that is showing occasion signs of rust.

Is this really bad?


In a word, Yes.

The chicken wire will break down and rust, playing hell with your water
quality. I'd remove it as soon as possible. There are literally hundreds of
commercially available baskets, nets, bags, and strainers made of
non-corroding materials that will likely do what you want, without the side
effects.


Ok, I'll get it out ASAP. which particular water paramaters does Iron Oxide
effect?