Ground up Build...Just got it Going

[AJP279]

This is a new build...as I stated in earlier threads...but I just got it started today. The tank is 210 gal. and has 230 lbs of coral substrate; two different kinds. For years a buddy of mine has suggested about putting in a "sand Pool" filled with fine sand; while having much thicker crushed coral throughout the rest of the tank. I tried to incorporate that idea in a 9x13x3 plastic pan. I used the pan because i did not want the finer sand to mix with the thicker crushed coral, and i hoping to get the benefits of both; but frankly the jury is still out, so time will tell. I also added 180 lbs of live rock.

The tank's sump/refugium is in my office, so we cut a 6x9 hole in the wall, and used plumber's access panels to line the holes. I decided to use a large CPR overflow bow, and the bulk head is 1 1/2", so all the pvc pipe for the drain is that size. I had already purchased 1" pvc pipe...which i had originally planed to run both directions; the bulk head size was a big kick the the nuts. I upgraded to a 2400 GPH DC pump for the return. I'm guessing that the tank is cycling about 2000 GPH, but honestly...its just a guess.

I chose 4 kissel 360 WE Blue Tuna's with the spectral controller, and topped the tank with some double walled polycarbinate, but intend to change to glass. The tank is still foggy, but here are a few shots.

 

[NY_Caveman]

Very nice! Welcome to R2R!

 

[AJP279]

Its much clearer this morning

 

[AJP279]

Its much clearer this morning

 

[AJP279]

Aqua-scapped now...just need to add fish

 

[FREAKINRICAN69]

Very nice tank & aquascape

 

[AJP279]

Aqua-scapped now...just need to add fish

Dont know how long to wait, but eventually need corals

 

[Wickedfun]

Did you cycle the live rock? How long did it take? I am trying to wet cycle about 120 lbs myself

 

[AJP279]

Did you cycle the live rock? How long did it take? I am trying to wet cycle about 120 lbs myself

I used some bacteria in a bottle...enough for 200 gallons, and 30 pounds fuki pink with bacteria. I took a risk an put a few fish is at day three...no problems so far, but im watching the water.

 

[AJP279]

Just before the first fish

 

[AJP279]

I love this...the picture is not filtered...that's what you get for about $2,000.00 in lighting...at dusk. Inside are two clowns, Sailfin Tang, Niger Trigger, 3 emerald crabs, 15 blue legged hermits, and possibly...potentially...two coral banded shrimp.

 

[count krunk]

i would not add anymore fish for about 2-3 months. two clowns a sailfin and a niger are a heck of a first load!

what are your feeding plans?

 

[AJP279]

i would not add anymore fish for about 2-3 months. two clowns a sailfin and a niger are a heck of a first load!

what are your feeding plans?

I agree...next few months will run as is. As for food...im just feeding flakes twice a day but was considering some kind of meaty treats for the trigger.

 

[AJP279]

The sump is 75 gallons, and the base for the refugium is finished...15 pounds of miracle mud: 5 on bottom...covered with crushed coral with an additional 10 on top. The original plan was to put the coral on top of all the mud, but life happens and it worked out differently. The filter media: 1. Poly pad; 2. ceramic balls; 3. lava rock. I need to add mangroves, light, and protein skimmer to the sump and refugium in the next couple months.

 

[AJP279]

The sump is 75 gallons, and the base for the refugium is finished...15 pounds of miracle mud: 5 on bottom...covered with crushed coral with an additional 10 on top. The original plan was to put the coral on top of all the mud, but life happens and it worked out differently. The filter media: 1. Poly pad; 2. ceramic balls; 3. lava rock. I need to add mangroves, light, and protein skimmer to the sump and refugium in the next couple months.

What are your thoughts on the Radion XR15 for the refugium in the sump