Synergy's 12gal zen nano

[Synergy]

I want to start off by thanking Captive Reefs for holding this contest and nanocustoms for sponsoring. I think this is a really neat idea and will surely result in some amazing nano-tanks.

Equipment:
Tank: JBJ 12 gal DX
Lighting: 2x24w PC (1 50:50 and 1 10k) and 3x3W Blue LEDS (still in the process of building)
Flow: Maxi jet 900 (might add a koralia nano)
Heater: Via-aqua 50W submersible
Rock: Marco dry rock seeded with liverock rubble
Sand: Play sand from home depot

I have been in and out of the SW hobby for a few years and am always interested in what new trends develop over the years. One trend that has caught my eye recently that I have wanted to attempt for awhile is that of minimalist aquascaping. The whole less is more concept and using negative space to accentuate the inhabitants. The goal for this tank will be to create a minimalist, zen like nano.

Hope you all enjoy!
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1397

[Sir Patrick]

Glad to see your trying out in the contest man!

Just dont forget- take a pic of the tank w/ the special sign in front, before adding livestock!

[Synergy]

The inspiration for this tank came from a few tanks I saw with beautiful arches. (I have a link to one in particular but Im not sure if I can post a link to other forums?) Another source of inspiration came from the freshwater tanks, covered in green plants with a driftwood centerpiece. I tried to build and arch in a previous JBJ 12gal nano tank I set-up but found the space to be a limiting factor. After seeing a few people use acrylic and putty to make beautiful pillars and overhangs I started to build.

Order of Marco nano rocks (great rock, will order from Marco again for my next tank for sure)

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1302

The tools, black zip ties, 1/4" acrylic rods, JB Waterweld 2 part epoxy.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1303

Also used a hand drill, dremel, heat gun, and pliers to get the zip ties extra tight.

Side note, I initially built the structure using clear zip ties to hide them better. I then found out that clear zip ties can break down when exposed to UV light so I had to re-do most of the rock with black zip ties to be safe. Left a few clear ones in non critical spots, guess I can test to see if they break over time.

[vittleking]

can't wait to see it!!

[Synergy]

Finally have some extra time to load up some more pics of the build!

I drilled through the rock with a hand drill, just normal bits, and inserted the acyrlic rods.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1304

I used three acrylic rods to support this main piece. You can also see some of the clear zip ties.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1305

Another view.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1306

Here is a view of the underside. I used a heat gun to bend the acrylic rods to get them to fit the holes I drilled. The curves help ensure that the rock can slide around also. The rods are completely hidden in the final product.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1307

[Synergy]

After I had the base built I added on using the same method. Acrylic rods for the bulk support and zip ties to hold everything tight. The zipties are rated for 40lbs each, the total structure cant weight more than 10lbs.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1308

Here is the underside of the almost complete structure. This is before the rods and zipties were trimmed. I added way more support than I probably needed but they are pretty much all hidden and I like the extra peace of mind.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1309

Rock work was done at this point. As you can see my foot is holding it up. I wanted the rock to stand like it was in the pic so had to find a way to support it. I thought about adding more rock to the bas to act as a counterweight, bit the small footprint of the JBJ kept that from being a realistic option. I wanted a half arch so adding a rock to support the structure was also out.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1310

My solution. I picked up a $2 polypropylene cutting bord (aka starboard) and drilled some holes.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1300

[Synergy]

The holes on the bottom are in the shape of the base rock. I stuck zipties through pre-drilled and existing holes in the base of the rock and then threaded the zipties through the holes in the cutting board. Drilling numerous holes made threading the zipties through super easy.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1311

Here's a view from the back of the structure. You can see the zipties going into the rock and then through the cutting board.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1313

Here you can see the rock structure being suspended from just the zipties. Like I mentioned each can support ~40lbs and I used around 8. Also used the black zipties to help them hold up to the UV exposure from the lights.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1312

Here is the finished product. I glued some sand to most of the exposed zipties to conceal them better. I also used two-part epoxy to attach pieces of rubble over some exposed acyrlic rod and zipties. I also used epocy between the main pieces for added strength and security. Probably epoxied 7-8 small pieces to the main structure.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1314

The cutting board turns the structure into a cantilever of sorts. The rock structure wants to tip, since its attached to the cutting board it pulls the cutting board up at the base which pushes down at the far end. The cutting board presses against the glass preventing it all from tipping over. Maybe this picture will help show how the force is transferred from the structure to the glass
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1315

[Sir Patrick]

That structure looks sweet!

[Synergy]

That structure looks sweet!

Thanks, I really like how it turned out. The rock I got fit together really, I wanted it to look like a single piece which I think I achieved pretty well.

[Synergy]

Ok time for some more pics!

The supplies. First time trying the Red Sea salt, it mixed really well and the bucket is convenient. The nano mag cleaner is super small and flexible which helps keeps the corners clean, dont know how long it will last though as it sees kinda flimsy.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1402

Here is the tank and stand. The stand was some cheap IKEA nightstand I found for $20. It's sturdy though, and was the perfect size for the tank.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1403

Finally water! Excuse the cloudiness, I just added the sand. Almost froze my hands cleaning the sand outside with the garden hose...
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1400

Side view of the rock work.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1401

More pics coming soon!

[jolson10450]

nicee!!!

[whitetiger61]

very nice..this is going to be a good one..cant wait for more pics

Rick

[weasel]

Wow! I love the curve of that rock structure, and your base is right on. I use to work as a floral designer and I love the idea of bringing more artfull designs into my own tanks. I can't wait to see the finished tank. Great idea!

[ShanaS]

Very cool! i cant wait to set up another tank in the future, it will be way more organized than my first one lol

[cg5071]

Nice, I know what you mean about the zen/freshwater look. You could do a whole lot of green star polyps for the grassy look.

[Sir Patrick]

I am feeling the calm already! Nice job!

[Synergy]

nicee!!!

Thanks, your acan tank is looking great too!


very nice..this is going to be a good one..cant wait for more pics

Rick

Thank you, I really like what you have done your 2 gallon.


Wow! I love the curve of that rock structure, and your base is right on. I use to work as a floral designer and I love the idea of bringing more artfull designs into my own tanks. I can't wait to see the finished tank. Great idea!

Thanks! Yeah, I really think the hobby is taking a turn in a positive direction. Lots of people are putting in a little time upfront to make rock structures that are just as beautiful as the corals themselves, it really adds another dimension.


Very cool! i cant wait to set up another tank in the future, it will be way more organized than my first one lol

Thanks you! I'll be keeping an eye out for your future tank. This tank is completely different from my first. Less clutter and more open space. I like it a lot so far.


Nice, I know what you mean about the zen/freshwater look. You could do a whole lot of green star polyps for the grassy look.

Thanks, looking forward to the pics of your tank. I had thought about doing that to get the true zen/freshwater look, but I opted to use sand instead. I do have a chunk of GSP going on a rock in the sand to give the "grass" feel.


I am feeling the calm already! Nice job!

Haha, thanks. It was nice running into you at the swap. Love those colonies you added to your tank.

[Synergy]

Time to make things official! You can see some of the live rock I picked up at Fish Doctors to seed the tank.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1397

Side view with the water all clear. The acrylic rods and zip ties seem to be hidden pretty well.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1399

[2pairs]

Got to admire the rock work a very open and clean look.

[cg5071]

I did mean gsp on a rock. lol. I dont know where the pic is of the FW tank I really like but it was from asia I believe. The log or rock in the center was a large splash of algae of some kind and looked like grass. Yours will have the same effect.

Thanks, I really should have pics up in a little bit. Slept in today and ran out of energy the other day when I said I would post some.

[Synergy]

Got to admire the rock work a very open and clean look.

Thank you! That's the look I was going for, glad it worked out.

I like how you made your 10 gal into an AIO, really neat idea.

[Kalmed]

That is incredible work....Bravo!...(standing ovation)...Bravo!

[Synergy]

That is incredible work....Bravo!...(standing ovation)...Bravo!

Hahaha, you are too kind. Thank you. The stand you made for your tank is awesome, and those frags are looking great too.


Tank Update:
I finished the DIY 3x3W LED addition to the hood of my tank over the weekend. It actually turned out to be a pretty clean install, and the results are pretty good. Will update pictures later this week.

[Synergy]

Had the LEDs running for the past several days and they seem to be working fine. i have them set to come on an hour before the tanks main lights come on and stay on for about the same amount of time after the lights go out. I dont have a PAR meter or anyway to tell if the addition has any benefit other than aesthetics but all the coral open when just the LEDs are on. The main goal for the addition was to get some of the corals to glow and add some shimmer to the water, I can say that the addition absolutely accomplished a visual difference for a minimal cost. Here's the parts and price breakdown:

LED driver $8
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320600906738&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT

5 royal blue LEDs $7.50
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270680596711&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT

Double Sided thermal tape $1
3 Heat sinks $7
Wire, screws etc... $2

Total cost = $25.50

I wasn't sure how this project would turn out so I didn't want to drop a lot of money on CREE LEDs so I went with the cheap ebay royal blues. They visually look nice, Im sure they are not as powerful or long lasting as the CREEs would but they work wonderful for this application.

[Synergy]

Now what everyone is interested in PICS

Here's the stock JBJ 12 DX hood. plan is to mount 3 3W LEDs on the metal portion directly above the fans.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1417

The aluminum heatsinks, I ordered 3, 1 for each LED. they are approximately 60mm*30mm*6mm. I had to use something small to fit in the available place, they seem to be able to dissipate the heat fairly well for their size.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1418

Here are the cheap ebay LEDs I picked up, got 5 for $7.50. They are visually bright and all are the same color blue. They were also very easy to solder.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1419

To mount the heatsinks, I simply grabbed a drill, marked the holes and drilled. The thin aluminum was easy to drill with just a standard drill bit.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1420

[Synergy]

I used some aluminum screws and nuts I had laying around to attach the heatsinks to the hood. Then used the double sided thermal tape to attach the LEDs to the heatsink. Sorry I didnt take any pics of these steps. The wire was picked up at Home Depot, it is solid core. If I were to do it again I think stranded would be easier to work with. Connected +,-,+,-,+,- real simple.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1422

Ran the core do the outlet out of the pre-existing JBJ hole, had to notch out a little area for the wires to rest in. I salvaged a cord from a broken lamp to use.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1421

Here is a view with the PC bulbs back in place. You can see the LED driver. (white cords and box under the reflector on the right side.) The driver is secured in the hood using a screw and an extra mounting tab that was in the hood already.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1424

Plastic splash guard back in place. The nice thing about this is everything is hidden in the hood and protected from moisture. The stock fans run air into the hood to cool everything down.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1425

Everything on and working. LEDs look a lot brighter than the picture shows.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1423

Overall it was a super simple install and looks nice on the tank. Only time will tell how long the LEDs will last but for now they are doing fine and looking great. the only concern I have is with how the heat of being enclosed in the hood will effect the LEDs.

I don't have any pics of the LEDs running on the tank at the moment but will take some and post them up when i have a bit more time.

I tried to explain and document the steps but I know i missed a few, if you have any questions about the build don't hesitate to ask

[2pairs]

Good job, you could put 6 to 9 more in their and get rid of the PC's.

[jolson10450]

I used some aluminum screws and nuts I had laying around to attach the heatsinks to the hood. Then used the double sided thermal tape to attach the LEDs to the heatsink. Sorry I didnt take any pics of these steps. The wire was picked up at Home Depot, it is solid core. If I were to do it again I think stranded would be easier to work with. Connected +,-,+,-,+,- real simple.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1422

Ran the core do the outlet out of the pre-existing JBJ hole, had to notch out a little area for the wires to rest in. I salvaged a cord from a broken lamp to use.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1421

Here is a view with the PC bulbs back in place. You can see the LED driver. (white cords and box under the reflector on the right side.) The driver is secured in the hood using a screw and an extra mounting tab that was in the hood already.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1424

Plastic splash guard back in place. The nice thing about this is everything is hidden in the hood and protected from moisture. The stock fans run air into the hood to cool everything down.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1425

Everything on and working. LEDs look a lot brighter than the picture shows.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/picture.php?albumid=205&pictureid=1423

Overall it was a super simple install and looks nice on the tank. Only time will tell how long the LEDs will last but for now they are doing fine and looking great. the only concern I have is with how the heat of being enclosed in the hood will effect the LEDs.

I don't have any pics of the LEDs running on the tank at the moment but will take some and post them up when i have a bit more time.

I tried to explain and document the steps but I know i missed a few, if you have any questions about the build don't hesitate to ask

we have a DIY contest going on right now, if you put this build in that thread and doctor it up over time (you have until the end of march) and make it look good you can be entered into the contest to win a $100 gift card!!

[Sir Patrick]

Sweet idea!!!!

[Synergy]

Good job, you could put 6 to 9 more in their and get rid of the PC's.
Thanks, I thought about going all LED but had just bought 2 new sets of PC bulbs. Once I go through the new PC bulbs I will most likely go all LED. By then the price for LED will probably be a bit cheaper too.


we have a DIY contest going on right now, if you put this build in that thread and doctor it up over time (you have until the end of march) and make it look good you can be entered into the contest to win a $100 gift card!!
That's a good idea, I'll see if I can get a few more pics for the DIY contest.


Sweet idea!!!!
Thanks! I really like the shimmer added from the LEDs, with just the PC's going it looked a bit dull.

[Synergy]

It has been awhile without an update, I'll try to be a little more consistent in the final months.

A lot has changed since the last pics. Added a clean up crew, 2 fish and some coral. Tank will be predominantly zoas and palys. I'll add some photos later today when I can upload them from my camera.

Stay tuned!

[Sir Patrick]

Cant wait to see what ya got going!

[Synergy]

OK finally some pics.

The clean-up crew (Added 3 blue leg hermits, emerald grab, 3 nassarius snails, and 1 trochus snail)
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1513-cimg3036.jpg
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1512-cimg3029.jpg

Picked up an ocellaris clownfish
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1514-cimg3053.jpg

And a bi-color pseudo
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1515-cimg3057.jpg

[Synergy]

A few pics of the coral, please excuse the algae, clean up crew has done a terrific job and taken care of it all.

A chunk of "mean green" zoas I bought at the lansing swap. Haven't found a good spot for them yet.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1511-cimg2963.jpg

Some unknown orange/blue zoas, "Radioactive dragon eyes" and "Purple deaths" and a small majano anemones I have been trying to get kill in the bottom left by the zoas.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1510-cimg2970.jpg

There are quite a few frags that I don't have pictures of yet, you can see some in the background of the fish/invert pics.

The pic quality isn't the greatest, just using a little point and shoot camera, but I'm going to try to get some better pics of the new addition, and a full tank shot, this weekend. The zoas really glow under the blue LEDS.

Hope you enjoy, let me know if there are any questions!

[FlowerTortilla]

Looking good!

[Sir Patrick]

Hows this little tank doing? I am ready for more pics!

[Synergy]

Hows this little tank doing? I am ready for more pics!

Tank Updates:

It's doing pretty well right now, still trying to get everything just how I like it. Have one chunk of zoas that has three Aiptasia. I have been trying to kill them by injecting with lemon juice but they keep coming back. Am a little afraid to use kalk in such a small tank. Any other cheap (or free) easy ways to kill these?

I finally got most corals in their permanent places and am seeing some growth from a few of the frags already which is nice!

One frag I picked up hasn't opened since I got it, no clue why. Everything else is open and growing. Did a lugols dip the other day, hopefully it comes around.

[Sir Patrick]

Maybe you could kalk the aptasia outside the tank? In a small bowl?

[FlowerTortilla]

More Pics!

[Synergy]

Maybe you could kalk the aptasia outside the tank? In a small bowl?

That would work well, hadn't thought of that. Wish I hadn't glued the zoas directly to the rockwork and they have since grown even more onto the rocks. I really should have taken care of these earlier.

Maybe I can use some kalk paste before a water change, or heat up the lemon juice. I read hot water can kill them sometimes too.

I'll get some pics soon! Kept the lights of all day today. Read about another reefer who knows a lot of zoas doing it every month and figured it wouldn't hurt.

[Sir Patrick]

I think during a water change, at low tide, would be a good idea.

[Kalmed]

Would love to see a FTS. Or, are you saving that for the last month and holding out!?

I have been using kalk slurry mixed in a syringe and a tip from an old Aptasix-X applicator without ill effects. Maybe zapped 3-4 at a time, but luckly I havnt had more than that pop up at one time.

[Synergy]

Would love to see a FTS. Or, are you saving that for the last month and holding out!?

I have been using kalk slurry mixed in a syringe and a tip from an old Aptasix-X applicator without ill effects. Maybe zapped 3-4 at a time, but luckly I havnt had more than that pop up at one time.

Hahaha, not holding out. Just haven't had the time to clean the glass enough to get a FTS that looks decent.

I'll give the kalk slurry a go before my next water change. Maybe only do a few at a time.

[Synergy]

Better pics of some of the corals and some new additions.

Good pic of the aiptasia i'm battling. The green zoas have been growing awesome despite the aiptasia.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1611-cimg3188.jpg

Picked up the pink Palys from The Fish Doctors last weekend for $20
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1608-cimg3215.jpg

And these Yellow's for $17. Can see the rock of RPE I picked up from The Fish Doctors also.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1607-cimg3180.jpg

Hope you enjoy the pics.

[Sir Patrick]

Those yellows are sweet!

[Synergy]

Those yellows are sweet!

Thanks, yeah I really like them. Hopefully they turn a little more yellow in my system. They look very promising though, and for $17 I couldn't pass up getting a nice yellow paly. The Pink ones I picked up are really stunning though, so much better than the picture shows.

[MizTanks]

This has been the most enjoyable DIY build I have ever seen!
Your narration is perfect, fun to read and leaves me wanting to see more!
Super awesome job!!! Thank you :)

[Synergy]

This has been the most enjoyable DIY build I have ever seen!
Your narration is perfect, fun to read and leaves me wanting to see more!
Super awesome job!!! Thank you :)

Wow! Thank you for the kind words MizTanks. Glad you enjoyed the build. I really like checking up on your 26 gal bowfront too. Love the new additions you made.

I'm heading to the LFS tomorrow, hopefully I can find something nice for the tank. Have room for 1, maybe 2 more corals, than it will just be a waiting game. Hopefully everything will grow out nicely in the next 2 months!

[MizTanks]

Oh it'll grow for sure. When you put that much TLC into something it'll always pay you back 10 fold :)

[Synergy]

Just two new API test kits, Calcium and KH. Did some testing tonight adn was pleased with the results

KH: 11 dkh
Ca: 480 mg/L
NO3: 0

I didn't bother testing ammonia or nitrite. I should probably get a pH test but have never worried much about pH and have been fine and don't think I would want to bother with buffering.

On a random note, I came home the other day for lunch and couldn't find my clownfish :doh:. I looked all over the tank thinking he was hiding in the rocks but couldn't spot him. Then started to think the emerald grab killed him and started looking for a body but saw nothing. He had vanished. Well the only other place he could be was in the back chambers of the nanocube. I propped open the top and sure enough he was flopping around on top of the filter floss. The space he had to jump through is unbelievable narrow, cant believe he got back there. I sure am happy I don't have an open top though. No telling how long he was on the floss for but I scooped him up with my hands and tossed him in the display tank. Fins are a little rough but other than that he's doing great. Disaster avoided.:thumbsup:

[nate_newton]

I'm glad to hear your clownfish is ok. I'll keep an eye out for a fts.

[MizTanks]

My firefish use to live back there. Lol

[Synergy]

I'm glad to hear your clownfish is ok. I'll keep an eye out for a fts.

Thanks, he is back to 100% now. Let's just hope he stays on the correct side of the divider for now on.


My firefish use to live back there. Lol

Haha, the fish don't seem to care. But after paying $20 for a beautiful fish I want to him to live in the side of the tank that I can see into! lol

[nate_newton]

I have the JBJ24 and didn't like the gap between the filter wall and hood so I added a piece of plastic that goes across.

[Synergy]

I have the JBJ24 and didn't like the gap between the filter wall and hood so I added a piece of plastic that goes across.

That is a really good idea! For now i'm hoping that this was an isolated incident and I wont need to modify anything. If he starts to make this a routine I will definitely give your idea a shot.

[Synergy]

A couple pics. Tank is looking good. Really noticing some growth with some of the zoas and my bi-color pseudo wont stop harassing my emerald crab.

Need to decide if I want to keep this an all zoa tank or add some variety. What does everyone think?

A pic of some of the zoas.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1609-cimg3214.jpg

If you look in the middle of this pic you can see two green bay packers polyps. I set the original frag (you can see it in the first picture) on the rocks temporarily, for like 2 weeks, and when I went to move it these two polyps were already attached to the main rock work. So, I gently sliced them from the main colony with a razor and left them alone. They have now turned into 4 polyps!
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1610-cimg3213.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

I am going to vote all polyps! Looks like you are getting great growth!

[2pairs]

I would stay with the Z's and P's until it covers more of the rock work. Then you will have a better idea of what you want and what will go with the rest.
But I am sure you could put just about any thing in their you want.
Looks good keep it going.

[Synergy]

I am going to vote all polyps! Looks like you are getting great growth!


I would stay with the Z's and P's until it covers more of the rock work. Then you will have a better idea of what you want and what will go with the rest.
But I am sure you could put just about any thing in their you want.
Looks good keep it going.

Thanks for the advice. I think at this point going all Zoas and Palys is what I'm going to do. I do like the contrast of having different coral shapes and types but the different color and sizes of the Z's and p's should look nice too. I might add one or two mushrooms, I have a few nice/unique ones that have been splitting in another tank.

Purchased anther frag of zoas from Fish Doctors - Ypsilanti the other day. It was called "Gorilla Nipples" :roll: Pretty decent size, like 20 polyps, and got a good deal on it - 18$. I've been saving all my receipts and am right around the $300 mark for the contest total. I'll try to get the price list and receipts up this weekend.

[Corvette Reefer]

i like the tank rocks cool and your corals look great too!

[Synergy]

i like the tank rocks cool and your corals look great too!

Thanks Corvette Reefer! Hoping to add a few more frags from the upcoming swap and then letting everything grow out for the final month.

[Synergy]

Another picture of one of the zoa frag/colonies. I don't know what these are called but they looked nice and were priced right!

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1612-cimg3184.jpg

[Synergy]

I finally got around to taking care of those aiptasia. If you remember I had been trying to use lemon juice with no luck, even found a few new ones after treatment. This time I mixed up a pretty thick kalk paste, not too thick that I couldn't draw it into the syringe though. I think this is going to work. The aiptasia seemed to grab onto the syringe and the kalk paste completely smothered them and stuck to them and the rock work as they began to retract. Let it sit for 15 minutes and then turned the pumps on. I'll keep everyone updated!

Oh, and in case anyone is curious you can buy a needle and syringe at the meijer pharmacy for like 10 cents, same ones used for injecting insulin. It works incredibly well for injecting aiptasia.

[Sir Patrick]

Ha! I never even thought to try meijer....I went and found a Rx supply company. Good to know!

Make sure to rinse the inside of the needle well between uses. It will clog easily.

[MizTanks]

Those are beautiful~personally I don't care about zoa names~beauty is in the eyes of the beholder ;)

[rosebud161616]

Oh, and in case anyone is curious you can buy a needle and syringe at the meijer pharmacy for like 10 cents, same ones used for injecting insulin. It works incredibly well for injecting aiptasia.

Glad to hear they are not so strict around there! We tried every pharmacy we could think of around us and they told us that unless we brought them a prescription for insulin they would not sell needles to us. Apparently we look like heroine addicts or something.

In the end we bought them from Drs. Foster and Smith. They have a full range of sizes and if I remember right, a great price! We use them for injecting zoas that aren't opening with a weak iodine solution, so the thinner the better!

[Sir Patrick]

I felt like a heroin addict buying mine.....I was in my work cloths- awkward.....

[2pairs]

If that doesn't work get some aiptasia - x
It worked well for me.

[Synergy]

Ha! I never even thought to try meijer....I went and found a Rx supply company. Good to know!

Make sure to rinse the inside of the needle well between uses. It will clog easily.

Thanks for the tip. Actually already had a clog... Took a lighter and heated up the needle until the kalk melted and I was able to rinse it out for the water.


Those are beautiful~personally I don't care about zoa names~beauty is in the eyes of the beholder ;)

Thanks Miz, I thought so too. Will be picking up some nice stuff at the frag swap tomorrow. Stay tuned!

[Synergy]

Glad to hear they are not so strict around there! We tried every pharmacy we could think of around us and they told us that unless we brought them a prescription for insulin they would not sell needles to us. Apparently we look like heroine addicts or something.

In the end we bought them from Drs. Foster and Smith. They have a full range of sizes and if I remember right, a great price! We use them for injecting zoas that aren't opening with a weak iodine solution, so the thinner the better!

Yeah, I did some reading and it seems like it can be hit or miss depending on the pharmacy. Luckily Meijer didnt seem to care.

Good to know they are available online though! What size to you use for injecting the zoas? Might pick one up just in case some of the frags in my tank take a turn for the worse.


I felt like a heroin addict buying mine.....I was in my work cloths- awkward.....

Hahaha, i felt the same way. Actually had my GF go buy it since I think she looks a 100x less suspicious, LOL. They asked her what size needle she needed which neither of us knew, so she said it was for a fish tank. The pharmacist was obviously confused but brought out all the different sizes and let her choose one. Wonder if the pharmacist has ever heard the fish tank excuse before!


If that doesn't work get some aiptasia - x
It worked well for me.

Thanks for the tip! I have heard some great things about aiptasia-x. If any come back I might give it a try for myself.

[Synergy]

One of my new additions from the swap. Nuclear Green paly.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1715-pict0001.jpg

Also picked up some Happy People Eaters, Tubs Blue, Kedd Red, Bam-Bams, Xenia, Unknown green paly, another small unknown zoa frag. I will get some pictures of the other additions once everything settles in and I get them in there final location.

[2pairs]

Sounds like you have gotten a good batch of Z's and P's.
Can't wait to see it all grown in.

[CashFan83]

Ha! I never even thought to try meijer....I went and found a Rx supply company. Good to know!

Make sure to rinse the inside of the needle well between uses. It will clog easily.
I managed to get one for free from wheelocks pharmacy after some explaination and assuring them I was'nt an intraveinous drug user

[Synergy]

With final exams and everything I never made it around to epoxing and gluing the frags I picked up from the frag swap into place, so that will have to wait for another week. I'm out of state for the week so hopefully nothing major happens while I am gone. The tank is pretty self reliant though, not too much could go wrong so Im optomistic everything will look better, and maybe even have some good growth after a week with no hands in the tank.

I will get a picture of everything when I get back, (May 1st) so everyone can see the final stock. I dont have access to the spreadsheet I made withh all the coral or the receipts from the purchases either, so I wont be able to get those up until the 1st either.

[Corvette Reefer]

Nuclear greens look GREAT!

[Synergy]

Well I happened to use my backpack to pack my luggage for my trip, which happened to be where I kept my receipts for my coral pictures! A couple quick pictures with my camera and I have my coral list and reciepts in before the deadline.

Here is my coral list with prices. I am pretty sure I remembered everything, but will double check once I get back in Michigan.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1738-coral-prices.jpg

Here are the corals I picked up from frag swaps with prices and the sellers initials/signature.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1740-frag-swaps.jpg

And here are the receipts from my coral purchases. All were bought at The Fish Doctors - Ypsilanti.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1741-fish-doctors.jpg

I'm in just under the $400 mark. I will snap some pics of the tank when I get back into Michigan, although most of them, minus the ones I picked up at the MASM swap, can be seen in previous posts.

[Synergy]

Sounds like you have gotten a good batch of Z's and P's.
Can't wait to see it all grown in.

Thanks!!! I am really happy with the mix of zoanthids and palys I was able to get. I like to think of my collection as "last years high end model" or the "classics". All of them have very nice color but are all relatively common and well-known "named polyps", except for maybe the Happy People Eaters. The real benefit of getting these more common zoanthids is I was able to get larger frags/colonies instead of 1-2 polyps frags. I really think it will be nice once everything is epoxied down and left to grow my only concern is that I might not have enough room for all the frags I aquired!


I managed to get one for free from wheelocks pharmacy after some explaination and assuring them I was'nt an intraveinous drug user

Hahaha, the things we will go through for our little pieces of the ocean!


Nuclear greens look GREAT!

Thanks for hooking me up! I really love these palys. Such great color, even under the PC's and under all LEDs the color is amazing. I really ythink they look good next to the Purple Deaths but dont think I will be able to place them there longterm

[Synergy]

Just did a quick look over my coral list and forgot about my 4 polyp King Midas frag - was a transfer from my old tank. So according to the price list thats a $20 frag. Puts My grand total at $392.50. Good luck with the last month of growing everyone!!!

[Synergy]

FTS...after 9 days of vacation. You can see all the frags on the sand bed. I didn't want to risk any of them falling off the rocks while I was gone and dying before I could position it correctly again

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1749-cimg3514.jpg

I had significantly more algae growth than I would have expected. I do dose Vit C once everyday, mostly for the alleged benefits for zoas. Knowing that Vit C is a source of carbon it could be that not dosing it for the 9 days allowed the algae to grow more than usual.

Please excuse the flash in the middle of the next picture... only using a point and shoot right now and was in a hurry to take the pic. The zoas are irritated since they were just moved, will get another shot when they are all open!

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1748-cimg3570.jpg

Top down shot of the tank with the frags positioned in their final spots, mostly. I think I may have actually bought TOO MANY frags for this tank! I want to leave room for the zoas to grow into nice sized colonies. As of now there are 4 sizable zoa frags that I simply don't have room for on the main rock structure. I want to keep the sandbed relatively open except for the fast growing, invasive softies (Xenia, GSP, mushrooms, Kenya) which I plan to have growing together on a rock on the sandbed. I might have to actually remove some of the zoas from the tank in order for it too look less cluttered.

You can see some frag plugs on the bottom of the tank also. While I was gone some of the frags positioned on the sand started to grow off of the rocks they were on. As I was arranging the corals last night I took the opportunity to snip a few easy frags off and mounted them onto the plugs.

I also took some of the fresh frags and mounted them onto the rock work in different locations for a few reasons: 1.) In case the mother colony gets a disease I have another frag as back-up 2.) Frag might grow better in the new location 3) to help fill up the tank 4.) because I didn't have anymore plugs or rock rubble on hand :shrug:

I took a bunch more pics and will try to upload some of the decent ones latter in the evening.

[Sir Patrick]

Looking forward to some pics when its all open and happy!

[Synergy]

Looking forward to some pics when its all open and happy!

The corals are looking better, and the algae cleaned up pretty nicely. Still one or two frags that aren't completely happy with there new spots but I think they should come around soon.

On an unrelated note, my frag of Happy People Eaters has a two headed polyp. It is pretty interesting looking, I don't think its all that rare but it the first time any of my zoas have had two heads. If I ever learn ow to take some decent macro photos I'll snap a pic.

[Synergy]

Did some water tests today.

Ammonia - 0
Nitrate - 0
KH - 12
Calcium - 460
Temp - 79

I think the red sea salt I am using has a very high KH because it has been around 11-12 ever since the tank has been set-up, might test it next water change to confirm. Doesn't seem to be a problem so Im not going to mess with it.

Some of the corals are still getting used to their new spots but hopefully they will come around soon. Was able to snap some pics though.

Here is a pic of two of the new additions. The tubs bLue and bam-bams. Not the best pic but I'm trying :crying: I have a few flatworms, you can see some in the photo. Not a huge problem right now but I am going to suck as many as I can during water changes and maybe dose flatworm exit if the problem starts to get out of control.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1759-cimg3538.jpg

This next picture shows just how much the radioactive dragon eyes have taken off. I have a pic off when I first bought them that I will dig up and post so you can see just how much they have grown. There was a pretty large gap between the two rock that separates the radioactive dragon eyes from the orange zoas that they were able to grow into and across.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1756-cimg3543.jpg

You can also see one of the aiptasia I zapped is still alive. I managed to kill 3 of the 4 I injected with the kalk paste but will need to try again with this one. Also noticed some on the new frags I added that I will need to take care of.

[CalmSeasQuest]

Beautiful Zoa colonies Synergy :thumbsup:

[Synergy]

Beautiful Zoa colonies Synergy :thumbsup:

Thanks, they have been growing out nicely! I just wish I could take pictures half as good as you!

[Synergy]

Picture for the day. Its a frag/colony of "Gorilla Nipples". Colors look much better in person but I am very happy with the location I was able mount them in. They skirts have gotten a lot shorter since I brought them home from the store. Guess I could try to increase the flow a bit, still have the stock nanocube pump in the rear chamber but have a maxi-jet 1200 on hand I could upgrade too.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1758-cimg3532.jpg

[litttlelondyn]

Wow, you are quite the inspiration! I love what you did with that rock and how much work you put into it to make it look so great! I can't wait to get my 10G Bow Front up and getting worked on...thanks for all the pictures and letting us know how you did everything!

[Synergy]

Wow, you are quite the inspiration! I love what you did with that rock and how much work you put into it to make it look so great! I can't wait to get my 10G Bow Front up and getting worked on...thanks for all the pictures and letting us know how you did everything!

Thank you littlelondyn! I am very happy with how everything turned out. I really enjoy working with the acrylic rods and zipties, it just allows you to make so many structures that would be impossible just stacking rocks. I'm glad you enjoyed the build, it has been a really fun tank to put together and should look really interesting once it has some time to grow in. Can't wait to see what you do with your 10 gal bowfront, I'll keep an eye out for it in the members reef section.

[Synergy]

Picture for the day. Here are my RPE's.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1757-cimg3524.jpg

[MizTanks]

Beautiful zoa collection you have going on~can't wait til mine look as good :)

[Synergy]

Beautiful zoa collection you have going on~can't wait til mine look as good :)

Thanks MizTanks! I was lucky with all the stores and frags swaps around me to be able to get some great deals. Must be hard to get a large selection up in the U.P. Are there actually any saltwater shops up there?

[MizTanks]

Thanks MizTanks! I was lucky with all the stores and frags swaps around me to be able to get some great deals. Must be hard to get a large selection up in the U.P. Are there actually any saltwater shops up there?

We got 1 store here in Marquette-they don't have zoas to sell. If I wanna order some through them it cost me double :(

[Synergy]

We got 1 store here in Marquette-they don't have zoas to sell. If I wanna order some through them it cost me double :(

That's a bummer, zoas are so common its suprising they dont carry them. There are some nice online places, and with the warmer weather now I'm sure you could pick up some nice zoas!

[MizTanks]

I'm beginning to think I may never be able to keep them-1 frag just melted away over night :(

I say this not meaning to high jack your thread Synergy but in hopes you'll share your success secrets :)

[Corvette Reefer]

tanks really loooking great! keep up the nice work!

[Synergy]

I'm beginning to think I may never be able to keep them-1 frag just melted away over night :(

I say this not meaning to high jack your thread Synergy but in hopes you'll share your success secrets :)

No worries, I don't know if I have any secrets, I just do a lot of research and try to learn from my mistakes. Zoas can be very frustrating, sometimes they seem to melt for no reason. I have had my fair share of problems throughout the years too.

I have been dosing Vitamin C with this tank and haven't had anything melt on me. I cant say the Vitamin C is the reason but it definitely hasn't hurt anything. Have been really fortunate with tank parameters in this tank, 1-2 gal water changes every one to two weeks have kept nitrates to zero, Ca 450-500, alk 9-12. Funny thing is my other nano I have the same maintenance routine but nitrates are always 10-20ppm. I think the open rock work in this zoa tank keeps the detritus from accumulating and I am better able to clean during water changes. I have noticed some things with this tank in regards to zoa growth that I will share at the end of the contest.

I am experimenting with feeding some of the polyps right now. Just fed some of the larger People eater polyps some pellet fish food I had laying around. They closed up on it, will keep an eye on them to see if they spit it out or not.

I also plan on experimenting with a new lighting cycle next month. Currently, I have the actinics running for 12 hours and the main lights for 9. Next month I am going to set the tank up on a twice a day light cycle. Lights on for 4 hours, off for 8, on for 4, and off for 8 again. There has been some interesting discussion on other forums and some research papers on the subject.


tanks really loooking great! keep up the nice work!

Thanks! Hope everything keeps growing!

[Synergy]

Another blurry picture :crying:. Hard to get a clear shot since it's in the back.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1755-cimg3545.jpg

[Synergy]

Updates:


Have been feeding my Happy PE some sinking fish pellets the last few days. They show an immediate feeding response and seem to enjoy it. Haven't noticed them spitting up the uneaten pellets or any ill effects. I think I will feed them every few days for now on. Hopefully it helps with growth as they are some of my favorite polyps currently.

Flatworms seem to be holding their population or slightly declining. Still would like to eradicate them but I'm hoping that the problem will take care of itself with good water parameters and removing as many as I can with water changes.

I took a flashlight to the tank last night and the number of copepods was stunning. Everywhere I turned they were scattering. They were all over the polyps but I haven't noticed any negative effects.

Aptasia still clinging on in a few isolated places... The kalk injections seem to kill some, others just shrink drastically in size and slowly reappear. I'm happy with the success so Ill just keep injecting them when I see them.

[Sir Patrick]

Your polyps are exploding with growth!!!! Nice job man!!!

[Synergy]

Your polyps are exploding with growth!!!! Nice job man!!!

Thanks Sir Patrick! Yeah, some of the frags have really taken off, others not so much. Everything looks happy and has at least grown a polyp or two though. Really excited to watch everything grow in.

[MizTanks]

Love your description of what's happening with your tank Synergy-gives me great visuals. :)

[Synergy]

Growth shot of my radioactive dragon eyes.

They went from this (I later removed the kenya trees that were attached to them):
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1789-cimg2936-1.jpg

To this:
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1756-cimg3543.jpg

Haha, you can even see the aiptasia in both pics! They have been the fastest growing zoa in my tank I would guess. They aren't the fanciest polyp around or the most interesting but I really like them.

[Sir Patrick]

Those blue/red polyps are pretty cool!

[Synergy]

Love your description of what's happening with your tank Synergy-gives me great visuals. :)

Thanks Miztanks! I think describing everything the best I can will be helpful for people setting up a tank and for me in the future when I go back and see how I could have done things differently. I'm glad you have enjoyed reading this thread. I plan to keep this tank running and updating this even after the contest as over, and I already have a few ideas for after the contest... stay tuned for a sneak peak...


Those blue/red polyps are pretty cool!

Thanks Sir Patrick. I they are some of my favorites, they aren't growing as fast as some of the others but I was able to frag a little piece off and mount it a little bit lower in the tank to see if they like a little less light and flow.

One thing I did notice about them is there are at least two different morphs in the frag/colony. Majority just have a solid blue/grey center but a few have the red skirt, blue center with an orange circle surrounding the mouth. Here is a pic showing what I mean.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1796-cimg3713c.jpg

[Synergy]

A couple pics for a wet and cold Friday night :cryin:

So I took a single polyp frag from the radioactive dragon eye colony that has been growing very well for me and placed it near the bottom of my tank. The original colony is at the very top. Am hoping to compare the growth, coloration, skirt length etc. in different spots.

Here is a pic of the 1 polyp frag from a week or so ago:
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1793-cimg3588.jpg

And here is a fuzzy pic from today:embarrased: It has sprouted a baby polyp already!
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1795-cimg3674.jpg

Here is one of my favorite Zoas, Bam Bams, from about a week ago under the PC lighting:
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1792-cimg3585.jpg

And one under just the Royal Blue LEDS I got from Ebay. The color is so amazing in person, but the picture isn't too bad.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1794-cimg3581.jpg

Everything in the tank is doing well, but it seems like periodically a few of the colonies will close for a bit then re-open. I know one day last week the temp in the tank got to around 86 degrees Fahrenheit and the zoas didn't like that. I need to install a fan up to keep the temps down now that summer is rolling around.

Algae hasn't been an issue, seems like it only grows a little bit on the back wall, which is easy enough to scrape off. Hermits do have a tendency to walk all over the zoas during the day but they open right back up when they decide to move on.

Hope you enjoy the update, let me know if you have any questions!

[2pairs]

It looks like you are getting some great growth and I really like the morph you are getting.
Doing good!

[Synergy]

It looks like you are getting some great growth and I really like the morph you are getting.
Doing good!

Thanks 2pairs. I hope to frag off some of the morphs and see if they continue to grow out with the orange center.

[Synergy]

A couple more pics I took the other day.

Here are the "mean green" zoas I picked up at the Lansing Swap. Haven't noticed too much growth but teh polyps are so small and there are so many I haven't really been counting. I think part of the slow growth is because I have moved them around several times. They have been in the same spot for a little while now and are finally starting to spread onto the adjacent rocks.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1790-cimg3697a.jpg

Here are some random green palys/zoas that I got at the swap. Not the most colorful, just green and white, but they sorta sparkle
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1805-cimg3669.jpg

"Green Bay Packer" zoas in there permanent spot. These grow very, very fast for me. Have already spread onto the adjacent rock in several spots, and started forming another mini colony in another location in the tank.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1804-cimg3679.jpg

Here is the mini colony that spread off when I had the original frag just sitting on the rock trying to find a good spot for them for about a week. Started off as one polyp and now has 7+.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1799-cimg3708a.jpg

Here are the "Tubs Blues" I picked up at the last swap. These are one of my favorites. The blue color is really striking and you cant see it in the picture but the skirt has a neon green hue to it. Really cool color contrast. After I bought this frag I immediately fragged it into several pieces and spread it around the tank so I don't loose the whole colony to disease and to spread the cool blue color around the tank.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1802-cimg3689.jpg

"Happy People Eaters" that I picked up at the last swap as an impulse buy. These are really big polyps (see the Green Bay Packers in the bottom corner for comparison). I have been feeding these sinking pellets every few days and they seem to be loving it. Can't wait for these to spread out!
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1801-cimg3703a.jpg

Another picture of the red/blues I showed a few posts back.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1800-cimg3713a.jpg

I was told that these are "Fire and Ice" zoas, not sure but I think they look nice. Have put on a few new polyps since I got them, hard to tell how much they have grown though because of the location.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1798-cimg3713b.jpg

Here is an overhead shot of the left side of the tank. Some of the polyps closed when I opened the hood :doh:
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1803-cimg3697.jpg

[MizTanks]

Awesome collection! I totally love the Tubbs. Had some a while back for about 2 days-they disappeared :(

[2pairs]

Looking real good.

Put me in line if you ever sell any of those blues.

[Synergy]

Looking real good.

Put me in line if you ever sell any of those blues.

Thanks 2pairs! They have been growing pretty well, should have some frags sometime this summer. Will keep you updated.

Tank Update

Even though the contest is over, I plan to keep the nano up and running and let things grow in. I am very happy with the current stock list and will probably keep it unchanged unless I find something that I just cant pass up.

I did make a recent purchase for the tank that I am excited about. I really want to keep the rockwork in this tank unique and open but wanted some place to put frags I'm growing out other than the sandbed. The solution:

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1810-pict0191.jpg
Rock-mags, from aqua-mags. Its an artificial rock with magnets embedded within it so you can attach it to glass and it appears to be floating.

I was planning on building one myself with cut dry rock but these were so cheap I figured I would give them a try first. I really only have room for the smaller of the two in this contest tank but since I was already paying for shipping I picked up the larger version also and will incorporate it into any future tank I set-up.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1811-pict0198.jpg
Top down view of the larger "rock". You can see how the magnets attach the rock to the glass. One downside, as you can see are the dry-side magnets stick out about 3/4" but I guess it isn't anymore unsightly than a magnetic cleaner. Dimensions are ~9"x5"x4"

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1812-pict0200.jpg
The smaller rock, which will be going into the contest nano. This rock is only attached with one magnet. Dimensions are ~4"x4"x3"

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1814-pict0197.jpg
Front view of the larger piece. The material is really easy to cut and shape. I plan on drilling some holes into teh rock so I can place frag plugs into it.

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1813-pict0196.jpg
The smaller one, from the front. Since it only has one magnet it can be mounted 4 different ways, but I like they way it is in the picture the best.

Overall I think the rock-mags are decent for the price. The magnets would be too weak for tanks with thinker glass, and even though the back of the rock is flat and seems to be smooth I am a little concerned about it possible scratching the tank. Therefore, I am going to but a thin layer of silicone on the back before installing them on the tank. They are very light and easy to drill which is nice, and I think the look they will provide in the tank will be really unique, and look nicer than just an ordinary frag rack.

[MizTanks]

You got it going on with those little shelves. Pretty dang sweet if you ask me. Can't wait to see them in tank :)

[jimsflies]

Did you happen to take any full tank shots at the end of May?

[Synergy]

Did you happen to take any full tank shots at the end of May?

Sure did. Uploading them now! Sorry for the delay.

[Synergy]

Pictures

Will start with a couple FTS. You cant see a couple of the frags/colonies because of their location, this is definitely a tank where you need to view it from several different angles to really appreciate it. I managed to keep my hands out of the tank for over a week and things really began to take off. Lots of new polyps from almost all the different zoas and plays.Really excited to see how things will look in a month or two!
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1840-cimg3882.jpg

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1833-cimg3845.jpg

Took some pics from different angles to try to get all the frags.

From the right side.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1832-cimg3855.jpg

Left side.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1841-cimg3860.jpg

Top right.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1826-cimg3901.jpg\

Top front.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1827-cimg3899.jpg

And a random picture I had that I liked. The purple deaths look much better down on teh sand than when I had them high on the rockwork.
http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members/synergy/albums/synergy-s-pics/1828-cimg3832.jpg

Random Tank Thoughts:

Might use the fake rock shelves I bought to try some easy SPS instead of using as a frag rack, thinking like a monti digi or plate.

The RPE I have are getting a more purple color since I moved them up higher, looks nice but I think I am going to frag a piece off to keep lower to get the deep red color.

I moved a frag of the "peanut butter cup" zoas that are on the sand up higher and closer to the koralia nano a month ago and the changes have been remarkable. They are getting a lighter color and the skirts have definitely gotten longer. Its a pretty cool change. Seeing how much zoas can differ just based on location in a single tank really has to make you wonder about all these zoas with different names that look almost identical.

Ordered another Koralia nano to add to the tank. I really like the look of zoas with long skirts and am going to see if the increased flow will help. Since they are controllable I plan to but them on a wavemaker to get some good random flow.

Its been a fun few months building and documenting this process. Hope you have all enjoyed it as much as I have!

[Sir Patrick]

I have enjoyed it immensly!! Love this little zoa tank!

[2pairs]

I think it is a great learning setup, finding out how zoa's develop at different levels and current.

[Synergy]

Any chance of getting this thread moved to the members aquariums section? Going to keep this thing going and figure people might like to see how it got started!

[Sir Patrick]

Moved-

Any chance of an update? Hows this tank running along?

[Synergy]

Thanks for the move Sir Patrick.

Tank is still up and running. This heat has taken a toll on my little tank though. Living in a house without a/c and the closed lid the tank has been running above 82 basically all summer. Temps have gotten up to 90 degrees at some points. Was using fans to try to keep things cool, but then the problem was with temp swings. Had a really difficult time keeping things stable, and the corals started to show it.

Last weekend I was out of town and had to leave the tank alone for a few days, came back and everything was closed up. High temps caused some xenia to melt. Did a huge water change, added some carbon and bought a chiller! Picked up a used 1/10 HP chiller for $100. Slowly brought the tank temp down to 79 over a couple days. Tank hasn't budged from 79 since. Corals are responding great. A few of the frags have opened up completely, others part way, still waiting on a few. I'm thinking most everything should pull through. I really should have bought a chiller sooner, stability is so key on these little tanks.

[Sir Patrick]

Good idea investing in the chiller! Glad to see the tank still rockin along.

[Nano-Newb1983]

VERY cool idea.. I love all the z's and p's on the rocks

Very cool rockwork too