Flow in H. mag species tank

[E.J. Coral]

I am setting up a cube to house a lone magnifica and nigripes pair. The tank is 24x24x24. It has a 1.5" drain with 2 3/4" returns, in a rear-center over flow. My original plan was to use a Mag18, which I already have, as the sump pump feeding the two returns via an OM 2-way. But I am starting to think that this may not provide adeqaute flow. The OM unit is limited to 1000gph and will suffer head loss becuase it will be below the tank.

I am considering using the OM on a closed loop, but I am concerned about the anemones safety with respect to the cl intake. How does one make an anemone safe CL intake? can the cl drain go in the overflow box?

 

[sonofgaladriel]

No, a closed loop drain should not go in the overflow box.
I have overlarge strainers on my closed loop drains to increase the surface area of water being sucked in. This results in less suction at any one point on the strainer. I've had small shimp actually sit on my closed loop strainers and they are not sucked in.
Oh, I have Darts running my two closed loops so there is alot of flow.
Also, magnifica prefer to place themselver up very high nearest to the light as possible and in the most flow. If you put your CL drain down low, you'll most likely be fine.
If you're still nervous, go with two of the new hydor coralia pumps or the new nano tunze on a controller. They are about as anemone friendly as you can get with powerheads.
But, with your size tank, I'd go with a closed loop so you don't have to look at any powerheads.
Best of luck.
I'm actually considering turning my 240 cube (4'x4'x2') into a magnifica specific tank with tones of ocellaris and damsels.