Any value using a trickle filter for a FOWLR?

[Edward Smith]

I have a 150g FOWLR with a 100g sump with DSB and macro algae.

The tank drains into a trickle filter before going into the sump.

My intent was to convert NH3 to nitrite then to nitrate and then let the sump deal with the nitrate.

Does the trickle filter really bring anything to the table in this setup?

Thanks,

[bertoni]

If the tank has an algae problem, the trickle filter might help. Otherwise, I don't think it adds much value if the nitrate level is acceptable. I don't know of exact tolerances, but I might worry if the nitrate were over 200 ppm.