First reef tank, 12g fluval edge

[CFlook]

I'm new to the hobby and have been doing my best to learn as much as possible. I'm using about 8 lbs of dry rock and 4 lbs of live rock and approx. an inch of carib sea live sand. I use an RO only system for water and I am currently on day 7 and haven't detected any nitrites or nitrates ( I'm trying to be patient) I'm open to any advice or opinions. I am also looking to replace the stock lighting but I'm on a tight budget.

Having issues uploading pics, I will try to get some up soon to show my setup so far.

 

[cdness]

Welcome to R2R! If you are having issues with images check out Photobucket. It is easy to upload and attach by using the IMG code.

 

[CFlook]

 

[revhtree Verified Admin]

Sweet little tank!

 

[CFlook]

Thanks! I'm not 100% happy with the aqua scape, thinking about replacing the big LR on the top right.

 

[CFlook]

Could anyone tell me what this is and what I can do to get rid of of it. Please and thank you.

 

[Rikerbear]

Looks to be a small diatom bloom.....perfectly normal for this stage of your cycle. It will pass :smile:

 

[CFlook]

That's great news, thank you for the information Rikerbear!

 

[CFlook]

Changed the aquascape again. Added a 4 pound real reef rock. Also purchased an urchin and 2 anemone shrimp.Unfortunately the bigger shrimp got a little snackish and went to town on the other. Only had plans of getting ONE invert to take advantage of my diatom bloom, but with temptations and persuasion from the wife we ended up with the shrimp that are useless for the diatom apparently.


Sent Via the R2R Forum APP

 

[revsgirl]

Nice! Thanks for sharing'


Chasing the Dream Giver, not the dream! Tonya

 

[RollinReefer]

nice start

 

[CFlook]

So it's day 16 and I did a water test. I'm getting between 0-0.25 of ammonia and nitrites, 0 for nitrates and 8.0 for pH. I feel like with the bioload I have in there if there isn't any bacteria to break down ammonia it would be through the roof or I would be detecting more nitrites and nitrates. I hope I am just being impatient and I don't have a problem


Sent Via the R2R Forum APP

 

[Rikerbear]

You would see ammonia first, than nitrites and lastly nitrates and phosphates.
Sounds like you are good to go for adding a few more clean up crew critters
Snails, hermits, etc
:smile: