The perfect zoa tank?

dustint21 · Mar 2, 2009

First I would like to say HI! never posted on the site, but Im always checkin in!

I would like to turn my 20L into a zoa only tank. I want to know what you think would turn this into the perfect zoa tank! What I have now is a 20L with a 10g sump/fuge. The light is a 20'' 150w Sunpod, with a 15K XM bulb. I have no powerheads in the tank, but it is drilled and has dual return lines that are T'd with a SQWD. The flow is decent out of the return but it is more of a direct flow. The return pump is a Mag 5. I just bought a used CPR back pack 2+ for a good price. I dont know much about them but really couldnt pass it up for the price. If you were tryin to build the perfect zoa tank what would you change and why? You all have some off the nicest zoas I have ever seen, and I want mine to look as awesome and healthy! Here are a few pics of what Im working with.

Thanks for your time!
Dustin

dustint21 · Mar 2, 2009

I have change some since these pics, but it is just to give you an idea of what I got so far.

Thanks
Dustin

Saltysteele · Mar 2, 2009

looks great, so far :haha:

keep on the lookout for some cool rock that would look great covered with a nice mat of zoa's!

zoa's (IMO) like good flow, so a koralia on each end would serve nicely

Mallard · Mar 3, 2009

Welcome to R2R and possibly think about another powerhead and hydor flo rotating deflectors (check with the sponsors I'm sure one will be able to help you out). You've got a good start on lighting with halides, now its just a matter of taking your time, and letting your tank settle in. Person suggestion is plan which zoa's you really desire and buy those. Fend off the desire to just go out and buy anything that the LFS has. Take a look around and learn as much as you can.

dustint21 · Mar 3, 2009

Thanks guys! I have had the tank setup for about 2 months now. I start the tank by using the water changes from my 90g reef tank that was running for around a year and a half. The rock came from that same tank. I do a 5 gallon water change 1 time a week, and test my water 1 time a week. I really wanted to keep powerheads out of the tank. I wish I would have drilled for a closed loop now! LOL!

As for getting the zoas I want, I am very lucky to live 20 mins. from Mike Delgado. He is the one that told me about this site. He has some very nice corals!

Saltysteele · Mar 3, 2009

isn't that flricordea? if so, you're dang tootin he's got some nice stuff :haha:

dustint21 · Mar 3, 2009

No his name on here is mikedelgado. I believe he is the grower of one of the Zoa grow out threads.

Saltysteele · Mar 3, 2009

oh! how embarrassing for me

sorry! flricordea does have some nice stuff, though. i'll have to check out mike d's, too

euphoricgear · Mar 3, 2009

nice tank, the prob i have w the mh is its too close, might heat up ur water too much. do u have a chiller? wat about topoff n evaporation?
if u can make a 20long sump it would be better. also an extra pump for circulation. you can make a cave n put it in there to push out the middle so the flow spreads left n right after hitting the front glass it would be hidden behind the rocks so it would still look nice.

dustint21 · Mar 3, 2009

I have seen flricordea's posts and your right he has alot of very nice stuff!

I do have a ATO on the tank. My MH is around 8'' off the top off the water. My tank stays right around 79-80 degrees.

mikedelgado · Mar 3, 2009

hey D , Its good seeing you here. Looks like you are well on your way. you will like this site lots of good folks here.

dustint21 · Mar 3, 2009

Whats up Mike? I have got some good feedback already! Thanks Alot guys! If you think of anything that may help me be successful please feel free to chime in!

Thanks All
Dustin