Refrugiam question

[JVH]

My 68g build is almost ready to go! I'm setting up a refrugiam and I was going to start with a kit that has 3 algae bunches and pods..and
get a light fir opposit run time of DT..
2 things;
I have a mandarin and was wondering if I still need to regularly stock the DT with pods? Or can I assume enough will travel? And how can I tell if they are reproducing? (Silly question I know) but how often do I restock the refrugiam? And do I need to scoop a few from sump into DT ?
Also,
I was originally planning on rubble but I was reading all the positives of a deep sand bed (3 to 4")
Also with my trigger fish I may need a safe haven for my inverts!
Can you guys tell me the pros and cons by your expierence on sand or rubble ? And any other advice?
Like a recommended light? JBJ?
As always... Many thanks'

 

[Russ265]

rubble will give pods shelter from predators.
make sure you keep dsb isolated so that when you change it out, it doesnt bomb your dt.

pods will get in to your dt by themselves.

you can tell if you need to supplement more pods if the mandarin wanders around looking for food all the time.
a well stocked tank of pods will have the mandarin pecking rocks, sand and glass once every 3-5 seconds a few times, and then moving to the next grazing spot.

i guess you can tell if they are reproducing enough or not based on observing the mandarins grazing habits.

is he moving around alot looking for a pod to eat? supplement

is he grazing at one spot then moving after a few bites? youre good to go