Carbon in filter v. calcium

Hello,
I have mopani wood in my tank and it has turned the water brownish, despite me soaking it for ages first. I understand if I use carbon/charcoal in my filter it will clear the water. Now, will it take out the calcium I have added for the snails and shrimps, and is that a problem?

Thank you,
Nicola

I have always used carbon in my invertebrate tank filter. Is there an alternative then? I have never thought about it being a problem. But can put carbon in the filter for a day, and then add a little more calcium.

Hi,

I have tried wood several times over the years but have always had to take it out as I agree it does turn the water brown. I would love to find out how you get passed this. I have a carbon filter and did not realise you could have any other type.

Mel

Your best to soak and boil wood for a few weeks until the tannin goes. Its a lenghty process but worth it.

Also you could use "Redmoor" bogwood that not only looks amazing but doesnt seem to leech tannins at all.

As T said, the only solution is to let the wood have a long long soak.

I personally like the tea coloured effect, but Redmoor wood does not leach tannins as stated already.

Carbon is generally a bit of extra marketing by firms to get you to spend more on their goods. Although it does take some "bad" minerals out of the water it can leach them straight back in again if not replaced after between 1-6 months (this seems to vary between manufacturer). If you are happy to regulally replace it it should work well however.

Thanks for all the replies. I've read that carbon filters will remove any chemical-type additives, like fertilizer that you'd put in for the plants, so I wondered if it would take out any added calcium. I don't want to put it in if it will be taken out straight away, IYSWIM. May take it out and boil it, but I'll need a pretty big pot (not to mention the fact the OH will think I'm mad.