Seachem Purigen is a replacement for activated carbon for both freshwater and marine aquariums. Fish waste, uneaten food and rotting organic matter all contribute to nutrient levels in our aquariums. In an effort to reduce dissolved organic matter many of use specific media such as activated carbon. Protein skimmers also play an important role in removing dissolved organics. By removing them before they get a chance to break down in our aquarium we generally limit the amount of ammonia, nitrite and nitrates your biological filters have to process. Ammonia and nitrites are not a problem as bacteria populations in our aquarium can easily consume them.

Nitrates on the other are not so easy to get rid off. The bacteria responsible for converting nitrates into free nitrogen live in areas with very little oxygen. They are generally found deep within live rock and at the bottom of your substrate. Since there really isn't a lot of real estate for these bacteria, we end up having to export nitrates some other way. Which include the use of macroalgae (Algae Turf Scrubbers), Protein skimming, Activated Carbon and the easiest option, water changes. This is where Seachem Purigen comes into the picture.

Seachem Purigen is touted as a superior replacement for activated carbon.

With regards to impurity removal from the water, Seachem claims it surpasses conventional activated carbon by 500%.

It is also a water polisher producing crystal clear water in the aquarium.

Two other claims that seachem purigen makes is its minimal impact on trace elements (A problem with activated carbon) and its ability to significantly raise redox.

Personally, i love two things in particular with Seachem Purigen:-

1. It changes color as it absorbs dissolved impurities, letting you know whether its time to change the media. With activated carbon, its pure guesswork.
2. It can be recharged. Yup, once Seachem Purigen is fully exhausted it can be recharged leaving it in a 1:1 part water:bleach solution for a day. It will turn white again after that.

There is only one thing i do not like about Seachem Purigen, its size. It is so small its almost like fine sand, making conventional bags unable to contain the media.

But here's a tip though, i use stockings as a media bag for my Seachem Purigen and it works just fine thank you very much. I have never attempted to recharge purigen, again due to its small size. I personally feel it isn't worth the hassle but then again i've been accused of being a lazy bum. Theoretically, 600 grams of Seachem Purigen should last you forever if you recharge it. Making it a one of a kind product.