Need set-up advice

[johnny deluxe]

I was given a 12 gallon Via Aqua tank with 2 18 watt pcs...I'd like to set it up as a reef..I was looking for some tips on a method of filtration as there is no built in chambers...also what kind of sofites would thrive in this type of light if any...has anyone set one of these up before

thanks again

JD

 

[jasutton]

I think any softies....except the more difficult ones like dendros (which arguably could thrive anywhere...). but mushrooms, sarcophytans, etc...

but some tips...HOB protein skimmer(back pak 2 or aqua C remora), DIY aquaclear fuge(see sticky thread)....those are my two favorites. you should show a picture or give dimensions so we could better serve you.

 

[clippo]

given good flow, the correct amount of decent live rock arranged in an open structure should deal with your filtration from start to finish. Many people don't run skimmers on nanos instead relying on water changes. For mechanical filtration, once the tank is stable, softies and fan worms will remove particalate matter. Running polyfilter is an alternative.

 

[johnny deluxe]

Thats good info...when I 1st bought the tank (2003) it came with an udergravel filter..which didnt work out well i was forever fighting red algae...and had problems keeping mushrooms alive, though Coraline was growing everywhere...i could not stop the red algae...

I think i will try again...maybe 10 lbs of liverock, 2 small power heads, heater, and perhaps a hob filter with floss or chemipure?...

thoughts