Poseidon's NEW Adventure!

[Poseidon]

Ok, no pictures as of yet. The purpose of this thread is to detail what I have, and what I need to get going.

First thing, I need a TANK! I am planning on a 50B "ish" tank as the footprint works well in my living room, and I already have a nice cabinet stand that is a 36x18 footprint. I think a bit taller then 18" though, maybe 20 or 22? I am planning a total system volume of around 100G.

Next I need a skimmer- I have a pretty good idea of what I want, Warner Marine.

Lights- I have several T5 ballasts around here from my old set up, and I have a dual 250W halide ballast too. I was thinking LED, but as budget is going to be an issue I may go with what I have, adding bulbs and reflectors as needed.

Circulation Pumps- I had a pair of MP40's on my 90 before it came down. What is a good option now?

Return pump- The sump is going to be in the basement, so I need a large enough pump to push up about 8-10ft of head. (The sump will be high, near the basement ceiling.)

Salt- I always used IO before, and let my kalk and Ca Reactors make up for the Ca and Alk.

Speaking of reactors... I sold both. :smash: What options will/do I have here? I am open to suggestions not just reactors. 2 part dosing?

Things that I have- First, knowledge. I am not a newbie, and having that advantage will be huge in my new set up.

Sump, I have some choices here. I have a 30L, a 15 gallon tank, and a 45 ish gallon tank that is 36x16x?? I had custom ordered this years ago for a project, then plans changed and it has been in the basement ever since.

Controller- I have a RK lite and I think a 4 outlet strip, but I need the temp probe for it.

Misc pumps- I have several power heads laying around, old Aquaclears, MJ1200's and some small Eheims.

Heater tube- I have a 500W Ti heater that I used to run from my controller.

Rubbermaid Brutes- I have 2, one for salt, one for fresh.

RO Unit, will need new filters, and a bleach bath. ;)

Ok, I think that is all for now. What has changed over the last 3 years or so since my SPS garden came down? Anything major that I need to know about? Bio Pellets were on their way in, as I was on my way out, what's the verdict on them?

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-LJmfFrG/0/L/1D2N9612-L.jpg

I look forward to being an active member of the community again, and getting my own slice of the ocean in my Living Room. A quick teaser of what once was, and what I am aiming to accomplish once again:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/June-09/1D2N1610/557161186_UWEAj-M.jpg

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/June-09/IMG6048/568527617_UiGp5-L.jpg

Last one for now:
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/June-09/1D2N3257/567448243_WTFe8-M.jpg

Thank you all for any input you can share

[jimsflies]

Yes!!! Looking forward to watching this one!

[Hopkins]

Heck yeah man! Welcome back.

[Captain]

Great to hear from you Mike!
And a killer tank too!

[MizTanks]

Welcome back Poseidon! Finally someone who knows what they're doing around here :jester: I do love watching new builds. I'm not much on suggestions atm but as time goes by I'm sure I'll come up with something :) Good luck and enjoy!!!

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Good to see you back! I'm looking forward watching your tank grow.

Tom

[Poseidon]

Thanks for the warm welcome guys, I am heading to the basement to check my inventory!

[binford4000]

Welcome back Mike.I am looking forwarded to seeing you top your old system!

[Poseidon]

^^^ That might be TOUGH!

I do have the advantage of being very picky now, and not so subject to the "I NEED IT NOW" that most fall into when starting out.

I spent an hour trying to decide between dry tonga, and dry BRS reef rock... WHO DOES THAT? LOL!

[Poseidon]

^^^ That is EXACTLY what that means!

I am going to be VERY picky about what goes in this time. I am thinking maybe 10-12 different acros, and a few LPS maybe some acans or Welso's. :eek:

[binford4000]

^^^ That might be TOUGH!

I do have the advantage of being very picky now, and not so subject to the "I NEED IT NOW" that most fall into when starting out.

I spent an hour trying to decide between dry tonga, and dry BRS reef rock... WHO DOES THAT? LOL!

well good luck,i rember what ya told me and seems your doing the same thing.I took a year decieding what to do and how to do it before setting up my 150..Bad part is I changed half of it in the following year after. LOL Only in reefing :jester: will be following along for sure lmk if you need some sticks when your ready

[Poseidon]

Thanks for the offer, I am sure I will hit you up when I am ready. ;)

OK, did a little inventory, and I found TWO Icecap 660 ballasts! I am sure that at least one of them is in need of repair, I think the other may have been my spare, but I am unsure. I hope IceCap is still around, or someone is at least repairing the ballasts right?

I also found a MAG5, a Korallia 4 (I think) and a couple other heaters... I also found the boxes for my 2 MP40's, that made me sad. :(

I have a rubbermaid running with water/vinegar and all the pumps heaters in there to get cleaned up like new. Next will be to clean the 30L that was my top sump, which will become my main sump I think.

[Sir Patrick]

Glad to see you back in the swing of things Mike.

[Poseidon]

Mike I have an extra pair of end caps, and some old 36" bulbs if you want them to try to fire up the ice caps!

Thanks Chris, I amy take you up on that. I found the harnesses and I think I have a few pairs of endcaps around here somewhere.


Glad to see you back in the swing of things Mike.

Thanks!

[barrycuda]

Alright Mike! good to see you getting back in!

[thepanfish]

That tank is purdy!

[BarbH]

Look forward to following along on your build

[Poseidon]

That tank is purdy!

Thanks thepanfish, that was my old tank, it came down in Feb 09.


Look forward to following along on your build

Thanks Barb, I am too. ;)

Waiting on some prices to come back from Reef Paradise on a 36x18x22 tank, and some Bulk Reef Supply Eco rock.

I "found" 2 boxes of Sea Chem Gray Coast in my garage, so I am all set on the substrate as well. I am not doing a DSB, but a shallow one this time, less then 2" for sure.

[binford4000]

I went with a shallow sand bed also.luv it!! Wrasses did some rescapeing for beds but other then that I have been very happy with the less sand.with two mp40 and two mp10 the last thing I need is allott of sand. Lol. You still doing the photo's ? If so pm me I would be intrested in a real shoot for one year mark of my 150.if you need some rock I have about 75 # laying around I will never use ! Lmk. Free!

[slapshot]

Welcome back Mike, looking forward to watching your new reef grow.

[thefishgirl]

Welcome back, Mike!! So awesome to see that you are setting up again. Your displays definitely set a high bar for the rest of us.

[Poseidon]

I went with a shallow sand bed also.luv it!! Wrasses did some rescapeing for beds but other then that I have been very happy with the less sand.with two mp40 and two mp10 the last thing I need is allott of sand. Lol. You still doing the photo's ? If so pm me I would be intrested in a real shoot for one year mark of my 150.if you need some rock I have about 75 # laying around I will never use ! Lmk. Free!

Boy, that makes it hard to say no Chuck! I am sure I can make it down your way, I need to brush the rust off the camera, and my skills.


Alright Mike! good to see you getting back in!

Thanks Barry!


Look forward to following along on your build

Thanks Barb, I am going to try and make it one worth following. ;)


Welcome back Mike, looking forward to watching your new reef grow.

Me to John!


Welcome back, Mike!! So awesome to see that you are setting up again. Your displays definitely set a high bar for the rest of us.

Thanks! My last system was by far the best I had ever had, l hope to reproduce those results.

[Poseidon]

I just ordered my TANK!!!! Got it from Andy at RP of course! :D

36x24x22, with a starphire front panel. I decided to build a stand, will probably be a steel frame stand finished with a "Brushed Aluminum" look. That is one really important thing off the checklist!

[creefer]

This is going to be very cool to watch.

[Sir Patrick]

Wish my tank was 22" tall....its the perfect height, IMO.

Looking forward to seeing this brushed aluminum look also.

[binford4000]

I just ordered my TANK!!!! Got it from Andy at RP of course! :D

36x24x22, with a starphire front panel. I decided to build a stand, will probably be a steel frame stand finished with a "Brushed Aluminum" look. That is one really important thing off the checklist!

LMK if you need a hand with the stand fabrication Mike,
Nice dimensions too !!!

[Poseidon]

The tank is IN!!!! I'll be picking it up tomorrow. Next step is the stand, would 16 gauge 1" Square tubing be strong enough?

[Poseidon]

Sure, if you are not busy Chris. It will be after 6, 6:30ish???

[binford4000]

The tank is IN!!!! I'll be picking it up tomorrow. Next step is the stand, would 16 gauge 1" Square tubing be strong enough?

Did the Math 16 ga will do,11 ga or 1/8 will give you a better safety margin tho. :big_grin:

[Mike]

The tank is IN!!!! I'll be picking it up tomorrow. Next step is the stand, would 16 gauge 1" Square tubing be strong enough?

Sweet Mike!!! Glad you're jumping back in too bro. I hooked up the Radion and it is pretty sweet. Waiting on the proper hanging kit now. I ordered the worng one so The light will go up early next week D/T working this weekend. I will say the Kessils are sweet and I am guessing that A350W will make a debut over my tank in a few months. I have some very interesting ideas now that I have the A150's on the tank. I do like your idea of a T5/LED hybrid set up.

[Poseidon]

I picked up the tank last night! WOOT it is gorgeous!!! Pictures to come later, it is still in the Jeep. :( It is however, neat to see a 36x24 without a center brace, it looks VERY open.

[slapshot]

Mike you of all people know we need the pictures. Waiting!

[Poseidon]

Pictures to come soon, I promise!

Ok, flip flop alert... I realized that MOST of the brushed Aluminum that we had in our living room, is gone. Now, I have mostly khaki leather and wood.

Just back from the lumber yard, I decided to go DIY on the stand. I bought 70 feet of Cedar 1x4 lumber. I plan on doubling up so it it will be in effect 2x4 when I am done with it.

Now, if the rain would stop.

[Poseidon]

Ok.... 32" or 36" tall on the stand?

The tank is 22" tall, so the top rim would either be at 54" or at 58". Even though I am 6' 2" I am leaning towards 32" tall stand. What do you think?

[slapshot]

36, but still WAITING!!!

[Poseidon]

I went 32.... Loading pictures to the gallery now. ;)

[Poseidon]

Ok here they are....

I only have ONE Picture of the actual tank, it is still in the Jeep. To be honest that is as good as any place until I have a spot to put it.
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-hH8nbQj/0/L/1D2N5225-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1843497688&k=hH8nbQj&lb=1&s=A)

The Starphire panel is the one farthest away in this picture.

Okay, on to the stand construction!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-nLqxVLx/0/L/1D2N5227-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1843497628&k=nLqxVLx&lb=1&s=A)
70 Feet of 1x4 Cedar. My circular saw is also in the picture, but I didn't use it at all during construction.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-Gh7sVMm/0/L/1D2N5229-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1843497410&k=Gh7sVMm&lb=1&s=A)
Same 70 feet in the basement, darn rain wouldn't quit. I had to spend an hour or so cleaning the basement before I was able to get started. The kids had taken over the space that used to be mine, was theirs, and is now mine again! :D You can also see the 12" Compound Mitre saw, that beast made it like butter!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-dzzbXDJ/0/L/1D2N5237-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1843499365&k=dzzbXDJ&lb=1&s=A)
You can see the "rough" side of the Cedar here, when I saw this in the lumber shop, I thought immediately how STRONG the glue joint would be if I put the rough sides together with glue and screws. In effect I was able to create my own 2x4's with this Cedar.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-3r25Mnk/0/L/1D2N5239-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1843499849&k=3r25Mnk&lb=1&s=A)
These are 2 rails, front and back, top and bottom, all the same. These rails are the only pieces that both pieces are the same length. I had them glued, screwed, and clamped at this point to allow the glue to dry for a while.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-nvQzD6G/0/L/1D2N5235-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1843498778&k=nvQzD6G&lb=1&s=A)
A close up of how I planned to put all the pieces together. All the rails rest on wood, which extends to the floor. There are no joints that are supported by screws only.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-3FbPXbH/0/L/1D2N5243-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1843500712&k=3FbPXbH&lb=1&s=A)
Here are all the pieces, ready for final assembly. Kinda like a jigsaw puzzle.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-5SZMsGR/0/L/1D2N5284-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1843501131&k=5SZMsGR&lb=1&s=A)
One of the corners. At this point, they are NOT attached. The stand is not complete even now, as I need some longer screws. (I'll get them tomorrow) In this picture and the next, the stand is sitting as it will when it is finished, but there are no screws or glue holding it together! :D

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-HQCthh7/0/L/1D2N5282-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1843500825&k=HQCthh7&lb=1&s=A)
Final picture of the night, rough completion of the stand, again not attached, just all the pieces placed together.

Now on to the important question, STAIN IT, or PAINT IT?

---------- Post added at 09:50 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:49 PM ----------


Good I look forward to seeing them! Did you pick up that cO2 tank too, I left it with Andy the other day.

I left it. :( I'll pick it up tomorrow though, I'll be there from 12-4. :D

---------- Post added at 09:52 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:50 PM ----------

Almost forgot!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-K76pT5n/0/L/1D2N5240-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1843499650&k=K76pT5n&lb=1&s=A)
Stand building FUEL!

[Poseidon]

Most of the screws are on the inside edges. I did have a DOH moment and put the screws on the side pieces on the outside, when I realized it, it was WAY to late to fix the error. Also, in looking at the corners, I will have to have screws on the outside, unless I go with dowel pins. (Which would add a lot of time.)

[Poseidon]

I am still working on that one Chris. I have to plan where I am going to drill for the overflow yet. It has to be on the bottom, as it will have to sit pretty darn close to the wall where it will be placed.

I am thinking of Tonga branch ONLY in the display, and then using the regular rock in the sump to get more mass there. I can create a much more open scape using the tonga branch, and since this will be SPS, the branch rock will compliment the corals well I think. Also putting the less light demanding LPS/Chalice on the sand around the outside edge sounds appealing.

[Poseidon]

Me too!

It is nice to be getting back in the water so to speak. I am still holding on to the not rushing back in mantra, thought once I have the stand done, I might have to add gravel and some water even before I have a light or skimmer, as those aren't really REQUIRED to start a cycle. ;)

[adalius]

Most of the screws are on the inside edges. I did have a DOH moment and put the screws on the side pieces on the outside, when I realized it, it was WAY to late to fix the error. Also, in looking at the corners, I will have to have screws on the outside, unless I go with dowel pins. (Which would add a lot of time.)

Sink the screwheads in below flush and put some wood putty in, preferably make your own with sawdust from cutting the cedar and a little bit of wood glue, then you know it'll be a perfect match to the wood and be stainable. You'll never see 'em.

[Poseidon]

^^^ That's my plan!

[binford4000]

Looks good so far Mike !!

[thepanfish]

Hey we have the same size tank, except mine is rimless and RR. Cool stand, my woodworking skills are put to definite shame.

[Poseidon]

Thanks!

I will be drilling the tank soon enough, I just have to decide where.

The stand is all put together, I decided I need an extra set of hands and arms, but they just didn't happen, so I have some sanding to do. Funny how all my measurements were less then a 1/16" tolerance, but I ended up with just over that on the "high" corner. According to my trusty steel square, I am good all around though, so that is a good thing.

I have a shorter work day tomorrow, hopefully I can get it sanded and stained and then in the house the day after. All the pieces are starting to fall into line, now I just need to find a few Benjamin's to spend...

[Poseidon]

Here are the few quick snaps I took last night:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-q3V6j99/0/L/1D2N5287-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1852757921&k=q3V6j99&lb=1&s=A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-x4tL5KS/0/L/1D2N5286-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1852757939&k=x4tL5KS&lb=1&s=A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-qfnvhpK/0/L/1D2N5285-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1852757941&k=qfnvhpK&lb=1&s=A)

I think Lightroom did a bit to much to the stain color, it is not quite that dark, but close. (I used a natural Danish Oil finish on Cedar.)

[Poseidon]

I need to find some thin foam to sit the tank on, and I am thinking some trim to cover the black bottom of the tank. The plan also calls for a shelf on the bottom, and a shelf in the middle. What do you think about a matching back, to hide the pipes that are going to run from the tank bottom to the basement!?

[binford4000]

Looks great Mike! I like the wall idea also. All ya need know is a drill and hole saw ! Lol

[slapshot]

Looks great Mike! I like the wall idea also. All ya need know is a drill and hole saw ! Lol

Agreed but you need water!!!!:snorkel:

[larryandlaura]

Looking good so far!

[Poseidon]

I got the back on, and a shelf in the middle of the stand. I went with 3/8" CHERRY Ply, and it looks awesome with a natural oil finish with the Cedar contrast.

I have to still cut out the shelf for the bottom, and I have to get some foam to set the tank on. Hopefully I'll get those done this afternoon.

I am a bit sore, and a bit sunburned from yesterday. (Changing shocks at 2pm in the sun not such a great idea.)

[Poseidon]

Here is an updated pic of the stand and tank, next purchase will be the overflow. Glass Holes?
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-7zrJqCW/0/L/CameraAwesomePhoto-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1866391063&k=7zrJqCW&lb=1&s=A)
I cheaped out and took the pic with my phone. I like it MUCH better with the back and shelves, plus it is ROCK solid now!

[binford4000]

Looking good Mike !! :thumbsup:

[GTi]

Your old 'scape was awesome! Is there a build thread for that tank?

I am also watching you new build with interest as I am looking at transferring my 29 gallon Biocube in to a 50 long open top. To keep things simple, I am probably going to do an all in one configuration but definitely want a cabinet to hide all the electronics and ATO in.

Looking forward to seeing how yours comes together!

[Poseidon]

Looking good Mike !! :thumbsup:

Thanks Chuck, I am getting closer!


Your old 'scape was awesome! Is there a build thread for that tank?

I am also watching you new build with interest as I am looking at transferring my 29 gallon Biocube in to a 50 long open top. To keep things simple, I am probably going to do an all in one configuration but definitely want a cabinet to hide all the electronics and ATO in.

Looking forward to seeing how yours comes together!

I had to go to the "Other" board...

http://www.michiganreefers.com/forums/members-tanks/21037-poseidons-90-gallon-tank.html

That is an OLD thread, not sure how up to date it was before the tank came down.

[cbau45]

Welcome back Mike! Looks like you're off to a great start. Can't wait to see how this turns out.

[Mike]

Here is an updated pic of the stand and tank, next purchase will be the overflow. Glass Holes?
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/i-7zrJqCW/0/L/CameraAwesomePhoto-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-May-2012/22943236_Pgb7vd#!i=1866391063&k=7zrJqCW&lb=1&s=A)
I cheaped out and took the pic with my phone. I like it MUCH better with the back and shelves, plus it is ROCK solid now!

I love the look Mike. It is amazing how far we have come from the days of ye' ole 2*4 stand (DIY). This hobby teaches so many new skills. I think that will look sweet.

I think a lot of us have also learned bigger is not better and more can just be more. If we reef in moderation in terms of size it can be lesss of a chore and we have more to really enjoy ;-)

[Poseidon]

Welcome back Mike! Looks like you're off to a great start. Can't wait to see how this turns out.

Thanks Craig!


I love the look Mike. It is amazing how far we have come from the days of ye' ole 2*4 stand (DIY). This hobby teaches so many new skills. I think that will look sweet.

I think a lot of us have also learned bigger is not better and more can just be more. If we reef in moderation in terms of size it can be lesss of a chore and we have more to really enjoy ;-)

Thanks Mike! You are correct, I never would have learned so much about PVC without this hobby!

I am actually thinking of making some end tables to match... Maybe my entertainment center too. ;)

[dlhirst]

Great looking build! I love the idea of a false back to hide all the plumbing...

[Poseidon]

Thats a great idea Mike. We did the same thing when we had the 75g and it "fit" into the room much more IMO. Not that the tank itself didn't stand out, but the stand flowed better with the other furniture in the room compared to a totally different wood/ coloration then the rest of the room.


Everything is coming together nicely.... you got water in there yet?? :)

Not yet Chris, Andy is going to see if he can get Glass-holes at the shop for me though.


Great looking build! I love the idea of a false back to hide all the plumbing...

Thanks, I ended making that back solid though... It will still hide the plumbing just fine! :D

[Poseidon]

Just a quick silly update.... I have removed the frame, and broken panel on the 30 long that will serve as the top sump. That took SO MUCH LONGER then I thought it would, the frames especially, Frank at Aquatic America really intends those things to stay on!

[creefer]

Did you ever figure out if you're going with a glass holes overflow? LMK if that's the direction you're headed. I'm happy to share a few thoughts with you on the subject.

[Poseidon]

Did you ever figure out if you're going with a glass holes overflow? LMK if that's the direction you're headed. I'm happy to share a few thoughts with you on the subject.

Yes, I am going that route. I am thinking the 700 GPH model, as I was only planning on 450-500 gph through the sump anyway.

[creefer]

Yes, I am going that route. I am thinking the 700 GPH model, as I was only planning on 450-500 gph through the sump anyway.

FWIW I was thinking the same but ended up getting the 1500 gph so I could have redundancy in drainage in the event one gets clogged. I put valves on each drain so I could have a primary and secondary. It took some time tinkering to get it all right, but once it was right, all was well. I too run about 500 GPH through the sump.

[Poseidon]

I thought of the 1500gph model, but don't feel the need for 2 1.5" holes, plus that one is quite a bit larger. I will add a float switch in the tank, if the water gets to high, the float will trigger a relay, that will turn off the power to the return pump, no mess.

[creefer]

Good call. I was worried about the size of the 1500 gph. It's not bad really, particularly when the back is painted black.

[cbau45]

Mike, any update? I know we're all itching to see some progress on this bad boy!

[Poseidon]

More progress:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-HJScLfc/0/L/CA06161215464087-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1909318759&k=HJScLfc&lb=1&s=A)
See anything strange?

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-j9kqxJp/0/L/CA06161215460155-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1909317884&k=j9kqxJp&lb=1&s=A)
X2

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-PCcrdZp/0/L/CA06161215453298-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1909317141&k=PCcrdZp&lb=1&s=A)
This will be the return from the sump, I opted for drilling rather than an up and over so that I can make a clean mesh top, for the Fairy Wrasses that will be an important addition!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-tfdGj9P/0/L/CA06161215455141-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1909317560&k=tfdGj9P&lb=1&s=A)
Glass Holes overflow, 700gph model. I planned on about 500gph from the sump, so this one is perfect for me.

Next I am off the store for black paint, and to price out some 1/4" acrylic and EPDO foam....

---------- Post added at 09:43 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:41 PM ----------

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-HwRwppZ/0/L/CA06161219403785-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1909660603&k=HwRwppZ&lb=1&s=A)
First coat of gloss black down, now to wait for a bit and get that second coat down!

---------- Post added at 09:44 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:43 PM ----------

No life yet.... but sand and some rock. I spent 5 minutes putting together this jigsaw puzzle, and this is what I got:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-Wsgg49Z/0/L/CA06171212280118-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1910784406&k=Wsgg49Z&lb=1&s=A)

Not bad, but this is only my first attempt! ;)

---------- Post added at 09:45 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:44 PM ----------

More progress to report. 30L end panel has been replaced, and is water tight! RO filters are replaced and is water tight as well, I ordered a 75gpd membrane this time around. Finally second sump baffles are IN and curing as we speak.

Next up a trip to Lowes or HD for 1/4" plastic line, I am going to move my RO unit closer to the sumps, and start working on the plumbing to the basement from the tank.

---------- Post added at 09:45 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:45 PM ----------

Here are some new pictures!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-nmKDsdN/0/L/CA07081222015148-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1953476208&k=nmKDsdN&lb=1&s=A)
New Basement Sump, in the right place, with the right tanks, with all their sides and baffles in place!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-v6DrPQP/0/L/CA07081222050227-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1953483331&k=v6DrPQP&lb=1&s=A)
New holes in the floor, the one on the left is the drain, the one on the right the return. 1.5" Drain, 1" Return line.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-fWcznMw/0/L/CA07081222053374-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1953484601&k=fWcznMw&lb=1&s=A)
RO Unit now attached to the sump stand, the salt mixing bucket is in view.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-h8vCNZz/0/L/CA07081222060871-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1953486054&k=h8vCNZz&lb=1&s=A)
Close up of the new 45 gallon (ish) sump and baffles.

That is all I have for now, other then I AM MAKING WATER! The RO unit is up and running, I plan on getting salt tomorrow after work! One step closer to getting the tank wet!

---------- Post added at 09:46 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:45 PM ----------

Another quick update, things are starting to come together...

Salt is here, 200 gallons worth of Reef Crystals.

Return Pump is ordered, I went with THIS (http://premiumaquatics.com/aquatic-supplies/SQ-BH850.html) pump, I haven't done much research on it, but it is from Reeflo, so it has to meet a certain standard right?

60 gallons (ish) of RO water made and in the storage containers.

Top sump drilled, and drain to bottom sump in place.

Next up, I will need to drill the bottom sump for the new return pump, and make the final plumbing connections. Once that is done, set up the Reef Keeper Lite for Temp control, and feed mode, then let it FLOW!

[slapshot]

Looking good Mike. Now time to buy some water and corals!

[GTi]

My 36*18*22 and stand have been completed by GLA and my Glass Holes kit is scheduled to arrive on Friday. I alsomhave the 700 gph overflow but it was looking at pacing it centre rear with 2 returns, one on each side, towards the ends of the back pane. I will use a scwd and alternate the flow through each return and supplement with my MP10.

Does this sound sensible? Any tips on the drilling ( apart from keep it slow and wet?).

Thanks!

[Poseidon]

Thanks John!

GTi, I am not a huge fan of scwd, yes they work, yes they rob some GPH, and YES they are a pain to clean. As for drilling the tank, I like to use a cordless drill, with the clutch set on one, and let her rip. :D (Lots of water of course.)

UPS says the pump will be here Thursday, I think a couple hours Thursday night after work, and I should have water flowing by the weekend!

[GTi]

Thanks. Yours is looking good - I'll be tagging along!

[Poseidon]

Pictures!!!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-L39GnCQ/0/L/CA07121223042716-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1961878647&k=L39GnCQ&lb=1&s=A)
This is Plan A, that is a 1" Threaded to slip adapter about 3" away from the basement wall, which wasn't going to work as I have a support above that holds the upper sump in place. Out comes the PVC bucket to see what else I have...

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-ZRfG2fx/0/L/CA07121223044195-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1961879043&k=ZRfG2fx&lb=1&s=A)
Here's the pump, it is TINY, except for the fittings that come out in basically a straight line across the front of the pump.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-kx5BW67/0/L/CA07121223045472-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1961879414&k=kx5BW67&lb=1&s=A)
Plan B! I had some 1" ID flex line, a threaded ball valve, and even threaded barbs all in the PVC bucket! It worked out great!!!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-zmS3DmB/0/L/CA07121223050659-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1961879782&k=zmS3DmB&lb=1&s=A)
Drain on the left, return on the right.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-PvH2FFf/0/L/CA07121223051950-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1961880146&k=PvH2FFf&lb=1&s=A)
Drain from the tank to the top sump. (30L)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-Z4zqpC9/0/L/CA07121223053570-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1961880609&k=Z4zqpC9&lb=1&s=A)
Both Sumps!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-VX5FLvc/0/L/CA07121223055388-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1961881051&k=VX5FLvc&lb=1&s=A)
Drain from the top sump into the bottom. (About 45g)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-8cPXtJV/0/L/CA07121223071619-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1961883345&k=8cPXtJV&lb=1&s=A)
And finally! THERE IS WATER!!!!

[Poseidon]

Thanks Chris! Yes, it is ridiculously SMALL, and YES it moves quite a bit of water up stairs! I think it will be in the 600gph range on the MEDIUM setting. (Less then 90W)

[Poseidon]

Yup, external only.

I HAVE FLOW!!!! Water is going down and back up, WOOT!!!! I am off to scout camp now though, so now time for pics till Sunday.

(I have the flow set on MEDIUM Chris, this thing is rockin'!!!) (Well for the 500 gph ish I wanted anyway, and dead silent too!)

[Poseidon]

OK... Here are a few of the GOOD PART! Man, it is HARD to get a good image of a tank without LIGHTS. LOL!

Here are few of the minor added details:
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-July-2012/i-m25s3Dr/0/L/1D2N6176-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-July-2012/24233526_CV4fG8#!i=1975889206&k=m25s3Dr&lb=1&s=A)
I found this while cleaning out some misc. PVC parts 5 gallon buckets, it is a 3/4" threaded penductor! Woo HOoo! I haven't used it since I moved to this house in 2007, it was in use for only a short time before, forgot I even had it. ;)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-July-2012/i-bp79hMj/0/L/1D2N6177-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-July-2012/24233526_CV4fG8#!i=1975889270&k=bp79hMj&lb=1&s=A)
From the top, I bought a schedule 80 nipple and chopped it in half, glued the part without threads into my 3/4 slip bulkhead, and threaded on a schedule 80 45, then the penductor into the 45.... Here's the best part, I had the system on "standby" while working on the PVC parts, the water line was just below the bulkhead. I went downstairs to put the tools away, and look at the timer, 3 2 1.... SHRIEK!!!!! The pump kicks on and I hear my wife screaming! She was getting S P R A Y E D by the penductor!!! LOL I was laughing so hard, so was my son! Stacey however, not quite as funny to her. ;) ;) :)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-July-2012/i-3nq32tR/0/L/1D2N6178-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-July-2012/24233526_CV4fG8#!i=1975889368&k=3nq32tR&lb=1&s=A)
Glass Holes overflow, works good, and I have set the vent tube just right to really quiet it down.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-July-2012/i-5w4fGPj/0/L/1D2N6186-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-July-2012/24233526_CV4fG8#!i=1975889742&k=5w4fGPj&lb=1&s=A)
Turbulence on the surface, this is from the penductor and 1 Korallia 4, not bad!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-July-2012/i-LkB9cj9/0/L/1D2N6188-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-July-2012/24233526_CV4fG8#!i=1975889806&k=LkB9cj9&lb=1&s=A)
The rock pile!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-July-2012/i-p5zFp4N/0/L/1D2N6181-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-July-2012/24233526_CV4fG8#!i=1975889833&k=p5zFp4N&lb=1&s=A)
Full tank and stand shot! The white you see is styro, I need to figure out some trim to cover it up, and maybe the bottom plastic on the tank as well, if I had a router table, it would be a cinch to run some cedar 1x4 down it a few times, and presto! Maybe I can talk my Uncle into helping out.

That's all I have for today, I am going to be talking with Reefbreeders about his new fixture the Supernova... Decisions decisions!

[cbau45]

Wow! Looks great Mike! How are you liking the glass holes overflow? It did the trick well on the 120gal. I'm working on replumbing the system for it but I was a big fan. I'm liking the sand and aquascaping as well. Keep the updates coming!

[vmbfreekz33]

looks great mike!!

[Poseidon]

Wow! Looks great Mike! How are you liking the glass holes overflow? It did the trick well on the 120gal. I'm working on replumbing the system for it but I was a big fan. I'm liking the sand and aquascaping as well. Keep the updates coming!

Thank you Craig! So far so good Craig, I added a piece of foam to the overflow, it really cut the sound down a lot, but it looks like that is going to require frequent cleaning. (At least until the "dust" settles a bit from the gravel.)


looks great mike!!

Thanks Amanda!

Here are some more pictures hot off the PHONE! LOL

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-CXZD4Hq/0/L/CA07231219075183-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1983350783&k=CXZD4Hq&lb=1&s=A)
New Sump light... Home Depot version, lets see how it works.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-bkvVq38/0/L/CA07231219085377-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1983352677&k=bkvVq38&lb=1&s=A)
Top sump mostly full of rock and a start to my chaeto.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-8RRWZ9N/0/L/CA07231219093146-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1983353981&k=8RRWZ9N&lb=1&s=A)
1/4" Square clear mesh top in place.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-FwG7Jbp/0/L/CA07231219110078-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1983356905&k=FwG7Jbp&lb=1&s=A)
A start to my coralline, a nice little piece of tonga branch from Preuss Pets in Lansing, MI. A MOST EXCELLENT Local Fish store.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-PDRBD9M/0/L/CA07231219113136-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1983357768&k=PDRBD9M&lb=1&s=A)
New Aqua Scape, not sure I like it, is it packed to tight?

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-nqqJGCN/0/L/CA07231219101131-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1983355262&k=nqqJGCN&lb=1&s=A)
moved the old sump light from the basement up to the tank for the time being, until the final decision is made on an LED light.

So far so good! It is REALLY nice to see everything lit up, and water flowing!

[vmbfreekz33]

Looks fabulous going to be a beautiful set up!!!

[Poseidon]

Another of the "little" things crossed off the list:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-qVTNnZh/0/L/CA07281221161870-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1992846696&k=qVTNnZh&lb=1&s=A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-TmwT732/0/L/CA07281221172142-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1992847957&k=TmwT732&lb=1&s=A)
Notice anything different?

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-bpRQvXx/0/L/CA07281221164997-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1992847299&k=bpRQvXx&lb=1&s=A)
LIGHTS for the shelves under the tank. Next up is the trim pieces to cover the bottom of the tank, and the white foam. I am thinking of adding a trim piece around the top of the tank too, it would be completely open, just a cedar "ring" to cover the black plastic at the top. I would still have an open top, and complete access to the tank. What do you think?

[cbau45]

LIGHTS for the shelves under the tank. Next up is the trim pieces to cover the bottom of the tank, and the white foam. I am thinking of adding a trim piece around the top of the tank too, it would be completely open, just a cedar "ring" to cover the black plastic at the top. I would still have an open top, and complete access to the tank. What do you think?

I think the cedar rim on the top would look pretty cool. That would give it a nice finished look. Just make sure that bad boy is sealed well or it will get moldy and rot. One idea though, what if you attach your screen to the cedar rim? This way you can take it all off at once when working in the tank and minimize the exposure of the wood to the saltwater. Just a thought.

P.S. Love the lighted shelves! Looks real cool! Do you have those on timers too?

[Poseidon]

I think the cedar rim on the top would look pretty cool. That would give it a nice finished look. Just make sure that bad boy is sealed well or it will get moldy and rot. One idea though, what if you attach your screen to the cedar rim? This way you can take it all off at once when working in the tank and minimize the exposure of the wood to the saltwater. Just a thought.

P.S. Love the lighted shelves! Looks real cool! Do you have those on timers too?

I'll have to consider how to attach the screen, that would be neat. As for the water resistance, I chose Cedar for just that reason, and I used a natural oil finish, which of course would be applied to the top trim.

I am going back and forth with how to mount the light, the last one was mounted to the ceiling, with sun lifts, which worked great, this fixture being much smaller, but more heavy has me thinking of an Aluminum mounting system similar to this (http://reefkoi.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=20&products_id=2641) one. Of course it would be a DIY version. (I bought some 3/4" Al channel and stainless steel screws yesterday.) Once the fixture gets here, I will make my decision.

Thanks for the props on the shelves, yes they are on a timer too. They turn on about 5:30 and off at 11:30, no sense in running them all day/night. :D

[tazzy695]

setup is really looking good

easy way to attach the screen to the cedar rim would be to use some 1/4 round or a strip of screen molding both of which are avail in cedar

[Poseidon]

Had a surprise visit from the post office today:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-rjGQdTd/0/L/CA07301217225800-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1996615553&k=rjGQdTd&lb=1&s=A)
Notice anything different? My LIGHT showed up!!!! This is the Reef Breeders Cree "Value" fixture. 40 LED's, 90 degree optics, and manual dimming. There are red/green LED's on the white channel as well. I ended up hanging it from the ceiling using some "plant hooks" and some 1/16 galvanized cable, it is currently 9" off the water, I was going for 8" but I "Zigged" when I should have "Zagged" while cutting the cables. No biggie though, I can always drop it a bit if needed.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-XtCHZnm/0/L/CA07301217242683-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=1996618426&k=XtCHZnm&lb=1&s=A)
Same view as above, from my spot on the couch! This is with all lights at 100%. I know a somewhat local friend that has a PAR meter, I am sure I can get a hold of him to do some testing.

[tazzy695]

looking great cant wait to see some life in the pics mike I think this tank is going to surpass your old system you had

[Poseidon]

Thanks Marc, I can tell you the cost is going to be a LOT less on this system. I am hoping that I can attain the level of color and growth that I had before, but still need some equipment for sure. (DIY Kalk and Ca Reactors will be on the short list of things to create this fall.)

[sugargary]

I'm starting to see in tough times and not so tough DIY is the way.

[Poseidon]

A minor update, I replaced the acrylic baffles in the sump that were help in place by EDPM foam tape and pressure, with glass panels held in place by silicone. I was trying the foam tape method that I found on another forum, and videos on youtube, though the videos look good, and the ability to move the baffles as needed looked good, once the foam got saturated, and some algae started growing/slime the baffles fell.

I'll be off a bit later today to pick up my first "test frags"! I am getting excited!

[Poseidon]

Here is a quick update:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-TcfGWMN/0/L/CA08061221195548-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=2010540795&k=TcfGWMN&lb=1&s=A)
Neon Green Trumpet, this is a descendent of my original frag that was purchased from the Trop a LONG LONG time ago, pretty cool!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-2qWbf9R/0/L/CA08061221201195-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=2010541289&k=2qWbf9R&lb=1&s=A)
Birdnest, Purple. I figure for the price (free) it was worth a shot.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-jcs7gZN/0/L/CA08061221203760-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=2010542062&k=jcs7gZN&lb=1&s=A)
Gobstopper Frag, these were taken off the back of a rock, with a REALLY long neck. I'm interested to see if that long neck stays.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-hNB8fPq/0/L/CA08061221205459-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=2010542576&k=hNB8fPq&lb=1&s=A)
Frogspawn, it has a very rich Green.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-pDGpsjz/0/L/CA08061220444570-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=2010474917&k=pDGpsjz&lb=1&s=A)
Full tank shot as of a few minutes ago. ;) :)

ANd... some YUCK:
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-9S2HbjP/0/L/CA08061221190508-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=2010539329&k=9S2HbjP&lb=1&s=A)
This is growing on almost all the DRY rock in the tank, out of the pores. I was NOT expecting to see this from dry rock. Now to find a critter that has a taste for this stuff. Either that, or I'm off to the drug store for some MgSO4. (Epsom salt)

[slapshot]

Geez looking good Mike! Grab a small rabbit fish and he will take care of your "yuck" problem. It is the fastest way I have found. Depending on growth and future fish plan on trading him in as things settle down.

[Poseidon]

Thanks John, I added a Foxface yesterday from RP! He is a tiny fella, about 3" long, perfect for me.

I couldn't take the algae anymore though, I took out the rocks and scrubbed them clean. I know it will come back, but now there is a fish in there to help keep it at bay. I have lost a couple snails though, and that concerns me. Maybe I didn't spend enough time acclimating the Trochus. They are my favorite snails by far.

[Mr. Microscope]

Fun build! WOWEEE on your former tank and that cap garden! Can't wait to see where this tank goes. Good luck.

[Poseidon]

A couple of observations of my tank today:

1) Corals that I bought at the swap that came from LED lit tanks are doing well, a "Raptors Peace Coral" and a some paly's (forget the name) are out, open and looking quite happy on the sandbed.

2) Corals that came from a T5 lit tank are having a harder time adjusting to my tank. Gobstopper paly's that I have a 3 polyp frag of, has not fully opened yet, and it has been nearly 2 weeks. 1 polyp is open the other 2 closed, and I have tried several different locations in the tank. I found a "better" place for the frogspawn, off to the right of the light near the rock work.

3) My tank is no where near ready for SPS of any kind. I have 2 frags of ORA Birdnest, green and Hyacinth both are doing poorly.

The foxface I added died, he was thin at the store, but was eating so I took a chance on him. The Purple firefish is doing very well, eating and even chasing off any of the green chromis that get to close. The Chromis started "culling" the other day, one was separated from the group and killed in a day. The remaining 5 seem happy at the moment.

So far I would say that the tank is progressing as expected, with the loss of the foxface being the only set back. (Though it was an awful lot like flushing 2 $20 bills down the toilet at the "funeral" for the little guy.)

Things I would like to add in the short term:

More snails. I am thinking a Mexican Turbo or two would be a wise choice, as well as another 5 or so Trochus. (I lost about 3 of the 5 I put in before.)

Trim work to the stand, I really need to finish that part of the project off.

PC4 for the Reefkeeper, I want the controller upstairs instead of in the basement. I have the cable I need to connect the PC4 to the one in the basement, so that is nice. The cord from the controller head unit is to short to make the trip downstairs. Having another PC4 would also eliminate 3 timers from under the tank which would clean it up a bit.

One of those el cheapo air pump shelves that you get a PetsMart, I would use it for pellet food/Prime/CA glue storage. My wife was gracious enough to let me get rid of her curio cabinet in exchange for the shelf space under my tank. It's the least I can do to get my "ugly" stuff out from under there.

I think that is it for now, which is not bad I guess. Now for the hardest part.... Patience. ;)

[Poseidon]

I added 3 Mexican Turbo's last night, got them from a new(ish) Local shop that moved closer to me. The store is small, prices OK, and no real corals yet. I am hopeful though, it will be nice to have a shop close by to pick up food/clean up crew etc...

[Mr. Microscope]

Ask them to stock Rod's and Reef Nutrition. It's nice to have a supplier for those.

[Poseidon]

Reef related, in that my reef is in the picture! ;)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Family/Centauri/i-jTQddpb/0/L/IMG5451-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Family/Centauri/24985594_nLC2vB#!i=2047024132&k=jTQddpb&lb=1&s=A)
This is me and my soon to be 12 year old German Shepard, Centauri. Centauri has bad hips, they are getting the best of her lately, she has trouble getting up and down stairs, and can no longer jump on the bed, or into my Jeep. There are days that she wants to PLAY, just like when she was younger, there are others that she wanders around the house huffing and puffing, panting, because she can't find a comfortable spot to sit or lay down. I know that my days with her are numbered, so I wanted to share a quick image of her here. (She is notoriously camera shy, and runs and hides when she sees the camera out.)

Thank you for allowing me to share the BEST Dog I have ever owned!!!!

[binford4000]

Tank looks good Mike and I feel for ya ! Shepards are such great dogs. We went thru the same when our previous shepard Rex turned 13. It's amazing how they become such a large part of your life and because shepards are so smart and have great personality's it makes it even harder. I am not looking forward to when Bubba gets that age but on the other hand he has filled a void that we never admitted was there. Enjoy the good days with her. :oldman:

[Poseidon]

Ok, here are some new pictures! These are just some quickies that I took before I left for a MMMC club meeting.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/MMMC/MMMC-10-21-12/i-cTrBnTX/0/L/1D2N9075-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/MMMC/MMMC-10-21-12/26072246_P66LPS#!i=2165244382&k=cTrBnTX&lb=1&s=A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/MMMC/MMMC-10-21-12/i-KVh2nmV/0/L/1D2N9077-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/MMMC/MMMC-10-21-12/26072246_P66LPS#!i=2165245059&k=KVh2nmV&lb=1&s=A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/MMMC/MMMC-10-21-12/i-NKLXsLr/0/L/1D2N9074-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/MMMC/MMMC-10-21-12/26072246_P66LPS#!i=2165245823&k=NKLXsLr&lb=1&s=A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/MMMC/MMMC-10-21-12/i-9Rn9LpJ/0/L/1D2N9078-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/MMMC/MMMC-10-21-12/26072246_P66LPS#!i=2165247103&k=9Rn9LpJ&lb=1&s=A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/MMMC/MMMC-10-21-12/i-P4DCbFw/0/L/1D2N9085-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/MMMC/MMMC-10-21-12/26072246_P66LPS#!i=2165248475&k=P4DCbFw&lb=1&s=A)

I just added some freebie corals from the club meeting, a 3-4 head Duncan frag, a reddish/orange chalice, and some Zoa's that I have no idea what they are. (Logan picked them out.) I also picked up a small container of New Life Spectrum, I am having a hard time finding this stuff lately. :sad: Has anybody else had issues?

Fun times on the way back from the meeting, I got a FLAT, and it went flat in a HURRY. No biggie, full size spare, just had tires rotated a week ago. I get all the stuff out, put the tire tool on the first wheel nut, and I start spinning the WRENCH. Ewww... paint peeling off the angle, not a good thing. Then my friend Nick mentions the bottle jack may not reach. (I have a 3" lift on my Jeep Grand Cherokee, and 31" tires.) Double EWWWW! I start looking around, and see an Auto Zone down the street! YAY!!!! According to Siri, it is .2 miles away, not bad at all. So me, Nick, and my 11 year old Logan start heading down the road, to get a 4 way, and a jack. $75 later, and a short walk back to the Jeep, where I TWIST the 4 Way, man the nut is tight! I take off the other 4, and it finally lets loose. The right tools, and the right sized jack make all the difference. Now, I have to find a place to keep the jack in the jeep. ;)

[rarelyseriousb]

Wow. That sucks.

[Poseidon]

Ok, had the good camera out, so I snapped a few quick shots:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-kF56R8N/0/L/1D2N9122-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174590906&k=kF56R8N&lb=1&s=A)
Full tank shot

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-fM2s7Zt/0/L/1D2N9123-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174590894&k=fM2s7Zt&lb=1&s=A)
The stand isn't that red, I set the WB for the tank. I think I have another image with a more accurate stand color later.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-SCsJgGB/0/L/1D2N9127-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174591448&k=SCsJgGB&lb=1&s=A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-nvZsVnc/0/L/1D2N9128-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174591486&k=nvZsVnc&lb=1&s=A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-WFBGvKb/0/L/1D2N9131-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174591994&k=WFBGvKb&lb=1&s=A)
These are the paly's from the club meeting. Not sure what they are, but they are brown, and uh not going to stick around long.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-q9jvJMx/0/L/1D2N9132-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174592073&k=q9jvJMx&lb=1&s=A)
First Chalice in the tank! This one is from Bob, not sure if it is named or not, but the color is RED!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-3s9b9sB/0/L/1D2N9136-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174592577&k=3s9b9sB&lb=1&s=A)
Super Green in this Frogspawn!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-nHJXtxw/0/L/1D2N9138-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174592522&k=nHJXtxw&lb=1&s=A)
Sticky Punch? I got these from Dknuckles.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-8PjpdvF/0/L/1D2N9140-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174592579&k=8PjpdvF&lb=1&s=A)
Raptors Peace Coral

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-SjLsGB2/0/L/1D2N9142-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174592838&k=SjLsGB2&lb=1&s=A)
Mexican Turbo!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-P4fdhhx/0/L/1D2N9143-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174593384&k=P4fdhhx&lb=1&s=A)
3-4 Duncan Heads.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-QMqjc9K/0/L/1D2N9147-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174594132&k=QMqjc9K&lb=1&s=A)
From the Right side.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-bsVqz3H/0/L/1D2N9145-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174593429&k=bsVqz3H&lb=1&s=A)
Closer up to the Frogspawn.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/i-PJjQbBz/0/L/1D2N9150-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Oct-2012/26155874_g7BRz2#!i=2174594109&k=PJjQbBz&lb=1&s=A)
From the left side.

[binford4000]

Sweet pics Mike ! Tanks looking great! How ya liking the flow inductor ?

[Poseidon]

Sweet pics Mike ! Tanks looking great! How ya liking the flow inductor ?

I like it a lot, that and the vortec make all the flow I need, for now.


Man Mike I thought u said you were taking your time and going to be picky this go around.... brown zoas and trumpet coral.... :confused: lol

LOL! The Trumpet stays, this particular version is from my old tank. It is a frag from a frag that I sold to a friend a long time ago. I bought this particular coral from the Trop back in the late 90's, it was one of my very first corals.

Now as for the zoa's/paly's those are going away... Logan picked them up at the MMMC meeting, I'm not a fan. Under just Blue LED they actually look pretty cool though.

[binford4000]

Any updates Mike ??

[Poseidon]

Hi Chuck!

Lots of updates, unfortunately they are not good ones. I am getting a divorce. I have moved, the tank came with me though, but I am now in an apartment. I could not set up the basement sump here. :( I have the 30L under the tank, the 45 went to a friend that helped me move. I had to remove the shelf from the stand to fit the sump under the tank, now I need to skin the stand.

Overall I had only one loss during the move, which I will call successful. Funny how your life can change so quickly, less then 6 months ago, everything seemed to going so well.... now I am sitting in a whole new apartment with half my stuff in another apartment that Stacey lives in.

The good news is that I will have more time to work with the tank, and hopefully enjoy some doing a couple of DIY projects.

I'll post up some new pictures either later tonight or tomorrow evening. :)

[binford4000]

Sorry to hear that Mike ! Looking forward to seeing what ya do with it. Hang in there. My hippo fragged my blue tip stag so if you need a nice piece LMK !

[Poseidon]

Ok, I had a BRIGHT idea the other day, and decided it was worth a shot, worst case if it didn't work, I would be out basically nothing.... I have a need to add Ca/Alk to the tank, and with funds being short, DIY is the only way to go. I have been keeping my eye out for the 5 gallon buckets of "Driveway Heat" but have not come across any, and I have a 3lb bag of Baking Soda around here somewhere. So... Any guesses?

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-NFXQ3sR/0/L/CA_01051318204106-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=2306263141&k=NFXQ3sR&lb=1&s=A)
I know, an empty gatorade bottle...

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-HhdjZzG/0/L/CA_01051318211595-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=2306263993&k=HhdjZzG&lb=1&s=A)
Epoxy? A paper plate? WHAT!?!?

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-9BnjCVC/0/L/CA_01051318242121-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=2306268537&k=9BnjCVC&lb=1&s=A)
This will NOT keep the gatorade in anymore....

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-5329HZG/0/L/CA_01051318322476-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=2306281134&k=5329HZG&lb=1&s=A)
Are those 1/4" tubing couplers? On top of a GatorAid Bottle? Yes, yes they are!!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-vVhwbbf/0/L/CA_01051321173567-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=2306514949&k=vVhwbbf&lb=1&s=A)
Hmmm.... What could that be?

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-7Q6FRnk/0/L/CA_01051321382227-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=2306546165&k=7Q6FRnk&lb=1&s=A)
PRESTO CHANGO!!! KALK REACTOR!

$10 worth of plumbing parts, some of which I already had, and about 30 minutes later. (Okay a couple hours to make sure the epoxy was good and dry.)

I have a 5 gallon bucket full of Lime, so I am "in there like swimwear" on that. I know this is a bandaid, and I will DIY up a real nice one as I get my life back on track. I am thinking of a dual chamber DIY, Kalk reactor on one side, with a CaRx on the other.... a couple small chambers, 4" square buy 12" tall would fit in my stand nicely.

I hope you enjoy the update, it was a fun afternoon project. ;)

[Poseidon]

Thanks Chris, I amy take you up on that. I don't have much for demand.... yet. ;) I am hoping this is enough to get me buy for a few months.

[Poseidon]

Nice!

Here is a view from the couch:
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/i-nDDdsKH/0/L/CA_01051322234399-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Other/Camera-Awesome-Photos/21723594_vwrw6H#!i=2306607230&k=nDDdsKH&lb=1&s=A)

Only blue LED's, and the iPhone is not real sure what to do with all that blue light. ;)

[Poseidon]

Actually, I was planning on copying Binford! His looks really nice, and it is something that I think I can do.

[tazzy695]

sorry to here about the bad mike

if you are looking for driveway heat I know meijer has the bags of it no buckets though

[Poseidon]

Thanks Marc, I'll have to check that out.

[tcp316]

It's really good to see you get your tank set up again. You are really handy and creative with figuring these things out. Wish I understood these reactors. I need to figure out how to do something for my tank. I am doing softies and LPS so I am sure I will have to do something once I start adding more things. I will have to pick your brain sometime.
Good to see you on again. Good luck Mike.

[Poseidon]

Thanks Vicki! About $10 worth of parts, not including the valve. Kalk is a "balanced" additive, adding both Ca and Alk to the tank, inline from your ATO. (Fresh water)

It works very well when done correctly, and is really cheap too. ;)

[tcp316]

Well, I already know I am doing my ATO wrong. It is hooked straight from my RO/DI to the float valve in my sump. I have a BRUTE can that I have plans to hook to the RO/Di for the ATO water but I got sick and haven't bought my float switches yet. I also need to get an aqualifter to pump it up to the sump. I keep checking my ATO and am a bit paranoid about failure:) Andy told me it is inevitable.
sigh. Always something. I was thinking of doing 2 part in my ATO barrel when I get that set up. I may ask you some questions when i do it. I was wondering if I should try to plumb the ATO barrel to the salt mixing barrel so I can open a valve to let the water in to mix water. What do you think? I can't do it that way if I am mixing the 2 part in the ATO barrel can I?

[tcp316]

I've had it running like this for 1 1/2 years. I actually have an extra 10 gallon tank I could use. I would need an extra float for that tank and then a pump I guess to pump it from the 10 to the sump. Here is a picture of the set up I have now.

http://i931.photobucket.com/albums/ad158/muzik_lvr/70%20Gallon%20Cube/WP_001481.jpg
http://i931.photobucket.com/albums/ad158/muzik_lvr/70%20Gallon%20Cube/WP_001496.jpg

This picture was when I first got it running so it is not so clean now:)

[tcp316]

Mike,
I'm sorry, It just occurred to me I hijacked your thread. Please forgive me:(

Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk HD

[Poseidon]

That is quite all right Vicki! :D

Chris already answered, but to go a little farther, if you add BOTH parts of a 2 part system at the same time, to a fresh water mix, chances are you will be "making sand" in the bottom of that container. (It will form a precipitate that is not very soluble, and may even turn the water to a milk color, which will reduce the amount that your corals have available.)

Back to my tank.... Water change is on tap today. I have about 20-25 gallons of fresh mixed RC ready to go. :D :D

[Poseidon]

Are you planning on doing larger water changes less frequently, or just larger WC's regularly.... or is there a different reason for the larger WC Mike?

I like to do once a month water changes, the volume is due to where my float switch is located mostly. ;) I have always done larger water changes, no sense in changing now.

A MAG 5 in this volume mixes and HEATS the water to 74..... not a bad deal.

[binford4000]

Actually, I was planning on copying Binford! His looks really nice, and it is something that I think I can do.

Mike I have about 20 feet of the tounge and groove left over . It's yours if you want it. You could grab the reactor at the same time ! Tank looks good also.

Ps my friend owns the mill that makes this cedar t&g so I can get it for you at a good price.lmk

[MizTanks]

Mike I have about 20 feet of the tounge and groove left over . It's yours if you want it. You could grab the reactor at the same time ! Tank looks good also.

Ps my friend owns the mill that makes this cedar t&g so I can get it for you at a good price.lmk

You Papa Smurf are one if the nicest reefer people I've ever known. We are truly blessed to have you in our midst :)

[Poseidon]

That's Awesome Chuck, thank you very much. I have a reactor for you too... had a bit going on and didn't get back to you. ;)

[binford4000]

That's Awesome Chuck, thank you very much. I have a reactor for you too... had a bit going on and didn't get back to you. ;)

No prob ! Pm sent to ya too

[Poseidon]

Time for another update!

It is always fun to post pictures of new stuff. I borrowed a PAR meter from MMMC to get a gage on where I am in light output, and the numbers didn't work out, so I sent a simple e-mail to Logan at Reef Breeders, and he was a pleasure to deal with. He suggested one of the 24" controllable fixtures to replace my current fixture, and shipped one out for me the next business day:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-w8S2K4v/0/L/IMG_0629-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2350932296&k=w8S2K4v&lb=1&s=A)
Very well packed!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-CHhGC9N/0/L/IMG_0627-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2350932223&k=CHhGC9N&lb=1&s=A)
Business side!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-JLhh6JD/0/L/IMG_0626-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2350932236&k=JLhh6JD&lb=1&s=A)
Much improved hanging kit, and a REMOTE?

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-kRV959H/0/L/IMG_0625-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2350932123&k=kRV959H&lb=1&s=A)
Close up, this is a nice finished look!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-dGwwhSF/0/L/IMG_0623-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2350932067&k=dGwwhSF&lb=1&s=A)
And over the tank.

The iPhone REALLY dislikes the LED's, I'll have to get the good camera out soon. I still have the club PAR meter, and I am getting 400ish PAR at 11" under the water, with the blue channel at 70% and White channel at 40%, at the sand bed, I am getting 200ish PAR! :D

The controller took about 5 minutes to figure out, from there it is a joy to watch the tank fade in and fade out over time. If you haven't looked at this fixture yet, please do so!

[Poseidon]

It does have 2 green, 2 red, and 4 UV as well as 4 warm white. I think there is 8 cool white as well. The rest are Royal blue.

The color is more "violet" then blue which I really like. The fit and finish of the fixture is also much better then my previous one.

[Poseidon]

I like them. I did a small mod to the colors, added a piece of tape over the lens... It really helps to diffuse the color over a larger area, and it is about as cheap as a mod as you can get in this hobby.

If you do it, add the widest (or no) optics you can find.

---------- Post added at 06:17 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:16 PM ----------

You are welcome to check it out Chris when you are free.

[binford4000]

That's a sweet fixture Mike. Been really busy but haven't forgot about you ! Working on this weekend if work goes along with it? Lol

[tdb320reef]

Looks great. How do your. Colors look?

Sent from my HTC Glacier using Tapatalk 2

[Poseidon]

Thats a pretty good idea, never thought of something like that. I have the Reds and Greens in my Radion but I haven't really messed with it much so not sure how I feel about them yet and I know you have alot of knowledge on lighting and well pretty much everything else so yeah appreciate your opinion for sure, thanks :)

I'm always free these days, whenever you have some time and want to bs get ahold of me.

Will do Chris! I'll stock up on some brews and we can talk tanks. :)


That's a sweet fixture Mike. Been really busy but haven't forgot about you ! Working on this weekend if work goes along with it? Lol

Awesome! Glad to hear you are back to work, and back to "normal"?


Looks great. How do your. Colors look?

Sent from my HTC Glacier using Tapatalk 2

I can't really say, the acans and trumpet look GREAT, my SPS are all tiny frags. Fish colors are very good as well.

[Poseidon]

http://youtu.be/NpjN1BwErP0

Lets give this a try...

[Poseidon]

Ya, it really does look good in person. I need to cobble up a "blue filter" out of something.

[tazzy695]

Tank looks great Mike

But put the phone down and give us some sweet pics from the real camera lol :p

Sent from my SPH-L710 using Tapatalk 2

[tdb320reef]

Not sure what kind of camera you are usinng but with a cannon tSeries I set the White balance at 40/180 seems to add enough yellow to level out the blue.

They look great.

[Poseidon]

Those are all with my iPhone... I'll get out the good camera. ;)

[binford4000]

Awesome! Glad to hear you are back to work, and back to "normal

Read more: http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/members-reefs/poseidons-new-adventure-20739/page16.html#post164510#ixzz2K3IYCZYs

Well as normal is it can tell EOM then it's judgement day ! Might as well make some $ for now.
Lol. Video looks good. You need some of my blue tip stag in their. Hippo keeps making frags anyway. I'll give you a call this weekend :oldman:

[Hopkins]

It is looking good so far. I can't wait until it starts growing in and looking like your old tank.

[tdb320reef]

looking forward. I have a canon 4ti with the macro but dont know what the heck I am doing. I take them in raw and deal with the color with the software. Wish I can find a better way.

On another note when I joined MR a couple years ago I stumbled across pics of your old tank and that made my decision to go with the black sand. Great choice and wouldnt do it any other way!

[Poseidon]

Time for a PHOTO UPDATE!

I took the time to get the "good camera" out, and snap a few quickies. Here are some new additions, some that I have had for a while.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-qtNHCCX/0/L/1D2N9581-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355262368&k=qtNHCCX&lb=1&s=A)
Lobo, added 1/27 Lansing Swap

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-b4wQK8R/0/L/1D2N9583-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355262393&k=b4wQK8R&lb=1&s=A)
Raptors Peace Coral and Red Acan. Raptors added from the Flint Swap, Acans from Cherry Corals, Lansing Swap

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-c5DWPkn/0/L/1D2N9586-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355262430&k=c5DWPkn&lb=1&s=A)
Captive grown green plate, from Lansing Swap.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-SdcHcMr/0/L/1D2N9587-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355262562&k=SdcHcMr&lb=1&s=A)
Male Fiji Lyretail Anthias, from Preuss Pets.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-t3gSh9c/0/L/1D2N9593-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355262996&k=t3gSh9c&lb=1&s=A)
Blue Milli, Lansing Swap

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-mLj7P6M/0/L/1D2N9594-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355262871&k=mLj7P6M&lb=1&s=A)
Red Planet, Lansing Swap

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-GnPxg9L/0/L/1D2N9595-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355263298&k=GnPxg9L&lb=1&s=A)
Duncans, MMMC Frag meeting.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-83pVXpH/0/L/1D2N9597-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355263534&k=83pVXpH&lb=1&s=A)
Strawberry "Something", Lansing Swap

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-59tXWf2/0/L/1D2N9600-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355263788&k=59tXWf2&lb=1&s=A)
Red Chalice, MMMC Meeting.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-CHWCtZJ/0/L/1D2N9602-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355264351&k=CHWCtZJ&lb=1&s=A)
Frogspawn, from my friend James. This is one of the first pieces added to the tank.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-T9zNk36/0/L/1D2N9605-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355264802&k=T9zNk36&lb=1&s=A)
Left side of the tank.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-LJmfFrG/0/L/1D2N9612-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355265107&k=LJmfFrG&lb=1&s=A)
Full tank shot.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-s6MTxLW/0/L/1D2N9622-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355266254&k=s6MTxLW&lb=1&s=A)
Trumpet Coral, this is a frag of my own, purchased from the Trop about 1999 or so. Cared for by James while I took a break. (Yes it really is THAT green!)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-3Pp9SPw/0/L/1D2N9623-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355266263&k=3Pp9SPw&lb=1&s=A)
Green and Blue Millis next to each other.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/i-FgTgpDP/0/L/1D2N9624-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Aquarium-Feb-2013/27864739_JXSJ7K#!i=2355266335&k=FgTgpDP&lb=1&s=A)
Blue polyped green cap with purple rim. (Flower Pedal Cap)

[tcp316]

Very nice corals. This is going to be gorgeous! !

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[tdb320reef]

Mike the tank looks absolutely incredible. I just love the rock work and if I am not mistaken you cannot buy that kind of rock any more.

Whenever - you get ready to stock it up let me know and Ill hook you up.

[creefer]

This is coming along nicely, Mike. Great choice of livestock, too!

[Poseidon]

Mike the tank looks absolutely incredible. I just love the rock work and if I am not mistaken you cannot buy that kind of rock any more.

Whenever - you get ready to stock it up let me know and Ill hook you up.

Thanks! I ordered the rock dry, from Reef Paradise in Flint. All but one piece was bright white when I started the tank.


Ah nothin' like a good quickie :) Tank is definitely coming along nicely Mike.

Thanks Chris! I have plans for some more pieces, with spots already picked out for them. ;)


This is coming along nicely, Mike. Great choice of livestock, too!

Thanks! A couple of the corals weren't on my list, and they may find new homes, but for now they are good indicators of tank health. :)

[Poseidon]

Added 3 more frags last night:

1) Forest Fire Digi
2) Montipora Setosa
3) Yellow somethng... LOL. This looks like a "Hawkins" but yellow instead of blue/green. The frag is tiny, some might call it a "Fra". LOL

[Poseidon]

Another documentation post..

Water change done, 20 gallons of RC.

I also added 6 more fuzzy sticks, including Tort, and Hawkins! WOOT!!!

[Poseidon]

I am looking for a frag of this....

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Poseidons-Frags/i-hqQtXLt/0/L/48MM9473-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Poseidons-Frags/5530719_6c7RxZ#!i=339901870&k=hqQtXLt&lb=1&s=A)

It was called a red/white/blue milli when I bought it from Raptor many years ago. I know it was a great frag for me at frag swaps, I am hoping that someone still has it and can cut me a frag!

[Poseidon]

I had my first "bump in the road" last night. The DIY Kalk reactor leaked, a lot. Turns out the output had some dried calk blocking most of the drip, causing much more pressure then the epoxy could handle, which separated the fitting from the cap.

Got out the carpet cleaner, and sucked a couple gallons of water out of the carpet. :(

The good news is the failure did not add a large amount of kalk to the system or even fresh water, the tank was at 1.025 just like it is supposed to be. I'll make a refined DIY Kalk reactor soon.

[tcp316]

Did you get the kalk reactor fixed? I'm glad it didn't affect your tank levels.

[tcp316]

Hey Mike,
How is the tank going? Have you taken any more current pictures of the new corals.

[Misfitkid]

Hey mike.. Looks good man. I'm getting back in and just wanted to stop in and say hello.

[tazzy695]

What's up misfit good to see you over here

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[MightiesKeeper]

Hey Mike the tank looks great!
Chris u posted the same thing I was thinking. Lol
Welcome back Misfit.

[Poseidon]

Hey B! Nice to hear from you!

I plan on taking some pics tonight... have to document the frags small... things seem to going well at the moment. :D

[Poseidon]

Ok, a photo update:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/i-tcnWZN7/0/L/1D2N9630-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/28238288_PcM9pt#!i=2388361777&k=tcnWZN7&lb=1&s=A)
Pink Lemonade.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/i-9bGHWKQ/0/L/1D2N9633-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/28238288_PcM9pt#!i=2388361743&k=9bGHWKQ&lb=1&s=A)
M. Setosa The "bad spot" was there when I bought it, it is recovering nicely.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/i-B5GF7GS/0/L/1D2N9637-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/28238288_PcM9pt#!i=2388361835&k=B5GF7GS&lb=1&s=A)
TORT!!!! My favorite!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/i-WvvVqXg/0/L/1D2N9646-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/28238288_PcM9pt#!i=2388362089&k=WvvVqXg&lb=1&s=A)
Chalice

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/i-phqGrXB/0/L/1D2N9649-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/28238288_PcM9pt#!i=2388362357&k=phqGrXB&lb=1&s=A)
Lobo

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/i-kWLL52N/0/L/1D2N9652-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/28238288_PcM9pt#!i=2388362769&k=kWLL52N&lb=1&s=A)
Acan

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/i-WVHQv2f/0/L/1D2N9655-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/28238288_PcM9pt#!i=2388362703&k=WVHQv2f&lb=1&s=A)
Peace Coral

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/i-KDMPQjP/0/L/1D2N9699-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/28238288_PcM9pt#!i=2388364994&k=KDMPQjP&lb=1&s=A)
My current favorite fish!

---------- Post added at 10:18 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:16 PM ----------

The full gallery can be seen here:

March 2013 - Mike LaPorte (PerfectPix)'s Photos | SmugMug (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/28238288_PcM9pt#!i=2388361777&k=tcnWZN7)

[tcp316]

Your tank is looking awesome. I love your fish. Very colorful and graceful choice of fish. I enjoyed the pictures on your link. Very nice.

[Poseidon]

Doh! I forgot to put the FTS in the thread:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/i-6mhWzmj/0/L/1D2N9725-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/28238288_PcM9pt#!i=2388367733&k=6mhWzmj&lb=1&s=A)

[tcp316]

Doh! I forgot to put the FTS in the thread:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/i-6mhWzmj/0/L/1D2N9725-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/28238288_PcM9pt#!i=2388367733&k=6mhWzmj&lb=1&s=A)

This is going to be breathtaking. Nice!@
You have such an eye for coral placement. I can see it very well and end up having to move stuff.

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[Seph]

Nice! Your corals are looking good Mike.

[dentdominator]

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/i-6mhWzmj/0/L/1D2N9725-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2013/28238288_PcM9pt#!i=2388367733&k=6mhWzmj&lb=1&s=A)

As always picture perfect! Your a very gifted aquatic photographer.

[Poseidon]

Not an update of the current tank, but I was going through some old pictures, and found these:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-Tank-September/i-VkJws56/0/L/1D2N2525-L.jpg

And one of those precious moments:
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-Tank-September/i-fXZxWNv/0/L/end%20shot-L.jpg

Hopefully the new tank grows in QUICKLY, and I can capture more of these expressions while the kids are still young.

[binford4000]

That sure was an awesome tank !

[tcp316]

Precious

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[Poseidon]

A quick update for documentation.

Last week I did a 20 gallon water change on Tuesday, then another 5 on Thursday. I also sucked out some algae that is growing on the sandbed, in lower light areas. It ALMOST looks like GHA, but not. LOL

Today I did a thorough clean on the skimmer, 5 gallon bucket with a gallon of vinegar clean! :D It seems to be running much better so far.

I also moved the chaeto from the last chamber in my sump, to the first. The reason is the amount of "other" algae that is growing on my top off floats, I don't want to chance that causing an issue. I also stopped into a local "garden" store, looking for LED's that were red only... no luck there. LOTS of halides though. LOL!

[Poseidon]

Just a quick documentation type post, pictures to come later. ;)

I added from the A2 Swap:

Chalice from Cherry Corals
Chalice and Garf Bonsai from Beaker Bob
A Red/white/Blue milli.... hopefully this is the same one I had before.
and a Pearlberry!

I also re-scaped my tank last night, not sure I like it any better. I do have room for more corals, so I may just leave it, and let the corals do the scape on their own. ;)

[tcp316]

Just a quick documentation type post, pictures to come later. ;)

I also re-scaped my tank last night, not sure I like it any better. I do have room for more corals, so I may just leave it, and let the corals do the scape on their own. ;)

Watching for pictures. Can't wait to see! Did you have to take corals off and reattach in order to rescape it?

[Poseidon]

Another documentation post.

Put system into standby, prepared food, watched everything eat, timer expires, return pump fails to turn back on. ARGH!!!! Take pump apart, no rust this time but the impeller is certainly stuck. I free the impeller and put it all back together and find water on the floor... in my hurry to fix the pump I didn't drain the final chamber far enough and made a mess.

Get the mess cleaned up, and notice the skimmer not working. Take skimmer apart, find Chaeato in the impeller, put pump back together no moving. Take pump apart, check bushings, put pump back together no work.... Third times the charm. Finally.. it works.

Put hand on return pump, its running much warmer then normal, it is not hot... but warmer then it was. I'm going to break something if I keep at it tonight, I'll take the pump (Piece of crap, this is my THIRD one.) back apart tomorrow.

[tcp316]

Keep your chin up. Tomorrow it will probably jump right out at you what the problem is.

Don't you just hate it when it seems everything's going wrong. Hopefully all will be better tomorrow

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[tcp316]

Mike, I have an ocean runner 2500 you can borrow if you need it.

Very nice and generous Chris

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[slapshot]

Ugh! Been there done that, some days it's better to just go to bed and start over tomorrow.

[creefer]

Ugh! Been there done that, some days it's better to just go to bed and start over tomorrow.

So true. I've done the same a few times.

[Poseidon]

Thanks for the kind words guys, and gals!

I was back at the return pump this morning, I took it apart, cleaned it out really well, I soaked the impeller in vinegar for about 30 minutes and cleaned out the pump volute. I also cleaned the final area of my sump out since I had it drained. When I put the pump all back together I could get the impeller assembly to seat in the volute well, but I could not get the volute to seat onto the pump as well as I thought it should. I screwed it all back together, and got it running again... it is still running hot as compared to what it did before, an e-mail is in order to Reeflo now.

[tcp316]

If it is any consolation, I have my light set to have 2 Blue+ come on first and then 2 Coral +. This morning the 2 coral+ flickered and then wouldn't come on so I am running on 2 bulbs. These are all new bulbs so I am afraid it is ballast.Haven't taken it down yet.
Good luck with your pump

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[Poseidon]

Time for another update, I brought the good camera out!

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Aquarium-April-2013/i-bq95xtn/0/L/1D2N9962-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Aquarium-April-2013/29039939_dFQkks#!i=2470570625&k=bq95xtn&lb=1&s=A)

This darn Chromis was insistent to sit here:
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Aquarium-April-2013/i-Q93b9wJ/0/L/1D2N9976-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Aquarium-April-2013/29039939_dFQkks#!i=2470571082&k=Q93b9wJ&lb=1&s=A)
This pic has my Tort, pink lemon aid and setosa, should make for a pleasing visual once they are all grown up/

A closer full tank shot:
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Aquarium-April-2013/i-v9pkVGg/0/L/1D2N9988-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Aquarium-April-2013/29039939_dFQkks#!i=2470571402&k=v9pkVGg&lb=1&s=A)

From the right pane looking in:
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Aquarium-April-2013/i-zKB32rq/0/L/1D2N9996-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Aquarium-April-2013/29039939_dFQkks#!i=2470571622&k=zKB32rq&lb=1&s=A)

And finally, my view from the couch:
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Aquarium-April-2013/i-xvjqmkW/0/L/1D2N9997-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/Aquarium-April-2013/29039939_dFQkks#!i=2470571664&k=xvjqmkW&lb=1&s=A)

So far so good, I am getting very good growth on some pieces, some OK growth on others. I really like the "new" stand, it looks nearly finished. I still have the trim to do, and some sort of decoration to the front of the stand, I am thinking something brass.

Also, I am looking for opinions on the trim and finish moldings, any ideas?

[MizTanks]

I think that stand looks beautiful as it is. Maybe some brass on the front like you said but I'd definitely skip the trimming.
Entire setup is awesome! A build to be proud of for sure :)

[tazzy695]

Tank and everything looks great Mike

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[tcp316]

Beautiful! And I love how the stand turned out.
By the was I thought the fish was cute posing for you like that. Grin

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[binford4000]

Tanks looking good Mike ! I really like the way you did the cedar. Very clean lines. I love the look of the northern cedar. I am going to send a link to him,he keeps asking if it worked out. I think he's getting reef itch lol

[Poseidon]

Holy cow, life has had me busy this summer!

The tank is up, and running, but I am battling a really NASTY Cyano type algae, I say "type" because it isn't typical cyano, it is reddish in color, and grows VERY fast, but it grows EVERYWHERE. Hi flow, Low flow, HIGH light (600 PAR+) and low light, (less then 50). Nitrates and Phosphates test Zero, but they have to be there. Corals are growing pretty well, and color is good.

So far, I have tried manual removal, frequent large water changes (25 gallons weekly), Chemiclean, additional bacteria products (BioActiv 8), 3 days of lights out, and I am now on to a PO4 removal product. (Phos Guard by SeaChem, I know... I wanted to go with a GFO, but that wasn't very budget friendly, and I have read some bad results with SPS.)

This algae started about mid June, and it has progressively gotten worse. :(

I'll get the good camera out later, the iPhone camera just doesn't cut it with my LEDS.

[tcp316]

Holy cow, life has had me busy this summer!

The tank is up, and running, but I am battling a really NASTY Cyano type algae, I say "type" because it isn't typical cyano, it is reddish in color, and grows VERY fast, but it grows EVERYWHERE. Hi flow, Low flow, HIGH light (600 PAR+) and low light, (less then 50). Nitrates and Phosphates test Zero, but they have to be there. Corals are growing pretty well, and color is good.

So far, I have tried manual removal, frequent large water changes (25 gallons weekly), Chemiclean, additional bacteria products (BioActiv 8), 3 days of lights out, and I am now on to a PO4 removal product. (Phos Guard by SeaChem, I know... I wanted to go with a GFO, but that wasn't very budget friendly, and I have read some bad results with SPS.)

This algae started about mid June, and it has progressively gotten worse. :(

I'll get the good camera out later, the iPhone camera just doesn't cut it with my LEDS.

So glad to see you are still at it. Coincidentally, I have been fighting red cyano as well. I just added a MP10 and am dosing a higher magnesium. I am hoping to get the level up to around1500 to see if the algae disappears. Once it is all clear, I am switching out my sand and getting rid of most of the eggcrate. My phosphates and nitrates test out zero as well. But obviously, something is going on. I am thinking not enough flow.
Keep us posted on what you discover;)


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[creefer]

Hey Mike....
Wish you well. I'm fighting what sounds like the same thing as you.....testing 0 as you, nearly the same exact situation. I just started running GFO for the first time in a while and I'm not really happy to do so. I can get rid of this stuff, but the acros are growing well and color is good. Keep us posted.

[binford4000]

Well Hello Mike !! Glad to see your hanging in there. I switched to sea chems phos guard about eight months ago.I have been very pleased with results and the cost factor is a nice plus.Looking forward to seeing the tank.Hopefully the busy summer means better times then last time I saw you. Still holding on to that monster reactor for ya ! I can deliver it for you if you need. I need room for the benz hard top and my new toy "Precious" has one too. Please take this thing !!! lol Good to see ya. TCP 316 is fighting the same thing,her mag levels were very low and I think when she gets it up higher it will be gone.Food for thought. I have seen very posative results keeping my mag up in the 1600's keeping em high from now on. :oldman:

[Poseidon]

Thanks for the kind words!

I am on day 3 of the PO4 remover, and though the algae is still there, the rate at which it is growing has decreased for sure. I blew it all off the rocks, added a piece of foam to catch some of that free floating crap, and will continue to wait it out. I have 25 gallons of water mixed and ready to go for a water change, if needed.

Chuck, I keep forgetting/getting side tracked on that reactor. I'm sure we can work something out. :D

[Poseidon]

The algae is still growing, I changed out the PhosGuard for a fresh cup worth tonight. I have been blowing the rock work, and sand clean of most of the algae almost every night. The growth rate is decreasing, to my eyes anyway.

I also cleaned the foam filters I have added to the tank, I clean them about an hour after blowing the algae off the rock, the water the flushes from them is definitely red... Another way to remove this CRAP.

[tdb320reef]

Any updated pics?

[slapshot]

Any updated pics?

Yea come on!! Inquiring minds want to know!!

[binford4000]

Yea come on!! Inquiring minds want to know!!

Yeah and we want pictures not big words !! ROFL. :oldman:

[Poseidon]

YAY!!!! It's GONE! The evil cyano from **** is GONE! All it took was about 1.8L of PhosGuard, used 1-2 cups at a time, changed every 4 days. That's all... LOL

I do have another minor outbreak of Hair Algae taking the spot where the cyano was, but that is fading fast. Just a tip... if you don't rinse the PhosGuard well, it makes the tank pretty cloudy, BUT it also seems that the dust is effective in its own right. After a day or 2 of cloudiness the tank clears, and that dust is removed by my corse foam that I have wrapped around the return pumps intake bulkhead screen. Now, I can add a few corals and fish.

Total losses from the Cyano outbreak:
Male Anthias and 1 female Lyretails (Due to drastically reduced feeding)
1 small frag, ORA Pearlberry
1 UFO Chalice from Bob, it got buried in the sand during one of many gravel cleaning sessions, and I didn't notice it was missing.

Efforts used:
Weekly 25 gallon water changes, no effect.
Chemiclean, No effect (used full 300 gallon treatment)
Weekly 25 gallon changes, plus the addition of Bacteria (BioActiv 8) No effect.
Stopping Water changes, and running the PO4 remover, 100% effective, after about 1 month.

I wish I would have listened to myself, and others about the PO4 being there, even though it was showing 0 on the test kit.

I am going to continue to run PhosGuard for a while, but 1 cup at a time, and for 2 weeks between changes, hopefully that will be enough to keep it away, now that is gone.

[MizTanks]

Wow what a battle! I'm exhausted! Lol I sure am glad that's over with, aren't you?! Any ideas where the PO4's coming from?


Sent from my iPhone 4s via Tapatalk.

[Poseidon]

I really don't. I'm using what I thought were high quality foods. I have quit using the Instant Ocean brand shrimp packets that I got from the Lansing Swap. The other foods I use are Spectrum pellets, and some Hikari Mysis. The tank is quite cloudy today, I'm hoping to get the camera on it tomorrow. :D

[binford4000]

Good news ! :thumbsup: on the phos guard. I like it much better then GFO personally. :oldman:
Looking forward to the pics

[tcp316]

[QUOTE=Poseidon;

I am going to continue to run PhosGuard for a while, but 1 cup at a time, and for 2 weeks between changes, hopefully that will be enough to keep it away, now that is gone.[/QUOTE]

For curiosity sake, do you run the PhosGuard in the sump or your DT?

[Poseidon]

Hi Vicki, sorry for the long delay, the PhosGuard is in the sump, they are round pellets, similar to carbon. Put it in a filter bag, and add to a high flow area.

Update on the tank, Ca is high... like 520, Alk is sitting at 9, maybe 9.5. All traces of that red plague are gone!!!! I do have a few "fuzzy" spots on the rock work, but that is also fading fast. Tomorrow I will replace the PhosGuard, it will have been a 1 cup bag for 2 weeks at that point.

I also started dosing Kalk again last week. I bought a 1.5 gallon water bottle that is supposed to go in the fridge, the kind with the nozzle and handle to fill a glass. Well I took out the spring and lever, and filled the nozzle with Epoxy, then drilled a small hole through it. It adds a bit to fast, so I will have to fill and drill again.

Hopefully I'll get the camera out tomorrow, this week has been rather stressful at work. The merger is complete, and our call volume has been RIDICULOUS! Over 100 calls in Q all day... I used to take about 60-80 calls a day, now I am at 120 plus for the last 2 weeks straight.

Another water change is on tap soon as well, it is nice to be back to once a month instead of 25 gallons once a week!

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Yay. Mike! Way to beat the cyano. Sorry about the losses along the way. Mostly I chimed in to say "WE NEED SOME PICTURES!!!!"

Tom

[Poseidon]

Man, where does the time go?

Time for an update! The tank is really coming into its own now, the cyano is GONE, the corals are growing, and the fish are fat and happy. I took the time to get the good camera out, sat down in Lightroom, and actually took some pretty decent pictures. I still need to figure out the LED photography, I can get the color right, but I tend to blow the highlights pretty bad.

After a recent trip to Reef Paradise (The Blue Glow), I decided to really decrease the white LED channel. I am noticing a DRASTIC increase in color saturation in some pieces, and it has only been a week.

Ok, on to the images:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-9sRmwKQ/0/L/1D2N1108-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-9sRmwKQ/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-zXcND2X/0/L/1D2N1110-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-zXcND2X/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-8fZPsbP/0/L/1D2N1115-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-8fZPsbP/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-pHzd23K/0/L/1D2N1117-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-pHzd23K/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-DJvb5b8/0/L/1D2N1121-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-DJvb5b8/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-rZsKZQh/0/L/1D2N1124-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-rZsKZQh/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-bFR54pn/0/L/1D2N1127-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-bFR54pn/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-9ncS9z6/0/L/1D2N1130-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-9ncS9z6/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-Wqrz7Lq/0/L/1D2N1135-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-Wqrz7Lq/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-SZhNpgX/0/L/1D2N1141-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-SZhNpgX/A)

[Poseidon]

More...

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-tgX2Lnz/0/L/1D2N1143-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-tgX2Lnz/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-zDkKTqm/0/L/1D2N1146-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-zDkKTqm/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-HwMLtVR/0/L/1D2N1151-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-HwMLtVR/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-5gFS4VZ/0/L/1D2N1159-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-5gFS4VZ/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-ghFq5h5/0/L/1D2N1162-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-ghFq5h5/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-XMNrwdV/0/L/1D2N1165-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-XMNrwdV/A)

My favorite from the set:
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-VsCPj6X/0/L/1D2N1172-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-VsCPj6X/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-XNgv6cv/0/L/1D2N1177-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-XNgv6cv/A)

A couple FTS Shots:
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-9wRk7hF/0/L/1D2N1194-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-9wRk7hF/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-82CdDcz/0/L/1D2N1203-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-82CdDcz/A)

[MizTanks]

More...

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-tgX2Lnz/0/L/1D2N1143-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-tgX2Lnz/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-zDkKTqm/0/L/1D2N1146-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-zDkKTqm/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-HwMLtVR/0/L/1D2N1151-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-HwMLtVR/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-5gFS4VZ/0/L/1D2N1159-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-5gFS4VZ/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-ghFq5h5/0/L/1D2N1162-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-ghFq5h5/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-XMNrwdV/0/L/1D2N1165-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-XMNrwdV/A)

My favorite from the set:
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-VsCPj6X/0/L/1D2N1172-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-VsCPj6X/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-XNgv6cv/0/L/1D2N1177-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-XNgv6cv/A)

A couple FTS Shots:
http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-9wRk7hF/0/L/1D2N1194-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-9wRk7hF/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-82CdDcz/0/L/1D2N1203-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/My-Reef-December-2013/i-82CdDcz/A)

Simply put, beautiful!!! :)


Sent from my iPhone 4s via Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1).

[tcp316]

Growing in beautifully

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2

[binford4000]

Looking really good Mike!

[Rpalt1]

awesome setup

[creefer]

I really like the way the scape turned out, Mike. Well done.

When I was reading about your challenges, I was experiencing the beginnings of cyano. I appreciate the phosguard tip. That stuff is great.

I like the idea of reducing the white light. I did that quite sometime ago and have been very pleased with the results as well. I look forward to future updates.

[Poseidon]

Growing in beautifully

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2

Thanks Vicki!


Looking really good Mike!

Thanks Chuck, had to dust off the camera, I have an upcoming photo shoot. ;)


awesome setup

Thank you.


I really like the way the scape turned out, Mike. Well done.

When I was reading about your challenges, I was experiencing the beginnings of cyano. I appreciate the phosguard tip. That stuff is great.

I like the idea of reducing the white light. I did that quite sometime ago and have been very pleased with the results as well. I look forward to future updates.

Thanks! I am glad the PhosGuard worked for you as well. So far the biggest change has been visible in the Lobo, I had lost almost all of the orange in that coral. When I cut the white light a bit, the orange started to fill back in within days.

I picked up a couple polyp frag of "JuJu Eyeballs" from Andy, hopefully the blue light helps keep the blue in those Paly's. They looked really nice at the shop. (The War coral is also from RP.)

[binford4000]

Mike have you totally shut down the whites?? I was at Andy's yesterday and noticed he was really into the blue glow. He didn't go into deep detail about useing only the Blues. I rember back in our MR days everyone thought I was nuts running just all atentic T5's. In my experience with my LED's turning all the whites off really reduced the PAR values dramatically . I also believe still that the strong Blue really is beneficial to the health and coloring of coral pigments but still need the ( lack of better terms) 10K bands for light penatration and health of the algae's that corals hold. I have been useing what I call the 30% rule of hand. I set my whites at 30% of my blues percentage value. In doing this we are able to get the pop of the strong blue and the benefit of it for the pigment development and yet still produce strong PAR for the SPS without frying delicate soft corals. We presently get 150 Par in non over lapping areas at the bottom of the tank and around 240 to 250 in overlapping areas. Of course this is due to haveing two rows of modules . For taking pictures I have been setting the whites at 50% which really helps in setting the white balance. Looking forward to when you can make it out. I think you will be surprised in how much things have grown! Ttyl. :oldman:

[Poseidon]

That is about where I am Chuck on the 30% white. I know we have different lights, so who knows if that is at all approximate or not.

The added white certainly helps with the camera, the set I took yesterday was at 70/35 I think.

[Poseidon]

First tank challenge of 2014 met, my FIFTH return pump from Reeflo has died, and been replaced. I am now running an old Blueline Velocity T4 that I had in the basement, No more Reeflo pumps for this guy... Rust is not a good thing in a reef tank.

[tcp316]

Wow. That's a lot of pump failure. Hope this works out better for you

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2

[creefer]

Man...good thing you had a back up. I can't believe that you've had 5 failures. Crazy!

[schminksbro]

Mike have you totally shut down the whites?? I was at Andy's yesterday and noticed he was really into the blue glow. He didn't go into deep detail about useing only the Blues. I rember back in our MR days everyone thought I was nuts running just all atentic T5's. In my experience with my LED's turning all the whites off really reduced the PAR values dramatically . I also believe still that the strong Blue really is beneficial to the health and coloring of coral pigments but still need the ( lack of better terms) 10K bands for light penatration and health of the algae's that corals hold. I have been useing what I call the 30% rule of hand. I set my whites at 30% of my blues percentage value. In doing this we are able to get the pop of the strong blue and the benefit of it for the pigment development and yet still produce strong PAR for the SPS without frying delicate soft corals. We presently get 150 Par in non over lapping areas at the bottom of the tank and around 240 to 250 in overlapping areas. Of course this is due to haveing two rows of modules . For taking pictures I have been setting the whites at 50% which really helps in setting the white balance. Looking forward to when you can make it out. I think you will be surprised in how much things have grown! Ttyl. :oldman:

I have found corals to grow and color beautifully under all blue and royal blue. Most of the other colors get filtered out by the water in the ocean. Most corals likely never see anything but blue and violet in the wild. I get plenty of par from my AI sol blues and I only run blue at 50% and Royal Blue at 60%. White at zero. That's over the acro tank. Corals may acclimate to other colors of light but most don't need it. Everyone has a different personal opinion of the look that appeals to them. IMO corals just look better when you can see their colors. White just washes them out for no benefit that I can find. Besides, I like basking in The Blue Glow:)

[binford4000]

I have found corals to grow and color beautifully under all blue and royal blue. Most of the other colors get filtered out by the water in the ocean. Most corals likely never see anything but blue and violet in the wild. I get plenty of par from my AI sol blues and I only run blue at 50% and Royal Blue at 60%. White at zero. That's over the acro tank. Corals may acclimate to other colors of light but most don't need it. Everyone has a different personal opinion of the look that appeals to them. IMO corals just look better when you can see their colors. White just washes them out for no benefit that I can find. Besides, I like basking in The Blue Glow:)

I didn't mean that I disagreed. Thought the store looked sweet in the blue glow! I actually have taken yours and mike suggestion but did leave some white. I am now running both blues on all 6 AI's @100% the whites are now @23%. To my surprise the par levels have actually gone up! It has only been six days but no ill effects as of yet. Like my wife says,when your snorkeling or diveing what color do you see?? Blue!

[schminksbro]

I didn't mean that I disagreed. Thought the store looked sweet in the blue glow! I actually have taken yours and mike suggestion but did leave some white. I am now running both blues on all 6 AI's @100% the whites are now @23%. To my surprise the par levels have actually gone up! It has only been six days but no ill effects as of yet. Like my wife says,when your snorkeling or diveing what color do you see?? Blue!
I didn't take your post as disagreement. I just wanted Mike's tank thread to be a little "bluer":) I would like to add that in a nutshell light is just photons. The blue and violet colors penetrate the deepest so actually they are the strongest. You can definitely have blue light that is too strong.

[Coral Frenzy]

Sorry about your pump. Great pics as always!

[Poseidon]

Thanks guys for the compliments! I am really starting to look forward to the SWAP.

So far so good with the new pump, tanks is running along nicely.

[schminksbro]

More pics! More pics! :mob:

[Poseidon]

No new pics yet Andy.

I did do a couple of tests, both Alk and Ca came in a bit high, at 9.5, and 440ish respectively.

New return pump is in place, Reeflo can kiss my proverbial a$$, I have had FOUR of this particular series, ALL of them RUST.

I have the next week off from work, it has been a really hellish 4th quarter, I am looking forward to some Veg time, enjoying the tank, and maybe a DIY project or 2.

I saw that offer from Premium Aquatics on a Kessil 360, for some reason I REALLY like those, I am so tempted to get one. I sent a PM to them, asking for a package deal with a controller component for my reef keeper, if they say yes, I'll have to bite, then I'll sell my current fixture, I should be able to get $200-$250 for it easily, as it is "like new condition".

[foxhole]

No new pics yet Andy.

I did do a couple of tests, both Alk and Ca came in a bit high, at 9.5, and 440ish respectively.

New return pump is in place, Reeflo can kiss my proverbial a$$, I have had FOUR of this particular series, ALL of them RUST.

I have the next week off from work, it has been a really hellish 4th quarter, I am looking forward to some Veg time, enjoying the tank, and maybe a DIY project or 2.

I saw that offer from Premium Aquatics on a Kessil 360, for some reason I REALLY like those, I am so tempted to get one. I sent a PM to them, asking for a package deal with a controller component for my reef keeper, if they say yes, I'll have to bite, then I'll sell my current fixture, I should be able to get $200-$250 for it easily, as it is "like new condition".What do you like about the Kessils over the Reefbreeders?

[Poseidon]

It is hard to quantify, but the most obvious difference is in the shimmer lines. Kessil has that "point source" of light that REALLY brings out the lines, and shadows. The multi emitter spread out, looks more like T5, as compared to a MH, if you look strictly at the shimmer and shadow, not counting the color rendition at all.

[ReefTech]

It is hard to quantify, but the most obvious difference is in the shimmer lines. Kessil has that "point source" of light that REALLY brings out the lines, and shadows. The multi emitter spread out, looks more like T5, as compared to a MH, if you look strictly at the shimmer and shadow, not counting the color rendition at all.

+1 on the shimmer aspect. Ive been running two 350w over my 120 and nothing comes close to immatating the shimmer kessil's provide. I would highly recommend getting the 360 maybe even the 360w if they have them. going with the wide lens allows you to turn up the intensity more than with the other versions. Ive benn running mine for two months now with both colors at 100% for 6 hours a day and my fish really pop and all my sps are coloring up nicely and really starting to take off. I really don't think youll be disappointed with them. Tanks looking great by the way, cant wait to see some more pics.

[Poseidon]

Time for a quick update, I decided on a skimmer over the Kessils for now. I went with the Vertex Omega 150, I bought it from Dirk at the MCES, his price was fantastic!

So far the skimmer has been running for about 2 days, and it has produced more skim mate in those 2 days, than the Diablo 160 would do in a week. :D

The bubble density is much greater with this one, and the transition from the body to the neck is far smoother. I think this skimmer is a better fit for my system and bio load, it has a much smaller diameter than the Diablo does.

I did have to build a skimmer stand out of egg crate, as my skimmer area in the sump has a bulkhead sticking up from the bottom, from the previous use as a "top sump". The skimmer is sitting in about 5-5.5" water and working well. I'll post up a video in a bit.

[Poseidon]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCTwBAf1jpQ
This is when I first plugged it in, and set the water level

[Poseidon]

After just 10 hours of use:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xS2dEdWHAU&list=UU2gq4fRK5Y8daB_4PWZTsCg

The skimmer is not that loud, it is my drain that is located directly behind the skimmer making all that noise.

[Poseidon]

Anybody have a DE Halide fixture laying around? I am thinking of trying one out, I think I have a ballast laying around somewhere.... LOL

[Poseidon]

Ok, this is the first post with a NEW light. Well, an old light, I traded my Reef Breeder LED for a 250W PFO pendant and galaxy selectable ballast. (250W, HQI, 400W, and "Turbo")

I don't like the bulb that was included in the trade, not even a little. :( I was planning on a Phoenix, or a Radium anyway, which I am going to buy this week.

Once I get the "proper" bulb, I am going to decide on supplementation. I am going to add blue, whether that is LED or T5, I haven't decided yet. I am leaning towards the T5, mostly because I already have a ballast and end caps for T5 bulbs. Blue Plus is my choice, I was thinking a pair of them.

Once I straighten up my install, I will post some pictures. One thing that is FOR CERTAIN, I really missed the shimmer/glimmer lines that a halide bulb can produce. :D :D :D

[ALWAYSFISHIN]

Tank looks like it's coming along great mike. I saw your thread and had to dedicate the last hour reading through it....twice. I Just stumbled back into the hobby again myself after a little time away. I really like the captive reef community so far, just browsing as of lately. I debated on a lighting change after I saw kessel at Lansing swap and talking to you for a bit, as of last week switched my 8 bulb to fixture for 2 kessel 360 w e series. I was shocked at how much brighter my 8 ts t5s. We're than the 2 kessel. But shimmer was worth it for sure...... hope your tank goes well like your last tank, which I'm sure it will, looks amazing now.

[Poseidon]

Hey Tim, great to see you back in the hobby! I hope the Kessil work out for you, I don't know why, but one morning, I woke up and said HALIDE. The shimmer is AMAZING, I am going to keep that one way or another. :D

[Poseidon]

Getting back into the halide swing of things. I decided to add a fan to the top of the PFO fixture. I went to storage unit and found a IceCap 80mm fan and power supply, the matching hole saw and drill, and off I go.

The IceCap fan sounded silent on the table, so I cut the hole in the top of the fixture, and mounted it to the top where it can draw air out, from the vents that are precut in the side. Well, the heat sensor REALLY ramps up after 30 seconds or so, it sounded like a blow dryer in my living room. Off to the computer store I go, I pick up a $9.99 special, and bolt it in place to see if it is any quieter.. NOPE! Geeze! When did little fans become so stupid loud?

I ordered a "silent" fan from Amazon, should be here Thursday.

The Radium was my choice on bulb, it will be here TOMORROW! I can't wait to see what the tank looks like tomorrow with the new bulb in place.

As for the corals, so far some have really responded, my Lobo is ORANGE again, REALLY ORANGE, where it was a muddy purple with orange streaks before. The Garf bonsai looks a bit more brown, but I am sure that is the result of the 12K bulb I have in there now. Hellboy looked better under the Blue LED too, he might have to be moved as the placement is significantly brighter now.

So far the only negative is that the tank heated up by 1 degree, and I can see particulates in the water. I guess I will put the filter pad back in.

Pics to come tomorrow night.

:D :D :D

[Poseidon]

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-ftHxBj2/0/L/1D2N1596-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-ftHxBj2/A)
Tank, stand, and light.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-sCxK86V/0/L/1D2N1599-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-sCxK86V/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-LSGjk2p/0/L/1D2N1605-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-LSGjk2p/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-KCRtGNF/0/L/1D2N1608-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-KCRtGNF/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-Vh2NjP9/0/L/1D2N1615-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-Vh2NjP9/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-FWd8zsX/0/L/1D2N1618-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-FWd8zsX/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-8W79Dw8/0/L/1D2N1620-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-8W79Dw8/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-XsQSKrT/0/L/1D2N1624-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-XsQSKrT/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-PJMTJCV/0/L/1D2N1635-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/March-2014/i-PJMTJCV/A)

[Poseidon]

I'm not real happy with this set, I took to much blue out of the images, as the tank is a bit more blue than these, not much though. Also, there is a lot of particulate in the water due to the Diamond Goby, he may need a new home soon. ;)

[Sir Patrick]

Tank is looking great Mike.

[binford4000]

Looks great Mike ! You sure got the shimmer now !!

[Poseidon]

Tank is looking great Mike.

Thanks Chris!


Looks great Mike ! You sure got the shimmer now !!

Thanks Chuck!

A minor change to the tank today, I changed the controller around a bit, and put the new light on the controller and put the sump light on a regular timer. The change is for safety, I set an alarm on the RK Lite, so that if the tank reaches 80, the halide goes off. i don't think that will ever be an issue, but I'd rather have that safety in place.

Something else that is different on tank, I have a lot of micro bubbles. :( Need to find the source quickly. :(

[MizTanks]

Mike what's the name of that substrate? Very unique!

[tcp316]

Did you take the pictures on the wall? I like them

[Poseidon]

Mike what's the name of that substrate? Very unique!

Thanks! It is SeaChem "Gray Coast" I am not sure if it is still available. It is a calcite, very high in Magnesium, that is whyI chose it.



Did you take the pictures on the wall? I like them

Thanks Vicki, yes I did. The Powder Blue is from Tomasz's old tank, and the Sohal with all the SPS is from BSBarton. The other 2 are from my own tanks, and the Leafy Sea Dragon was from a zoo some years ago.

[Poseidon]

I think I cleared up the micro bubble issue, my strainer was full of chaeto and detritus. Since I am running a filter pad in front of the pump intake, I took the strainer off and put a 90 facing down on the intake for now, just to see if that was truly it. The tank is really growing on me with the "bright" light. I do miss the Blue though, I am looking at ways to add some back in, ReefBrite LED's, or Blue Plus?

[tcp316]

Very nice. I have taken a lot of photos over the years but the only ones I have spent the money to canvas are of grandkids. LOL.

[Poseidon]

Those aren't Canvas, just mounted on a foam backing. I get them from the new Meijer here in Creek Vickie, they are pretty cheap, about $12 for a mounted 8x10.

[tcp316]

Really. I will have to check that out. Thanks for the info

[Poseidon]

I'm about a week into the halide and so far so good! I really enjoy the shimmer, and the "brightness" of the halide is really hard to beat.

I do want to add some T5 or LED blues to the tank, I have been going back and forth on ReefBRite and T5 Blue + bulbs. Any input?

[Sir Patrick]

Go blue LED. Add them on an angle. They will make things pop, and add even more shimmer.

[schminksbro]

Do both leds and t5 Mike. Cover all the bases! Of course I would also go with a 20k halide.

[binford4000]

Wouldn't adding T5's cut down your shimmer?? I would add a radion 20k bulb and some royal blue LEDs !!!

[schminksbro]

Wouldn't adding T5's cut down your shimmer?? I would add a radion 20k bulb and some royal blue LEDs !!!
Between the halide and the reefbrite leds it should shimmer like a disco ball no matter how many t5s he adds. However he will get richer color using the combo. I have found it difficult to use leds as a supplement with halides because they are point source. They don't flood like a t5. You just get blue spikes directly under the leds. And I agree on the bulb although I think you meant Radium which are awesome provided you are running an hqi or electronic ballast vs a magnetic. If you are running a magnetic ballast I would suggest XM 20ks.

[Poseidon]

Ok, I have a Radium bulb, and it is that really crisp white color to my eye. The tank could stand to be just a bit more blue, either T5 Blue + or LED, I just want more blue. :D

What about this:
18 LED Dimmable Actinic Supplement Kit - Rapid LED (http://www.rapidled.com/18-led-dimmable-actinic-supplement-kit/)

I would cut it to two 14" strips, and place one on either side of my halide. Since ReefBrite comes in 12" and 15" a DIY solution may be the best looking option. No optics for the best possible spread.

Opinions?

[Sir Patrick]

I currently run a single strip of 12 blue supplimental leds w/o optics. I got plenty of spread, as long as the leds dont point strait down.

Offset at an angle, they made the entire 24" tall tank glow. I attached it to the front edge of my main light source (T5 Fixture)

I plan on doing the same with my current 3x MH set up.

[Poseidon]

A couple of observations, the Radium has "burned in" a bit and has a nice crisp blue that I remember. I still need to add some lights, for dusk/dawn and that awesome BLUE GLOW that you can only get with Blue LED light.

Another observation is that I dropped a full point on my Alk in 3 days! I am getting GROWTH, not just growth from the polyps like paly's and Zoa's actual SPS growth!!! Yay!!!

Next on the list is the LED supplement, then a DIY Kalk reactor I think.

[foxhole]

Check out the Avast Marine K-1

[Hopkins]

I second the Avast Marine kalk reactor kit. It was pretty easy to put together and it works well.

[Poseidon]

Still chasing Alk numbers, using the DIY 2 part additive to raise it. I am shooting for 8, I seem to bounce around between 6.5 and 7.5 "ish". (I know each drop is a point in the test kit, but the color change is not quite complete at 6, and 8 is to many drops.)

I have seen a marked increase in growth, Pink Lemonaid is growing VERY quickly, as is the Red Planet. I have noticed growth in the pink bird nest as well. Blasto's, Acan's, and Duncan's also have been showing substantial improvement.

After having used LED since the beginning in this particular tank, I can honestly say that for me, for this tank, the power of a 20K Radium bulb has been a much better choice. If only it was as "pretty" of a fixture as the LED was.

[Poseidon]

Went for a visit to the Binford's last night, had an absolute blast! I'll post up a few pics as soon as I can get them off the camera.

[binford4000]

Enjoyed our selves too Mike. Sorry that blue tip frag was so small tho ! Lol

[Poseidon]

Time for a visual update:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-FjBqSWt/0/L/1D2N2502-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-FjBqSWt/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-xCrFhf2/0/L/1D2N2506-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-xCrFhf2/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-vn4Gvzb/0/L/1D2N2513-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-vn4Gvzb/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-NHq8rvW/0/L/1D2N2514-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-NHq8rvW/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-dcphGGq/0/L/1D2N2518-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-dcphGGq/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-7bZKhWC/0/L/1D2N2520-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-7bZKhWC/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-Wnf4x8s/0/L/1D2N2522-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-Wnf4x8s/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-QtLKQ9g/0/L/1D2N2527-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-QtLKQ9g/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-hj6BW4m/0/L/1D2N2530-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-hj6BW4m/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-XQZS9SQ/0/L/1D2N2532-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-XQZS9SQ/A)

[Poseidon]

More Pictures:

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-FSCHCND/0/L/1D2N2534-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-FSCHCND/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-FL5mB7w/0/L/1D2N2536-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-FL5mB7w/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-M9tBjHp/0/L/1D2N2537-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-M9tBjHp/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-S4S5wW6/0/L/1D2N2541-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-S4S5wW6/A)
Hellboy, starting to get red again.

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-VJ9CKZW/0/L/1D2N2547-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-VJ9CKZW/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-Wswv4mh/0/L/1D2N2553-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-Wswv4mh/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-xBDsHBn/0/L/1D2N2556-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-xBDsHBn/A)

http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-hdmx2t4/0/L/1D2N2557-L.jpg (http://perfectpix.smugmug.com/Aquariums/April-2014/i-hdmx2t4/A)