replace bio balls with LACE ROCK?

[cobray]

After reading lots of threads on the subject, I think I am going to remove my bio balls a few at a time and replace them with rock. Instead of paying top dollar for live rock that I won't hardly see, why not lace rock that's only two bucks a pound? Will the lack of light down there be a factor?

[Geoff]

why? if the lace rock is exposed to the air than it will be exactly the same as if the bioballs were there. it is the oxygen rich environment that makes bioballs a nitrate factory. it really does not matter if it bioballs, LR, lace rock, bristleblocks, ping pong balls, or dog chew toys in the chamber. if it is not submerged in water 100% of the time than it will become a nitrate factory.

this is not taking into account the fact that all of these items can trap detritus making them nutrient leachers if not cleaned regularly.

in other words i would just leave the chamber empty.

my .02,

G~

[Twitterbait]

I agree... denitrification is best done in the sandbed.

[Geoff]

or/and in LR itself.

G~

[cobray]

I see your point. I had a look at the filter just now and I notice that all but the very top of the top layer of balls are submerged. I'd post a photo, but I'm still figuring out how to work that Irfan View software...
Anyway, why leave it empty when it could be filled with sand, gravel, rock or what have you? As long as it is constantly submerged it shouldn't pose a problem....? Thanks for your help.

[Geoff]

i have absolutely nothing in my sump right now except a skimmer. that is all. as long as you have a good amount of LR in the system you do not need to have more in the sump.

you can if you want, but it will make it harder for you to clean it out during water changes.

G~