Matala Black Filter Media for Heavy Mechanical Pre-Filtration Matala Black is the coarsest of the four Matala filter media densities. Its open-cell foam structure catches leaves, twigs, algae mats, and large suspended solids in the first filtration stage before they reach finer media or biological zones. Because it passes water freely, it works in high-flow applications where denser media would restrict the pump. Sold per square foot, it cuts to any size or shape your filter chamber requires. Where to Use It Run Matala Black at the inlet of your filter as the primary mechanical stage. Its large pore size captures the debris that would quickly clog green or blue media, extending the life of every subsequent layer. In a multi-stage filter, Black does the heavy lifting so finer media stays cleaner longer and biological zones maintain consistent flow. In high-stocking koi ponds and water gardens with heavy leaf fall, it's the first thing water should touch. Specification Value Density Very coarse / low density Filtration Stage Primary mechanical (first stage) Pore Size Largest of the four Matala densities Standard Sheet Size 39" x 48" x 1.5" thick (99 cm x 122 cm x 3.8 cm) Sold Per square foot Lifespan 2 to 3 years with regular rinsing Maintenance Rinse Matala Black with pond water — never tap water, which kills beneficial bacteria living in the foam. Rinse weekly during peak season when debris load is highest. Replace when the foam becomes permanently compressed and no longer recovers its shape after rinsing. Ideal for the first stage of multi-layer pond filters, high-debris ponds, and koi systems where large solids removal protects downstream biological media.
