How much biological media is needed?

by Owney
(New York)

The XP3 comes with about 12 bio stars. If I purchase more, how many should I add? Should I fill the basket up completely? What about ceramic rings? Would too many hinder the flow? What about mixing stars and rings?
A: Good question (s) with no right or wrong answer. What comes with the unit from the factory is sufficient for most aquariums. As the tank matures you will have an increase nitrates. This is why we recommend a 10% water change weekly. But, you can increase the ability of the tank to process ammonia and other organic waste into nitrate by increaseing the amount of bio-media. However, I would not recommend using more than one basket for bio-media at the expense of other filtration material.
Bottom line is you are tyring to find the most efficient way to remove unwanted pollutants. The only way to really know for sure what to use is to measure water quality and determine what filtration setup that will do the job for you. Ceramic rings vs stars is a matter of personal preference but both will do a nice job for you.