Hi bro,
Your question is both simple yet difficult to answer. Certain media are best suited for different types of filter systems. I presume that you are running a single canister? You would need some foam/sponge as a mechanical filter to prevent your biomedia from clogging too quickly.
For the media, get those that are suited for a canister environment. Biohome, biovolca, eheim substratepro, seachem matrix are all possible choices. I know matrix specifically states that it is made for a canister environment. Do keep in mind the media capacity of the canister is much more limited say compared to a overhead filter, it would be wise to skip media with less surface area and try to maximise your available space.
Just my 2 cents worth - at the end of the day your maintenance routine is what counts, people can use simple hang on backs to produce great results and conversely canisters with the most expensive media and poor results. Guess the fun in the hobby is finding what works best for you!
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