CupriSorb 250 ml — Copper and Heavy Metal Chelating Resin | Seachem

Seachem CupriSorb 250 ml is a synthetic chelating resin specifically formulated for copper, designed to remove copper and heavy metals from both freshwater and saltwater aquariums. Unlike competing products that are simply cation exchange resins (ineffective in saltwater), CupriSorb is a true chelating resin capable of extracting all types of copper, including chelated copper. It removes copper faster and more effectively than activated carbon, making it the ideal solution for emergency copper removal.

Main advantages

• Copper-specific chelating resin — not just a simple cation exchange resin
• Extracts all types of copper, including chelated and precipitated copper
• Effective in both seawater AND freshwater — competing resins fail in saltwater
• Faster and more effective than activated charcoal for copper removal
• 250 ml treats up to 600 L (150 US gallons) to remove up to 7500 mg (12 ppm) of copper
• Visual indicator of depletion — the marbles change from clear to deep blue-black
• Regenerable with muriatic acid

Use in reef aquariums

Copper is extremely toxic to corals and invertebrates. Common sources of copper contamination include pest control treatments, tap water containing residual copper, and substrate leaching in aquariums previously treated with copper. CupriSorb allows invertebrates to remain in tanks that have been treated with copper by gradually removing the residual copper that has accumulated in the substrate. For complete removal, keep CupriSorb in operation for at least two weeks after testing no longer detects copper.

Instructions for use

• Use 250 ml per 600 L (150 US gallons) to remove up to 7500 mg (12 ppm) of copper
• Place in a filter bag such as the Seachem The Bag
• Position to maximize water flow — cartridge filter, chemical filtration module, box filter, or high-flow zone
• To remove residual copper from the substrate, keep it in operation for at least 2 weeks after tests report zero copper.
• Exhaustion is indicated by a color change to deep blue-black.
• The copper is not released into the water — it remains bound until regeneration

Regeneration

• Soak in a non-metallic container with 2 cups of water and 1/2 cup of muriatic acid (available with pool products — follow the warnings on the container)
• Perform outdoors, in a well-ventilated area, away from children
• Soak for 1 hour, rinse thoroughly. Repeat if necessary to restore the original color.
• Rinse, add baking soda until the foam stops, rinse again
• If the color cannot be restored after several acid washes, rinse and then regenerate with a product like HyperSorb or Purigen.

Additional heavy metals

In addition to copper, CupriSorb can also remove nickel, zinc, cobalt, cadmium, manganese, and iron. Lead removal is possible but not guaranteed by Seachem (no confirmed data).

Manufacturer's precautions

• Do not leave permanently in the filter — CupriSorb can deplete essential trace elements needed by fish, corals and invertebrates.
• Use as needed, not as a permanent addition to the filter
• Regularly test copper levels for proper monitoring

Available formats

• 100 ml (sachet)
• 250 ml
• 500 ml

Why choose CupriSorb from ReefSolution?

The CupriSorb is an essential tool for any reef aquarist. Use it with the Seachem The Bag as a filter bag and monitor your copper levels with the Hanna Checker Copper. For aquarists who have treated their tank with copper and wish to transition to an invertebrate reef tank, the CupriSorb is the first crucial step.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can CupriSorb make a copper-treated tank safe for invertebrates?

Yes. With continuous use, CupriSorb gradually extracts the copper that has precipitated in the substrate. Keep it in operation for at least two weeks after testing no longer detects copper to eliminate any remaining undetectable levels.

Does CupriSorb release copper once it is depleted?

No. The copper remains bound to the resin until regeneration with muriatic acid. The depleted CupriSorb can be left in place without risk of release.

Can the CupriSorb be left permanently in the filter?

Seachem does not recommend long-term use. CupriSorb can potentially deplete essential trace elements necessary for the health of fish, corals, and invertebrates. Use it only as needed and remove it once the problem is resolved.