Integrated Macro Tank

[Marc316h]

Has anyone successfully integrated a macro algae into their system? I was thinking of splitting my overflow to put about 80% to my refugium and 20% to a macro tank. The output from the macro would go to the skimmer chamber in the refugium.

thoughts?

 

[Dan_P]

Has anyone successfully integrated a macro algae into their system? I was thinking of splitting my overflow to put about 80% to my refugium and 20% to a macro tank. The output from the macro would go to the skimmer chamber in the refugium.

thoughts?

Can you clarify “successfully integrated”? How is connecting a macro algae tank different from an algae reactor which has been successfully integrated?

 

[SeeSnek]

I assume you mean a macro algae display tank. Otherwise, you’re just describing a lighted refugium.

 

[Marc316h]

Yes, a macro algae display tank integrated into the overall reef system.

 

[Marc316h]

I'm assuming this will be difficult to maintain until bio load on the main tank is high enough to feed the macro display tank...???

 

[ZzyzxRiver]

I am keeping blue hypnea, red fern, red hex, string of pearls, and cactus halimeda in my soft/SPS tank! You can see pics in my tank thread.

They had a growth explosion when they were first introduced as they stripped my water from 28 to 5 nitrates in two weeks. Since then, they continue to grow but at a slower rate.

They’re all gorgeous and I love them. Because I am still in the ugly phase, I do have some issues with macroalgae and detritus buildup on them but I think my CUC is doing a decent job—they climb right onto the macro like they do anything else. I think I’d be experiencing worse ugly phase issues if the macros weren’t in there too.

tl;dr is that I think display macros are awesome and I don’t get why more people don’t do them!!