Build Thread - 32G BioCube

[Serren]

It's a been a few months and I figure I'd post my first build picture. Everything has been doing really good. Lost an algae blenny and two peppermint shrimp though. Right now I'm thinking either my tank is too clean or the two serpent starfish are finding things sleeping. Either way, I've not seen a body...

Still looking for a small powerhead to move the water a bit more as the Banded Sleeper Goby spits sand all over the place and I need to move it back down. Also not pictured was the recent addition of green bubble tip.

20161229_160119 by Steve Holtam, on Flickr

 

[SeaMonkee]

Looks great! Which lighting option is that?

 

[SeaMonkee]

Nevermind, I'm an idiot, lol. Just read your signature.

 

[Serren]

No problem. It is the LED model and all the corals seem very happy. The only one that I'm wishing for more growth is the xenia. I have it up top and I'm thinking about moving it lower.

 

[the whelk]

Was looking at this one today aquarium depit has them for $271.00

 

[Serren]

I started off in the hobby with the original Biocube and loved it. Gave it to my dad about 7 years ago and it still works great. EXCEPT for the bulbs. The compact fluorescent lamps need replacing a few times a year and the energy usage, 72 watts for both bulbs.

My first go around I quickly wanted more tank, more lights, more complication, etc., all which ended up being more headache.

I feel the new 32 gallon LED version is the sweet spot. Just big enough to allow me some room to play, simple enough to keep it simple, easily cleanable, and the stock lights are bright. Like you can't really look at them bright. The built in timer allows for a nice sunset effect. Three light modes, day, evening and moon. I wish it would allow for a sunrise mode, but I guess the real sun does that.

I'm not going to add anything custom or modify this tank at all really. I got the little skimmer for $20 that fits in the first chamber. Works ok. Get about a cup of skim every few days. Not the best, not fancy, but it works. The stock circulation pump is ok, but I'm looking for one more in tank pump just to get a bit more flow. Maybe another $20. After that, I will avoid the upgrade lure.

Otherwise, the hobby will be trading a few frags, watching my fish and corals, and enjoy the hobby without having the headache of a full custom setup and all the expenses and complications that we have all experienced. That's why I am calling this my Keep It Simple Stupid build.

Lastly, the local prices on this new tank beat Amazon everyday by a good margin. You can haggle them down another $20 or so on the stand.

 

[Serren]

Update taken last week. Another $100 in fake rock filled out the back, and then a few more corals and a bta from an awesome club member.

tank by Steve Holtam, on Flickr

 

[TigeBell]

looking like things are coming along well or you Steve. Good job