Need detailed information on setting up a refugium

[factorybacking]

Hello all! I recently made a 10 gallon refugium, im going to be stocking it with live sand, and macro algae, also, i've heard about cheato (probably not spelled right) algae benefiting the tank as well. I'm going to be doing the sand on bottom, with the algae on top;

1) What is the best way of doing this, and how much should i buy(Macro/cheato)?

2) How often do i need to cut it? Can i grow macro algae and cheato algae in the same chamber of the refugium?

3) Is there any certain kind i should be looking at getting(brand)?

4) Do i need to add any critters to the area of sand and algae to further benefit the tank, what is the best kind of sand to use in the refugium?

5) The bulb that is going to be hanging over the fuge is a 5100k, is that fine with both macro and cheato?

6)Do i need to let the macro algae and cheato be inside the refugium for a couple days before i let the whole setup flow?

Any further information is GREATLY appriceated as the tank is going to be set up tomorrow, thanks!

 

[barbra]

This link should get you started:

http://saltaquarium.about.com/cs/aquariumdiy/a/aa041400.htm

 

[factorybacking]

Thank you for that link, although i have already read it, it is good detail, but i would like some personal experience and pros and cons of certain algae types, i am looking to stabilize the pH and lower my nitrates. If someone could please answer the questions i have stated above with details i would really appreciate it! Thank you!

 

[ADA33]

1) What is the best way of doing this, and how much should i buy(Macro/cheato)?

I use Cheato seems to be the easiest to deal with and grows pretty quick under the correct light.

2) How often do i need to cut it? Can i grow macro algae and cheato algae in the same chamber of the refugium?

Best to cut before it runs out of room for desent flow around it.

3) Is there any certain kind i should be looking at getting(brand)?

Usually you should be able to get it for free or very cheap from a local member.
Brand (I am not sure if there is a brand for a macro)

4) Do i need to add any critters to the area of sand and algae to further benefit the tank, what is the best kind of sand to use in the refugium?

If you get cheato from a local member it should have life in it. Also get a cup of live sand from a local member.

5) The bulb that is going to be hanging over the fuge is a 5100k, is that fine with both macro and cheato?
Check out melev.com he has the best lighting for cheato. I believe it 6500k flood light. That is what I use and it grows good. Swithced one time to 10000k pc and growth slowed considerably.

6)Do i need to let the macro algae and cheato be inside the refugium for a couple days before i let the whole setup flow?

Cheato is macro algae. No reason I can see to weight to flow water through your system

I hope this helps!

 

[factorybacking]

Thank you! That help a lot!