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Thread: Alternatives to LECA and gravel?????

  1. #1
    JSG
    Guest

    Default Alternatives to LECA and gravel?????

    Hi guys,
    It seems as if LECA and similar products are not available in South Africa.
    Thus my question is this:
    The hardware stores and pet shops here sell what they call an aquarium filter medium which look like mini plastic match boxes; 2" x 3" x 1" with lots of grooves on each of the two flat sides. They say that these things promote the growth of good bacteria in your filter and because they are made from plastic they are extremely light weight when compared to gravel. (I can't speak for the wight of LECA as I don't know).
    So, would these things work as a replacement for LECA and gravel?
    I'm thinking of using this and wrapping them in an almost pillowcase type manner with a screen before adding the soil.
    Should it be true that these things promote good bacteria growth and helps to filter that water, I can't for the life of me see that it can't work....your inputs would be much appreciated!

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  3. #2
    Leefrogs
    Guest

    Default Re: Alternatives to LECA and gravel?????

    leca is like clay balls that are baked-- so in essence, it's like a terricota pot. Baked clay, it helps absorb water and keep your roots and soil from rotting. So therefore anything that keeps air availible would work. I've heard of people using charcoal (for fish tanks) or even a layer of styrofoam packing peanuts, or layers of smashed terricota.

    Leca just might have a differnt name over there, it's commonly used for hydoponics.

  4. #3
    JSG
    Guest

    Default Re: Alternatives to LECA and gravel?????

    Hmmm, thanks Lee, will keep on looking. So it sounds like these plastic "match boxes" may also work then, and my guess (at this stage) is that these would most probably be cheaper than the clay balls. Will maybe have to go look at a specialist plant nursery to see whether they have some.

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