Gizmo

GFO is used for controlling phosphates and Biopellets are used for controlling the nitrate cycle. Both are used in some form of media reactor. Best examples and how to learn about them would be to check out sites that sell them like Bulk Reef Supply as they have videos and articles that explain.

Biopellets is a filtering method that promotes super growth of denitrifying bacteria via carbon dosing (the breakdown of the pellets) and extreme amounts of low oxygen areas in the pores of the pellets. The pellets are slowly broken down and skimmed out of the system and must be replenished every couple of months. This creates an extreme amount of denitrifying bacteria and eliminates ammonia and nitrite and severely reduces nitrates and phosphate.

GFO is only used for removing phosphates. It does so very well, but typically must be replaced every couple of weeks. I've done far less research on GFO, so I'm no expert. :-)

Is GFO and vodka starting to be replaced by biopellets? it appears the biopellets are somewhat new to the industry and having very good results. (correct me if I'm wrong). My goal is to reduce algae although it is not severe just trying to cut down on it and promote healthy coral. (like everybody else)

Matt, according to your post Biopellets do both on reducing Phosphates?

If anybody with more knowledge on GFO please post.

Thanks for your help.

I'd say BioPellets are most definitly replacing vodka they are rather new only being around for about 2 years now, results have been great, other than a couple complaints about the product causing Cyano but lets be honest...in this hobby whi hasnt had there share of cyano, and its not exactly the easyest thing to pinpoint the cause

GFO info: http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-11/rhf/index.php

i cant really find any "good" info on Polyhydroxyalkanoates as it appears Randy Holmes-Farley is not to keen on them, and hes my major source of all non bias scientific info....

however i have been running Biopellets for about a year now with great results, in my older tank i was plagued by all kinds of algae and cyano problems, now what im running them on my new tank (that isnt so new) ive had only minor cyano problems which are now cleared up. algae growth is so little i have a difficult time keeping my snails alive. all levels are undetectable

BioPellets have a greater cost upfront but very very low long term cost
GFO is rather expensive and the fact that regular changes are needed makes it a bit of a pain in the ***, IMO its more of a quick fix soloution to get po4 in check

my BioPellets are single handedly responsible for removing nitrate, ammonia, AND MY PHOSPHATES all of which are at 0. GFO is an outdated way of bringing down phosphates but can be dangerous for the tank if not rinsed properly etc. BioPellets are more of a tear and go and work so much better. i used to use GFO and still had a problem here or there but now that i have been using the BioPellets for the last six months i have had 0 issues. Most people are afraid to use the BioPellets because they are apparently "too new" or "not tested" but those people are just stuck in a dark ages mindset for their tanks "change is scary!" no its not. I promise you using BioPellets will bring nothing but joy to your tank and you.