Manoj's 60G Mixed Reef

[Sun357]

Saw these the other day when I picked up a frag from him. Great looking tank and corals!

The frag I got from you is all happy as can be, Manoj! You've inspired me to want to go a lot bigger than I was originally thinking on my next tank. lol

~Fred

[Manoj's Reef]

Time to look back at a frag ( Started with single polyp ) and see its progress..

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47b9cc09b3127cce98548f69d31100000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a0da05b3127cce98548c058d7d00000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a0d905b3127cce98548d7c584200000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a0d905b3127cce98548d78584600000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a1cf08b3127cce985480e54dd000000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[MizTanks]

That just ain't normal outside a Rainbow :) could look at those all day without blinking even!!!

[Manoj's Reef]

That just ain't normal outside a Rainbow :) could look at those all day without blinking even!!!

Thanks Jamie for the nice words ...

[larryandlaura]

I love those Acans!

[dlhirst]

Manoj, your tank is way too cool, and way too close, for me not to pay you a visit. Who knows, I could leave with some of that Frogskin, and ???

[Manoj's Reef]

I love those Acans!

Thanks Bro


Manoj, your tank is way too cool, and way too close, for me not to pay you a visit. Who knows, I could leave with some of that Frogskin, and ???

You are more than welcome to stop by Don. Shoot me a PM and we can decide a date and time.

[Manoj's Reef]

I did a major sps change to my right island. Before the change I took some pics. In couple of months I should be able to post a new FTS.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a1cc24b3127cce985480dc6f6000000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a1cc24b3127cce985480ddee5100000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[larryandlaura]

Wow that is breath taking. Look at all those colors popping out. Can't wait to see the next set of pictures!

[Manoj's Reef]

Wow that is breath taking. Look at all those colors popping out. Can't wait to see the next set of pictures!

Thanks for the nice words man. Appreciate it.

Took some pics of my AAA gold rush acan, I will post it later today evening.

[larryandlaura]

No problem can't wait to see the acan.

[Manoj's Reef]

AAA Gold Rush Acan

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a1cc24b3127cce985480d06f6c00000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[binford4000]

I sure hope Mrs Binford doesn't see this picture,looks like a thousand bucks LOL VERY nice as usual Manoj

[dlhirst]

+1 Binford, that IS pretty. Pretty spectacular!

[Manoj's Reef]

I sure hope Mrs Binford doesn't see this picture,looks like a thousand bucks LOL VERY nice as usual Manoj

Thanks Chuck for the kind words. Now you know what to gift Mrs Binford for Christmas.



+1 Binford, that IS pretty. Pretty spectacular!

Thanks Don


I have started a small project. I made a tiny frag of my AAA Evening Rainbow Acan about 4mm frag ( its a baby polyp) . Now I want to grow it out to a nice piece in about a year. I will try to document with pics and post it as it grows. I am hoping it will be fun.

[binford4000]

Thanks Chuck for the kind words. Now you know what to gift Mrs Binford for Christmas.




Thanks Don


I have started a small project. I made a tiny frag of my AAA Evening Rainbow Acan about 4mm frag ( its a baby polyp) . Now I want to grow it out to a nice piece in about a year. I will try to document with pics and post it as it grows. I am hoping it will be fun.

that would be cheaper then hawaii,keep us posted on the frag would love to follow along

[Manoj's Reef]

that would be cheaper then hawaii,keep us posted on the frag would love to follow along

But Hawaii is much more fun though..I would go with Hawaii...

I will take some pics of the frag this weekend and will take pics once every two weeks. I think it will be fun to catalog the progress.

[WillBattle]

Ill be sure to follow the progress on it! That AAA gold rush is nuts looking Manoj!

[rcombs]

that is by far the coolest acan that i have ever seen. amazing picture.

[Reef keeper]

I did a major sps change to my right island. Before the change I took some pics. In couple of months I should be able to post a new FTS.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a1cc24b3127cce985480dc6f6000000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a1cc24b3127cce985480ddee5100000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

jaw drop! amamzing!!!!!

[Manoj's Reef]

jaw drop! amamzing!!!!!

Thanks man for the very nice words.

[Manoj's Reef]

Ill be sure to follow the progress on it! That AAA gold rush is nuts looking Manoj!

Thanks will , how are things with your tank?


that is by far the coolest acan that i have ever seen. amazing picture.

Thanks ricke

[WillBattle]

Thanks will , how are things with your tank?

You are welcome! everything is good, just watching things grow :) The Cap Americas are growing very well, went from 2 to 6 heads in no time! The Wow's are doing well also, 2 babies that I can see starting to form, and the rainbow monti is looking like its getting a bit of growth as well!

[Manoj's Reef]

A closer pic of the gold rush acan...

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a1cc24b3127cce985480dbee5700000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[binford4000]

Love the new look Manoj,it looks SWEET !! The wave box placement looks too

[Manoj's Reef]

Love the new look Manoj,it looks SWEET !! The wave box placement looks too

Thanks Chuck. The wavebox is working out awesome. I am happy with it thanks:)

[MizTanks]

Damn!!! Wish I had an acan that looked like that!! Talk about sweet!!!

[Manoj's Reef]

Damn!!! Wish I had an acan that looked like that!! Talk about sweet!!!

Thanks Jamie.

[larryandlaura]

That Acan is sic!

[Manoj's Reef]

Thanks Larry.

A close up pic of the bleeding apple acan.
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a1cc24b3127cce985480d9ee5500000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[MizTanks]

That just made me dizzy-actually gave me butterfly's in my belly :)

[Manoj's Reef]

Thanks Miz.

I got me a bday present...I will soon show a pic...I am sure you guys would like it...

[Manoj's Reef]

seeing everyone going high tech and looking so super cool I have been itching to try out leds...But I am a little scared.

I decided last week that for 2012 I would continue to use T5 for my display and tiny frag tank.

But again I am itching for trying them out so I am thinking about trying out a AI LED Nano in a portion of my tank and testing it out for a year to see the best configuration lighting wise for lps and z and p .

What do you guys think? Let me know if you would suggest something else.

[MizTanks]

I'm with you on the LEDs Manoj. Personally I've been looking at the AI Sol. But now I've found the Cree XL :) getting a unit that has the options of dimming is definitely a must. Best way to acclimate :)
By the way. If your using t5s HTH are your coral pics looking that good? Do your corals look like that under them?

[larryandlaura]

So far my zoas and palys are loveing the leds! I will keep you posted.

[bluwc]

I love LEDs but not everything loves them. You also have to take into account that my cube is only 12". Some zs n ps don't like it and some of my chalices have suffered. The sps love it, all of them. So what didn't like my cube, I just put in my t5 tank. Make the switch, you won't be sorry

[Manoj's Reef]

I'm with you on the LEDs Manoj. Personally I've been looking at the AI Sol. But now I've found the Cree XL :) getting a unit that has the options of dimming is definitely a must. Best way to acclimate :)
By the way. If your using t5s HTH are your coral pics looking that good? Do your corals look like that under them?

Currently my corals are very happy in T5 setup..I am able to grow sps at about 15 inch from light so far so I am happy.


So far my zoas and palys are loveing the leds! I will keep you posted.

What kind of setup of led do you have?


I love LEDs but not everything loves them. You also have to take into account that my cube is only 12". Some zs n ps don't like it and some of my chalices have suffered. The sps love it, all of them. So what didn't like my cube, I just put in my t5 tank. Make the switch, you won't be sorry

I agree Troy. But like you said some corals like it and some dont so thats what I am afraid about


I am debating between a diy setup and AISOL or Ecotech radions. I am more inclined towards DIY though...


Anyone using DIY setups?

[rosebud161616]

I have made 8 DIY fixtures. 6 months ago I would have urged you to go this route if you had the ability. With AI's drop in Sol prices, you're talking an $80 difference between them and going DIY, and this is after you have left over supplies like a soldering iron, heat paste, wiring, etc. If you're starting from scratch, it may even be cheaper to go the Sol route.

Also, the Sols are almost dead on the fixtures that I was building. I love the 1:1:1 look of white:royal blue:blue. It gives a nice 20k kind of look, but still crisp. I think all Royal Blues just is too purple. The sols look way better than what I was making DIY and had way cooler features when I connected them to our Apex than what was available DIY.

So after making the switch to the Sols on our main tank, I'm still using the DIY fixtures on various other tanks (or tanks where the standard LED array of sols just wouldn't fit the shape), but I plan to put my soldering iron to rest for a while. It's just not worth the extra work with such a good fixture at such an amazing price point.

[Manoj's Reef]

I have made 8 DIY fixtures. 6 months ago I would have urged you to go this route if you had the ability. With AI's drop in Sol prices, you're talking an $80 difference between them and going DIY, and this is after you have left over supplies like a soldering iron, heat paste, wiring, etc. If you're starting from scratch, it may even be cheaper to go the Sol route.

Also, the Sols are almost dead on the fixtures that I was building. I love the 1:1:1 look of white:royal blue:blue. It gives a nice 20k kind of look, but still crisp. I think all Royal Blues just is too purple. The sols look way better than what I was making DIY and had way cooler features when I connected them to our Apex than what was available DIY.

So after making the switch to the Sols on our main tank, I'm still using the DIY fixtures on various other tanks (or tanks where the standard LED array of sols just wouldn't fit the shape), but I plan to put my soldering iron to rest for a while. It's just not worth the extra work with such a good fixture at such an amazing price point.

Thats awesome input Erika..Binford has offered me his AI Nano to tryout and see if my corals like it. Next week I will be making some changes in my system to incorporate the nano in my system. Will update this thread with some feedback.

[Manoj's Reef]

I took the first step towards trying out leds. I cleared my refugium section of all rocks and cleaned all the detrius , could not believe how much was there. It looks clean now. The plan is to move a nem, an acan , couple zoas , couple palys and MAY BE an sps to test out .
Chuck ( Binford ) has been kind to let me use one of his AI nano units to test out . Will you all updated of my progress.

[larryandlaura]

I love the Leds over my frag tank! Im going led over the display if all goes well in a few months. Keep us posted.

[2pairs]

I have been running a DIY LED setup for over 2 years and wouldn't go any other way.
The biggest thing about DIY is you chose the led's, lenses and the placement.
This is the biggest advantage you control everything color and intensity.

[Manoj's Reef]

I love the Leds over my frag tank! Im going led over the display if all goes well in a few months. Keep us posted.

Sure will bro


I have been running a DIY LED setup for over 2 years and wouldn't go any other way.
The biggest thing about DIY is you chose the led's, lenses and the placement.
This is the biggest advantage you control everything color and intensity.

Looks like you are far ahead of most of us. I agree I am also thinking about the DIY led setup, Since I have a canopy and I cant keep the lights high enough DIY might be the way to go for me as well. Can you share your lessons learned?

[2pairs]

I have had very little problems with the change, I did start with 36 led's and no lenses then after about 6 months I put on 60 degree lenses. About a year in I added 12 more led's 4 with 60 degree lenses and 8 with 45 degree lenses. This has brought the light up quite a bit and now sps are happy and growing some even on the bottom. The only corals that have not liked this extra light are a plate coral and a couple of chalice and they were moved to lower light tanks and are fine.
So that is what to look for some corals can't stand that much light. You can plan high and low level light areas in your build and if you build a DIY you can move the led's if needed.

If you are in the area and want to check it out for ideas just let me know.
I am willing to help with the builds of LED"s not only do I think they are a good choice for our tanks but good for the environment also. Not to mention good for the wallet.

[Manoj's Reef]

I have had very little problems with the change, I did start with 36 led's and no lenses then after about 6 months I put on 60 degree lenses. About a year in I added 12 more led's 4 with 60 degree lenses and 8 with 45 degree lenses. This has brought the light up quite a bit and now sps are happy and growing some even on the bottom. The only corals that have not liked this extra light are a plate coral and a couple of chalice and they were moved to lower light tanks and are fine.
So that is what to look for some corals can't stand that much light. You can plan high and low level light areas in your build and if you build a DIY you can move the led's if needed.

If you are in the area and want to check it out for ideas just let me know.
I am willing to help with the builds of LED"s not only do I think they are a good choice for our tanks but good for the environment also. Not to mention good for the wallet.

I liked the progressive approach. May be I could do use a similar approach. Will shoot you a pm to schedule a trip to your place

---------- Post added at 06:16 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:15 PM ----------

Took this pic last night. The pic dosent show the purple much. Will try to take a top down pic later this week.

GARF Bonsai. One of my favs
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a1cc04b3127cce985480cbfe6100000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[Manoj's Reef]

I took some more top downs of the GARF Bonsai I feel it came better than last time when I tried to take from the front glass, what do you all think?

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a1cc07b3127cce985480bfd7c900000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a1cc07b3127cce985480bc56fa00000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[Sir Patrick]

That is a very nice looking colony of bonsai. So nice, I would have a hard time deciding where to cut it, if I decided to cut it at all!

[Manoj's Reef]

That is a very nice looking colony of bonsai. So nice, I would have a hard time deciding where to cut it, if I decided to cut it at all!

:smash::smash:...I dont want to cut it, It looks so nice the way it has grown. I am developing a concept design for my new aquascaping and once Its finalized I will have some SPS colonies available for sale.

[binford4000]

:smash::smash:...I dont want to cut it, It looks so nice the way it has grown. I am developing a concept design for my new aquascaping and once Its finalized I will have some SPS colonies available for sale.

that's a nice mimi colony Manoj,I wouldn;t cut it either.It's getting ready to really take off.Let it grow I say :snorkel:

[MizTanks]

Love these early morning coral conversations...leaves me with the sweetest of dreams...of someday having a bigger tank :)

[Manoj's Reef]

that's a nice mimi colony Manoj,I wouldn;t cut it either.It's getting ready to really take off.Let it grow I say :snorkel:

Chuck need to pick your brain a little. I know you are good at fabricating stuff. For the last 6 months I have been mulling over a unique aquascape.

[Manoj's Reef]

Love these early morning coral conversations...leaves me with the sweetest of dreams...of someday having a bigger tank :)

I am sure you will :)

[binford4000]

Chuck need to pick your brain a little. I know you are good at fabricating stuff. For the last 6 months I have been mulling over a unique aquascape.

you know the number bud,give me a call :big_grin:

[bluwc]

Oh then I may have a job for you too lol. I'm setting up a fowlr for the nano contest.....

[Manoj's Reef]

you know the number bud,give me a call :big_grin:

I am sketching it up now, will shoot you a pm. I am thinking its going to be unique for sure, I hope it turns out the way I have it pictured in my head.


Oh then I may have a job for you too lol. I'm setting up a fowlr for the nano contest.....

lol..me first..

[Manoj's Reef]

Took some more pics.

SunnyX - Sunset Milli
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a1cc07b3127cce985480b056f600000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

What do you guys think? did i do justice to this beautiful piece?

[Manoj's Reef]

Update:

In the last couple of weeks I have picked up a few more acans to add to my collection.
1. CC Shastas
2. CC Tokyo tart
3. CC Neptunes crown

Also have added few more Z and P .
1. Campfires
2. My clementines
3. Dragon ballz
4. God of war

I have been slacking off on taking pictures. I will try to take some this weekend.

[evb9]

The new additions didn't happen unless we see pics! :). Put me first in line for a campfire lol

[Scuba McFish]

Amazing tank!

[creefer]

Took some more pics.

SunnyX - Sunset Milli
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a1cc07b3127cce985480b056f600000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

What do you guys think? did i do justice to this beautiful piece?

Uhhh.....yes.....awesome piece.

[Manoj's Reef]

Sorry was gone for couple of months. Had a tank crash , lost all my lps and sps collection. Half of the zoa collection made it through. Finally things seem to be stabilizing , I will probably start with rescaping my rock work and then start collecting again.

I am looking for ideas for rockscaping?

[binford4000]

Sorry was gone for couple of months. Had a tank crash , lost all my lps and sps collection. Half of the zoa collection made it through. Finally things seem to be stabilizing , I will probably start with rescaping my rock work and then start collecting again.

I am looking for ideas for rockscaping?

Ya know the number bud ! Give me a shout and I would be glad to help out then your welcome to cherry pick both tanks when your ready. Good to see ya back !

[Rabidgoose]

Sorry was gone for couple of months. Had a tank crash , lost all my lps and sps collection. Half of the zoa collection made it through. Finally things seem to be stabilizing , I will probably start with rescaping my rock work and then start collecting again.

I am looking for ideas for rockscaping?

Sorry to hear about the crash but good to see you back.

[Manoj's Reef]

Ya know the number bud ! Give me a shout and I would be glad to help out then your welcome to cherry pick both tanks when your ready. Good to see ya back !

Thanks Chuck for the offer, I owe you a call .


Sorry to hear about the crash but good to see you back.

thanks bud.

[SnowflakeCoral]

Manoj - Love the tank!!! gorgeous!

[MizTanks]

Manoj (((HUGS))) Sorry for the crash darlin...get with Chuck..great guy and will take care of you for sure. Get some as is now pics up and I'll be glad to tell you where to put your rocks :silly::jester:

[larryandlaura]

bummer but good to hear your staying in!

[Manoj's Reef]

Manoj - Love the tank!!! gorgeous!

Thanks.


Manoj (((HUGS))) Sorry for the crash darlin...get with Chuck..great guy and will take care of you for sure. Get some as is now pics up and I'll be glad to tell you where to put your rocks :silly::jester:
Thanks Miz.


bummer but good to hear your staying in!
Yup addiction is too strong :)

[Manoj's Reef]

Planning on a sps tank now. The idea is to use as much negative space as possible. So decided to go with a stronger light fixture. Very inclined towards the 6bulb t5 sun power from ATI.

[binford4000]

Planning on a sps tank now. The idea is to use as much negative space as possible. So decided to go with a stronger light fixture. Very inclined towards the 6bulb t5 sun power from ATI.

That's a sweet fixture tons of par from those bad boy's! Have you given up on the LED idea. IMHO there's no better way to go for long term cost but the ati lights are sweet ! I was thinking that route before I bought all those halides.If I would have gone with ATIinstead of listening to a friend about the halides probably would have never gone to LED's tho and would have allot more money in my pockets. Lol

[Manoj's Reef]

That's a sweet fixture tons of par from those bad boy's! Have you given up on the LED idea. IMHO there's no better way to go for long term cost but the ati lights are sweet ! I was thinking that route before I bought all those halides.If I would have gone with ATIinstead of listening to a friend about the halides probably would have never gone to LED's tho and would have allot more money in my pockets. Lol

LED's are definitely cost save in the long run. But I guess I too chicken to try. I will try the one from Brandon in a small area of the tank and if I feel confident then will upgrade later. You got deep pockets bud you dont have to worry:) Btw I think you have done an awesome work with your leds. I need to take a similar structured approach.

[Manoj's Reef]

Made a decision to go with 36'' 6*39watt sunpower fixture. I am told and feel convinced that I should be able to grow sps at 22 inches. I placed the order today so should have it in a week.

Now can anyone give me bulb suggestions?

[binford4000]

Those are nice fixtures and no problem with good bulbs ! I would go 3 ati blue plus 2 ati specials and a fiji red. Alll these produce and are rated above 300 par which makes sps happy ! Your former effaflo is growing like crazy so come break a chunk off ! But keep your paws off the berry for now. Bah ha ha ha

[creefer]

I would use something similar to binford. 4 blue +, GE 6500k and a KZ Fiji purple or ATI Purple + would be nice as well.

[Manoj's Reef]

Those are nice fixtures and no problem with good bulbs ! I would go 3 ati blue plus 2 ati specials and a fiji red. Alll these produce and are rated above 300 par which makes sps happy ! Your former effaflo is growing like crazy so come break a chunk off ! But keep your paws off the berry for now. Bah ha ha ha

Thats a good update Chuck. I like the bulb line up you have proposed. The fixture should be here next week wed/thur so may be after a week its in I will start to measure par and adjust height etc. You know I will come after the berry eventually lol:)

---------- Post added at 11:50 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:49 AM ----------


I would use something similar to binford. 4 blue +, GE 6500k and a KZ Fiji purple or ATI Purple + would be nice as well.

Thats a good line up chris. Can you tell me if the GE6500K is a actinic of just a more yellowish bulb for growth?

[creefer]

The 6500k is a more yellow full spectrum lamp. Right now I have 4 blue +, 1 purple +, and one coral +. I plan to switch out the coral + for a 6500k or a KZ new generation soon. The new generation is much like the GE6500K. I also have been considering replacing the purple + with a KZ Fiji purple. I believe its spectrum is a bit more on the red side than the purple +. All said, what I'm running now is quite nice. The aquablue special is also nice in lieu of the coral + I'm running. For whatever reason though, that lamp went bad after 2 weeks.

[Manoj's Reef]

Okay the light fixture ATI 6*39 watt arrived yesterday. It looks good and I am happy with it so far.

Can someone guide me as to what kind of mounts do I need to hang this thing from the ceiling dry wall( assuming I don't have studs in that area)?

[binford4000]

Sweet ! I use the dry wall plant hangers. You can get em chep at home depot. I have some sunlifts you can have give me a shout ! They are just like the ones on mrs binfords tank.they work great and you can move the fixture up or down with two fingers! Rasta donation to her would be appreciated tho. Lol. Ya know the number bud they're yours if you want em ! It is what I would hang em with. Those bad boy's are par monsters so you will want to be able to raise em to get it right! Nice choice --for T5's that is. Rofl

Oh yeah the plant hangers come with both kind of hardware so if you don't hit studs there's paddle's that support the weight.if you need a plumb bob lmk I can hook ya up ! I am only working 8 today so I will be home early if you have to have today ! New toy syndrom I know how it goes !

[Manoj's Reef]

Update:
All of you were right about the ATI light fixture. I supported the fixture between two chairs and tested the PAR at 22 inches and it was about 450. I am sure sps would love this. Thanks for the PAR meter James. I hope to hang the fixture in the next couple of days.


I am not sure how much it would drop once I put it in the tank and the light passes through water any ideas?


Also
I have decided to change the caribsea substrate I had. I have ordered Tropic Eden reef flakes. Lets see how it goes.It should be here by Saturday.

[Manoj's Reef]

update:
Finally was thinking about aquascaping and wanted to be creative with rockwork. Ordered Emarco400 for aquascaping the rocks.

Anyone have any experienced with Emarco400?

[binford4000]

Come on man we need pics. !! Some of us are pretty simple. :redneck::oldman::duh:

[Manoj's Reef]

Come on man we need pics. !! Some of us are pretty simple. :redneck::oldman::duh:

Sure chuck..will slowly start documenting with pics.

[Manoj's Reef]

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d835b3127cce9854809a813f00000035110AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

These are the new sand that arrived today.

[Manoj's Reef]

The sand is cleaned and ready. I also cleaned some old rocks I had set aside.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d803b3127cce98548087caaf00000035110AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

Two large tonga rocks soaking in RO. Not sure if I can use them but want to keep the option open

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d803b3127cce985480864b9e00000035120AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

shelf rock from BRS. Impressed with brs service as always

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d803b3127cce98548099cab100000035120AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

What aquascaping is complete with out aquamend
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d803b3127cce985480844b9c00000035110AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

Cementing compund
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d803b3127cce9854809bcab300000035120AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

And some water getting ready
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d803b3127cce985480984b8000000035120AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[GTi]

update:
Finally was thinking about aquascaping and wanted to be creative with rockwork. Ordered Emarco400 for aquascaping the rocks.

Anyone have any experienced with Emarco400?

I used some on a Pico rockscape. I was bonding dry rock and found it worked better if you made the mixture a bit wetter than they suggest. Alternatively you could try moistening the rock.

I supported it while it set. Very strong bond - much better than the results I have had with the 2 part epoxy sticks.

Good luck with the project!

[Manoj's Reef]

I used some on a Pico rockscape. I was bonding dry rock and found it worked better if you made the mixture a bit wetter than they suggest. Alternatively you could try moistening the rock.

I supported it while it set. Very strong bond - much better than the results I have had with the 2 part epoxy sticks.

Good luck with the project!

Thats very good input, I was looking for that. I will follow as you said, I was planning on supporting it as it healed. Can you tell me how much time did it take to cure before you put it in water?

[GTi]

Thats very good input, I was looking for that. I will follow as you said, I was planning on supporting it as it healed. Can you tell me how much time did it take to cure before you put it in water?

I left it overnight but I think you could do it sooner. It seems to set within a few hours.

[Manoj's Reef]

The new lights are up now. Thanks to all the inputs received I was able to do it nicely in the first attempt. Chuck your tip on using a plump worked great.
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d803b3127cce98548085caad00000035120AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

Excuse the cords mess, working on organizing it.

[Manoj's Reef]

Some pics of my journey, sorry pics are not the best ( phone pics ) . I will get better pics in the next few days.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d804b3127cce9854817040fc00000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig
Empty Tank after 2.5 hrs of emptying and cleaning


http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d804b3127cce9854817e40f200000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig
After 4 hrs of effort, this is the outcome of the rockwork., I hope you all like it. I am pleased with it so far.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d804b3127cce9854817bc1c700000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig
With Sand front view, glass is still messy

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d804b3127cce9854817fc1c300000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig
with Sand side view

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d804b3127cce9854817c40f000000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d804b3127cce9854817dc1c100000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig
With Sand top views


http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d804b3127cce9854808f81ab00000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d804b3127cce9854808c009800000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d804b3127cce9854808181a500000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig
With water and fish. The display is now connected to the main system. Few nem and corals in the system but the direction will change once the display matures a little bit

[MizTanks]

Beautiful setup!!

[binford4000]

Looks really good ! Nice job. :thumbsup:

[GTi]

Nice. Great aquascape. I can't wait to going (upgrading from 29g Biocube to 60g Great Lakes Aquariums rimless). I'll be aiming for a similar feel - open, nice rockwork, minimalistic.

[Manoj's Reef]

Nice. Great aquascape. I can't wait to going (upgrading from 29g Biocube to 60g Great Lakes Aquariums rimless). I'll be aiming for a similar feel - open, nice rockwork, minimalistic.

Thanks. The rimless would look great. Your tips on emarco worked great.

Some more pics taken tonight.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d807b3127cce98548178692800000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d807b3127cce98548179e81900000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d807b3127cce98548164693400000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[Tom@HaslettMI]

Sweet looking tank. I like the rock work a lot.

Are you planning to do something to hide all of the equipment... it really distracts from the awesomeness you have going on in there.

Tom

[larryandlaura]

Clean aquascape! Needs more coral!

[Manoj's Reef]

Sweet looking tank. I like the rock work a lot.

Are you planning to do something to hide all of the equipment... it really distracts from the awesomeness you have going on in there.

Tom

Yes Tom , as I progress and add sps I will start to hide all the equipment and make it even more clean. I will need your help to get some ofyour awesome sps.

---------- Post added at 11:47 PM ---------- Previous post was at 11:45 PM ----------


Clean aquascape! Needs more coral!

Thanks Larry, I am waiting for the cycle to go through. So there will be corals soon...

[larryandlaura]

Nice I have over 200 polyps now. Let me know when your ready and I wil give you a frag or two to fill the tank. Crashes suck.

[binford4000]

Flow looks great ! So what bulbs did you finally decided to use. I really like the new look great job and LMK if you want any chunks !:thumbsup:

[Manoj's Reef]

Nice I have over 200 polyps now. Let me know when your ready and I wil give you a frag or two to fill the tank. Crashes suck.

Wow thats an awesome collection you have going. Will touch base with you once the tank is ready.



Flow looks great ! So what bulbs did you finally decided to use. I really like the new look great job and LMK if you want any chunks !:thumbsup:

Thanks Chuck, yup the flow is nice the wave maker is doing an awesome job. I will touch base with you soon.Next 3 weeks are crazy and then it should be relief.

How is your tank rockin? And how are the biopellets working out?

[MizTanks]

Looking great Manoj!

[Manoj's Reef]

To my surprise my picasso pair today laid eggs..I am happy:)

Some pics I hope you like them.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d938b3127cce9854816272c000000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d938b3127cce98548163f3f100000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d938b3127cce9854816072c200000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d938b3127cce98548161f3f300000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d938b3127cce9854816e72cc00000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d938b3127cce9854816ff3fd00000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d938b3127cce9854816c72ce00000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[Manoj's Reef]

Some pics taken today. As you can see a few corals added.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d908b3127cce98548168ebcf00000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a2d908b3127cce985481556ac200000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[Manoj's Reef]

Took pics of my sand dollar monti today.


http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a3dd08b3127cce985486549c2d00000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig


http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a3dd08b3127cce985486549c2d00000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig


http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a3dd08b3127cce985486689c1100000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig


http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a3dd08b3127cce9854866b1d2200000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[binford4000]

Nice Monticello !! Nice to see some update pics. :oldman:

[Manoj's Reef]

Nice Monticello !! Nice to see some update pics. :oldman:


Thanks Bud.

[Manoj's Reef]

Some more pics

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a3dc34b3127cce985481abee6700000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig


http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a3dc34b3127cce98548187ee4b00000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a3dc34b3127cce985481846f7800000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[Manoj's Reef]

One of my favs. Orange Crush Blasto/Ironman blasto.

https://im1.shutterfly.com/procgtaserv/47a3cc20b3127cce985486f480f100000035100AcMWTRm4Ysm Ig

[binford4000]

Nice piece ! Awesome picture. How about an updated FTS ! Been a long time since you inspired us ! :oldman:

[MizTanks]

Nice piece ! Awesome picture. How about an updated FTS ! Been a long time since you inspired us ! :oldman:

I second that emotion!! :) FTS FTS FTS!!!


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