40 gallon breeder starter build

[ivan705]

Hello folks,

I'm finally pulling the trigger on my new years resolution of building a reef tank.

My goal is to put a 40 gallon breeder together (mixed reef including sps if possible), building as I go, eventually building my own controller. If the hobby is right for me is like to ouse the accumulated gear as part of a 80-120 gal ST setup. I'd like to keep the budget relatively low using parts that rely on owner customization.

So far I've bought 50# of marco rock, a bucket of salt and 2 water jugs, so I'd like to get this stuff cycling. I plan to start the cycle in a plastic container after I get my aquascape figured out, so hopefully y'all can help me with that, as well as selection of a suitable powerhead and heater to start.

The rock came in 9 chunks, photos are below. should I try breaking them up a bit? Is there a guide available for designing your rock to keep your tanks inhabitants happy? Thanks in advance!

 

[Big G]

Yeah, sure break them up with a hammer and stone/concrete chisel. Lots of fun. Consider building structures (towers, arches, etc.) a bit more open to allow good water flow to prevent dead spots in your tank. I used superglue gel from the Dollar Store and Apoxie Sculpt natural color to "build" with. Put glue on the rock + a ball of Apoxie Sculpt of the right size + glue on the other rock = squeeze together. Let harden.

 

[O'l Salty]

Try to put one closer to the back and the other closer to the front.

 

[ReefingFamily]

I agree with O'l Salty. There are a lot of threads out there on aquascaping. And by staggering them and slightly off center you get the illusion of more depth.