Should I put a Refugium in my system?

[laverda]

I don't want to hi-jack the thread... Dav / Lav - what is the primary difference in the "wet/dry" vs. the more current sump systems? The bio media? Why would bio media amount to nitrates? Detritus? Wouldn't detritus build up in/on/around rock? I'm not challenging your assertion as much as trying to learn why. FWIW- I'm actually running my old "wet/dry" filter on a quarantine tank now because I had such issues with ammonia on our recent quarantine session.

Daveocean pretty much summed it up as far as bio balls go. They are not the worst way to go for a reef tank but there are several much better ways to go. Live rock, Refugium, ATS and or a skimmer would all be a better use of the same space. Personally I would set up a ATS on the end and a skimmer on the opposite side of the area with the bio balls. If there is room add some live rock.
Bio balls should not be any problem fo a qt except making more to clean between uses. The work great for ammonia and nitrite reduction.

 

[laverda]

Welcome! Are you sure your LFS is wonderful?

R2r is here to help you will get great advice.

I would have to agree, if they set you up with bio balls and sold you all the tangs.