Adding Activated Carbon When adding activated carbon some people may ask ifthey can put a bag of carbon in the aquarium. Remember placement is important!Activated carbon is porous and the pores can easily be clogged with debris. This canreduce the ability of the activated carbon to absorb pollutants. The carbon shouldbe situated behind the mechanical filtration in the filter. A bag of carbon in theaquarium may absorb some pollutants, but it is not nearly as effective as forcingwater through it in the filter compartment.
Positive Effects of Using Activated Carbon in a Fish Tank.
Enhances water quality
Activated carbon usually improves water clarity by reducing the impurities in thewater column of the aquarium. Anyone who has kept a fish tank knows that theoverall aesthetics of a particular fish tank is very much dependent on the clarity ofthe water column. Dirty water in the aquarium can spoil the whole impression ofthe fish tank.
Odour Reduction
All animals produce a "odor," and fish are no exception. It's hard to explain but youstep into an aquarium room without a cover and you can smell that natural odourthe very moment. This activated carbon reduces the phenols which are the maincause of bad odours, so the water won't stink. Honestly, the activated carbon makesthe water smell fresh and neutral.
Limits Algal Growth
Algae doesn't like activated carbon filters. It can soak up excess nutrients in thewater and reduce algae growth. Activated carbon is an absorbent of organiccompounds and thus aids in the reduction of protozoa as well.
Pollutants Reduced
The activated carbon can absorb a variety of dissolved organic compounds in tapwater, such as chlorine and chloramines. It is also good to add untreated driftwoodto your aquarium. This decoration releases tannin and tannins are what make thewater have a brownish hue. It may not be harmful, but it looks like a dirty rainwatertank. Activated carbon is a relatively simple method of removing the unsightlycolour. (Many aquariums intentionally use tannins, especially biotope or breedingaquariums)
