[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index]

Re: Power CO2 reactor (DIY)

>>>>> G G Rajendra Kumar <ggrk at blr_vsnl.net.in> (here: "GGRK"),
>>>>> on Mon, 23 Mar 1998 17:01:00 +0530,
>>>>> pondered the meaning of life, then wrote down:

    [...clipped...]
    GGRK> Since I had two filter units in the same tank, I Filled the
    GGRK> filter can with small granules of laterite. I assume that the
    GGRK> accelerated water flow over them would release more nutrients
    GGRK> into the water.
    [...clipped...]

Raj,

You'd have better luck dosing iron separately.  The benefits of laterite
are in the binding of nutrients and iron for the use of the plant roots.
Forcing a current through laterite the way you have will only act as a 
home-grown diatomic earth filter (which I still wonder why people buy).

If your laterite is granular (kitty litter) instead of a clay, you're
not even doing that and gravel would be just as good, IMHO.  You're 
probably not hurting anything, though, unless your water is getting cloudy.

-Carlos
--
Carlos E. Munoz <cmunoz at crystal_cirrus.com>
Join the Aquatic Gardeners' Association!