Miz40B

[Dmmz]

It's looking great how is it going with the xf-130 are you still happy with it?

[MizTanks]

Thanks Dmmz! Yes, I'm still loving the Gyre. More importantly, my corals love it as well. Awesome having just 1 pump in the tank. I'm still playing around with it. During the day I run it at 30% pulse mode and at night 10% continuos mode.
Finally mounted these two. Doing quit well.
Green Pocillopora on left and Purple Stylophora on right.
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[MizTanks]

Well so far I couldn't ask for more stable parameters. Have tested every morning for a week. ALK=9.1, CA=420, MAG=1360, PH=8.1-8.3 and temp 79.1. Love the doser!

Tank is doing awesome!
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[Sir Patrick]

What is that new favia called? Its really nice

[MizTanks]

This one? Dragon Soul Prism Favia. I'll keep you in mind come fraggin time :)
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[Sir Patrick]

Wow that thing is cool!!

[MizTanks]

Thanks Sir! :)
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0GJe-U5galY&feature=em-upload_owner

[Sir Patrick]

That was a pretty cool video

[MizTanks]

Picked up a 1 1/2" Yellow Watchman Goby today. They didn't have any pistol shrimps so I ordered a Randall's. Really looking forward to the symbiotic relationship between the two. :)

Update 2 1/2hrs later and I fear this spastic lil fish is gonna go carpet surfing sometime during the night. One minute it's calm, chillin on the SB. Next it's bouncing all over the tank like a pinball. WTH?

[larryandlaura]

Did the fish go carpet surfing Jamie?

[MizTanks]

Lol-Nope!! Actually he seems to be a bit more comfortable. Went after a bit of food this morning. First time I've seen him eat since I got him.
He's also discovered his reflection, not sure if he wants to kiss or kill himself-lol. I thought for sure he'd have claimed himself a rock cave by now. Instead he's all over the place. Favorite place being on top of the Gyre pump.
Definitely doesn't care for the white lights at all. Goes into hiding the minute they come on.
I'm so loving having happy, healthy fish in my tank. Something I really haven't gotten to experience since starting the hobby. Was almost ready to give up. Larger tank, big difference :)

[MizTanks]

Update: Well I thought he was coming around. Might just be to intimidated by the other fish. He is a tiny lil thing. All's he does is hide, can't get him to eat either.
Wish there was something I could do. If he would stick to the sand bed, like I thought he would, nobody would pay him none. But he keeps swimming over into the Grammas territory and gets chased away. Then he goes into hiding again.
Maybe I should return him until the pistol shrimp arrives??

[Dmmz]

Even with a pistol shrimp all mine did was hide 90% of the time I had them for 6 months then traded and was happy but it could of been just mine

[MizTanks]

I don't mind him hiding so much, it's that he's not eating either [emoji22]

[MizTanks]

Yahooo lil Goby! Out an about and eating NLS pellets like a champ!!
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[MizTanks]

Not a very good day for my tank [emoji20]
First while looking about I noticed an Aptasia on my new Prisim Favia. Thinking to manual remove it I took the Favia out and proceeded to remove it from the plug. NOT!! I wound up breaking the skeleton. I put it back in the tank, Aptasia and all. I don't know what else to do.

Then I noticed my Bi-Colored Blenny has a raised white spot on him. He's not rubbing on anything, great apatite and very active.
It took me an hour to get these pics!! He's very camera shy-lol.
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Then to top it all off. There is a scratch on the front glass that runs entirely from top to bottom-UGH!!

[MizTanks]

Update: Strangely the spot has diminished greatly just within the last couple hours.

[MizTanks]

Ugh!! Out of all the corals to choose from my Blenny just had to pick on this one :( Took it off the rock it was glued to and put it on the frag rack.
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[Tankster]

do the goby/shrimp need a certain sand bed depth?

[MizTanks]

Not really. My sand beds have never been over 2" and I've always had a pair. Added my Randall's yesterday and they paired up instantly [emoji7][emoji7]
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[MizTanks]

Well it's settled, will be returning bi-colored Blenny. No matter where I put it he refuses to leave my Mystic Sunset Monti alone. Luckily he has a nice little hole in a rock he always goes to. Hoping to cover it with a net and put the rock in a bucket until he comes out.

[MizTanks]

Sadly I haven't seen nor heard from the Pistol Shrimp since the day after I added it [emoji53]
Mr. Watchman is a strange lil fish for a goby. Spends 98% of its time in his lil burrow but then has days like yesterday where he spends all day swimming around the tank and slept up top in a corner.
Tanks doing well. Corals growing. All my Zoa's are still alive. One frag has gone from 4 polyps to now 9 [emoji7]
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[MizTanks]

New additions today! Cleaner Shrimp and a Hawaiian Featherduster [emoji7]
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[Sir Patrick]

Let that feather duster do its thing, make sure there is nutrients suspended in your water, and let it do its thing.

[Sir Patrick]

They are easily collected because they dont move fast.

Give it the nutrients it demands, as well as the clean water it needs.

Ive gone through a few of these, and have heard of many have a hard time with these long term. Dont be discouraged if its hard for you to keep.

Although.....if anyone can long term- It would be you.

[MizTanks]

I must be among those who struggle with them. Mine has disappeared [emoji45] I can see a bit of its tube in the rock crevice but that's it. I'm just gonna leave it be.
On another note, it's nice to be target feeding a Cleaner Shrimp again [emoji2]

[MizTanks]

I need to vent. After running these lights for almost a year, I gotta say I'm not a happy camper. Maybe it's because I'm comparing them to others like AI, Radion and Kessil's but my tank just doesn't look right.
I'm still unable to turn the whites above 13-15% max. Anything over and corals look faded out. Even after removing the optics from the 9 center diodes, I still have the hotspot dead center. The majority of the time my tank is blue. Because I'm running way more blue. A look I've never liked!
Maybe it is I'm doing something wrong, maybe not. But I'm stuck with them and I'm hating it [emoji45]

[jimsflies]

What lights are you running?

[Tankster]

I need to vent. After running these lights for almost a year, I gotta say I'm not a happy camper. Maybe it's because I'm comparing them to others like AI, Radion and Kessil's but my tank just doesn't look right.
I'm still unable to turn the whites above 13-15% max. Anything over and corals look faded out. Even after removing the optics from the 9 center diodes, I still have the hotspot dead center. The majority of the time my tank is blue. Because I'm running way more blue. A look I've never liked!
Maybe it is I'm doing something wrong, maybe not. But I'm stuck with them and I'm hating it [emoji45]

You sounded happy six months ago? Haven't you recommended these lights to several others?


Have turned my white lights down even further, now running them at 20% max. Ramping up/down for 5hrs. Blues I've kept at 50% max. Ramping up/down for 8hrs. I'm liking the look very much. Would probably like even more blue-lol. Who would have thought?

[MizTanks]

Yes I was and I did. Maybe I spoke to soon? Or maybe I'm doing something wrong? Could be I don't know enough about LED's and what to expect from them.
Is it normal not to be able to turn the whites up higher than 15%? Are hot spots normal? It took my Favia 4-6wks to start showing bleaching in that hot spot area.
I've not read where others are having these same issues. So is it just my unit? I spoke with the distributor. He doesn't understand it either. He runs his whites at 40% max on his 40B.
Could be I'm expecting to much, bored maybe? My corals are growing great. I've no algae issues at all. Yet a couple things still bother me enough that I can't let go of. The Hotspot and not being able to turn up the whites.

[Tankster]

Could be I'm expecting to much, bored maybe?

Sounds like time for an upgrade!

[MizTanks]

I guess that's the biggest part of my frustration. When I said I'm stuck with them. I don't have the means to upgrade.

[Poseidon]

I didn't like that style at all. Went back to halide myself.

[Tom@HaslettMI]

You probably have this info in your thread somewhere... But how long are you running the lights?

Tom

[jimsflies]

I would say that it is typical that the whites would be in the 20-30% range for most people that want a 14-20k look to their tank.

I think a hot spot is typical. In fact, I would say desirable if you are growing different types of corals. It gives you places that are higher and others lower in light so that you can position corals where they do the best.

I'm running a kessil 360 now and it basically is a spot light. So, I have a sharp light gradient to position corals with different needs.

[MizTanks]

Well so far I've yet to find anything that will do well in this hotspot area. I've tried, Favia, Fungia, Dersa Clam, Monti and a chalice. All started to bleach after a 4-6wks, the clam died. This is on the sand bed too. I also removed 9 optics from the center. Hoping to spread the light more. With my laptop down, I can't test the par without the optics. Before their removal I was getting a par of 260.

Like I said though, my corals are all doing very well. As long as I keep them out of that area. Until I find something that will do good there, it remains empty.
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[Tom@HaslettMI]

Personally I like the look of an open sandbed.

Tom

[MizTanks]

Me too! It would look even better if I could spread the corals out more. Instead of bunched up off to the sides.
Just seems like something's missing.....

[Tankster]

Just seems like something's missing.....

How about Sponge Bob's pineapple? It wouldn't be affected by the hotspot.

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[MizTanks]

OMG!! Is that ever cute!! [emoji23][emoji23]

[MizTanks]

It is so nice to have a tank where the basic parameters are so stable!! I began my doser on 3/25/15. Not a long time I know but still the results have been awesome.
I've been staggering my testing times, morning, noon and night. Always at least an hour after dosing. Just to see if there are any significant swings. The results for the past 2 months have been nothing short of amazing. I am one happy reefer with my numbers [emoji2]
ALK=9.0
CA=440
MAG=1360
PH=8.0-8.2
These numbers have been steady. With ok LPS/SPS growth. Nothing major but growth just the same. I hold my lights partially responsible-lol.
My Zoas are still alive anyways [emoji12]
I've been dosing SeaChem, Reef Plus & Marine Trace 10ml each 1x weekly. Directions say 2x weekly but I always under dose first to see how my tank reacts. So far nothing negative, to early to see any positives.

[MizTanks]

Added a Whisper 10i filter to my return chamber today. Filled with carbon. It's only 90gph but it's keeping the surface slightly agitated and doesn't take up much room.
It shouldn't interfere with the ALK/CA dosing right?

[jimsflies]

Well so far I've yet to find anything that will do well in this hotspot area. I've tried, Favia, Fungia, Dersa Clam, Monti and a chalice. All started to bleach after a 4-6wks, the clam died. This is on the sand bed too. I also removed 9 optics from the center. Hoping to spread the light more. With my laptop down, I can't test the par without the optics. Before their removal I was getting a par of 260.


You should be able to grow coral with 260 par. Without optics, it likely went down. What do you mean you can't test without optics?

I do like the valley aquascape you've got going though.

[MizTanks]

My laptop crashed so I can't use my Seneye Par meter to test the par. I need to connect it to the Internet to use it.
If it isn't the lighting causing the issues, then I've no idea what it could be. But for sure cannot put my Favia's there, within 2wks I start seeing tissue recession. Move them and within a couple days they're back to normal. Tried my Fungia there also, same results.
Maybe I'll try an Acanlord or Acan Enchinata? Try picture documenting the results-lol.

Thank you for the compliment Jim [emoji2]

[Poseidon]

Jamie, I am really happy that I went away from that particular style of LED. I am sure there are people out there that are successful, my friend Nick is one of them, but I wasn't getting the growth that I expected.

I am still using LED, and heck I am thinking I am going to add some more. That being said, the halide has proven to be very successful for me.

The parameters you posted are spot on, you should be getting consistent growth at this point for sure.

[MizTanks]

Oh I'm getting growth. Some more so then others. Many of the corals I've never owned before so my growth estimate is ignorant.
My Birds Nest has grown crazy in the past 8 months. My Stylo I got in March has already encrusted onto the rock. A Zoa frag I also got in March has gone from 4 polyps to 11. My Acans are also thriving with many heads. All in all I guess I am getting good growth-lol.
My only complaint has been this hot spot and I'm not even 100% sure that's what it is.

[Poseidon]

Was that hot spot the 270 PAR? LED PAR is supposedly underreported on most PAR meters by ~25% due to all the blue content. Sounds like you are doing well in growth though, is it just the numbers being low that bother you?

[MizTanks]

265 par on the SB with whites @15%max and blues@55% max, unit 11 1/2" from waters surface. Isn't 265par on the SB a little high?
I'm only calling it a hot spot because of what I've read and how a couple corals started bleaching when kept in that area for 2wks or more. No tissue recession, just color loss. Once I moved the corals off to the sides, within a week all color returned.
Several weeks ago I removed 9 of the center optics. Tried once again putting 2 X-Mas Favia frags in that area. Once again corals started bleaching after about a week. I've since removed them and they are now completely normal.
Here's another thought I'm having just because of what I've witnessed this past week. My Bi-Colored Blenny for whatever reason simply loves skimming his body in that same area or very close to it. It is ONLY that area he does this. Not on the rocks, no where else on the sand bed, just that same spot over and over again, every day.
So I'm wondering if he's the actual cause. Like he doesn't want any corals in that area-lol. Am I reaching here?

[MizTanks]

Spotted this lil guy in my fuge this morning...very cool!
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[jimsflies]

Brittle star?

[MizTanks]

Brittle star?

Yes I believe so. He must have been in the dead Acro Tenius I threw done there. The Acro is on a lil chunk of LR. Now my Emerald Crab has company. [emoji12]

[MizTanks]

Well I caved an bought a Sixline Wrasse. Smaller than the Gramma and so far so good. A little curiosity on the Gramma's part but no aggression[emoji2]
Also picked up another Scarlet Hermit, only Hermits I'll keep. All is well with my tank.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/04/fa55b6f7a407f938a4757d922cd98194.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/04/cf4a52fa52255ae445433720bbde3e86.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/04/4445377ad2b25b34ea2d2da0e12d3278.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/04/fbc762568be744848ffbd9b0027803a8.jpg

[Poseidon]

Looking Good!

[MizTanks]

Thank you Poseidon. Just realized that my tank is 1yr old.

http://youtu.be/CDEgd0HpDYM

[MizTanks]

All is well. Corals growing like crazy. Sixline being a great addition and very well behaved. Love seeing his belly full. My Cleaner Shrimp molted for the first time since I got him.

[MizTanks]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/09/1734003c6cef64724b5f2cb693e65000.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/09/d20af87e2768fa32d940601a3db72b8b.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/09/d293d7bed61460a2b4d2ba2deff170b1.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/09/f06fa09401dd898d76ca49562442cf30.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/09/f8b02d896d4fffaff7cef8307b9ce2ea.jpg

[larryandlaura]

Nice colony pictures Jamie. Glad your tank is doing well.

[MizTanks]

Thank you Larry [emoji5]️

[MizTanks]

Reactor's up, running SeaChem SeaGel. Pump is in my overflow chamber, return is between return baffles. Amazingly reactor hangs perfectly on the sump tank [emoji106]
Even more amazing are my 4 frags of assorted Zoa that are still alive and growing. Here's 2 of them.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/22/20f2e2b05302c4d32f857e07345dff55.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/22/63326c218c13b069a3049e3905f13bf9.jpg
Picked up a frag of Varsity Blue Cyphastrea for $5
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/22/98aa0dd0bf20bfc57910bccba49e0597.jpg

[MizTanks]

Amazing growth shots!
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/27/d2164a1b1e34f82833b5422e133b9d32.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/27/18f93789949f364c21a4b23c524fb4b5.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/27/e1bb0962c3f8c82a5fb3f748bbde229a.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/27/bf9df18cedf1c33bf23b52c2c0eb75db.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/27/1dc5560908db30330a085b0b08b98545.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/27/1b89c042c3018dc08a0c4f9f8a5debe8.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

Wow! Your tank is looking great Jaime!

[MizTanks]

Thanks Chris [emoji2] Means a lot to me coming from you.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/28/6be76b3334074dd76d39da2e2dc097a0.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/28/bfbdf831eb0b67d214368f15129d32f5.jpg

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Tis looking very nice! Did you solve the LED bleach spot issue? It looks like a bunch of LPS are hanging there.

One other constructive comment: I think the overall scape would look better if more corals were on the rocks and less were on the sand, and... you need a clownfish! Just kidding on the clownfish.

[MizTanks]

Took the optics off of 9 center diodes. As for corals on the rock, I'm saving spaces for more Sticks [emoji2] However there are several others besides the obvious SPS on the rock.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/29/e6ca91333c73d96023b5e161e0370970.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/29/3dea07d30a00d7dca82a81bbd03e6fb7.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/29/17edbf21a013ec32e7e59251ac2e7aa1.jpg

[MizTanks]

Little bit of excitement in my tank today. Haven't seen my Watchman all morning. Figured he was freaked out over the addition of a bunch of snails and went into hiding. Several hours later I decide to change my sock and thank God I didn't squeeze it out like normal. Tipped the sock upside down into a bucket and out pops the Watchman. He's now back in the tank. How he got past the funky screen in the overflow box is beyond me-lol. Shoot I do know how he survived being pummeled by the drainage in the sock!!

[MizTanks]

Good morning CR! Hope everyone is doing well [emoji2]
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/10/7d60245293ca5f0224840f2d77d9ee78.jpg

[binford4000]

Looks great Jamie!! Better then ours does. Lol

[MizTanks]

Thanks Chuck but I highly doubt that-lol.

[MizTanks]

After a WC today, sitting looking at my tank I suddenly realized that the Digitate Hydroids are no more! Gone! Not a one visible! I've no idea what I did if anything. Maybe the 6line Wrasse ate them? I'm thinking he/she did [emoji106]

[MizTanks]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/16/cdd004fd1009cfaa3cc2dc0a786d2dde.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/16/0440e75f0ac1ca19a914c0b93eac475f.jpg
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http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/16/3c4cdf66c227f08f79503eb62578d8e2.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

Awesome tank- your going awesome with it.

[MizTanks]

Harvested a little chaeto today. Second time in the last 30-40 days. Stuff grows crazy fast! To bad I cant do anything with it but toss it out [emoji45]
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[Tom@HaslettMI]

Harvested a little chaeto today. Second time in the last 30-40 days. Stuff grows crazy fast! To bad I cant do anything with it but toss it out [emoji45]
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Very nice. can you give it to the LFS?

Tom

[MizTanks]

LFS that used/sold it closed down.

[MizTanks]

All is well and growing [emoji2]
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/28/cedb03ebf3b03a9234f5c8021d2a6c36.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/28/89f0bd791c991724e5369b89d0c7eed0.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/28/bea1cf5c2457cd5291cb02dd626decd9.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/28/dd533161b6640a62442a269a584e1810.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/28/dd533161b6640a62442a269a584e1810.jpg

Those are SWEET!!

[that Reef Guy]

Those are SWEET!!

I agree.

Awesome Corals.

[jimsflies]

Looking awesome Jamie! Great job.

[MizTanks]

Thanks guys!! [emoji2] Here's a today FTS
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/29/9ff843fe5c6be5def99103978db90317.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

Those sps are doing great!

[MizTanks]

A friend sent me some filters used for taking iPhone pics. Look guys, no more blue!!
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[MizTanks]

Chaeto harvesting time! My fuge area is 13x12x8 and it was packed.
Large Image Linked to Load Page Faster (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/23/e418c0fc61de23cd32a26d25379d8b96.jpg) (584 kB)

[Gryhund]

Looks great!

What kind of filters are you using?

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Looks great!

What kind of filters are you using?

What she said...

[MizTanks]

They're just little thin plastic squares. Ranging in color from dark brown to light orange. Google iPhone pic filters, they're everywhere.
Took these today using a light orange one.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/24/a840d74ee7536f029bf813a6ea0ff7b3.jpg
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[MizTanks]

Tanks doing well. Sixline has settled in very well. Surprisingly my Banggai keeps him in check. Actually the Banggai is the tank boss. My Zoas are still alive!
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/11/23/9d7710b0e626af2d17d37d0d1ffdc414.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/11/23/76dfbeba70ce1abe6b2d2001034114df.jpg

[MizTanks]

Guess my corals have grown a bit since I last posted-lol.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160118/305183a3858a527f48bf44df820815c0.jpg
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160118/24ae058900561538cb8f355382b9e785.jpg

Having a SB issues so I'm slowly removing it bit by bit.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160118/67c1d3c972c8493eeab7ea6734cbc554.jpg

[MizTanks]

Well my once Fire & Ice Zoas are now aptly named h2o2 Overdose [emoji38] This happens when you use to much.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160123/ad3cd16a0cf2f35541438bc8ce157776.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

Well my once Fire & Ice Zoas are now aptly named h2o2 Overdose [emoji38] This happens when you use to much.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160123/ad3cd16a0cf2f35541438bc8ce157776.jpg

Crazy how polyps morph under different tank conditions. They look great!

Even though they are just fire and ice polyps that morphed, people will try to find a different name for them....I am guessing the "h2o2 overdose" fetch a much prettier penny too- even though its actually the exact same coral.

I just posted a thread in the zoa forum last night on this exact same subject-

http://www.captivereefs.com/forum/zoanthids-and-palys/trade-secrets-polyp-pimps-42909/#.VqP9R1JTKSo

Those fire and ice look great in that morph, always exciting to see something turn into something even prettier over time in our tanks.

[MizTanks]

It happened because I accidentally overdosed my tank with hydrogen peroxide. They closed up for a couple days and when they opened looked like that.

[Dmmz]

Your tank looks great!

[MizTanks]

Your tank looks great!

Thanks but you wouldn't be saying that if you saw it up close and personal [emoji38]

[MizTanks]

Why do my corals look so freaking good when under just blue lights? My whites are only on for 5hrs at 10%. When they're on my corals look crappy.
I mean isn't white lighting necessary?

[Sir Patrick]

Have heard, that with enough intensity, white lights are not necessary....but read this a long time ago. I could be wrong.

But think I am right.

[jimsflies]

All actinic is fine provided the light is sufficient intensity. Its hard to judge how intense blue light is. But give it a try for a while to see how things are holding up. Or manage your blue light period to be while you are most likely to be looking at the tank. I still ramp through about 30% white light during the day. But when I'm at home in the evening, the tank is all blue. Sunrise is at 7:30am and lights out is 11:00pm.

[MizTanks]

New skimmer arrived today. Woot woot! Icecap K2 120 by CoralVue. Going to get a vinegar bath tonight and install tomorrow. Took about 20-30 minutes to assemble, directions left much to be desired. Definitely not good for anyone unfamiliar with skimmers.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160226/240fcddc66b0a39b1c3b872c637808e0.jpg
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160226/b9a706b28256d0ab35eecbbdd337bef8.jpg
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[Sir Patrick]

That is one awesome looking skimmer!

[MizTanks]

Thanks Sir! It's already in and producing foam. Fits nicely in the chamber too. [emoji2]

[Sir Patrick]

Need a video of it doing its work

[MizTanks]

Coming right up!

[MizTanks]

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=hPMF__E5m2E&feature=youtu.be

[MizTanks]

Tanks looking good today!
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160301/6ea6c48c2dd52135813d33a1b2f6b3ee.jpg

[MizTanks]

Looky what I got at the UPMMAS Frag Swap! WOOT WOOT!! Plus a Fancy Brittle Star and 2 Emerald Crabs.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160314/7d31a4bb6f4038bae043a421cd54616c.jpg
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[MizTanks]

Sadly I'm loosing the Red Monti [emoji45] Not sure what happened. Just started to whiten. Not sure if it's gonna make it.

[MizTanks]

I've been so freaking discouraged because of the online prices of corals. Shoot, the last time I ordered online it cost me $150.00. Was sent 3 frags. One melted within 4hrs, one was not what I asked for because I already own them and the other was ok. So I actually paid $100.00 for a frag of common Zoas, $50.00 shipping. No refund, no replacement, store credit only plus shipping. Yeah I still get p.o'd thinking about it [emoji35]I'm a Scorpio we don't forget [emoji38]

All the above totaled $170.00! More then made up for it though. [emoji2]

[jimsflies]

It'd be worth your while to drive down state for the Michigan Coral Expo & Swap next year.

[MizTanks]

Financially impossible Jim. Always has been, always will be.

[that Reef Guy]

Financially impossible Jim. Always has been, always will be.

I totally agree with you as it is super expensive to buy stuff online.

I have never ordered online myself.

Unless you buy a TON of Coral All at Once it is not worth the 50.00 in shipping.

Plus you risk the Coral Dying or not getting what you thought you were getting as you mentioned above.

What if every time you wanted to order online you set that money aside for a Lansing Road Trip instead of Making that Online Purchase?

$150 here $150 there. You will save up enough for the Trip in no time.

All You need is One Night at the Hotel and Gas Money and the Trip is Paid For.

The Corals will be much much cheaper, No shipping fees, and you get to pick everything out in person.

There are Thousands and Thousands of Corals at the Lansing Swap.

It would be worth it I Promise.

[binford4000]

Jamie,

I will be doing a wreck dive trip this year and spending time with family back home.I will be going thru your home town so if you make arrangements with sonmeone like Steve "that reef Guy" or who ever, I will be glad to deliver to you.Cost ya nothing.See,told you I would be watching!!! ROFL Just not in April---Cozumel trip or in June ---Roatan trip . if you still have my number call me and we'll work it out

[MizTanks]

Jamie,

I will be doing a wreck dive trip this year and spending time with family back home.I will be going thru your home town so if you make arrangements with sonmeone like Steve "that reef Guy" or who ever, I will be glad to deliver to you.Cost ya nothing.See,told you I would be watching!!! ROFL Just not in April---Cozumel trip or in June ---Roatan trip . if you still have my number call me and we'll work it out

Well hells bells! Wish I'd of known this before the swap. I would of saved my money's. Steve has some mighty fine corals, some of which I'd love to own.
Now not only am I broke but room is tight in the tank. Day late an a dollar short, that's me! Lol

Thank you Chuck for such a generous offer. Nice to know you're watching out & over me [emoji4]

[that Reef Guy]

Well hells bells! Wish I'd of known this before the swap. I would of saved my money's. Steve has some mighty fine corals, some of which I'd love to own.
Now not only am I broke but room is tight in the tank. Day late an a dollar short, that's me! Lol

Thank you Chuck for such a generous offer. Nice to know you're watching out & over me [emoji4]

Chuck is a Great Guy. :)

If you change your mind let us know.

[MizTanks]

Not a matter of changing my mind. I buy for my hobby once a year.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160322/22b3ec3de0d2adce0a548fbc99d1a432.jpg

[that Reef Guy]

Not a matter of changing my mind. I buy for my hobby once a year.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160322/22b3ec3de0d2adce0a548fbc99d1a432.jpg

LOL

That is a good one.

[Sir Patrick]

Jamie,

I will be doing a wreck dive trip this year and spending time with family back home.I will be going thru your home town so if you make arrangements with sonmeone like Steve "that reef Guy" or who ever, I will be glad to deliver to you.Cost ya nothing.See,told you I would be watching!!! ROFL Just not in April---Cozumel trip or in June ---Roatan trip . if you still have my number call me and we'll work it out


Chuck- If your ever headed up her way- let me know. I would like to send free frags up to her, If your already making the trip. My number is still the same, if/when you need it.

[MizTanks]

Chuck- If your ever headed up her way- let me know. I would like to send free frags up to her, If your already making the trip. My number is still the same, if/when you need it.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160324/79530a4bd71b5f2d4d3b0040a9a8a510.jpg

[MizTanks]

Happy to announce the new skimmer is doing an awesome job. So very quiet. Even after a WC it's pulling nog.
All new corals are doing great except one. Slowly losing my lil red Monti. IMO not bad 1 loss out of 7.
So far my T. Maxima is looking great too. Only time will tell.
All in all tank is doing marvelous [emoji2]
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160329/aa2c3ad5644c1237990c46ca77ab66f7.jpg
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160329/59cf96eebfa6bff92a7cba78be6a2a4c.jpg

[MizTanks]

Sadly no I'm losing my BGM Chalice. This is the second one I've tried to keep. ☹️
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160404/a3f813a7f882c521ecf934f5c54f5acc.jpg

[binford4000]

Sadly no m losing my BGM Chalice. This is the second one I've tried to keep. ☹️
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160404/a3f813a7f882c521ecf934f5c54f5acc.jpg

Jamie,I think you can save this piece. Trim the dying edges and move it to the bottom of your tank to the least amount of lighted area you have.Then feed it heavly after the lights are off.Coral frenzy or a similar product. you may not get to see it for awhile but when it heals up start moving it slowly to the stronger light. When I had chalices that receded like this I would cut a 2 liter bottle in half and put it over the chalice and feed it oyster feast thru the the cap opening with a target syrange then put the cap on it. I would leave the bottle on it tell morning to ensure it got lots of food.Chalices are night hunters so feed them in the dark. Chalices can be really picky about the parr level or light intensity it recieves. Its important to rember that LEDS are awsome but lack the wide spread that T5 or halides produce. Slow and easy will cure this hopefully and when it adjust to the LEDS it will grow very well.Good Luck

[MizTanks]

I'll give it a try Chuck, thank you! [emoji7]

[MizTanks]

Seeing as it's lights out, I took it out and cut away the dead. Glued the remainder onto a small plug and set it back on the frag rack. In the morning I'll find a spot for it.
I'm pretty dang sure it was my Fancy Brittle Star's curiosity that caused the issue. Sure enough as soon as I took the Chalice off the rock one of his arms was searching all over the area, like it was looking for it.

[MizTanks]

I might have saved it!
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160405/c12e3eeda68fc0f4e72ae6924bca74d9.jpg

[MizTanks]

Spoke to soon [emoji45] Nothing left but a lil orange eye.

[Sir Patrick]

Looks pretty close to the LPS peice above it- I would give it some room, just in case of allelopothy.

[MizTanks]

It's gone. [emoji20]

[MizTanks]

Tank turned 2yrs old. All is well. Had to rehome my Bi-Colored Blenny as he was nipping at my clam. Was a sad day as he was my first fish purchased for this tank.
Got rid of the Gyre XF-130. Bought 2x Jebao RW-4's. Very sweet power heads. Love the night mode option. Drops the power down to 30% via a light sensor on the controller. One controller can be programmed as the master, the other as slave. For $104.00 per pair I'm quite pleased. For my tank they are perfect.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160606/013987d6b0c12665745141fa80b56276.jpg

[Tankster]

Happy birthday, tank looks great!
l

[MizTanks]

Not a very good FTS above. Here's a few closeup's of the corals.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160608/271d0bf6969bdb46a8f22e24ec2ab9e2.jpg
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[binford4000]

Happy 2nd Birthday!! Everything looks very happy. Great job!!!

[that Reef Guy]

Happy 2nd Birthday :)

Tank looks Awesome!

[MizTanks]

Sadly my Royal Gramma jumped ship. This after rehoming my Bi-Colored Blenny due to it nipping at my Clam.
Now down to 3 fish, one of which is a Sixline. Good luck to me trying to add any new fish with him in there.

[MizTanks]

Still battling a nasty SB issue. Tonight I started a ChemiClean treatment along with Bubbling. If this fails I'll be reduced to removing the bed entirely. Not a welcome idea.

[MizTanks]

http://youtu.be/9wC0q5XldeI

[Tankster]

Looks great!

[binford4000]

evrything looks very happy Jamie!!! Have you tried hermit crabs for the SB issue?? They did a good job back when we had tank.lol Sand sifter starfish helped a lot and the dang diamond goby. Good luck

[MizTanks]

Well the ChemiClean took care of the Green Cyanobacteria. But this rusty colored crap persists! Seems to get worse after every WC. Wondering if it's a form of Dinoflagalites?
I removed a bunch of sand from one side, so far that area remains nice and white with just one very small spot of "stuff" showing.

I've tested all waters for silicate with zero readings. Even bought a new RO/DI unit in March. Dose nothing but BRS 2part.

This has been going on for 2 plus years. Only steadies in that time have been the BRS 2part, water source and salt mix which is RC.

[MizTanks]

Into day 5 of H2O2 treatment, at 5.5ml daily. Zero change in crap on SB. Am told if no change by day 7 then it's a sure bet the only way I'm going to get rid of it is by removing the entire SB. [emoji31][emoji31]

[Sir Patrick]

Hey Miz-

Set those acans in the back corner areas of your tan, where there is not so much light. They will color up much better for you.

Those zoas you have in the top left are very nice.

[MizTanks]

Hey Miz-

Set those acans in the back corner areas of your tan, where there is not so much light. They will color up much better for you.

Those zoas you have in the top left are very nice.

Par over the Acans is only 50-60. Pretty low already don't ya think? My light is only 50% max for 1hr.
I thought they were looking good-lol.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160907/1ea6637ba719312c2d4099e92cdf84ed.jpg

[MizTanks]

Sand bed removal has officially begun.

Before WC today:
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160908/644a1581680065c4c0c592e63005facf.jpg
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160908/2a265ce13704cf2d44537de567ce15ac.jpg

After WC change and partial SB removal
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http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160908/65e7e2aabbca26295f3f6dd841e77273.jpg

[MizTanks]

It's baaaack!! UGH! Definitely removing this SB.
On another note my jbj ato died. No idea when I'll be able to replace it. Soooo a 12oz cup a day will keep the pump wet-lol.

[MizTanks]

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[MizTanks]

Thanks for the like Tom [emoji2]

[redemer123]

Glad to see you're still going strong, tank looks good.

[lngliv3]

What lights are you using I read the entire thread over the past 4 days I might have missed it ? If your having issues with ur lights if I'm reading correctly led's I may just have to think about t5s for my 50b

[MizTanks]

I'm using a Radion XR30 now, before that is was a 180w Chinese Black Box. Seriously considering going with T5's when/if I can afford them.

[lngliv3]

What was the good and bad about the black box lights?

[MizTanks]

The good was coverage for the price, programmable for the pice and my corals did great under it for the price.
The bad was diodes were burning out after a year and a half. Nothing major just the 2 ultra violets. Otherwise I've got nothing bad to say about the unit I chose.

[lngliv3]

Well both my lights are takin a ****. My current orbit 36" fixture with 2 55watt power compact with 2 10 k bulbs. My 36" dual t5 coralife one bulb just went out so now I'm really looking for a new system.. the black box light price isn't bad 100$ I just wonder if I need one light or should I get two?

[MizTanks]

What are your tank dimensions? What light are you looking at, got a link?

[lngliv3]

36 long x 18" deep 21" high. Either the galaxyhydro or the marsaqua lights they are cheap enough if the burn out I can get the replacement boards from sb Reefer

[MizTanks]

Check out the DM-165p+ or the Starfire at Reef Radiance.
http://reefradiance.com/close-outs.html

[lngliv3]

Ouch that is pricey

[lngliv3]

I'm was looking at this.i can't post picture errrrr. It's the sb reeflight.

[MizTanks]

Ouch that is pricey

Pricey? The DM-165p+ is only $119.00. 3 channels, controllable via the app using iPhone, Android or PC.

Keep in mind you're going to get what you pay for. I paid $315.00 for my black box.

[lngliv3]

It shows me the star fire is 299$

[MizTanks]

Scroll to bottom of the page. They're blowing out the DM-165p+ for $119.00.

[MizTanks]

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161207/dddc4581a5a7ebc0a4bb297f74d79cfd.jpg

[lngliv3]

Well I got my early b day present

[MizTanks]

I love this Brain! Slow grower though, at least for me.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161214/b60636ba1fd8471ee4a304a67c734ed9.jpg

Couple other favorites [emoji2]
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[binford4000]

Wow! Corals are looking very happy

[MizTanks]

Thanks Chuck! We hanging in there [emoji16]

[MizTanks]

Chugging along [emoji2]
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[Sir Patrick]

Looking great Miz!

[MizTanks]

Looking great Miz!

Thanks Chris! [emoji2]

[binford4000]

LOOOOOOOOOOOOOKIN Good!!

[MizTanks]

Thank you Chuck! [emoji2]

[MizTanks]

My Stylo has really taken off [emoji2]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170411/99aa79d6905a30e8fe4ef87c037e5e26.jpg

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Looking good! We need a FTS!

Tom

[jimsflies]

I agree... looks great lets see a full tank pic. :)

[MizTanks]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170421/bb59e0728412d912210de8ae30a3205c.jpg

Sorry for the window glare.

[MizTanks]

Sadly my Cardinal passed away tonight. Eating good yesterday no signs of distress or illness. By this a.m. he was low down hiding behind the rock. Tonight on the SB.
2 1/2yrs in my tank :(

[MizTanks]

UPDATE!
Got a new fish yahoooo meeee! Falco Hawk Fish and I’m diggin him a lot. Eats right out of my hand.
Tanks running well. Trying to figure out why my LPS are all pinched up. Any ideas? Could it be the Radion?[emoji16]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171107/97dc8b4c74a2b1a70845163f657d4213.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171107/74e1e1c1549bd41640c27c85c3fe4ec6.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171107/aed5541057ea23300c981fdeba36abe5.jpg

[tazzy695]

Nice looking good

[ETBReefer05]

Looking great Miztanks. Just doing a little creeping!

[Sir Patrick]

LPS pinched up? I always check salinity first....but yeah- too much light and direct flow could do it.

Need updates.