SPS tank restarted version 2.0 - follow up questions

[stevereef]

Restart version 2.0Okay with the help of this forum and other resources, I finally realized the old school approach of the "Rock Wall" wasn't very conducive for a SPS tank that I sought after. I have revamped my tank to be SPS friendlier - less rock, I am using SSB 1/2" to 3/4", add lots of flow (another MP40 on the way), and I have eliminated my chaeto refug.

Planning ahead

Since I will have 2xMP40s plus a Mag18 return pump on a 120g. This should in theory ensure that the detritus is carried into the water column and not have it settle and build up on the substrate. With this assumption, do successful SPS owners still siphon or stir up your substrate.

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  I have a serpent star and 3x Nassarius Snail, what other if any CUC are recommended for SPS tanks?

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  General Maintenance questiions: I plan to continue using my Pho4 reactor. It seems the consensus is to run GAC. I plan to run GAC passively, what brand do you recommend?

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  I'm exporing using bio pellets, I understand the concept but isn't convinced what would determine using this methodology, when the berlin method has been proven sucessful?

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  Final question: I solf my BM NAC7, I have a dedicated section for a new skimmer in my sump. What recommedation do people have. My space is 11.5l x 10w x 30l with a water level of 11".

Thank you in advance for everyone's help. I'm really excited about version 2.0 and want to take every precaution to do this right. I shelled out some dough for the version 1.0 training course.

 

[dzhuo]

I have a serpent star and 3x Nassarius Snail, what other if any CUC are recommended for SPS tanks?

I am not aware of any particular critters or CUC that's a must have for SPS tank. I don't think you need to go overboard of the selection either. Most animals referred to as CUC are nothing more than nitrogen producers at the end of day. Just a few snails and hermit of your choices. Focus on getting the tank clean, mature and stable should be your primary goal.

General Maintenance questiions: I plan to continue using my Pho4 reactor. It seems the consensus is to run GAC. I plan to run GAC passively, what brand do you recommend?

I would wait until you have the need before running one. Don't run GAC because others are running. If you don't have a phosphate issue, you might not need to run GFO either. Having said that, ROX .8 from BRS is pretty popular and very efficient. There are even claims that ROX is in fact too efficient and would remove a wide array of impurity too fast. BRS carries other brands of GAC so you can check them out.

I'm exporing using bio pellets, I understand the concept but isn't convinced what would determine using this methodology, when the berlin method has been proven sucessful?

Good thinking. It's a good idea to understand what these methods are designed for and problems they address but don't just run it because everyone else seem to be running one. Wait until you have the need. I personally like to stick with the basic and only if these are not enough, I then explore with these newer methodologies.

Final question: I solf my BM NAC7, I have a dedicated section for a new skimmer in my sump. What recommedation do people have. My space is 11.5l x 10w x 30l with a water level of 11".

No idea or personal experience with NAC7. There is probably a club in the equipment forum. You didn't research to make sure the skimmer fits before purchase?

Nice work getting rid of the wall.

 

[allsps40]

For a skimmer you should check out the Super Reef Octopus and SWC line of skimmers. The NAC7 you had is a great skimmer but under sized for a 120 sps tank, better for 55-90g tanks.

 

[stevereef]

allsps40 - do you think the SWC Extreme Cone 180 will fit the bill? It is a 8" cylinder and the footprint will easily fit into my sump sectional.