Activated Carbon Questions

Apr 3, 2007
323
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Knoxville Area
#1
Is there a way to gain the benefits of using Activated Carbon, without using a filter?

For instance. I'm planning on setting up a 5 gallon tank to house a betta. I don't want to use a filter, as it will make the water current to high to happily house the betta. I do plan on putting in a sponge filter, possibly a bubble bar and some plants.

My question is this, does the water need to be pushed through the activated carbon for it to work properly? Or could I put it in a little bag and gain the same benefits of clearer water?