Sump Design

[tony varrell]

Refugium upstream or downstream in the sump? Why does it matter?

 

[Aquarist007]

the key more is to make sure that the refugium drains back into the sump and returns directly to the tank--that it is not skimmed by the skimmer
Using an upstream refugium means gravity can do the work and you don't need a pump

 

[Aquarist007]

try this thread for more information and pictures of different setups

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1349443

 

[tony varrell]

Capn great reading thanks..

 

[Aquarist007]

no problem

 

[JKDMan]

i had a sump custom built for my tank
my tank has 2 drains one on each side my sump goes

drain in->wet dry->skimmer-> return<-fuge <- drain in

 

[Hesham]

Refugium placement depends on intended use.

If you are using a refugium to culture animals to feed your aquarium, it might be "best" to feed the refugium from your sump or from a dedicated pump. The food organisms ideally would flow by gravity into the main tank.

If you are using a refugium for nutrient export, the goal of this type of refugium is to grow something that can be harvested regularly without regard to whether food organisms are cultured for feeding the main tank.

There are also ornamental refugiums where you can grow targeted species (e.g. mangroves, sea grasses) in-line with the main tank.

There is a good article on refugium options at;

http://www.reefland.com/rho/0305/add3.php

Also, Anthony Calfo has written several articles on refugiums; they are worth searching out.

Good luck.