Sir patricks work in progress-

[Sir Patrick]

This will be my first long term reef build. Gonna try to set this one up right from the start. Been collecting equipment for almost a year, and have just about everything I need.

Equipment-

60 gallon breeder (still needs to be baught) 36x18x23
40 gallon breeder for sump
Home made stand
Custom canopy
250w MH light
2 36" VHO actinic
36" NO T5 for sump light
2 24" T5 HO for frag area in sump
2 reactors- one carbon and another phos
Large DIY protein skimmer
Mag 5 return pump
Mag 9.5 closed loop
dual corner overflows- DIY pvc and durso standpipes
Modded (sure flow) maxi jet 900
2 maxijet 1200 and 1 900 on wave timer
RO system
Cooling fan

For livestock I plan on keeping my ever growing zoa colection, some LPS, Chalices, and going to make an honest effort in sucessfully keeping SPS.

Fish for the tank....Gonna keep my B&W occy. and orange occy. clowns, my niger trigger, a couple wrasses (not sure which, but will include a yellow coris), and possibly my one eye psudo chromis.

The tank and sump will be run bare bottom. Closed loop will be set up to keep bottom clean/detrius suspended and work to send all the nasties down the corner overflows where the skimmer can take care of the waste. Random flow will be acomplished with the maxi's on the wave timer. Rock work will be elevated off the bottom of the tank and secured together using acrilic rods.

Sump will hold the skimmer, micron sock, reactors, heater, and a frag rack for frags. Lights will be run on an opposite schedule as main tank.

I will be using my live rock from my existing cube tank, along with odds and ends I have cooking in the basment. The rock in the cube was "cooked" 2 years ago, and has been with me, throughout a bunch of different tanks, for the last 6 years.

Should be getting a tank within the next couple weeks, and the stand and canopy will be stained very soon, then the building can begin!


Still need- For ease of keeping track-

Tank
Starboard
Mesh top
Aqualifter pump (for kalk dosing/top off)
Plumbing parts for closed loop and durso stand pipe
Quality heater

[Sir Patrick]

Some pics of progress so far-

skimmer-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/7E100_2490.jpg


stand-


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/Picture036.jpg


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/Picture039.jpg


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/Picture040.jpg


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/Picture041.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

Stand and canopy- Tank in pic is not going to be used-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/Picture025-1.jpg

[ReeferRob]

Cool man Im digging the go go gadget pannels!

[jojo22]

bit of advise, you may want to put a strip on those panels at the bottom, as they get moist from the sump the luan will warp and they won't want to go into the slots at the bottom as well.

That is of course if you plan to have the sump under there, which I assume you do if the panels are removable.

[graphixx]

right on so far!! this will be a good one to watch progress

[jimsflies]

Looking great. That is one heck of a skimmer!

[Sir Patrick]

Finally got the stand sanded and stained. Hope to poly wednesday. Should be able to replace the hinges on the canopy, and stain/poly that wednesday also.

Pics to come wednesday. Too dark outside tonight. Very happy with the color mix I made.

[Tom@HaslettMI]

looking forward to seeing the progress and the final product. I have to admit I'm a bit skeptical on the door design. Regardless I have a feeling it's gonna be a sweet set up.

Tom

[Sir Patrick]

I agree- I am a bit skeptical on the door deseign also....

The whole thing was put together spur of the moment. Other than the wood and tank measurments- there were no plans.

I never took into consideration the boards (door panels) warping/swelling, when the whole idea came to mind and was quickly implemented into the stand deseign.

I have however done what I can with what I built. The boor panels are solid oak sheets, not luan board. The entire inside of the stand has 3 coats of white primer, for light reflection and seeling purposes. The stain is waterproofing deck stain, and the entire stand will be polyurithan'd, inside and out. Doing what I can to keep the moisture out of the wood, as much as possible on this stand build.

So far, the stand has sat in my drafty garage for about 7 months, unfinished, and everything is sliding in and out fine. I have hopes it will hold up to the humidity of a sump.

[Tom@HaslettMI]

My concern is not with warping but with access and ease of use. It looks like you won't have access to the sump and DT at the same time. I store all of my tools, food and dosing stuff in the stand so I usually need access to both. I don't know if that will be possible with this style of door.

[Sir Patrick]

I see what you are saying.

The doors are completely removeable. You can pull them completely out and set them aside. Its pretty much a 2x4 stand after removal. Then when you are done working, they can be slid back into place. Front, sides, and back.

[Tom@HaslettMI]

I see what you are saying.

The doors are completely removeable. You can pull them completely out and set them aside. Its pretty much a 2x4 stand after removal. Then when you are done working, they can be slid back into place. Front, sides, and back.

Ahh, that make more sense. Not sure why I didn't figure that out myself. Not having any metal hinges or handles will be nice. I need to replace my hinges soon since they're rusting away.

Tom

[Sir Patrick]

A day late, (or 5 months late, depending on how you look at it) but got the stand and canopy stained and 1 coat of polyurathane. Still need a coat or 2, but here is the pic-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/video003.jpg

Started with light oak, added some mohagany and cherry, along with some leftover seeling deck stain, and this is the color I came up with. Color came out perfect for what I was looking for!

Next step- the sump!

[Tom Toro]

That's a good looking shade, Chris. I like it.

[ReeferRob]

Looks good, your the Bob Villa of fish tank stands!

[Fishgeek88]

Looking good!

[Werdlone]

I've been looking over your thread...what kind of ballast do you have for your metal halide??? I have 3 phoenix DE bulbs that are 1 yr use that you are welcome to have. they are supposed to hold spectrum for 18months but lose about 30% of output at 18months. If you are looking to figure out what lighting you want,this is a freebee!!! 6 months of good bulb left. If you have an hqi or electronic ballast. let me know.

As far as the front panel of your stand for access...plywood would be your best bet to not warp, but at 1/4" it will warp with the moisture regardless. Put some doors on, that overlap the frame by 3/8". Most hinges are made to overlap 3/8". Pretty easy to make some doors...just my opinion.

[MizTanks]

Sir, Tim the tool man would be proud! Stand is looking awesome. In the bottom of my 75g stand I have these little moisture absorbing packets. You can get em in all sizes. I get mine from Lowes/Menards.

[Sir Patrick]

Update a month later...Im finally picking up my new tank the day after tomorow (monday). Thought I was going to have to look back into used tanks, then found a suitible tank-

Brand new 65 gallon breeder w/ overflow. Was planning on dual overflows, but this tank will have to work. 2 more days, and I will have picture updates.

[ReeferRob]

Wohooo for you!!!

[Sir Patrick]

Got the tank- heres some pics-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/downsized_1228091845.jpg






http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/downsized_1228091844.jpg

[ryeguy28]

shweeetttnesss

the tank looked huge at preuss ( or at least to me lol )

[Sir Patrick]

^thx ryan.

My stand is about 5" taller than the one at pruess. I am 6'1 and the top of the canopy is even with my nose.

Still got alot of work ahead of me.....

Gotta put another coat of poly on the stand and canopy, mount reflectors and lights into the canopy, hook up cooling fans in the canopy, install baffles into the sump, paint the back of the tank black, get a durso standpipe for the overflow, get the tank drilled for the closed loop....

And I am working 4 double shifts and 2 single shifts at work this week...and next week....and the week after that....forever...

Gonna try to get this tank together asap though- I have been colecting and working on it for almost a year. Its time.

[ryeguy28]

if you dont mind me asking how much was the tank

[Sir Patrick]

$243 out the door.

[ryeguy28]

did you get the magflow kit or whatever lol

[whitetiger61]

Chris

That is going to be sweet.. Your stand was done great..nice job.


Rick

[Paulo]

Looks nice. WIll have to see it in person myself. I am actually "cooking" the rock that I got with the 170 and going to get ready to set it up. Gonna try to get it set up by end of Jan!

[Sir Patrick]

Nope- no plumbing with the overflow...thought it came with the overflow, but didnt. Was an extra $70. Pretty sure I can get a durso standpipe cheaper than that w/ a couple bulkheads.

Also decided-

Still gonna do dual overflow plumbing. Gotta have a backup plan, if one clogs up- I have heard the horor stories....the second will be an "in case of emergency" pipe, higher up than the durso, just an open pipe. If the durso clogs (or whtever else could happen) I will have the open pipe as back up.

I will just hard plumb the return over the back as previously planned.

Come on over sunday and get your hands dirty paulo! I got lotts to do, and wouldnt mind a helping hand!

[Cash]

New tank looks great Chris. Looking forward to seeing it stocked

[Sir Patrick]

Sounds like I scored 2 slightly used 175w xm 10k bulbs. Looks like I will be using a dual mh w/ vho lighting on this tank for a while. Should be picking them up tomorow.

Hope to pick up an acrylic frag rack while I am out and about. Gotta pick it up before I start on the baffles on the sump.

[Paulo]

Ok remember I have 18 and 19th off we can work on it!

[Sir Patrick]

Lets see- what have I gotten done???

I got the hole drilled in the canopy for the circulation fan!! Thats about it....

I picked up an acrylic frag rack! Check it out-


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/fishtank/Picture023-2.jpg

[Mike]

Like the frag rack :)

[BananaBoat]

looking good nice frag rack who made it

[Sir Patrick]

^not sure exactly....

[Sir Patrick]

Picked up some stuff today-

1" and a 3/4" bulheads
all the plumbing to make a DIY durso stand pipe from the dursostandpipes.com instructions
extra pipe to plumb in the sump

Pretty sure I will be working hard this weekend trying to get this close to being done.

[Sir Patrick]

A little more work, a little more progress.

Did some work on the canopy today. Pretty much got it finished. Its missing one of the 175w MH set ups (its currently running on my other tank) but will be instaled during the changover.

So far, I mounted an air circulating fan, 1 175w mh set up, a reflector, and the 2 bulb 36 VHO set up. Heres some pics-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/Picture027-1.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/Picture029-1.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/Picture031-1.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/Picture030-1.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/Picture027-1.jpg

[vmbfreekz33]

looks great cant wait to see when u add corals

[ryeguy28]

sweet stuff Chris

cant wait to see it set-up

[Sir Patrick]

Hoping to have it done in 2 weeks, but no matter what- it will be done in less than 2 months if it kills me! I am confidant that it will be 2-3 weeks and will be where it needs to be and full.

[aperry2006]

very nice i just picked up a 36-18-2* not long ago and am setting it up...ill have to keep my eyes here to see what you do and learn

[Sir Patrick]

Wow- Just realized I never updated this thread.....

You might be wondering (or were wondering a few months ago, lol) whats the hold up?? Well- wife is pregnant, and house is too small for all of us. Havnt been able to set up this large tank while the house is on the market.....

But-

I did get some encouraging news! If the house hasnt sold by christmas, I get to set the tank up in place of our computer desk! I should be getting a laptop to take the desctops place very soon! That will free up the space to continue with this build.

Never thought I would be looking forward to winter!!! :big_grin:

[Sir Patrick]

Alright- things have changed! My wife has taken a liking to my LPS collection, and is wanting to see some fish in my tank, beleive it or not!!! Looks like this is going back into progress sooner than I first thought!


Well- as we all know, the only good things that seem to happen rapidly is the changings in technology, and there have been a few since the start of planning for this build, and many of my original ideas/plans have changed.

Lets see- where to start-


Oceanic 65 gallon breeder w/ overflow
Custom made stand
40 gallon breeder sump/frag area
Mag 5 return pump
The Blue Glow classic frag rack
2 little fishies carbon reactor
custom built in sump protein skimmer
vortec mp-10
maxi mod maxi jet 1200 pump
36" 2x39w glo retrofit light- sump/refuge
36" 6x39W Tek Light T5 High-Output Fixture- display
Par 38 Led bulb- frag area
Jimsflies custom mesh top

And possibly more....feel like I am missing somthing....

Decided to ditch the MH idea- and go the no canopy route w/ the tek light.
The vortec will stay- but modded maxi jet might not- thinking a couple korillia evolutions on a timer might be Good, if I am not able to get a vortec mp-20.
Replacing the normal out put t5's for sump w/ the t5ho retro kit.
Using a Par 38 led for the frag rack in the sump area.


Few things I need to get done-

Plumbing!!!! Pretty sure I have all the pvc so far.
Paint the back wall.
Figure out what I want to do for substrate.
Figure out if I want to gravity feed and do a recirculating mod on the skimmer- and do it.
Get more sand.
Baffle the sump.
Might have to shorten the stand a bit too.
Sell some leftovers to finance the stuff not done yet!!

Hope to get all this done in less than 3 weeks- but we will see.

[Sir Patrick]

Well- messed around with the tank a bit today. Back is all painted up, and think I got the sustrate figured out too- but not 100% yet....

Think I will be baffleing the sump tomorow!!!

Added some supports to hang the led light into the stand for the frag rack area too!


Just because we all love pics-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/100_1936.jpg


sump-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/100_1937.jpg


tank-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/100_1938.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/100_1940.jpg

[lionhead]

Looks like you are taking your time with this one. I cannot wait to actually this this setup going. As long as it is ready so you can buy goodies at the swaps.

[Sir Patrick]

Lets dust some dust off......

I ordered my starboard today! I will have it in a week!

*key peice of the puzzle right there.

[cbau45]

I think this is going to be a pretty sweet little setup you got going here. Keep the updates coming once that starboard comes in. Good luck with the build.

[Sir Patrick]

Thx man- will do.

Seems like Ive been saying 2 weeks for years now....almost there!

[cbau45]

I know the feeling. I've had so many great "big" tank projects that i've wanted to do in just a few weeks but i couldn't finish them. It's a good feeling once it's actually done though.

[EMUreef]

come on chris, get your crap together its not like you have any kids or anything... oh wait... you do lol.

As far as the frag in the sump.. i dunno... im not digging mine, mines growing algae on the plugs so hopefully you wont have that problem.

[Sir Patrick]

^ I cant....gotta make this the longest build in history of reefkeeping first!

Just wait till I start filling her up!! I could make that take fooooooorever!

[kozyreef]

very nice sir patrick !!!

[Sir Patrick]

Got the starboard bottom! Picked up one of the two korilia evo 1050 water pumps I will be needing too! Getting closer!

[Sir Patrick]

Reminder to self....Going to need some sand containers for wrasses to sleep in.....

[iyachtuxivm]

Wow didnt even think of that! Glad someone is paying attention.

[Sir Patrick]

Hehehehehe-

Sump is done- pics soon to follow.

[Sir Patrick]

Sump is ready!

Could have been prettier, but got distracted and pulled away for a bit in the middle of the build....center brace collapsed on me. Kind of made a mess of things. Its ok though- its just a sump, right???

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/100_2127.jpg


I am going to keep a very thin layer of sand down here.

[Sir Patrick]

Starboard is cut and placed-


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/100_2129.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/100_2128.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

Next step- Durso standpipe and bulkhead instilation.

Projected set up day- wednesday!!

[MizTanks]

Starboard is cut and placed-


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/100_2129.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/100_2128.jpg

What is *star board*?

[Sir Patrick]

High density polyethylene- aka- cutting board.

[MizTanks]

I see it on the bottom of the tank but why for?

[Sir Patrick]

Its to protect the bottom of the tank from rockslides when running a bare bottom tank. Keeps the bottom of the tank safe from cracking if a rock falls. Also give a conveniant gully on its edges for detrius to collect between water changes, where it can easily be vacumed out.

[MizTanks]

Why go bare bottom?

[kozyreef]

:highfive3:

[greenstarfish03]

Chris,

How does your closed loop work? Do you have the normal overflow/sump setup and then an added seperate closed loop or are they connected somehow? I was looking to add some extra flow to my tank w/o adding power heads and I have two Mag 9.5 collecting dust.

[Sir Patrick]

^ Sorry if it sounded confusing before, but I am not going to do a closed loop. Originally I planned on using one, but with all the new high wide flow pattern pumps available these days, I found the closed loop to be pointless and possibly problematic if the tank drilling went bad. Didnt want to risk cracking the tank.

Miz- Why go bare bottom?

Its alot easier to keep the bottom clean, and am able to get really high flow w/o blowing sand all around this way. Just one of the techniques to running a lower nutrient system. I am tired of blowing sand all around.

[Sir Patrick]

Making water- :highfive3:

[iyachtuxivm]

Miz- Why go bare bottom?
I am tired of blowing sand all around.
you should just stop doing that then.......I mean if it makes you tired.......and all ...... you know what I mean?......
Jk glad to hear progress.

OHHHH!!! You Make Water !!?!!! Wow H+H+O = H2O= water:snorkel: :)

[Sir Patrick]

LOL!! Got me a good laugh- thx!

[Sir Patrick]

Durso standpipe is done! Just need to buy a street-elbow!

My backup strait pipe is all set too! This tanks about ready to fill!

[jstan]

Can't wait to see this filled and setup Chris. It's only taken how long ???, I believe you had just started working on it/talked to me about it a few years back when I dropped off that 90gl with the mirror back to you. BTW you still using that beast of a tank for your goldfish during the winter ?

[Sir Patrick]

Hey!! Long time no see man!

Yup- still got the tank, and still housing my golfish in the winter, and yes- this is still the same tank I have been working on for over 2 years!

Good to see ya around man!

[Sir Patrick]

If everything goes well- this tank will be up and running TOMORROW!!!

Got the skimmer running on a test run- looks good so far! Never did test that thing out!

Still gotta plumb the return over the back.....and mix the saltwater.....hope I have enough salt!

[John]

I have some extra RO if you need it. :D

[Sir Patrick]

^ Thx for the offer! think I will be all set by tomorrow! Appreciate it though!

[Sir Patrick]

Beleive it or not-

The tank is full of water and running!!!

I dont have the overflow and sump running yet- but will get that going this weekend. The skimmer pump is LOUD!! At least to my wife it is....going to see what my options are on this one.

Still got a thing or 3 to do, but its set up and running! All transfered over from the 34 cube!! I will get pics up soon!:big_grin:

[Sir Patrick]

Pics- as promised!!


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/fishtank/100_2229-1.jpg







http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/fishtank/100_2227.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

And a quick video-


tank videos :: 100_2230.mp4 video by sirpatrick1 - Photobucket

[iyachtuxivm]

Looks great!

[ReeferRob]

Chea buddy, bout time!!! Looking good, love that eel always wanted one. What kind is it?

[Sir Patrick]

Its a snowflake.

Thx for the compliments guys!!

[Sir Patrick]

More pics!


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2245.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2246.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2241.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2244.jpg






http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2243.jpg

[EMUreef]

lookin good dude.

[pjr]

Great reboot!

[Sir Patrick]

So far so good!

Giving the tank a starter dose of MB7 daily, and all coral/fish/inverts are all looking GREAT!! My sps browned slightly the first day of the changover, but all have recovered and most are glowing again! Some of my worse off peices seem to be really apreciating the extra light of the 6 bulb t5ho light! They are looking better than they have in a couple years.

I am having one issue though.....diatoms! New glass tank, new glass baffles, new pumps/equipment all = silicates!!!

Just mixed some phosguard w/ the fresh carbon. It is said to reduce nitrates as well as silicates. We will see!

Tank is going through its ugly stage....but I still think it rocks!!!

[Sir Patrick]

Nasty!!!!


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/fishtank/100_2279.jpg http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/fishtank/100_2280.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

Minutes after cleaning the cup- and already pulling new stank!-

tank videos :: 100_2281.mp4 video by sirpatrick1 - Photobucket

[Sir Patrick]

That is set for a pretty dry skim, as you can see in the pic a couple posts above. 2 weeks worth of skimmate!

[Sir Patrick]

Post swap video-



tank videos :: 100_2412.mp4 video by sirpatrick1 - Photobucket

[pjr]

very nice!

[Sir Patrick]

New video-

tank videos :: 100_2442.mp4 video by sirpatrick1 - Photobucket

[Sir Patrick]

Looks like things are settling in. Algea cycle seems to be finished, and all looks clean and nice with minimal labor. I am not cleaning the glass every other day anymore either, which is nice.

I had a small ick scare there for a while on the kole tang, but the tank kicked it. All is well, and never spread to any other fish. All fish seem fat, happy and healthy!

Still waiting for a few sps peices to color up all the way, but many are all the way there! Very happy about that! A little bit more time and paitence, and they will all be glowing.

Heres my most recent video-


http://s33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/?action=view&current=100_2573-1.mp4

[MizTanks]

Chris, your tank is beautiful!! What a great video to show it off. That's what Miz8g wants to be when she grows up :)


Sent from my iPhone while chasing Forest Gump!

[whitetiger61]

Chris

very nice system..dreaming of the day mine looks that good..keep up the good work

Rick

[Sir Patrick]

Miz & WT-

Thanks guys. I really apreciate the kind words! I am actually blushing a bit replying to them, beleive it or not!

Knowing the both of you- you both will have tanks that surpass mine! Cant wait to see it happen!


I will definitly keep up the good work! Thanks guys!

[Sir Patrick]

Just a few updated SPS shots-


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2615.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2613.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2612.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2608.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2609.jpg

&

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2610.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

Feels good to see color in my SPS after all these years, and brown corals!!! :)

[Manoj's Reef]

sweet colors chris.

[Tom Toro]

Nice going, Chris! Tank looks great. Excellent colors too. When my redbugs die (last treatment this week), I can set you up with some frags.

[MizTanks]

I've taken over for you on the brownies Chris, lol. Those are some sweet colored corals :)


There is nothing like being a REEFER!

[Sir Patrick]

New addition!! Thanks Fish Doctors Ypsilanti!!!


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2670.jpg

[MizTanks]

I'm really loosing my fondness for you Sir, or am I just jealous? :)
Very sweet coral!


There is nothing like being a REEFER!

[slapshot]

Looking good Sir, looking good!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Sir Patrick]

Got a few new pics-


First, a new full tank shot-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2692.jpg




and some coral-


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2693.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2680.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2681.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2682.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2683.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2684.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2685.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2687.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2688.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2690.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2691.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

Thx Chris!!

[MizTanks]

It really does look great Sir. I'm so happy for you!


There is nothing like being a REEFER!

[Sir Patrick]

Thx Miz!!

[MizTanks]

Thx Miz!!

Your very welcome Sir :)


There is nothing like being a REEFER!

[Sir Patrick]

Couple I forgot to post- from a little while ago.....


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2452.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2454.jpg

[MizTanks]

I love FTS more then anything :) let's me see all the goodies and where they're placed. Very sweet tank Sir :)


There is nothing like being a REEFER!

[Sir Patrick]

Thinking about re-aquascaping. Was trying to stay away from the "Great Wall Of China" look....we will see what kind of time I have on my hands tonight.

[cephalotus]

Everytime I avoid the rock wall look it seems to be even more great wall lookin.

Thinking about re-aquascaping. Was trying to stay away from the "Great Wall Of China" look....we will see what kind of time I have on my hands tonight.

[Sir Patrick]

Aqua scapping is done- for now. I have it much more the way I initially planned.

Check it out, and let me know what ya think-

tank videos :: 100_2696.mp4 video by sirpatrick1 - Photobucket

[creefer]

I like the pillar look. Nice job.

[Sir Patrick]

And for those that are having trouble loading the video-


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2741.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2738.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2739.jpg






http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2740.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

Almost all pegged together with Pex pipe, in holes drilled through the rock, and cemented in place. Pretty sturdy!

Hope it never falls!

[MizTanks]

Looks like you have a set of antlers in da middle :) ;)


There is nothing like being a REEFER!

[dlhirst]

I like the new layout too! I have been pouring over all of the Members Reefs looking for ideas for the new tank I have coming. Patrick, I got some good ideas from you. Thanks!

[Sir Patrick]

^ Any time!

[Sir Patrick]

Picked up a new fish today! Neon dottyback!!

Pics to follow soon!

[slapshot]

Looking good my friend. I really like the new look, it looks so much more natural and interesting. Nice work!

[lionhead]

I am glad to see that this tank has really taken off for you. It is looking great Chris. I tried breaking my tank up a little as well because I did not want it to just be one big straight wall either. That is why I put coves and caves in mine with a tonga forest in the middle.

[korndiddy20]

whew, I just went through and read all 14 pages. This is a great build and im glad to see that it is going so well. keep up with the updates, its awsome to see a thread go this long with the progress being recorded.

[Sir Patrick]

Thx for the responces guys!!

I have a few peices that have to go, and a few others that need added. After that, its let it grow time!

I have a feeling, after the lansing swap, there will be a few more big changes......one more week!

[iyachtuxivm]

New scape looks great!

[Sir Patrick]

After the lansing swap video-

tank videos :: 100_2854.mp4 video by sirpatrick1 - Photobucket

[Sir Patrick]

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2856.jpg


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2857.jpg

[Fordris]

Sweet Video Love the pics aswell!

[MizTanks]

Thank you for the video Sir! I love the personal touch that videos bring forward. What lamp combo are you using?

[CalmSeasQuest]

Tank looks great Chris! Love the Purple Tang :)

[2pairs]

Look good, just a little grow time till WOW!

[Sir Patrick]

^ A little grow time, and some dedicated tank husbandry- all these new nice sized pieces are going to be my inspiration to be diligent, and take that extra care to make this tank "Wow"!

I am looking forward to the challenge!

[iyachtuxivm]

Cant wait!

[Sir Patrick]

I found some very nice pieces!!



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2858.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2859.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2860.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2861.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2862.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2865.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2864.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2863.jpg

[creefer]

Tanks is really looking good, Chris.

[Sir Patrick]

Added a sock yesterday! I am looking forward to much clearer water! My water has been like crystal for a long time, but I am looking forward to all the floaties, blowing in the flow, to be gone!

I already see a difference.

[Seph]

The tanks looking great Chris. It was nice to finally meet you at the swap too. Keep up the good work. I've found that with sps it takes being committed. If you give them what they need and do it consistently you will be rewarded with beautiful colonies.

[Sir Patrick]

^ Was great meeting you also!

Ooops....sorry- no purple tang....my video quality isnt the best- :embarrased:

Its the kole tang. Kinda looks like a purple in most of the videos!

[Sir Patrick]

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2921.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2922.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2923.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2924.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2925.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2926.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2927.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2928.jpg






http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2929.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2930.jpg






http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2931.jpg






http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2932.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2933.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2934.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2935.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2936.jpg






http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2937.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2938.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2939.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2940.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2941.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2942.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2943.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2944.jpg

[MizTanks]

Wow! I can't wait for my first sps. Chris your corals look awesome. The first set of pics-top coral with the long branch-what is that? I like it! :)

[Sir Patrick]

^ The dark purple/blue one?

[MizTanks]

^ The dark purple/blue one?

Yup, with the long branch on the left side.

[Sir Patrick]

The one on the left?

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2921.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

Or this one?


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2858.jpg

[MizTanks]

The first one. I really like it! Its an sps right? But I don't know what kind :)

[iyachtuxivm]

nice adds!

[jay13]

i see some frags i will need in the near future!

[Sir Patrick]

My newest piece-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/Fish%20doctor%20pics/100_2965.jpg

I couldnt pass it up!!!

[Sir Patrick]

^ RPE?????

[Sir Patrick]

And stay tuned for the LED update, comming soon!!!

[AJ :)]

Nice RPE colony!

[MizTanks]

I wanna FTS!

[2pairs]

My newest piece-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/Fish%20doctor%20pics/100_2965.jpg

I couldnt pass it up!!!


NICE!
It is probably a good thing I didn't see it first.

[Sir Patrick]

^ There is one or two still available!!! :big_grin:

[Sir Patrick]

Alright....got one more to add to the collection! Happy Coral has got me hooked!!!!

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2975.jpg

[MizTanks]

Chris your killing me here :) that is one sweet (name it fer the newb would ya) sps :)

[basil]

I hope you can make a dado for the door to slide in, the moisture will eventually get through and cause some level of wood movement, the more stabilized it is the less noticeable it will be. You may want to line where it slides with some teflon tape to make sliding easier, and reduce abrasion on the wood finish as well

[basil]

I want that coral, it is nice. I would call it a blue jawdropper!

[iyachtuxivm]

very nice!

[bigbill]

wow real nice add cant wait to see this grow

[Sir Patrick]

LED Update as promised!!!

(12) 3w blues, cooling fan, constant driver, DIY- courtesy of 2pairs! Thanks man!!!!

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2993.jpg


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2994.jpg


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2995.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_2996.jpg


Still need to level out the light stands.......ooops!

[Sir Patrick]

Stole the hanging idea from calmseasquest's nano build!!! Great idea!

[CalmSeasQuest]

Looks great Chris! Serious Actinics :) Did you go with Blue or Royal Blues? What wattage are you running them at?

[Sir Patrick]

Tom-

Tell you the truth, I cant recall....I will find out, and post the info though soon.

Chort-

I am working on getting some par measurements soon. I will surely share the info.

[2pairs]

Hopefully you don't mind Chris,
I might be able to answer a little about the lights.
First thing they are not Cree's
They are Luxeon 3 watt high output Blues 460 -470 nm
They are being run on a Mean Well LPC-35-700 driver this is a fixed driver at 700ma and the led can be driven to 750ma this keeps them from being over driven and burning up prematurely, the same as resetting a dimmable driver.

[CalmSeasQuest]

Tom-

Tell you the truth, I cant recall....I will find out, and post the info though soon.

Chort-

I am working on getting some par measurements soon. I will surely share the info.


Hopefully you don't mind Chris,
I might be able to answer a little about the lights.
First thing they are not Cree's
They are Luxeon 3 watt high output Blues 460 -470 nm
They are being run on a Mean Well LPC-35-700 driver this is a fixed driver at 700ma and the led can be driven to 750ma this keeps them from being over driven and burning up prematurely, the same as resetting a dimmable driver.
Thanks Jim,

Those should provide a nice POP and PAR bump.

I think Cindi and I are planning on dinner in A2 tomorrow evening. I can grab the PAR meter if either are still interested in getting some PAR mappings.

[2pairs]

So how are the late night BLUES?:):):):):):):):):):):):)

[Sir Patrick]

Wife is loving them! Been a long time since we could watch a movie without a bright light in the room. Just need to try to quiet the fan a bit.....I have some ideas.

[EMUreef]

whereererere is the FTS with the DT lights and iwthout the leds, and with the leds, and just the LEDS alone?!??!? how dare you!!

[Sir Patrick]

Coming soon! :big_grin:

[Sir Patrick]

I learned how to take macro/close ups a little better-


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3016.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3015.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3014.jpg






http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3013.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

Couple more pics-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3019.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3020.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3022.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3023.jpg






http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3024.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3026.jpg






http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3027.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3028.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3029.jpg






http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3030.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3031.jpg






http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3032.jpg






http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3034.jpg







http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3035.jpg






Some little grow out guys-


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3036.jpg




And look what I found, still holding on-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3037.jpg

[Heidi]

Your tank is looking very healthy! How are you loving the LED's?

[MizTanks]

And Sir has zoa success! Corals are all looking awesome. Now we need an FTS!

[Sir Patrick]

New fish-

tank videos :: 100_3106.mp4 video by sirpatrick1 - Photobucket (http://s33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/?action=view&current=100_3106.mp4)

[EMUreef]

beautiful fish chris.

[Heidi]

HappyCoral just got a couple of these Gold Butterflyfish I think they are called. They are neat fish, very active!! lol How olds that baby?? ;)

[Sir Patrick]

Baby is 7 months. She LOVES to cry....even when shes happy and playing.....

[Sir Patrick]

beautiful fish chris.

Thx Russ!

[2pairs]

Nice Butterfly fish, will it be ok with the coral.

[MizTanks]

Beautiful tank Chris! As a Nana I was wondering why, no one was picking up the baby! ;)

[Sir Patrick]

I have high hopes for this fish. So far, so good.

It ate live brine at the store (Fish Doctors in Ypsi) and ate somthing that was in the reef stew very well- just a couple hours after acclimation.

I braught home a bag of live brine, strained the shrimp out of the old water, rinsed them in fresh water, and froze then in a thin layer of more fresh water. I can break chunks, toss them in the tank, and feed freshly frozen brine to the tank.

Tonight, the new copperband ate both the frozen brine, and more of the reef stew! I am optomistic.

[Sir Patrick]

Just a little copperband butterfly update-

It has eaten every day since I baught it! Very happy! Hasnt touched a single aptasia or mojano, but eats frozen brine shrimp and somthing that is in the reef stew!

Very active fish!

[AJ :)]

Good to hear it's doing well.

I add one myself recently. It also has not yet touched aptasia.

Though it did take awhile for my scat to start eating it too.

[schminksbro]

Very nice! Gettin them to eat is the biggest challenge. Congrats!

[Sir Patrick]

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3168.jpg

[Sir Patrick]

And a few new corals-



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3123.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3163.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3159.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3161.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3164.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3119.jpg

[MizTanks]

Wow Sir has beautiful zoas-hope I can keep them some day. Tank looks very busy and bright me like!!

[AJ :)]

Those are nice looking zoas for sure! Are the pink ones palys?

[Sir Patrick]

^ Nope- they are zoas. People eater variety.

Thanks for the comments guys!

[Sir Patrick]

Grabbed up a new (used) skimmer, from the fish doctors today!

PS-400 Needle Wheel Protein Skimmer by AquaEuro USA* - AquaCave (http://www.aquacave.com/ps-400-needle-wheel-br-protein-skimmer-br-by-aquaeuro-usa-2060.html#)

Cant wait to get this in the sump!

[Sir Patrick]

Sad day....copperband butterfly died last night....

After a chat on the subject, seeing that it was eating every day, it must have died from an internal infection of some type. Guess its kind of common with these fish.

Really thought I was lucky on this one. Dont think I will try again.

[Heidi]

Aww, so sorry to hear that Chris. :( Fish dieing sucks.

[MizTanks]

Chris I'm so sorry for your loss (((hugs)))

[redemer123]

aww man...real sorry to here about your copperband. I have always wanted one of those but here they are pretty difficult. I say you give it another shot.

[Sir Patrick]

Thx guys- much appreciated.

One a possitive note-

I took the razor to the glass today. It was getting a slight green tint.....been a while. Looks very nice now!

Also got a super sweet mystery frag from the fish doctors. It was all closed up, but could see the skirt, partialy. Nice and bright red. Figured it was worth a chance. It is about 30 polyps or so.

Turns out to look exactly like a lunar eclipse, or EZ, bright red skirt, black center- but this has a bright yellow mouth!!! I will get pics soon, when they settle into the tank.

[Sir Patrick]

Thx guys- much appreciated.

One a possitive note-

I took the razor to the glass today. It was getting a slight green tint.....been a while. Looks very nice now!

Also got a super sweet mystery frag from the fish doctors. It was all closed up, but could see the skirt, partialy. Nice and bright red. Figured it was worth a chance. It is about 30 polyps or so.

Turns out to look exactly like a lunar eclipse, or EZ, bright red skirt, black center- but this has a bright yellow mouth!!! I will get pics soon, when they settle into the tank.

[Sir Patrick]

Alright- A pic before they are happy and settled in-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3208.jpg

[MizTanks]

Can't stand the suspence!!!

[2pairs]

Can't wait to see them open, Looks like a good find.

[Sir Patrick]

Came home from work tonight, and they are WIDE open!!!


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3211.jpg


Pretty sweet huh? Noticed Mr.Microscope has the same polyps.....

[evb9]

VERY nice, let me know when you frag those!

[Sir Patrick]

^ Will do.

[MizTanks]

I'm gonna be looking fer a trade!!! I ordered some beauties LOL

[jay13]

Sad day....copperband butterfly died last night....

After a chat on the subject, seeing that it was eating every day, it must have died from an internal infection of some type. Guess its kind of common with these fish.

Really thought I was lucky on this one. Dont think I will try again.

remember what we talked about when i was over? same deal sounds like.

[Sir Patrick]

Quick after swap tank video-

tank videos :: 100_3213.mp4 video by sirpatrick1 - Photobucket@@AMEPARAM@@http://vid33.photobucket.com/player.swf?file=http://vid33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/100_3213.mp4@@AMEPARAM@@vid33@@AMEPARAM@@33@@AMEPA RAM@@d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/100_3213@@AMEPARAM@@mp4 (http://s33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/?action=view&current=100_3213.mp4)

[Sir Patrick]

And a few new pics-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3214.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3215.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3217.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3219.jpg



More to be added soon!

[iyachtuxivm]

Looks like you got some nice stuff! Tanks looking good too.

[Synergy]

Are those blue zoas from Happy coral? Their Electric blue zoa? I meant to take a look at those but when I got there it slipped my mind.

[jolson10450]

Are those blue zoas from Happy coral? Their Electric blue zoa? I meant to take a look at those but when I got there it slipped my mind.

i believe so! i picked up a frag of them they are literally electric blue. even under my 10k-12k led tank they shine!

[Sir Patrick]

Yep- Those are the electric blues, from Happy Corals. Very mettalic blue, almost sparkly. Very cool looking polyps!

[2pairs]

Looks like a little more eye candy for the tank.

[MizTanks]

Tank looks great Sir-everything looks so healthy-quit the collection you have going on-I'm going to enjoy watching them all grow out :)

[Mr. Microscope]

Came home from work tonight, and they are WIDE open!!!


http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3211.jpg


Pretty sweet huh? Noticed Mr.Microscope has the same polyps.....

Nice! Are those skirts really that red? If so, those are a little different than what I picked up. Killer zoas SP! I hope they spread out for you well.

[Sir Patrick]

Yep- they are really that red!

Probly still the same though, as colors tend to brighten/dull due to available nutrients, lighting, and NO3/po4 levels. Yours seem to be more green centered also, Mr. Microscope. Most likely same polyp, different tank conditions.[COLOR="Silver"]

[Corvette Reefer]

This is my brother in-laws tank, so iv seen it in person millions or times, everyday hes doing something new but its worth it hes got a nice class A tank! his originally inspired me to get into saltwater and im glad i did! hes got the best tank ever! :cheering:GO CHRIS :rolling:

[Sir Patrick]

Thx for the kind words Jordan.......but-

Your sister, my wife, likes your tank better.......that frogspawn of yours has got her hooked!!!

I keep telling her- mines still got 3 years to grow....till its nice and full like yours! Cant wait till mines nice and full![COLOR="Silver"]

[Sir Patrick]

tank videos :: 100_3221.mp4 video by sirpatrick1 - Photobucket@@AMEPARAM@@http://vid33.photobucket.com/player.swf?file=http://vid33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/100_3221.mp4@@AMEPARAM@@vid33@@AMEPARAM@@33@@AMEPA RAM@@d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/100_3221@@AMEPARAM@@mp4 (http://s33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/?action=view&current=100_3221.mp4)

[Sir Patrick]

A few new updates-

I added a new rock- going to call it zoa island.

My green long tentical plate didnt live past the Lobo sting...

Added 40 degree optics to 8 of the 12 3w blue LEDS I have running.

Very happy with the new skimmer!

And added a couple new corals since last update

[MizTanks]

Wow your tank sure has grown since you first started it. Corals all look awesome!

[2pairs]

I like the zoa island, it is a great way to keep the zoa's and SPS separated.

[EMUreef]

i like the zoa island too, i knew you couldnt keep away from zoa's chris lol

lookin good

[Heidi]

I need a visual of this island of zoanthids :) Tank is looking good Chris!

[Sir Patrick]

Zoa island-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3222.jpg

---------- Post added at 11:15 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:13 PM ----------

And some random shots-

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3223.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3225.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3226.jpg



http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3227.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3229.jpg




http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3230.jpg





http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/new%20cam%20fish/100_3228.jpg

[MizTanks]

WTH? Where did all that come from? Didn't you have a hard time keeping zoas alive at one time? Dang Sir, everything looks awesome!
I'm speechless mostly....

[Sir Patrick]

Keeping the zoas alive has become my challenge with this tank. I am trying to walk the fine line of happy polyps, and bright colored and growing SPS. Yes- it is a challenge. Loving it so far though!

[MizTanks]

Im baby stepping right behind you Sir-please don't back up-lol

[Sir Patrick]

Keeping the zoas alive has become my challenge with this tank. I am trying to walk the fine line of happy polyps, and bright colored and growing SPS. Yes- it is a challenge. Loving it so far though!

Well- was a fun challenge for a little while at least......I had some issues at work, and had to work 3 strait weeks of double shifts, and somewhere along that time frame, I had tank issues.....still dont have a clue what happened....but lost a bunch of my nicer sps mini colonies. Not very happy- but it happens, and reminded me why I really liked the zoas/palys and blastos. They are forgiving of my work schedule, when things get tough.

I have been rethinking this tank a bit. Time to make some changes. It is too big for my living room- actually looks pretty out of place.....and its right near the TV, and no matter what I do- its still making too much noise to enjoy a good movie. Also, my youngest daughter is really getting around. I need to get these cords under control, and stashed under the stand.

My new plans-

Replace the 65B w/ a 40B.

No sump, but will be adding a small auto top off tank under the stand in its place.

Replace the PS-400 Needle Wheel Protein Skimmer by AquaEuro USA* - AquaCave (http://www.aquacave.com/ps-400-needle-wheel-br-protein-skimmer-br-by-aquaeuro-usa-2060.html) skimmer with a HOB Bubble Magus HOB Skimmer BM-NAC5E [BM-NAC5E] - $114.00 : Affordable Aquatic Supplies LLC (http://www.affordableaquaticsuppliesllc.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=18_96_100&products_id=376)


Going to run the caarbon/PO4 reactor off the back.

Looking into bio pellets.

Fish will be finding new homes, and will be replaced with a few choice wrasse in their place.

Planning on child proofing all the electric and additives under the tank, in place of the sump, that took up all the room.

Going to focus on a zoa garden, along with a couple SPS that I cant get myself to get rid of, and a few choice LPS that really catch my eye. I really want to get back to collecting different types of Blasto Wellsi also.

[Sir Patrick]

Pulled the sump, and cleaned up the skimmer. Skimmer will be sold tomorow...that was quick!

The sump will become my display. Might just do the changeover tomorow!

Anyone need a bangaii cardinal ($10) and a clarki clown ($5)???? Pickem up monday????

[MizTanks]

The easier the better and more time to enjoy :) me too. I can't believe how time flies-seems like yesterday we were all congratulating you on her birth :)

[pjr]

I hear ya on SPS.... my acros are doing fine but been having strange issues with select montis. Grrrr.....

[2pairs]

It sounds like it is time for the next evolution in your tank. I think we all go through this and I am sure what ever way you go it will be interesting.

[Sir Patrick]

Bio-pellets are running! Through the reactor, and strait into the skimmer.

50gallon breeder has been ordered!

Bubble magus HOB Skimmer is ordered, and being shipped!!!

Cleared out some corals along with the old skimmer.

[Sir Patrick]

Got some tweeking to do, and a few other loose ends to tie up, but heres the new tank-

tank videos :: 100_3396.mp4 video by sirpatrick1 - Photobucket@@AMEPARAM@@http://vid33.photobucket.com/player.swf?file=http://vid33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/100_3396.mp4@@AMEPARAM@@vid33@@AMEPARAM@@33@@AMEPA RAM@@d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/100_3396@@AMEPARAM@@mp4 (http://s33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/?action=view&current=100_3396.mp4)

[Badfish]

Sick, I really like how clean your setup looks. I haven't seen many bare bottom tanks that i like, but this is one.

[2pairs]

Looks like I am going to have to stop in and check out the new set up.

[MizTanks]

Looks great Chris!

[CableGuy]

Why did you go with the bare bottom? Did you paint it? If so, what color? (Hard to tell)

[Sir Patrick]

Sick, I really like how clean your setup looks. I haven't seen many bare bottom tanks that i like, but this is one.

Thx Badfish! Glad ya like it! The shortness is taking some getting used to, but I am starting to really like it!

---------- Post added at 10:34 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:32 PM ----------


Looks like I am going to have to stop in and check out the new set up.

Monday- swing on by!

---------- Post added at 10:36 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:34 PM ----------


Looks great Chris!


Thx miz! Its pretty much the same tank, only 7 inches shorter, and not drilled- no sump.

[Sir Patrick]

Why did you go with the bare bottom? Did you paint it? If so, what color? (Hard to tell)


Adam-

I have had sand beds in the past- and they have always become a headache in the long run....wether it be flow issues, nutrient buildup w/ crazy nitrate spikes, or corals getting burried or embedded with sand......

A bare bottom tank aleviates all these issues- and I am loving it. I can have all the flow I want, w/ no worries other than fow it affects corals, easy to clean- every time I do a water change, just vacume any detrius I find, most of the uneeded nutrients stay in suspension and are taken care of by the skimmer, or are vacumed out- helping nutrient export greatly.

Only draw backs are the critters, and some of the sand loving animals......but I have plans on keeping a couple cups, full of sand, in the back of the rock work, for wrasses to possibly utilize and burry themselves. Hope it works!

The bottom of the tank is covered w/ cutting board material- commonly called starboard, to protect the bottom of the tank from rock slides. It was pure white to start, but over the past year or so has been covered, for the most part in purple coraline. That might be the color you are seeing.

[Sir Patrick]

The new skimmer in action-


tank videos :: 100_3402.mp4 video by sirpatrick1 - Photobucket@@AMEPARAM@@http://vid33.photobucket.com/player.swf?file=http://vid33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/100_3402.mp4@@AMEPARAM@@vid33@@AMEPARAM@@33@@AMEPA RAM@@d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/100_3402@@AMEPARAM@@mp4 (http://s33.photobucket.com/albums/d87/sirpatrick1/tank%20videos/?action=view&current=100_3402.mp4)

[Heidi]

Nice skimmer Chris! It is super quite for a HOB :)

[Sir Patrick]

Went to visit the guys over at The Fish Doctors Ypsi today, and they had Black Mollies, fully aclimated to salt! I had to pick up a pair......figured they would be good algea grazers, and might even spawn- and feed any other fish that I end up adding. Gotta love free live food!