2-Pack Stone for Aquariums, Medium – Natural Water Clarifier and Odor Remover, Treats 30 to 80 Gallons

Long review but I felt it was needed.I ordered 2 Medium Eco-Bio Block Stones 02/22/17.I have a 300 gallon cichlid tank. Had cichlids over 20 years. 2 excellent cannister filters. Have always had good tank care. Even with great water circulation and appropriate scheduled tank management after approx 3-5 days, I would sit and think ‘I wish I could change my polisher pads’ but as with most things in life….it would fall down on my priority list and they would be changed with my routine filter care.That was a constant occurrence for years. I loved to sit and enjoy my freshly maintained water that was crystal clear for that 3-5 days after my scheduled maintenance. But the really beautiful clarity left too quickly.Little did I know that was the least of my upcoming problems. Sadly, my water well has since failed and is testing VERY high with nitrates. 160ppm or possibly even more….so sad!I am thankful that fish can acclimate and mine have done incredible but I am unable to purchase any new fish or to give any to other tanks due to the drastic chemistry. Water changes actually tend to increase my nitrates….I can give my children bottled water and insure my family is safe but a 300 gallon fresh water tank….posed a more complicated situation.Fast forward to my search for a momentary solution (until we can get a new well) for my fish that I have had for years and did not want to loose.PLEASE DO NOT USE THIS AS AN OPEN DOOR TO CRITICIZE ME OR MY PRACTICES….This novel is intended to help someone that may possibly be in the same situation as I was.There is no product that will help high nitrates that are already established in your planned supply of water. They must be naturally balanced. To anyone who has had fresh water fish for years and they have done just great and then all of a sudden…you notice new fish don’t thrive and usually end up dying….check your water. You may grow complacent to your established system and variables CAN change without you being aware.Now for my review. I just wanted to help anyone that really wants to know how these things work….I wanted to give some of my history so I could establish my perspective.I did a test run in a pitcher of water with a air stone under the eco-bio stones. I used my established tank water and checked my nitrates and pH approximately every 12 hours for each water specimen. I wanted to accurately measure effectiveness. Within 48 hours the pH in the pitcher went through the roof!…I expected that, so warning….you have remember the chemistry of nitrate, pH and hardness balance. It was a gradual process…no sudden spikes. However, I was shocked at the fact that my nitrates came down to 40ppm within 48 hrs!….Remember, I started at 160ppm and very possibly higher than that….I was amazed!Now just under two weeks later, my water is amazing! It has looked as if I have changed my polisher pads every day!!!! I love that!!! My nitrates sadly….are the same but I guess…considering the size of my tank….it is not a surprise. The information sheet does say 2-4 weeks….not to mention, I’m sure my fish would not fare well if it did suddenly decrease and my water chemistry changed drastically. I am completely happy with the results and that it even without the nitrate component,,,,the clarity is incredible!!!So, I would highly recommend the purchase of these stones!In fact, I just purchased two more Medium Stones for my tank and a Small Stone for my son’s small goldfish tank!