So I just got done reading huge article from reef central. Lots of knowledge. Basically based on aquarium science, anecdotal evidence and trial and error and with testing and having many controls, a reasoning of what methods based upon natural functions and consequences from organic carbon dosing in the aquarium has been thoroughly reviewed. Results include in a basic sense dont use bio pellets as they are ok, but alot of drawbacks, vodka increases cycano bacteria and must controlled and watched carefully measuring PO4 and NO3 and adjusting accordingly lowering the dose or increased based upon the aquarium reaction to it, vinegar is good ,but effects ph and other important elements and usually used in conjunction with kalk. Also vinegar and vodka can be used in conjunction depending on your goals in the aquarium and sugar dosing is a bad idea.
A kind of simple summary is if your aquarium needs it and has been established make sure you know the proper PO4 NO3 levels, research vodka and vinegar and choose one or both. Start off slowly following recommended doses, measure and again measure your PO4 and NO3 you really dont want to reduce all of them completely, but just to maintained low level. Adjust accordingly bases on signs of the tank including fish and coral stress, bacterial growth in the form of slime cyano, or white film and reduce if you need to, to reduce their food supply thus affecting their growth. Basically be very careful and go slow and increase and decrease accordingly trying to to find that perfect maintenance level.
Another thing is that having GAC is recommend and I have read things but am confused to as what brand, expense and what I need. Studies have shown that price really has no affect on performance, but everything is up in arms. I saw that BRS has some GAC called RX.08 or something and they have shown it to be some like miracle carbon which I do know if it marketing, truth or just unneeded and that Ic ould get by with something less expensive. Any Ideas?