Carbon & water clarity

[growitnow]

I am familiar with debates concerning the 'necessity' of carbon in fish only aquariams, and have read many opinions of planted tank folk on the same issue.

But I do have a straight forward question about carbon in the planted tank, and I guess more generally about carbon and water clarity. I was going to post this on AquariaCentral for a general response, but planted tank folk tend to pay a lot of attention to tank aesthetics. So I'm asking here.

Assuming reasonable stocking levels and reasonable tank maintenance - would carbon in general be expected to enhance the clarity of tank water?

 

[Carissa]

I've only noticed a difference when I've had issues to start with in my tap water or tank, i.e. excessive tannins in the water. Otherwise I can't see any difference.

 

[sardesign]

carbon would increase water clarity but i believe it would strip the water column of nutrients for the plants. i could be wrong so please correct me if so.

 

[growitnow]

As I recall from prior discussions carbon presence or absence is not a limiting factor in plant nutrient uptake. I believe a small, negligible amount of iron in a particular form or under specific conditions (don't recall) may be removed.

Re: carbon and water clarity, I have long used it mostly out ouf habit. I am trying to decide whether the cannister space occupied by the carbon I do use (Seachem Matrix) would be better filled for mechanical/floss.

 

[Tom Barr]

Folks use carbon and purigen without issues to address clarity etc.
The only other chemical media is Zeolite for planted tanks folk's might use/need.

Regards,
Tom Barr

 

[charlie]

carbon

Folks use carbon and purigen without issues to address clarity etc.
The only other chemical media is Zeolite for planted tanks folk's might use/need.

Regards,
Tom Barr

So Tom, what is your take on the nutrient stripping from the water column ?
is ther any proof it does & to what extent.

 

[Tom Barr]

There seems to be talk, but little empericial or observational evidence, eg, little effect on plants.

I suppose if you had a really lean tank, say a non CO2 tank, and added lots, there might be some negative issues over time.

That would be the worse case senario and it would take a while.

Regards,
Tom Barr