NP Bio Pellets -I'm intrigued!

[Europhyllia]

sounds interesting. anybody tried this yet?
http://npbiopellets.com/index.php/how-it-works

(vodka dosing was too complicated for me. this sounds doable...)

from the person that came up with these:

Hello everybody,

I'm the person that developed the biopellets and to answer some questions:

-The pellets don't dissolve in water in the absence of bacteria

-they do not stimulate bacterial or algae growth in your tank and specially for the algae growth, this appears to be reduced and similar observations have been done for cyano bacteria when compaired to using soluble carbon sources such as wodka or sugar. big advantage is no more bacteria growth on your corals and unlimited carbon source to reduce nitrate and phosphate. My own tank consists of gorgonia combined with lps and sps corals. this requires feedings of 10x a day (with reefpearls ;-)) and I can keep nitrate between 0-5ppm and phosphate around 0-0.03 without the addition of wodka and phosphatekiller. this was for not possible before I started to use the biopellets.

-they are heavier than water and can be used in fluidized filter systems. we recommend this actually because this way you will always have high water flow and thus more aerobic conditions for your bacteria, which in principle is much safer than anaerobic conditions. On this point we have to say that some anaerobic bacteria will excist on the pellets, but this layer is so thin that is not harmfull and has a rather positive effect on your pH (aerobic-> H+; anaerobic -> OH-)

- the pellets are not on the market yet and will be released soon in the netherlands and belgium and other countries will hopefully soon folow. until that time you can contact me for questions at info@reefinterests.nl (I hope this allowed by admin, otherwise I apologize and please remove just this last sentence then).

-in contrast to what was mentioned, the pellets do not need to be replaced after 6 months. they are consumed by the bacteria and will slowly disappear, which means that you have to add extra pellets every 6-12 months. In one of our test conditions it took 3 years to completely digest the pellets. this is also the reason that you have to use at least 1 or 2 liters of these pellets (around 120 euro's) but it will last at least 1 year.

Wodka can still be combined with the pellets and will rapidly be consumed by the bacteria which live on the pellets, however, it is not necessary to do so, but when you need to finish the bottle of wodka, this is one way of doing it ;-)

Don't hesitate to ask any questions when things are not clear.

ciao,

jean paul

[Big_Pun]

hey go to glassbox-design.com and type biopellet in the search, they have some aricles on this, hope it helps

[Europhyllia]

looks like they just started their testing. perhaps I need to test it myself... ;)

[txg8gxp]

This seem like good stuff. Correct me if I'm wrong, this will mainly help take the load off of a refugium correct. I also seem that you would have to have a skimmer to help with gas exchange in the water. So, by the time you account haveing to get a reactor, media, pump, etc. would this be better than just a large refugium?

[Europhyllia]

I feed so heavily that I employ all of the above. lol. I also have a DSB.
What I like about the refugium is that I can have the light cycle opposite to the main tank. Since adding a bigger refugium I was able to keep my daily pH swing much smaller than before because the macro in the refugium converts CO2 overnight when I need it exported.
I especially liked the part about cyano. When I feed my liquid seafan food the sea fans seem to really respond well to it but it also results in cyano blooms. That's kind of what caught my attention with this product.
I had already considered Ultra Life by Fauna Marin and may still use it but this seems like less hassle (I already have the reactor)

[txg8gxp]

Interesting, I'm in the same boat you are. I'm trying to find a way to safely filter my upcoming tank with all the crazy amount of food that will go through it. What about miracle mud for refugium?

[Europhyllia]

Isn't miracle mud mostly to add trace minerals, etc -otherwise its purpose would be the same as regular super fine sand?

[txg8gxp]

That is kinda what is seems like to me, just fine sand with tons of minerals

[Europhyllia]

found a really long thread on RC about them. I made it only to page 12 so far...
http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1694529&highlight=biopellets

[Europhyllia]

Okay 29 pages later I am convinced this is worth trying out.
I had to order some BLUE ;) bulbs anyway at reefgeek so I got the biopellets as well.
Part of what I found intriguing was that it was designed specifically with heavy feeders/NPS tanks in mind and that apparently some of the bacteria in the reactor comes off and provides food for the NPS corals in the tank. That would be quite awesome.
Either way I need to find something since my seafan foods cause me to drown in cyano.
I'll report back in a month (takes that long to populate the carbon pellets)

[txg8gxp]

Very cool, have you desided on exactly how you plan to setup the media?

[Europhyllia]

I already have a good size nice reactor made by Nextreef that currently has GFO and ChemiPure in it. I'll dump that and use the Nextreef for the Biopellets.
Ace made me a really large sump so it will be easy to have the intake and outlet of that reactor before the skimmer.
I got a cheapo Phosban reactor and I'll just run straight GFO in that. That one will be after the refugium in the compartment where the return pump is.
So the order will be: BioPellets, Skimmer, Refugium, GFO

I always shut my return pump off for a couple of hours after feeding certain things so we'll see how that ends up impacting the effectiveness of this...

[Europhyllia]

I read that the bacteria will clog up the sponges in the media reactors so I got some plastic canvas at walmart and cut that into shape to use instead of the sponges:
http://www.dominopads.com/plasticcanvas1.jpg

http://www.dominopads.com/plasticcanvas2.jpg

http://www.dominopads.com/plasticcanvas3.jpg

[Mr Cob]

Very Cool! Good info. Thx for posting it.

[CoryDude]

This sounds like a different approach, but in concept is the same as a Hiatt system. You rely on the bacteria to consume nitrates to build their biofilm. However, these bacteria look like they aren't as agressive as Snake's bacteria.

This bacteria approach has let me double my feeding w/o any excessive nutrient build up. You should have great results with this. Just follow their directions to a T, or you may not see the results you expect.

[Europhyllia]

I am not familiar with the Hiatt system but I'll look it up.
What I liked about this is that it seemed pretty fool proof: but the pellets in the reactor and just add more when they get used up - shouldn't be too tough to do, right?

[CoryDude]

RC had a great thread going. They discussed your method a little also. Just do a search on Hiatt. It's the most recent thread

The problem with the Hiatt, is that the inventor is very secretive on his process, so there's not much out there except "that it works and take it for that".

But, it is very easy to maintain something like yours since there's no dosing involved. Do they recommend a pre-filter for the reactor?

[Europhyllia]

Cory I made it through all 30 pages of that pellet thread on RC. :)
No prefilter for the reactor but they say it's important to place it BEFORE the skimmer because the bacteria will use up O2 so placing it before the skimmer is supposed to re-aerate the water before it goes further down the system.

[CoryDude]

Was wondering about the required DO content. The Hiatt system needs to same thing.

Your skimmer will do some of the job, but you may also want to have some agitation along the water surface to keep it pretty aerated.

I may try this method when I redo my wife's 60. Please keep us up to date on the progress.

[Europhyllia]

I guess I could just add a small venturi pump in the sump? What do you think about that?
Oh and I do have a CO2 scrubber (link (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1719097&highlight=co2+scrubber)) before the air intake of the skimmer to maximize that and prevent pH drops. Hopefully that will give it an extra boost as well...

[CoryDude]

Even with the bacteria consuming oxygen, my oxygen levels stay at around 6.5 meq/L, which I think at that water temp is almost 100% saturation.

[Europhyllia]

Okay. It's feb 19 and I just set it up. 1000ml of pellets is not very much. Can't believe I paid 100 bucks for this. Yikes. The bacteria better gnaw down on these very slowly. lol

I got a small LF phosban reactor to run GFO separately and use the big Nextreef reactor exclusively for the biopellets. Yikes what a difference in quality. The Nextreef really has me spoiled. Compared to it the Little Fishies one seems pretty flimsy. Luckily it will just stay in the sump and hopefully not fall apart...

[txg8gxp]

Nice, I plan on running these in a TLF reactor aswell so please keep us updated.

[Elijaher]

I did check out this product at RC. So far it's working but kind of remind of zeovit stone but need constance shaking.

[Europhyllia]

need constance shaking.
can you elaborate on that?

[FireWater]

From what I have read - constant shaking is similar to tumbling in a reactor. You can't just run water around it, you have to flow through and agitate. I believe

[Elijaher]

The pellets need contsane agitate keep it from building up mulm on it.

[Europhyllia]

Got ya! I am running them in a media reactor at maximum flow and they sort of turn around but not vigorously tumbling. Maybe I need to get a bigger pump?

[CoryDude]

If you have problems down the road with detritus and stuff getting into the reactor, maybe you could add a pre-filter to the supply pump.

I added the prefilter supplied with the mag pump that feeds my chamber. The last time I backflushed my carbon tube, there wasn't much to flush out.

BTW, your name change threw me off when I logged on this weekend. Like it! :applause:

[CoryDude]

I didn't see it anywhere but how much flow are you running? Is there a recommended rate from the manufacturer?

[Europhyllia]

Eli, you brought up an interesting point.
I contacted the maker of my reactor, Nextreef, to ask if I could use a bigger pump and they told me they're actually running the pelletes as well and found it necessary to use a Mag 12!!! to tumble the pellets correctly. Usually they suggest a Mini Jet 606 for thsi reactor (with GFO) so that's quite a big one for a medi reactor.
Nextreef said they're working on a new version of the media reactor more compatible with high flow needs of the pellets and it will be a few weeks before that comes out.
I suggested they also consider retrofit kits for those of us that have a new reactor and want to use it with pellets. They said quite possibly this option would be available as well. I hope they do.
I guess I'll be looking for a Mag 12 in the mean time.
So thanks for bringing up this important point. I am surprised it hasn't shown up on the thread on RC. Maybe I missed it though -I think it's up to 31 pages by now...

[Europhyllia]

Hi Cory. We posted at the same time! The recommendations above are from the media reactor manufacturer who is testing the pellets in their reactors.
I actually could not GPH recs from teh pellets manufacturers. It would probably vary by reactor on how much it takes to keep them tumbling?

[Kristy]

Wow... will watch this with interest. It might work into our setup down the road, provided that you love your results.

Thanks for 1. reading the 30+ pages on RC! and 2. being the guinea pig on this!

[Elijaher]

One things most reefer said it's cost more then carbon dosing but if it work no more carbon dosing. That be less headache.

[Europhyllia]

The way I understand it the pellets don't lose effectiveness like carbon does. They provide food for the bacteria until they are eaten up. The pellets don't get thrown away. You just top them off every 6 month. I like that.
To be honest I would expect much more from the bacteria driven system than from carbon.
I just need to figure out if I want to hook up my existing reactor to a Mag 12 or jsut wait for the new reactor to become available with larger tubes so it can create more flow with a smaller pump...

[txg8gxp]

I have been thinking about useing a larger reactor, not filled up to allow more media movement. I was looking at the TLF reactors, but worried about the low flow they are rated for. I have been thinking about this reactor. http://www.aquacave.com/precision-marine-sr-35brreverse-flow-substrate-reactor-353.html

[Europhyllia]

Stephen that looks a lot like my Nextreef MR1 (link: http://nextreef.com/ )
It also appears to have the same drawback: 1/2" hose connections.
According to Nextreef it takes a big pump to still create enough flow with the 1/2" tubing.
They are creating a reactor specifically for the pellets with larger hose diameters so that the flow can be created with a more reasonably sized pump.
They are testing this week and plan to have a pellet-ready reactor in a few weeks.

I do love my Nextreef reactor though and can't believe how flimsy the TLF is. Definitely only to be used for GFO...

[txg8gxp]

Good point. Well, for the money it looks like another DIY project coming.

[CoryDude]

The MR1 is the best money I've spend on a reactor. You're right about the 1/2 connections. Kinda of limits it's uses. Wow a mag 12! That's the same pump as mine. You should get about 900 gph for 2' of head pressure and 1" tubing.

[Europhyllia]

The goal is to get 250 gph at 8". With the 1/2 tubing it takes a Mag 12 to get that kind of flow. BUT with larger tubing a smaller pump can achieve that flow.
I am going o wait on Nextreef's update in the next few weeks to see if I should gt a bigger pump for the existing reactor of if the new reactors are coming out quick enough to just swap the reactor.

[CoryDude]

Eheims are always a good choice if you go with the new reactor and the larger tubing. I'm really starting to like the mag pumps (the 1200 is my first one). At least it good to know the MR1 reactor can handle the pressure of a pump that size.

[Europhyllia]

Have been talking with people on RC and one guy is using a mag 3 on the same reactor I have. He says it keeps the pellets moving okay.
I might just go with a compromise and go with a mag 5 or mag 7.
Actually my return pump is the equivalent of a mag 7. I will hook it up to the reactor and see how it goes.

[Gseclipse02]

If you want to try a mag 5 lmk

[Europhyllia]

I do! Would love to try and perhaps even buy a mag 5. Do you have one for sale? Coming to the meeting on Sunday?

[Gseclipse02]

I had got a extra one for my water changes since my other pump was noisey ill shoot you a pm

[justahobby]

I haven't read this thread thoroughly, Im a bit impatient, but I did read the RC thread. At least from when it started until the first 15 or so pages. I didn't see anything that made it sound very appealing. The price was high and they break down over time. It sounds like biodegradable bio balls to me......
That being said, I would love a new way to combat my overfeeding. What was it that intrigued you, Karin?

[Europhyllia]

They break down over time but it is a very long time. After 6 months you simply add some more pellets. You don't replace the whole thing.
The pellets are carbon based. The idea is that this method is an easier more controlled way of carbon dosing than vodka/sugar/etc.
I liked the regular vodka dosing but it just seemed too complicated and potentially risky to me.
I liked that the carbon source would be contained in the reactor rather than be all over my tank as with vodka dosing.
Keeping azoos like gorgonians I also was intrigued by the idea of bacterial plankton feeding those types of corals.
Where bioballs would eventually create nitrates, the carbon bacteria would eliminate it. The bioballs don't really offer anything other than being a substrate for the nitrifying bacteria.
That's what made it very appealing to me.

[justahobby]

Thanks. I agree w/ your take on bioballs. Now for some more factors. How is the carbon contained if it breaks down. Unless it breaks down only on an as needed basis, It has to go somewhere albeit the WC's may help remove it from the display. From the time I stopped reading, there hadn't been a release of information on the ingredients. I'm leery of such sales. It seems that there is a potential to OD, though not as likely when contained in a time release capsule as such. One thing I found problematic w/ OC dosing is that my nitrates and phosphates have never been measurable. It's the algae on LR that I used to monitor my system. Thus I had no way of knowing when enough was enough without the scientific eye ball method. I did see great results, then I got lazy and stopped dosing. Hands off is certainly a great approach. It's definitely worth experimenting w/ and I am glad you are offering us your experience. I look forward to reading your progress.

[Europhyllia]

the way I understand it the carbon is consumed by the bacteria. It doesn't dissolve by itself. The bacteria is sustained not just by the carbon though. It also has to consume N and P from the food inputs.
I am hoping the conclusion of this is that it is somewhat self regulating:
a lot of food inputs = a lot of bacteria gnawing away on the carbon pellets
less inputs = less bacteria reducing teh carbon pellets
Anyway that's how I see it. Totally possible that I've just been had and wasted some cash.

[justahobby]

Hahahaha noooooo, I'm sure it works and you have not been "had". At least to some degree. Again, I will be following closely and asking questions ;) I will have to catch up on the RC thread in the mean time.

[Europhyllia]

Just got an answer from Reefinterest. They say the pellets do NOT need to tumble. So I do not need a super huge pump.

[Europhyllia]

I added some info from the guy that developed the pellets:

Hello everybody,

I'm the person that developed the biopellets and to answer some questions:

-The pellets don't dissolve in water in the absence of bacteria

-they do not stimulate bacterial or algae growth in your tank and specially for the algae growth, this appears to be reduced and similar observations have been done for cyano bacteria when compaired to using soluble carbon sources such as wodka or sugar. big advantage is no more bacteria growth on your corals and unlimited carbon source to reduce nitrate and phosphate. My own tank consists of gorgonia combined with lps and sps corals. this requires feedings of 10x a day (with reefpearls ;-)) and I can keep nitrate between 0-5ppm and phosphate around 0-0.03 without the addition of wodka and phosphatekiller. this was for not possible before I started to use the biopellets.

-they are heavier than water and can be used in fluidized filter systems. we recommend this actually because this way you will always have high water flow and thus more aerobic conditions for your bacteria, which in principle is much safer than anaerobic conditions. On this point we have to say that some anaerobic bacteria will excist on the pellets, but this layer is so thin that is not harmfull and has a rather positive effect on your pH (aerobic-> H+; anaerobic -> OH-)

- the pellets are not on the market yet and will be released soon in the netherlands and belgium and other countries will hopefully soon folow. until that time you can contact me for questions at info@reefinterests.nl (I hope this allowed by admin, otherwise I apologize and please remove just this last sentence then).

-in contrast to what was mentioned, the pellets do not need to be replaced after 6 months. they are consumed by the bacteria and will slowly disappear, which means that you have to add extra pellets every 6-12 months. In one of our test conditions it took 3 years to completely digest the pellets. this is also the reason that you have to use at least 1 or 2 liters of these pellets (around 120 euro's) but it will last at least 1 year.

Wodka can still be combined with the pellets and will rapidly be consumed by the bacteria which live on the pellets, however, it is not necessary to do so, but when you need to finish the bottle of wodka, this is one way of doing it ;-)

Don't hesitate to ask any questions when things are not clear.

ciao,

jean paul

[Europhyllia]

I've been running them now for 3 weeks and things are looking good. For some reason my skimmate is kind of plentiful and smelly -more so than before.
Not sure if it's related?

[CoryDude]

I've been running them now for 3 weeks and things are looking good. For some reason my skimmate is kind of plentiful and smelly -more so than before.
Not sure if it's related?

That's funny. Mine smells worse also after I started my bacteria filter. Almost rank enough to make you lose your lunch. :eek:

[Europhyllia]

Oh good. Using another product's tag line:
"It stinks so you know it's good!" :D

[txg8gxp]

Whats your opinion on bio pellets now that they have been up and running awhile?

[Europhyllia]

I think the pellets work. Like I mentioned above the skimmate has changed. There's more and it's stinkier so something is happening.
The thing that's not working as well for me is how to get the flow just right.
A mini jet 606 won't lift them. A mag 3 pushes them all to the top. I am having trouble getting the flow just right for a gentle tumble.
It tends to form one mass with the bacteria goop. Maybe I just need more pellets so that the goop/pellet ratio changes?

[txg8gxp]

You did try a ball valve on the mag 3 right?


I think the pellets work. Like I mentioned above the skimmate has changed. There's more and it's stinkier so something is happening.
The thing that's not working as well for me is how to get the flow just right.
A mini jet 606 won't lift them. A mag 3 pushes them all to the top. I am having trouble getting the flow just right for a gentle tumble.
It tends to form one mass with the bacteria goop. Maybe I just need more pellets so that the goop/pellet ratio changes?

[Europhyllia]

nope not yet. got to see where I can buy a little one like that. does Lowes carry them for 1/2"?

[CoryDude]

Get a gate valve if you can. I think you'll get finer control of the flow better than a ball valve. They cost a bit more than a ball valve (aprox $25 for 1/2), but worth it, IMHO.

I know HD had 1/2" FTP ball valves last time I needed them. Think they cost $5-$6.

[jesserettele]

tagging along.

[Dustoff79]

I am curious if there is any more input for this thread, extremely interesting.

[txg8gxp]

I have the parts on order....I plan to join the pellet club very soon... :)

[Europhyllia]

Here's my input: flow is crucial IMO
I had them for awhile in my home moded reactor and didn't notice any huge improvments. Then I got the new fittings and inserts from Nextreef and it made all the difference.
With a gentle tumble it seemed to eat up much more nutrients than in the more stagnant form.
I have read though on RC threads that people with much stronger flow often had the pellets stripped sort of and encountered bloom in the display which obviously is undesirable...

[BIGBIRD123]

Looking into this for the upgrade....all the tanks from Europe that use these end up being TOM somewhere...looks really great for simplification of the system. Along with the simplification, it brings less maintenance and I'm all for that...

[BIGBIRD123]

I think the key is the flow...too little, they stagnate and too strong, damages the pellets which releases undesirables...

[Dustoff79]

Looking into this for the upgrade....all the tanks from Europe that use these end up being TOM somewhere...looks really great for simplification of the system. Along with the simplification, it brings less maintenance and I'm all for that...


Sorry, what is "TOM"?

[txg8gxp]

I'm guessing "tank of the month" the TOM on Reefcentral is a biopellet system.

[Jarob]

Yea I was looking into this too for my upcoming system.

[rockmp]

I am also looking into this. Probably using a DIY reactor.

[txg8gxp]

I desided to go with the nextreef SMR1 reactor.

[Dustoff79]

I will be looking forward to your results. I really like the concept.

[robalv]

would this be the same thing?


Vertex Probiotic Biodegradable Pellets 1000ml http://socaltropicalfishoutlet.com/catalog/vertex-probiotic-biodegradable-pellets-1000ml-p-1003.html
[VBP1000] $69.99


Click to enlarge
PROBIOTIC BIODEGRADABLE PELLETS

A milestone in probiotics system implementation, management and maintenance. Consisting of 100% pure PHA bio-degradable polymers, Vertex Pro-Bio pellets provide a pure steady supply of organic carbon fuel source for bacterial growth in aquaria. Both aerobic and anaerobic strains demonstrate increased population and colonization. This can result in improved biological filtration, water clarity as well as providing your system with necessary bacterial plankton to nourish other organisms, filter-feeders and corals.

with this...
http://www.marinedepot.com/NextReef_MR1_Complete_Media_Reactor_Kit_Chemical_R eactors-NextReef-NX1113-FIFRISCR-vi.html

[BIGBIRD123]

Yes Rob...

[robalv]

big price difference for the 1000ml 69.99 vs 99.99 and a good price on that reactor..If I say so myself....lol

[Europhyllia]

Yes, vertex is a knock off of the original bio pellets.
Not sure what exactly the carbon polymer is so no idea how the actual ingredients compare. The Nextreef reactor though is fantastic! I could see myself skimp on the pellets but I don't bother with reactors other than Nextreef anymore

[robalv]

but I don't bother with reactors other than Nextreef anymore

WHY?

[Europhyllia]

Oops Rob
I just saw the link to the regular Nextreef reactor. Those are great and it's what I started out with.
If you look a few pages back in this thread you can see the mods I made to mine to make it work (plastic canvas)
Because of the bacteria slime you can not use teh sponges so the sponges need to be removed and replace with more of a grit type thing.
I eventually received some mod parts from Nextreef (it's not something they offer/sell - it was just a personal deal) and flow GOT TONS BETTER

Once I had the different fittings my results improved dramatically.
To be honest I would really suggest to get the Nextreef Pellet reactor over the regular media reactor. Difference is the tint, the fittings and the pellets plates instead of the sponges. By the time you pay for all of those DIY mods you might as well spring for the one made for pellets.
Flow is critical with the pellets and the right fittings (5/8") make a huge difference.

[robalv]

Thanks Karin well put...

[Europhyllia]

but I don't bother with reactors other than Nextreef anymore

WHY?

because the craftsmanship and reliability is really worth the extra money to me. I bought a Nextreef reactor first and converted that to be my pellet reactor. So I decided th little fishies reactor is so popular why not save 20 bucks and just get a TLF for my phosban media.
I hate that thing. It is so flimsy, fittings come apart too easily. I'd be so nervous to use the TLF outside of the sump because unless superglued in the stuff just slips off way too easy.
The Nextreef is a whole different level of quality. Like comparing a Koralia to a Vortech. The materials and design are much more substantial. I don't think twice about having the pellet reactor sit outside of the sump. You get tons of clamps with it. The lid screws down securely. The whole thing feels heavier like a real piece of equipment versus some kind of cheap plastic toy like the TLF.

[txg8gxp]

Man....you guys are driving me crazy....I'm still waiting on my stuff :(

[Europhyllia]

pellets are held up in customs and should arrive at aquariumspecialty early next week. ;)

[txg8gxp]

pellets are held up in customs and should arrive at aquariumspecialty early next week. ;)
Yea, I was told monday....

[Dustoff79]

pellets are held up in customs and should arrive at aquariumspecialty early next week. ;)

what mfg bio-pellets did you get? the NP-Biopellets or the vertex pro bio pellets?

[Europhyllia]

NP
NPs have worked well for me and the crator has been very responsive to my questions. I fell like he deserves my business since he invented the whole concept. I'd rather pay him than save a little on a knock off. :)

[txg8gxp]

I would like to know alittle more about your GFO setup, mainly what brand are you useing and how much flow were you running in your TLF reactor? Where are you dumping the output water from the GFO reactor?

[Europhyllia]

GFO pump and output is located in the return pump compartment. Pellet pump and output is located in the skimmer compartment

water enters as follows from display:
small water hose area => skimmer area => refugium => return pump area

[txg8gxp]

Thanks

[ErikH]

Use the pellets from BRS! It works wonders in a TLF. I am cleaning barely any algae off my glass once a week. 3 weeks ago my tank looked like carp.

[Europhyllia]

Fivehundred dollar shoes and a TLF reactor? Where are your priorities man?
:D j/k
I think you were just recently talking about wanting to do the pellets so my guess is the pellets are still fairly new?
If they're just a week old they're still pretty 'naked'. Once they are colonized it will be interesting to see how well the TLF handles the flow.

For those planning to use a TLF it probably would be helpful to know your set up too> What pump are you using for the TLF, any modifications you made to the reactor (removing the sponges, etc.). Be sure to post an update or any future modifications once you see how it's going when the pellets have been running longer! :)

[Dustoff79]

Karin, did you make any mods to your SMR-1? Not sure what changes to it you made if any.

[Europhyllia]

Yes I replaced the sponges with homemade plastic canvas disks see here:
http://www.maast.org/showthread.php?57606-NP-Bio-Pellets-I-m-intrigued!&p=739236&highlight=CANVAS#post739236

the bacteria once established would quickly clog up sponges and without sponges the grids would have gaps too big to keep the pellets in.
That worked reasonably well.

Then I got the mod parts from the manufacturer and I liked that even better.

[Europhyllia]

what not to do with Bio Pellets:

add the pellets to a cycling tank filled with bacteria starter and then disable the skimmer. With bacteria starter the pellets don't take anywhere near as long to collonize (usually 1-2 weeks)

added pellets on Monday July 26

took this pic on Tuesday:
http://www.dominopads.com/215tank072710.jpg
(was surprised and excited that nitrate were already dropping on day 2?!

3 days after getting the pellets online without a skimmer the tank looks like this:
http://www.dominopads.com/215tank072910.jpg

pH plummeted as well
http://www.dominopads.com/rkl072910.jpg

added the skimmer pump that afternoon and the morning after it looks like this:
http://www.dominopads.com/215tank073010.jpg

http://www.dominopads.com/rkl073010.jpg
pH slowly creeping back up...

[CoryDude]

Was that some kind of bacteria die off? Did the water smell?

Maybe a build up of CO2 from the biopellets. I know Co2 is one of the end products of the hiatt bacteria. That could explain the ph drop. Just graspin' at straws for you.

[Europhyllia]

water didn't smell but skimmer cup did.

It's no biggie. No livestock in it and I always knew that a skimmer was 'vital' in running the pellets. I just figured I could get away with it for a few days. Not so!

At least it's not one of those things where you spend money and nothing happens. lol

[txg8gxp]

I think I had the same thing going on. Just not as bad. My water started getting alittle cloudy so I moved the reactor output right over the skimmer pump. It is getting better now, bacteria was the only thing I could think that would cloud the water.

[Europhyllia]

yeah. Since I was trying to feed the cycle I also had been adding powdered food to the tank so likely it was just a bacteria bloom.
I didn't experience it in my first set up but have read of people having one.
It happens then it passes and after that no more.

[CoryDude]

It looks really good, well at least before the what-ever-it-was bloom. Looks like it'll clear up in a few days.

[txg8gxp]

Yea, mine was ok for a day...then had a bloom for about two days. It's on it's way back to normal now. Now I can injoy them, instead of being mad... :)

[txg8gxp]

I'm jealous of the pH probe. I need one :(

[Europhyllia]

Stephen I already had the Pinpoint Probe and knew RKL wouldn't be fun for me without the pH part.
Now I can carry the Pinpoint around and check the QT tank or the new saltwater and still have the pH displayed at the main tank.

Thanks Cory. It's already more clear than this morning.
I am not super worried about it. Probably would be more freaked out by it if I had livestock in it but the red macro didn't seem to mind so far.

[txg8gxp]

Good to hear it's clearing out already. Mine is slowly. With cloudy water, I don't even want to look at the tank. It just makes it look bad.

[Europhyllia]

Hm... looks like the bacteria bloom crashed my cycle. What's up with that!?

Now everything is zero!!!
Ammonia -0
Nitrite -0
Nitrate - 0

Does it still count as a real cycle?
What am I supposed to do now?

My QT was started at the same time and the values there (no BP reactor) is still:

Ammonia -0
Nitrite - 0.5
Nitrate - 25

[txg8gxp]

I don't know for sure, but how can you have a "long cycle" when you already have the bacteria. Is there something I'm missing?

[txg8gxp]

Alright..... :) my tank is clear. I can look at it without getting mad now. Glad that is over.

[ErikH]

Sorry, lol I posted and left. I meant the GFO pellets from BRS. :)

So what's your run down Karin, Stephen? Equipment start to finish? Am I going to need to call to receive the same mods? What were all the mods and additional expenses? If you could come up with some kind of list from A-Z; I would sincerely appreciate it. :D

[txg8gxp]

You do not have to have modded reactors now. Nextreef has the SMR1 series already setup for the pellets. My setup, nextreef SMR1 Xl w/ 500ml and a mag 3 pump. TLF 150 w/ GFO, reef octupus NWB110 skimmer, I plan to add a co2 scrubber, Kalk reactor, 2 part. That is my whole system, no fuge.

[Europhyllia]

Yes, I had the modded Nextreef in the beginning before they came out with the premade Nextreef pellet reactors. No need to mod anymore.
The pellet reactors have different fittings (I think 5/8" instead of 1/2") and no sponges. They have plates with little holes in it instead of the larger grids that hold the sponges.
The new small pellets are very small and stay on the plates so I bet rice should stay on (and not fall through) either. :)

[ErikH]

Oh rice has fallen to the way side. :)

I guess I am going to use a mag7 since that's what I have.

[Europhyllia]

I think getting the flow just right is crucial -too much won't be good. If it's too much you may have to throttle it down some

[ErikH]

Yeah I have to do the same with my GAC in my TLF. I ordered the SMR1 and the biopellets late last night. I just can't keep a secret! :D

[Joseph]

I just finished a one month try out, still cleaning up the cyno. My guys just did'nt look real good.
I'm sticking to the basics from here on.

[txg8gxp]

Very cool eric...so far I have nothing bad to say about the pellets, just know that they can drop your pH if not done right. Ask karin....sorry I had to go there.

[Europhyllia]

Erik I hope they will do exactly what you want them to do :)

[ErikH]

A drop in PH would actually be to my benefit. I ordered 3 packets of 4 and 3 of 7 to ensure my probe is calibrated correctly, but it has been running high. I just put that Mag24 on my setup for my return to try and help with proper air to Co2 exchange, but it may take a week to notice the difference. The biopellets have always been of intrigue, and after being a fan of Zeo tanks, watching Zeo guys swap over is the major reason. Karin made a valid point about ease of use, and that is what I am all about. I already have a spot cleared for the reactor. I am going to put a ball valve on it, especially since I will be starting at 500ml, then later ramping up to 1000.

Karin, are you using the ball valve at all on your rig? You are using a Mag3 correct? Is that sufficient for 1000ml?

[Europhyllia]

using a mag 3 on 2000 ml
the new pellets are so small. seems like the 1000ml bags were a lot more full now. it almost feels a little much.
I might take 500ml back out.

[ErikH]

Yeah! Smaller pellets = greater surface area. I hope 1000ml will be enough. Always a push for low nutrients..... I'll update once I get me goods. :D :D

Very excited.

[ErikH]

GO FIGURE!

I got an email saying "your order has shipped" then I got one 4 hours later stating "Oh yeah, lawls the reactor is backordered, have fun staring at your bag of pellets!"

So yeah, bummer....

[ErikH]

OK so Marine Depot said they will get more on the 26th. ARG!

Looks like tomorrow I will be looking at NextReef's vendor list to call around and find some in stock. :(

[Europhyllia]

After a year of using the pellets I did the unthinkable and hooked up a UV sterilizer last week. Because I feed seafan and filter feeder foods throughout the day and night I've been dealing with a permanent light bacteria bloom in the display.

Since so much talk was about how the bacteria might be beneficial for sponges and corals as food source I've put up with it. Now of course I feel dumb not recognizing earlier that that was a mistake.

Things have perked up so much after emerging from the cloud. In fact I can't believe things have hung in long enough to now be able to enjoy the cloud free water!

I was briefly tempted to just take the reactor offline and then decided to leave it on. As long as the bacteria is limited to the reactor everything will be fine.

I just don't want it in the display anymore. The UV sterilizer stays on ;)

[txg8gxp]

Why did you have a permanent bacteria bloom in the display? Is it from adding extra bacteria additives or just because of the seafan foods? Just curious

[Europhyllia]

at some point I added a bacterial culture, yes.
But basically the bacteria in the system uses what's there. So yes my choice was to limit my feeding to the frozen foods and quit the powders and liquids or continue to feed the bacteria with my powder and liquid.

I am such a rule follower. lol. Should have clued in on this long time ago and hook up the sterilizer.

Initially I was so frustrated with the blooms that I was going to take the reactor offline but I think just limiting the bacteria reaction to the reactor and taking it out of suspension will work well for me.

[ramsey]

I'm curious. What pump are you all using for your SMR1 reactors? I'm using a giant mag pump for my return and two reactors and I don't know if I like this. I think I'm going to put in a pump for the return, one for my frag tank and one for my reactors.

[txg8gxp]

I was using a mag3 (with a valve) now I'm running a sicce 1.5

[Europhyllia]

I have separate pumps. Sicce 5.0 for return and mag 3 for the XL pellet reactor

[Big_Pun]

sicce 3 for return, sicce 1.5 for nextreef reactor

[ramsey]

Cool, my problem is the mag 24 is just too big I think. I have a mag 18 so I may give that a try. It'd be nice to power everything off of one pump. I have ball valves to control the flow and everything.

One more question, how long should it take for the biopellets to take full effect? I've slowly added them over the course of the pat few weeks. My nitrates are at 0 and phos at .5. I haven't noticed the crystal clear water that everyone talks about though.

[Europhyllia]

well... that's actually what my post today was all about... ;)

After a year of using the pellets I did the unthinkable and hooked up a UV sterilizer last week. Because I feed seafan and filter feeder foods throughout the day and night I've been dealing with a permanent light bacteria bloom in the display.

Since so much talk was about how the bacteria might be beneficial for sponges and corals as food source I've put up with it. Now of course I feel dumb not recognizing earlier that that was a mistake.

Things have perked up so much after emerging from the cloud. In fact I can't believe things have hung in long enough to now be able to enjoy the cloud free water!

I was briefly tempted to just take the reactor offline and then decided to leave it on. As long as the bacteria is limited to the reactor everything will be fine.

I just don't want it in the display anymore. The UV sterilizer stays on ;)

[ramsey]

Hmm, I saw that actually but everything I read says not to use a UV sterilizer with them. I guess it makes sense though. I don't see what the harm in using one would be if you have it AFTER the reactor since the idea is to keep the bacteria in the reactor or skimmer. Great, now there's something else I might have to buy. Before I get one though I'm gonna give it a month or so and see what happens. I have to say, I've been feeding really heavily and the fact that my nitrates are undetectable makes me happy. :) Now I just need to get rid of phosphates. I have another reactor I'm running carbon in. I may switch it to GFO in a month if phosphates are still detectable.

[Europhyllia]

I did the same. Since it said not to use it with a UV sterilizer I just kept living with the perma-bloom. Now I wish I had done something earlier. My rics and zoas are opening much better now. Some zoas are gone though not to return. :(
In part I chose pellets over vodka because I liked the idea of containing it to the reactor rather than dealing with stuff in the DT.
For me it basically came down to either totally ditching the pellets or using them in conjunction with a uv-sterilizer.

[ramsey]

Yeah, it's still so new that I may just not be giving it enough time. I also might try slowing down the flow to the reactor. One thing I have noticed is cyano. I bought some MB 7 from Gabe yesterday and I've started adding it. I'm hoping that by adding the "good" bacteria, it will outcompete the cyano.

[Europhyllia]

the Zeozym has worked well for me against the initial cyano bloom.

To be fair about my perma-bloom. I can tell when my autofeeder runs out of my seafan food because teh cloud lifts (until I refill it) lol
But hey I pay lots of money for the Fauna Marin foods. I want my sponges, oysters and seafans to eat the good stuff - not the bacteria!

[neogenix]

I'm interested to see what happens when I add them to a new build... from what I've seen so far, everyone else has run them by switching a running system...

[Europhyllia]

I added them to my 125g but on this one (215g) I had them right from the start neo.

One thing I really did like was that I never had hair algae, not even during the new tank period. That was nice. :)

[Big_Pun]

i still run a couple of bags of chemi pure elite, my water is crystal clear. but gets a lil cloudy when i do a heavy feeding for the fish and coral but goes away in couple hours. my flow is very slow just enough to see the pellets turn over.

[ramsey]

i still run a couple of bags of chemi pure elite, my water is crystal clear. but gets a lil cloudy when i do a heavy feeding for the fish and coral but goes away in couple hours. my flow is very slow just enough to see the pellets turn over.

That's what I set mine to last night. The only problem I have with this is that there's a small section of pellets at the bottom that do not turn over. Maybe the bottom plate is clogged? I dunno. Other than that, I have them on a very slow tumble. I also slowed the return and drain on my tank way down. My filter socks were getting clogged in like 12-14 hours when I had mega flow going through there. I figure slowing the flow way down will give the skimmer more opportunities to collect excess bacteria and will stop the filter socks from being clogged so quickly and running over. We'll see. It's a new tank so I'm still trying to get everything tweaked.

[Big_Pun]

they might be clumping a lil since they are new open up reactor and clean it plates. I clean mine once a month just a quick clean of top plate and in slide the inner tube up and down to clean bottom and then pour off water in reactor.

[Europhyllia]

you might be able to shake em just a little. They'll get less sticky in time