The Evolution Aqua K1 Filter Media is made to provide a large protected surface area. It provides a
protected surface area to boost beneficial bacteria colonization for
biological filtration. The K1 Micro is identical to the K1 media, but the smaller
shape allows even more protected area per unit volume. This gives it an even
higher ability to perform biological filtration. Each liter of K1 Media
will handle up to 5 grams of food per day. Maturing the K1 Media bio-media is important. This is because a delicate
eco-system is developing for the bacteria involved in the
nitrification process. It provides the maximum active surface area
for the bacteria to colonize,. and it
is this very process that removes harmful ammonia and nitrite from the
water. The 25 Liter media is about .88 Cubic Feet of surface area.
As the K1 Media moves
within the filter, it causes the older dead bacteria on the outside to be
displaced, making space for new, younger, heavier-feeding bacteria
to rapidly colonize. Within the wheel itself is a protected surface which
enables colonies of bacteria to naturally follow their lifecycle of
maturing, dying and then fueling the latter stages of the nitrification
cycle. Unlike foam, matting, or other
forms of static filtration media, the K1 Media is designed to move
freely within your filter. The constant, chaotic movement of the air
from your pump causes the media to self clean and thus requires no
maintenance. This allows the filter to reach optimum effectiveness
without the disturbance of periodic cleaning, avoiding unnecessary loss
of bacteria within the filter.