Biopellet question...

macawmagic · Jul 30, 2011

I'm setting up a new system and was looking into a biopellet reactor to put on it so I don't have any problems down the line.

Is this something that's good to start from the beginning, or only if you have nitrate/phosphate problems? I figured it's better for me to plan it into the system than have to add it later.

System will be about 400 gal. total.
I'm looking at using the Next Reef SMR1 XL reactor with eventually 2 L. of Ecobak pellets. Obviously they all wouldn't go in the system at the beginning, but would probably start with about .5L and then slowly add them if I need them.

I believe the skimmer I'm going to buy is a Reeflo Orca 200 unless I can somehow find a 250 in the near future.

Troylee · Jul 30, 2011

I think you should listen to the latest pod cast on gary and sara's gig... They talk about pellets and how the directions say this amount for this size tank... Couldn't agree with Gary more when he said those guide lines stink!!!! There is 75 gallon tanks stocked to the hill that would require way more pellets than a 125 lightly stocked.. So adjust the pellets to your bioload it makes more sense...start slow and keep adding until you have achieved the results your looking for..

gparr · Jul 30, 2011

I don't recall saying guidelines stink or not to follow them. What I have said consistently is that you must raise your pellet volume slowly until you reach the recommended pellet quantity. Then you adjust accordingly. I would be hesitant to put biopellets on a new system. I think you're much better off establishing the tank in the normal way and letting it go through the normal cycles in the early months. Then, as your bio load increases, start to introduce the pellets to control nitrates and phosphates. Getting your rock properly colonized and established should be the priority. Also remember that you have to feed your tank regularly when using biopellets.
Gary

gparr · Jul 30, 2011

I agree with the plan to include the reactor in the initial build. I just wouldn't use it on a raw tank. But you'll definitely be glad you planned for it because you'll benefit from the pellets once the tank is established.
Gary

OMG Corals · Jul 30, 2011

I also think it would be best to wait untill the system is established. You need the system to "mature" before the pellets are even needed. Plus it would make it difficult to see when the actual cycle has occured and is stable.

macawmagic · Jul 30, 2011

So my best bet is to install the skimmer, but not put any pellets in until they are needed?

macawmagic · Jul 30, 2011

Troylee said:
I think you should listen to the latest pod cast on gary and sara's gig... They talk about pellets and how the directions say this amount for this size tank... Couldn't agree with Gary more when he said those guide lines stink!!!! There is 75 gallon tanks stocked to the hill that would require way more pellets than a 125 lightly stocked.. So adjust the pellets to your bioload it makes more sense...start slow and keep adding until you have achieved the results your looking for..

where would I find this?

nixer · Jul 30, 2011

i started my pellets on a freshly cycled tank.
your going to get some cyano and start with a real low dosage.
also i must say i have the next reef reactors and id never buy them again.
id go with avast or swc

Troylee · Jul 30, 2011

macawmagic said:
where would I find this?

Reef Threads

Troylee · Jul 30, 2011

well not in those exact words but that's what I felt you were trying to say haha... Makes perfect sense and really a good hard statement "fact" that you need to listen to your tank it knows best....

gparr said:
I don't recall saying guidelines stink or not to follow them. What I have said consistently is that you must raise your pellet volume slowly until you reach the recommended pellet quantity. Then you adjust accordingly. I would be hesitant to put biopellets on a new system. I think you're much better off establishing the tank in the normal way and letting it go through the normal cycles in the early months. Then, as your bio load increases, start to introduce the pellets to control nitrates and phosphates. Getting your rock properly colonized and established should be the priority. Also remember that you have to feed your tank regularly when using biopellets.
Gary