Alfagrog vs. Far Infrared Bacteria House: Which Media Wins?

In the world of Koi keeping, there are two distinct camps when it comes to filling a Bakki Shower.

There is the "Alfagrog Army"—who believe that surface area is surface area and anything else is marketing hype. And then there are the "Bacteria House Purists"—who swear that the growth rates and water shine they get from premium media are unmatched.

So, is the expensive "Far Infrared" media actually worth several times the price of Alfagrog? Or are you just paying for a fancy box?

Let’s break down the two most popular contenders in the UK market.

Contender 1: Alfagrog

The Reliable Workhorse

If you have been in the hobby for more than a year, you know Alfagrog. Made here in the UK (Staffordshire), it is a sintered ceramic foam that looks like volcanic rock.

The Pros:

• Insane Surface Area: Because it is so porous, a single bag offers a massive amount of home for bacteria.

• The Price: It is undeniably cheap. You can fill a standard 4-tier shower for a fraction of the cost of premium rods.

• It Works: Thousands of ponds in the UK run perfectly clear water on Alfagrog. It effectively processes ammonia and nitrite.

The Cons:

• Flow Restriction: Because it comes in random rock shapes, it packs down tight. This restricts airflow through the shower, which can reduce the "off-gassing" effect that showers are famous for.

• Sharp & Dusty: It is brutal on your hands (wear gloves!) and tends to crumble meaning it will need a rinse before putting in your shower.

The Verdict: Alfagrog is the Toyota Hilux of filter media. It isn't pretty, but it gets the job done reliably and cheaply.

Contender 2: Far Infrared Bacteria House (BHM)

The Formula 1 Upgrade

Often referred to as "Momotaro" style or "BHM," this media is made from a mix of minerals and silica heated to extreme temperatures (1300°C+).

The Pros:

• The "Far Infrared" Effect: This is the controversial part, but the science suggests these minerals emit low-level far infrared rays. This vibrates water molecules, breaking down large water clusters. Why do you care? Smaller water clusters release trapped gases (ammonia/CO2) faster and absorb oxygen better.

• The Stack: Because they come in rods/logs, you leave whole or break them up and stack them in a grid. This creates "tunnels" of air through the shower. This massive airflow is why BHM showers recover from feedings so much faster than rock-filled showers.

• Nitrate Reduction: Users consistently report that BHM is superior at reducing Nitrate (the end product of filtration), likely due to the unique anaerobic zones deep inside the rods.

The Cons:

• The Price: It is an investment. Filling a large shower can cost as much as the shower itself.

Head-to-Head: Which Should You Buy?

If money is no object, Bacteria House is objectively the better media for a shower. The stacking structure allows the shower to "breathe" in a way that Alfagrog cannot, leading to better oxygenation and that elusive "polished" water look.

However, if you are on a budget, Alfagrog is still an excellent filter media.

The "Smart" Hybrid Solution

Can't decide? Try the Hybrid Stack.

Many of our customers get the best of both worlds by mixing them:

1. Top Tiers (Bacteria House): Use the expensive rods in the top trays where the water crashes in. This maximizes the "shattering" effect of the water for oxygenation.

2. Bottom Tiers (Alfagrog): Use the cheaper rock in the bottom trays to bulk up your biological surface area without breaking the bank.

Ready to upgrade? Shop our Premium BHM or grab Alfagrog here