Does biological filter media need replacement?
No. Removing or replacing the media can severely deplete beneficial bacterial populations. The discoloration or film found on the media indicates healthy growth of the bacteria. However, if the media becomes clogged, you can use pond water to gently dislodge some of the material to improve water flow. What conditions do beneficial bacteria need for proper growth? Beneficial bacteria thrive in conditions where they receive ammonia or nitrite as a food source, temperatures above 55°F, and plenty of oxygen. Fish waste and decaying food and plants supply the ammonia and water moving over them supplies the oxygen. Once beneficial bacteria are established in your biological media, they are difficult to destroy, except by over-cleaning, using chlorinated water, or using certain medications, such as antibiotics. What kind of maintenance does biological filter media need? Check your filter regularly to ensure particles are not clogging the biological filter media and decreasing efficiency. Biol
