I always loved this tank. I had no idea that company that carried the Solaris went out of business. That is kind of scary. How do you like the T-5s? Do you have a FTS? Did you change anything in the tank at all besides the bulbs? Why did you choose T5's over MH? Do you still prefer the DSB? More pictures please! ;-) I love the video of your anemone spawning. I need to get some carbon and have it on hand.
I was wondering if you could possibly give me some advice. I have a chance to get a brand new setup with tank and stand for around 1100. Just wondering if it is a good deal and how that center brace affects the ability to clean your tank, aquascape, etc?
Thanks so much! That price on a brand new Oceanic setup sounds like a good price, depending on the quality of the stand.
I think you'll be very happy with the Oceanic 215 if it's the Ultimate. I have no problems with the brace. My urchin is often upside down on it...actually looks pretty amazing as it looks like he's suspended upside down in mid air.
I'm running a Dart pump and I think it's the perfect pump for that size tank. I only have two Vortec powerheads and the tank looks clean and clutter free.
I love the T-5's. I'd definitely advise anyone who is looking at T-5's as a lighting source to do careful research into the different brands and types. I've had the best luck with ATI brand and also the Tek fixtures. The new Tek Elites are really nice. Also, make sure you have good air flow around the bulbs to keep them cool. I feel I have a great mix of bulbs in my fixture and it really brings out the pinks and oranges as well as the purples and blues, with only 3 "white" bulbs and the others a combo of blues and purples.
Carbon is a must, IMO, to always have on hand as there are so many crazy events that can happen in a tank, and the quick placement of carbon in many instances can save an otherwise doomed tank!
I don't have a good full tank shot. Here's the problem, I think. When we redid the room and removed all the windows, the room itself became pretty dark. It shows off the tank very well this way, but I think when I stand back and try to do a FTS, the camera is adjusting the darker area I'm standing in and the pictures look really bad. I'll try again soon now that the sun is coming in from a different direction and perhaps I'll get better light in the back of the room. Again, thanks for the nice comments. Marcye
