Are Algae Reactors Worth it Compared to ATSs?

[OhMatic]

I have a L4 HF ATS scrubber and it works great but I need at least one more or a L8.
Due to space restrictions I tried an Algae reactor (ClearTides), it didn't work well, I made some modifications (Light & Flow), Worked better but not well.
I made a bigger DIY algae reactor, no luck, I increased the light but I'm still not happy with the results.
I've read that an ATS will out compete an Algae reactor but if I'm still getting algae growth inside my display tank I figure there is enough resources for algae to thrive in an algae reactor.
I've dosed iron using the guidelines suggested for the ARID but have not been able to get results I've been happy with.
I'm thinking a bigger ATS is the way to go which for me means a new sump...

 

[mikeatjac]

Here is another thread.

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2569017

Wait you started that one too?

 

[GoVols]

Here is another thread.

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2569017

Wait you started that one too?

lol

Seriously though,

I'm going to have to do some research on "this model" and soak in that entire thread.

http://uniquecorals.com/dry-goods/p...e-based-bio-absorption-filtration-system.html

 

[OhMatic]

My current impression is no but holding judgement.

 

[boxfishpooalot]

Per unit of area an ats is much more effective than an algae reactor.

 

[wildman926]

I have a L4 HF ATS scrubber and it works great but I need at least one more or a L8.
Due to space restrictions I tried an Algae reactor (ClearTides), it didn't work well, I made some modifications (Light & Flow), Worked better but not well.
I made a bigger DIY algae reactor, no luck, I increased the light but I'm still not happy with the results.
I've read that an ATS will out compete an Algae reactor but if I'm still getting algae growth inside my display tank I figure there is enough resources for algae to thrive in an algae reactor.
I've dosed iron using the guidelines suggested for the ARID but have not been able to get results I've been happy with.
I'm thinking a bigger ATS is the way to go which for me means a new sump...

What is your growth like on your ats? Also, what size of tank are you running?

 

[OhMatic]

My ATS (L4 HF) fills up and starts to clog weekly so I clean/harvest every 5-7 days.
I feed a lot due to fish requirements.

 

[Spudsly]

As far as I can tell, ATS are superior in most ways to algae reactors.

 

[wildman926]

My ATS (L4 HF) fills up and starts to clog weekly so I clean/harvest every 5-7 days.
I feed a lot due to fish requirements.

You should be able to reduce your feedings and be fine.

 

[OhMatic]

In most cases that's probably true,
Not in my case. I have worked for a couple of years on ways of transitioning Moorish Idols from wild to tank. And the way and frequency of how I feed is needed to be successful. Last year I was successful 13 out of 14 times. So I'm pretty sure I have the feeding part figured out.
I'll probably try a 2nd ATS.

 

[wildman926]

In most cases that's probably true,
Not in my case. I have worked for a couple of years on ways of transitioning Moorish Idols from wild to tank. And the way and frequency of how I feed is needed to be successful. Last year I was successful 13 out of 14 times. So I'm pretty sure I have the feeding part figured out.
I'll probably try a 2nd ATS.

That is great that you have figured out a method of feeding to ensure the transition of these beautiful fish. Awesome! But....once acclimated, do they continue to need the additional feeding that was needed to acclimate them?

So, all this time, your feeding requirements for this method to acclimate them, is not the norm as compared to feeding other fish? If that is the case, it is safe to say you will need additional nutrient export than the majority of people.

Good luck on your journey!! I hoped that I have been able to help you on it.

 

[OhMatic]

Once, acclimated, I give them (MIs) to a new home, and the process starts over with a new fish.