[reefburnaby]

Hi,

Sorry for the delay.

In a fish only tank, there usually isn't any live rock. Just like a fresh water tank, the tank is allowed to cycle to form a filtration system in the sand bed (if there is one), filter system, glass walls and etc. Hence, the mechanical filtration is a vital part of the system. On the other hand, our reefs contain live rock. Live rock is the actual filter and it is meant to replace the other forms of filtration used in fresh water and fish only.

Now that I have thought about your question a little more, it is possible to use mechanical filtration with your tank. However, you need to rinse/clean the filter every couple of days so that it never becomes a nitrate factory. You'll need to clean it with freshwater.

- Victor.