What is the Specific Surface Area (SSA) of a Biofilter Media?

The term SSA refers to the surface area per unit volume of any biofilter media which is available for the bacteria for their adequate colonization.

The higher the SSA means more area for the bacterias to grow. Higher no of SSA doesn't always mean that it is a good biofilter media.

For example, Filter sand has an extremely high SSA of 580 - 600 but has a very low open space so it clogs and channels the water very quickly. It is inexpensive but heavy and very difficult to clean.

All the different types of bio-media which are used in koi fish pond bio filters can be classified according to its specific surface area (SSA).

When choosing a filter media, it is extremely important to choose wisely. A lot of factors should be considered other than the media's SSA, but also its open space, ease of cleaning, weight, and cost.

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