Algae Turf Scrubbers?...

[Superpede1]

Do algae turf scrubbers work very effectively at removing nutrients? I dont like skimmers because I think they remove to much of the things we need in aqauriums like plankton, are these a good candidate for me?

[Matt Rogers]

Apparently they do. But as the cure all (without skimmer) some would say no. There is some interesting reading out there on Adley's attempt at using them exclusively on a large scale at the Smithsonian I believe if you dig around.

I always liked the surge aspect of their design and used to marvel at the old videos of the ones at Inland Aquatics.

If memory serves, Adley put a patent on their design and the ones that were commercially released for hobbyist were insanely expensive.

I think I still have some links to some info in the 3reef links library.

[inwall75]

I'm not terribly impressed by them. Yes they do work as Doug (Flatlander on RC) can attest. He's the only person I know who still runs them besides Inland Aquatics. Doug does mention that you will go through a LOT more carbon to get rid of the yellow water. I would rather have a skimmer and a Carlson surge device for the turbulent water.

BTW, Walter Adey's scrubbers failed at the Smithsonian and were supplemented with skimmers for a while...then they were replaced at the Smithsonian with only skimmers. The scrubbers failed at Biosphere II, they failed at a large aquarium in Japan, along with several others that I cannot recall right now.

Believe it or not, in spite of Adey's 100% failure rate at public aquariums, Puerto Rico hired him as a consultant on their soon to open public aquarium. My question is WHY???

Here's some pics of the Biosphere. A Trip to the Ocean @ Biosphere2

[Matt Rogers]

Funny I was going to PM you inwall to see if I can get your help on this one.
Thanks man!