Planning ahead... filtration methods

[Simi105]

My first tank arrives soon. This is going to be a Reefer 350 and I'm aiming for a mixed reef tank after going FOWLR for a while.

As well as my pukani live rock (which is currently curing), what are the main differences between various methods of filtration? Specifically running chaeto, siporax etc. Advantages and disadvantages of each. I'm not sure what to go for and would appreciate some input!

Cheers people

 

[Dkuhlmann]

I would add a skimmer that is twice the gallons capability of your total water volume. Skimmers rated for 2x is pretty much standard.

Chaeto will consume the nitrates in your tank and the nitrates get exported when you trim the chaeto. You can either sell it or just throw it away. Most of us get $15 for a ziploc sandwich bag of chaeto shipped using USPS Priority mail.

Why use these two? Simply because they work and are proven.

No other filtration is needed if you use a skimmer as well as your live rock. IMO

The only other thing I can think of you might want to use are filter socks. I've personally stopped using them.

 

[NS Mike D]

There doesn't appear to a magic bullet. I have concluded from reading hundreds of threads and from my own experience that most hobbyists use a number of filtration methods. I'll mention some off the top of my head and let others with more experience to add and opine on pros and cons

Cheato is effective, but theoretically you need a fuge/sump equal out greater in volume to your DT.

ATS appear to be very effective in lieu of cheato (and other macro algae) but they don't provide the habitat for pod production.

If nitrates remain high, carbon dosing (several different methods) is employed in addition to skimmers.

GFO is used to remove troublesome phosphates

reactors also use ammonia and nitrate removers

activated carbon to clear water and remove certain wastes/chemicals


mechanical methods (socks, sponges, filters etc) but they need to be cleaned several times a week to avoid being nitrate factories. Along this line, BRS carries (and a video) on a filter that looks like a paper towel roll that is effective and low maintenance (but pricey)

Low flow areas (live rock) encourage denitrifying bacteria (as does bacteria dosing)


Is your head spinning yet?


Then we can get so effective at flittering that we end up dosing nutrients back into the tank!


(PS add water changes and vacuuming sand)

 

[AlSimmons]

I prefer to keep things simple. Live rock, an efficient skimmer and a little elbow grease seems to get the job done. (water changes) This hobby doesn't have to be so complicated sometimes.

 

[lacybiker2000]

I prefer to keep things simple. Live rock, an efficient skimmer and a little elbow grease seems to get the job done. (water changes) This hobby doesn't have to be so complicated sometimes.

Most of the time this works for me too.