Berlin Method

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The Berlin Method of biological filtration is method for keeping an aquarium, typically a saltwater aquarium, clean. It is basically the use of ample live rock (rock with live marine organisms and bacteria on or in it) in a refugium or tank. Most often a separate tank containing a large amount of live rock but without fish or corals is linked to the main aquarium via pumps and tubes. No substrate is used in a Berlin setup to facilitate the vacuuming of debris, although a deep sand bed, biological filter setup may be used in conjunction with the Berlin. A protein skimmer is used to remove organic solids. The theory is that anaerobic bacteria deep within the rock convert nitrate to free nitrogen gas.

The typical rule of thumb is to use from 1.2-4.0 kg (.75 to 2 lb) of live rock per 4 litres (~ 1 gal) of aquarium water depending on the density of the rock – or filling the tank up 2/3 of the way to the top. The benefit of using live rock is fourfold: First, live rock acts as a biological filter, adding beneficial bacteria. Secondly, it introduces an abundance of marine life into the aquarium that many fish, invertebrates and corals use for food. Thirdly, it provides a natural reef appearance with ample places to locate corals. Lastly, live rock will also help balance and stabilize PH in the aquarium.

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