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R-Matala round filter pads — drop-in progressive media for vortex and barrel filters
The same four Matala densities as the sheets, pre-cut into rounds from 17" to 48" so they drop straight into a vortex chamber, a KoiClear 105, a barrel or any round filter without cutting. Stack coarse-to-fine in the flow direction for progressive filtration.
- Diameters
- 17, 18, 22, 24, 27, 30, 37, 48"
- Densities
- Black · Green · Blue · Gray
- Thickness
- 1.5"
- Free volume
- 92–94%
Image coming soon
Mystic Koi’s take
Measure the inside of the chamber, not the lid, and order the size that fits snug — water will bypass any gap. For a koi settlement chamber we run one Black over two Green; in a bio chamber, Green → Blue → Gray.
What it does
- Progressive densityBlack 190 → Green 290 → Blue 365 → Gray 460 m²/m³.
- High void space92–94% free volume resists clogging.
- Rinse and reuseLasts for years; hose off with pond water.
- Pre-cut roundsNo cutting, no waste.
Density guide
| Color | Grade | Specific surface | Fiber | Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black | FRM190 | 190 m²/m³ (58 ft²/ft³) | 1.7 mm | First-stage mechanical |
| Green | FRM290 | 290 m²/m³ (88 ft²/ft³) | 0.9 mm | Mechanical + biological |
| Blue | FRM365 | 365 m²/m³ (111 ft²/ft³) | 0.55 mm | Fine mechanical + biological |
| Gray | FRM460 | 460 m²/m³ (140 ft²/ft³) | 0.5 mm | Polishing + biofilm |
Per Matala Water Technology. Diameters in inches; all rounds 1.5" thick.
Pairs well with
The science: why progressive density beats a single foam
A filter that catches everything in its first inch clogs in its first week. Matala’s open Black grade traps large solids while letting fine particles pass to the denser Green and Blue layers; Gray polishes last. Because the fibers are stiff and the structure 92–94% void, flow stays even as debris loads, and the huge protected surface area hosts nitrifying bacteria that convert toxic ammonia to nitrate.
- Matala Water Technology Co. (2026). Matala filter media specifications. matala.com.tw.
- Randall, D.J., Tsui, T.K.N. (2002). Ammonia toxicity in fish. Marine Pollution Bulletin 45: 17–23.
Questions we get about the R-Matala
How many pads per 1,000 gallons?
Matala’s rule of thumb is one of each of the four densities per 1,000 gal of a stocked pond (the 1-2-3-4 rule scales with fish load).
Can I cut a round down?
Yes, with a sharp utility knife or electric carving knife — but it is easier to order the right diameter.
Matala at Mystic Koi
Matala filter media and pond equipment have been a koi-keeping staple for decades, and Mystic Koi has sold and run Matala gear in our own systems since we opened in Upland, California in 1996. Everything on this page ships from Matala USA (Sea Life Designs) or our ¾-acre facility. Not sure what fits your pond? Call or visit and we’ll size it with you.