Mixing LPS with Softies

[forddna]

Hi there. I'm a saltwater newb. Been researching since last fall/winter. I bought basically a complete, running system, and I've had it going for 2 weeks now with no problems (except some microbubbles..grr).

I began this tank wanting it to be FOWLR. The only fish I have now are reef safe (I did that on purpose, in case I changed my mind).

I am now wanting to either do an all softie tank, an all LPS tank, or a mix. That said, THIS WILL NOT BE A HEAVILY STOCKED TANK. I do not have the time and energy to keep up with such a large tank if it is loaded with corals. (72x24x30 220g)

I am told I should avoid GSP, as it is the most toxic softie. In such a large tank, would that really be an issue? I plan to add carbon to my system somehow, btw.

Any advice, suggestions? I guess I should give you more info..

220g
3 x 250w MHs
25x turnover - 900gph return pump and 4 Koralia 4s

I set it up with Instant Ocean, but with every water change, I'll be swapping over to Tropic Marin Pro Reef. I'd rather buy more expensive salt and supplement less.

I'm looking for the lowest maintenance possible, so that I don't get overwhelmed.

 

[lvreefer]

Running carbon along with water changes and a protein skimmer should allow you to have both. I have a 120g that houses sps, lps, and softies. I'm sure growth is limited because of the soft corals, but everything still grows and looks healthy.

 

[DetectiveTofu]

Mmm, quite honestly, I've never heard of GSP being toxic to anything. Sure they can emit chemicals and pheromones and such, but leathers are much worse. I've also never heard of anyone having any problems with GSP causing any major problems - except that it grows like a super weed when conditions are right Your risk of having problems with GSP is minimal so, I'd say go for it.
Running carbon in your tank doesn't hurt anything, as it does help remove any toxins and metabolic waste from your system (as does your protein skimmer). Running carbon will also remove trace elements from your tank though, so I'd suggest dosing something like KENT Essential Elements.
With the MH's you're pushing on that tank, you will be able to keep whatever coral you want really. HTH!

 

[jadeguppy]

If you like gps, keep them isolated. As long as they can't spread to the rest of your rock you should be able to keep the growth contained. Some basic nice looking lps are hammers, frogspawn, and candycanes. They offer movement and color. They are also okay with zoa and mushrooms in the same tank. I have leathers, lps, zoa, mushrooms, clams, goniopora, and sps that are all growing.

 

[forddna]

Sounds good!! Thank you!!

 

[ILoveReefer]

Softies and LPS corals can do very well in a tank together. Just leave a little space between them to avoid problems.

 

[sixshot00]

I've got LPS and softies in mine. They do just fine with each other. I even have GSP and have had no problems.

You should be fine. Good luck to you.

 

[uglyamericanV1]

run carbon.......if a softie accidently gets stung the softie could mucus up, irritate all the other corals.......

 

[ChurchBoy]

I've got zoas & chalices right up on each other and things are fine. Shouldn't be too much of a problem to keep both, but just from my experience stay away from GSP unless you want it everywhere.