Brightwell Aquatics MicroBacter Lattice XL

Brightwell Aquatics MicroBacter Lattice XL 

Overview

Scale up biofiltration with fewer pieces and better flow. MicroBacter Lattice XL is an extra-large, high-porosity ceramic matrix engineered to host massive colonies of beneficial bacteria. The open-cell structure promotes strong nitrification on the outer surface and deep denitrification within, helping convert ammonia → nitrite → nitrate and curb excess nutrients for sparkling, stable water in reef, freshwater, brackish, and pond systems.

Key Features

• XL format = fewer pieces – Large blocks/tiles are easy to place, relocate, and clean without media bags.

• High porosity, huge capacity – Supports dense aerobic and anaerobic biofilms for powerful nutrient control.

• Great flow-through design – Resists clogging when pre-filtered; ideal for sumps and canisters with brisk flow.

• Universal use – Safe for reef, FOWLR, planted tanks, brackish systems, and koi/pond applications.

• Long service life – Durable ceramic structure that can be rinsed and re-used for years.

Directions / Placement

1. Rinse in aquarium or dechlorinated water to remove dust.

2. Place in a high-flow, well-oxygenated zone (sump chamber, canister basket, trickle tower, pond filter).

3. Seed with a bacterial culture (e.g., MicroBacter Start / MicroBacter7) on new or reset systems; provide a measured ammonia source if fishless cycling.

4. Maintain by gently rinsing in tank water during water changes. If multiple blocks are used, service half at a time to preserve biofilms.

5. Pre-filter with socks/floss to keep detritus from packing the pores.

Avoid UV/ozone/oxidizers for 24–48 hours after bacterial dosing to maximize attachment.

Sizing Guidance

• Reef & freshwater: Start around 1 XL block per 75–125 gal (280–475 L), scaling with bioload and export method.

• Ponds / high bioload: Use additional blocks and ensure robust mechanical pre-filtration and strong flow.

Best Practices

• Keep mechanical media clean so oxygen-rich water reaches the lattice.

• Ensure steady flow across the block—avoid dead zones behind rock or equipment.

• If running organic carbon dosing, increase slowly while monitoring NO₃/PO₄ and livestock response.

• Replace or add blocks gradually; avoid removing all established media at once.

Compatibility

• Works alongside skimmers, carbon, phosphate media, refugia, and UV (outside the 24–48 hr post-dose window).

• Suitable for live/dry rock systems, planted aquaria, canisters, sumps, trickle towers, and pond waterfalls.

• Do not expose to soap or untreated chlorinated water.

Product Specifications

• Type: Extra-large high-porosity ceramic bio media (blocks/tiles)

• Function: Habitat for nitrifying & denitrifying bacteria; ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate control

• Water Types: Freshwater, marine/reef, brackish, ponds

• Maintenance: Gentle rinse in tank water; rotate service to preserve biology

• Longevity: Multi-year with routine pre-filter maintenance