Sump or Refugium

[killagoby]

I am looking to set up a new 70 gallon LPS reef tank. I'm going with Oceanic's Tech Series Tank, and looking to run MH's with T5's for my actinics. Also, I am looking to go with a skimmer, such as a Euro-Reef, that will be capable enough to do some heavy duty skimming. I have always had good results on my previous reef tanks with fuges. This time around I'm thinking of just using a sump with the skimmer. Any suggestions on the matter. I'll use just a dusting of sand on the bottom of the tank, and at least 1.5 lbs. of live rock per gallon as well. Thanks!

 

[russ49merc]

if you have used them before and they worked why change anything. I think you should add to the poll BOTH

 

[killagoby]

The reason for the sump is because the LFS is selling a complete setup for a discounted price. Tank, lights, sump, ect. I am already going to upgrade to a better lighting system, and I was just trying to keep the cost down by not adding a fuge. Although I love fuges, sumps are much simpler as well. Any other suggestions?

 

[Bebo77]

why not make a separate fuge if you want one that bad?

 

[oct2274]

alot of sumps have a fuge built in........like mine. Mine actually has two fuges built in

 

[russ49merc]

I think a fuge is good for any tank.

and just to state the obvious. just do a search and look at what everyone else is using ........ I think a fuge and sump should be together.

but see if you can find a setup on here LFS usually no matter if it seems like a good deal are usually screwing you.

 

[killagoby]

Actually my LFS is better than most. I've been dealing with them for 10 years now and they know their stuff. That's rare, I know. I might just upgrade the sump for a fuge. I was just thinking to keep the set-up simple, but in the long run a fuge works out well for nutrient export.

 

[russ49merc]

I set up all my tanks the same water from tank goes through a section with the skimmer then through a refugium and back into the tank . if they do have good prices then i'd say go for it

 

[token]

killagoby: Is the sump that is included with the system not amenable to conversion to a (or addition of an internal) 'fuge? I would think that one could find a way to squeeze something in, using what one gets for the price.

 

[killagoby]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10474780#post10474780 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by token
killagoby: Is the sump that is included with the system not amenable to conversion to a (or addition of an internal) 'fuge? I would think that one could find a way to squeeze something in, using what one gets for the price.

Here's the thing, it's all going to have to fit under the cabinet. I'm not willing to set up a separate room for a sump and fuge. This is why I'd like to do one and not the other. I was just thinking a sump would be easier. Less plugs, changes of lightbulbs, ect.

 

[russ49merc]

sure it's easier but refugium always better. my 2 cents

 

[oct2274]

just add an extra baffle like i did so you can include the fuge right into the sump. See my picture above. That is my sump and my fuge, it is all one unit. Obviously it doesn't have to be built the same as mine, but there is no reason why you can't include a fuge into a sump

 

[token]

killagoby: If the system you are purchasing includes a sump, it can also be a 'fuge. It can be inside the sump, using the structural components of the 'fuge itself to regulate flow over/through it. It can hang, be submerged or semi-submerged.

The biggest benefit of a 'fuge to me is nutrient export. In that process one generally gets more stable pH by using a reverse photo-period. Having kept marine aquaria for more than thirty years, with varying degrees of success, I cannot imagine a system in which I did not include a 'fuge. Once these became widely understood, the hobby seemed to take a giant leap forward in terms of species survivability.

Of course, your mileage may vary!