be a better way for converting ammonia to nitrite then nitrate? I've been reading that trickel filter are good, but i'm thinking that fully submerged media will have more Bacteria to convert ammonia than those of a trickle filter?

 

[Lillee]

The bacteria needed to convert ammonia need 3 things, water containing ammonia, surface area to grow on and oxygen. Submerged media does not get as much oxygen as media being washed constantly by a trickle filter, so in essence more bateria grow on the media in trickle filters in general than fully submerged media if using the same media type.

A combination might be the best way to go.

 

[FSM]

It doesn't matter. Theoretically, trickle filters are more efficient, but the media generally has less surface area (plastic bio balls vs ceramic) People are successful with both methods.

 

[Egon]

The bacteria needed to convert ammonia need 3 things, water containing ammonia, surface area to grow on and oxygen. Submerged media does not get as much oxygen as media being washed constantly by a trickle filter, so in essence more bateria grow on the media in trickle filters in general than fully submerged media if using the same media type.

A combination might be the best way to go.

X2

I pack my overflows with media and then the water flows to my sump where that media is mostly submerged. Between the two is a mechanical filter sock type contraption that's gets the "dirt". I think this combination is the best way to go.

 

[Crispy]

I use both trickle filtration (55g wet/dry) and submerged (FX5) on a huge bioload. works great. Lots of sponge/floss before biomedia.

 

[nfored]

I like My sumps um ....... quiet, so I only use submerged. Is it less effective maybe... does it filter water yes, tank readings are always 0 Ammo, 0 rite, 40 rate. .so I say do what works best for your setup.

 

[Egon]

I like My sumps um ....... quiet, so I only use submerged. Is it less effective maybe... does it filter water yes, tank readings are always 0 Ammo, 0 rite, 40 rate. .so I say do what works best for your setup.

Good point! My system was very noisy. I had to use acustic foam on the inside of my stand to quiet it.