Vertex Bio Pellets vs. NP Pellets what is the difference

kien · #1 01-09-2011, 10:56 PM

I have been running well OVER the "recommended" amount of pellets for a few months now (since September) without any issues. In theory you can't over do it with the pellets. Bacteria will consume what pellets are available. If you have more pellets than bacteria then the pellets should simple deplete at a slower rate. I recently added more pellets and a second reactor

. I'm probably running close to 2 or 3 times over the published recommended amount. I really like that I don't have to touch the reactors for months on end.

In both my reactors I have a mix of the original NP Biopellets and Vertex pellets. I have not seen any NP Biopellets sold locally recently so I'll prob just stick to the vertex. I do like that the pellets are smaller and tend to tumble easier.

On the flip side, some people are still reporting issues with their use of pellets. So, if you are at all concerned or hesitant definitely follow product recommendations rather than being cavalier like me

The Grizz · #2 01-10-2011, 12:16 AM

I have had zero issues and I think when I kicked in the NP pellets in my 2 TLF150s I put 500ml in each, way more then recommended so I think I will throw the hole 1000 ml of the Vertec pellets into the MR1 and see how it works.

I might as well fly by the seat of my pant like Kien does

I mean seriously look at his reef tank!! Can't be all that bad right.

tinman · #3 01-10-2011, 01:59 AM

i have a bag of each going around in a tlf 550 and no problems yet,(way more than the recommended amount) but i do like the vertex as they are easier to get moving and seem to tumble better.

Skimmerking · #4 01-10-2011, 02:04 AM

what do it take out NO3 and phosphates

globaldesigns · #5 01-10-2011, 02:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Skimmer King

what do it take out NO3 and phosphates

Hey, they are pretty good, helps to create a NLS (nutrient low system) eating up all those nasty things like nitrates.

There is a trick to using them, keeping them tubmling vigorously on top, but very very slow at the bottom of the reactor. Also exporting the water from the reactor in front of the skimmer intake. If setup properly, they do a good job.

The Grizz · #6 01-10-2011, 03:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by globaldesigns

Also exporting the water from the reactor in front of the skimmer intake. If setup properly, they do a good job.

That is my other question where does everyone have the water output from there reactors? I know Rick has his going back in front of his skimmers, what about the rest of you?

kien · #7 01-10-2011, 03:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by The Grizz

That is my other question where does everyone have the water output from there reactors? I know Rick has his going back in front of his skimmers, what about the rest of you?

Output of reactor close to intake of skimmer. I believe this is typically recommended by the manufacturers, and makes sense. As the bacteria consumes pellets they too will generate waste and you typically want that waste exported via the skimmer. Of course, not all if the bacterial waste will get skimmed out. Some will escape back into the tank and will become food for corals and other filter feeders.