Remote DSB or LR

[kenkht]

I am in the process of equipping my sump.

I initially wanted to set up a remote DSB in the sump. However there are many debate for and against DSB especially concerning the release of harmful gasses if not done correctly. I also saw many people uses LR too.

My target is to reduce nitrate. My question is which is better; DSB or LR? Or are they equally effective.

Thanks

[shoelevy]

live rock's role in reducing no3 is minimal compared to DSB.

their role is mainly in removing ammonia and nitrite

if DSB worries you then my suggestion is dun put dsb, dun put live rocks (as you would already have enough in your main tank) and just get a big/good powerful skimmer, that can also keep no3 low.

[kenkht]

live rock's role in reducing no3 is minimal compared to DSB.

their role is mainly in removing ammonia and nitrite

if DSB worries you then my suggestion is dun put dsb, dun put live rocks (as you would already have enough in your main tank) and just get a big/good powerful skimmer, that can also keep no3 low.

OK say DSB, what sand to use? Can I use coral sand, those sold everywhere at LFS? And what grade of sand to use?

I think skimer works differently right? It doesn't reduce nitrate if it is already in the water but rather reduce compounds that will be converted eventually into nitrate.

[jacobus]

Im not very sure ... but why not u macro algae to reduce nitrates ? if use DSB .. think should use grade 0 sand .. more surface area for bacteria to colonise ..

[Rex Ng]

live rock's role in reducing no3 is minimal compared to DSB.

their role is mainly in removing ammonia and nitrite

if DSB worries you then my suggestion is dun put dsb, dun put live rocks (as you would already have enough in your main tank) and just get a big/good powerful skimmer, that can also keep no3 low.

I agree, if you use pea-size live rocks.

[kenkht]

I agree, if you use pea-size live rocks.

[jun]

Im not very sure ... but why not u macro algae to reduce nitrates ? if use DSB .. think should use grade 0 sand .. more surface area for bacteria to colonise ..

macro algae need to be on the DSB? or juz any material which macro algae can cling on it?? how about coral chip wif macro algae??

[blueheaven]

If I'm not wrong, macroalgae like caulerpa would prefer something to cling to (something like creepers)

But from personal experience, chaetomorpha does not need such a substrate