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Saltwater Aquarium Guide Reef-keeping magazine
Water Chemistry

Biopellets vs Carbon Dosing: Two Roads to Low Nutrients

Both export nitrate and phosphate by feeding bacteria. Here is when each approach fits and which one is safer.

By Saltwater Aquarium Guide Published

Dense group of corals in a reef aquarium with a small clownfish above them
Photo: David Clode / Unsplash

Both biopellets and liquid carbon dosing (vodka, vinegar, NoPoX) feed bacteria that consume nitrate and phosphate. The bacteria are then exported via skimming. The methods differ in safety and predictability.

Biopellets

Solid PHA pellets in a fluidized reactor. Set-and-forget once tuned, but slow to respond to nutrient swings.

Liquid carbon dosing

Daily dose of vodka or vinegar (or proprietary blends). Faster to respond but riskier — overdosing crashes nitrate to zero and triggers dinos.

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