40g breeder build from scratch

[Mandrew]

I've decided to drop down from my sumpless 60g to a 40g breeder tank with a sump. This will be the first time I do anything with a sump so I'm new to the whole thing. I've started out by building a custom stand for the 40g. Just using 2x4s and some thing ply wood I built a stand that has a "drink ledge" around the front and sides. This way I can put a chair or two at the tank and use the stand as a desk almost. I got the idea on a forum but it's turning out nicely. Just have to put a clear coat on it and add some trim around the edges. This is what I have so far.

 

[Mandrew]

Went to the LFS and got 40lbs of sand, 40lbs of rock, two Sicce voyager nano circulation pumps, and a Sicce return pump as well. Then I picked up an in sump protein skimmer. It's a reed dynamics INS80. Now all that's left is to drill the tank, get an overflow box and silicon it in, then build a sump tank and plumb it all.

 

[Mandrew]

The stand is finished. Going to order the glass holes overflow kit next. Might be a week or two before I can afford that though.

 

[Mandrew]

I've got my dry rock soaking in salt water at 1.024 salinity. Have 2 power heads and a hydro koralia nano in there for circulation along with a heater. Going to add some Seachem Stability to start the bacteria growth along with a little bit of household ammonia to start at cycle in there. Hoping to have the rocks good and seeded by the time the rest of the tank is set up.

 

[Mandrew]

Ordered my glass-holes overflow kit tonight along with a Berlin sump!

 

[Mandrew]

Just mounted and hung the LEDs above the tank. I'm going to try out the 165w Chinese LEDs. Two fixtures above the 36" tank should light up nicely.

 

[Mandrew]

The tank has been drilled and the overflow is in place. Just waiting on the sump tank to arrive in the mail. Should be here tomorrow.

 

[Mandrew]

Filling up the tank!

 

[Mandrew]

The lights are stunning. Pictures don't do it any justice. Just need to wait for a few more gallons of RO/DI water to be made then she will be all finished and ready to cycle.

 

[sixpackgarage]

why all pics sideways?