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albert_dao
12-20-2014, 10:02 PM
So I remembered reading about Innovative Marine's Fusion series on RB earlier this year and had been eagerly anticipating their arrival since. I had previous, favorable experience with their Nuvo 16, having set up a small tank for my friend's (now ex) girlfriend and felt that this would be a substantial upgrade to the AIO tank market. Anyway, I'm a builder, not a writer, so without further ado, here is the story (thus far) in pictures and links:

http://reefbuilders.com/files/2014/07/innovative-marine-nufo-fusion-nano-3.jpg

First off, here's the original article that got me going - http://reefbuilders.com/2014/07/28/innovative-marine-nuvo-fusion-nano-aquariums-10-20-gallons/

Then they sweetened the deal by throwing in the light:

http://reefbuilders.com/2014/10/07/fusion-nano-10g-20g-premium-starter-kit-innovative-marine/

Here's the actual product detail on IM's website:

http://innovative-marine.com/nuvo-aquarium/fusion10.html#

Just this past month, they became available at the wholesaler, so I picked one up. No unpacking pics, but it's a tank... So it wasn't very eventful.

Some of my observations:

• The media tray came with three foam blocks. A regular one, a carbon impregnated one and a green one which I didn't bother to read up on. Into the junk tub they went (we all have one, don't we? Full of old powerheads, busted heaters and chunks of tubing too short to be of any practical value, but I digress). I replaced this with some cycled Hydroton media from one of the display tanks.

• The light (http://reefbuilders.com/2014/10/06/innovative-marines-18w-skkye-led-light/) seemed of reasonable build quality and output for the price of the unit but lacked an on-off switch. Clearly, they expected it to be connected to a timer.

http://reefbuilders.com/files/2014/10/18w-skkye-led-light-2.jpghttp://reefbuilders.com/files/2014/10/18w-skkye-led-light.jpg

• The screen top was a nice touch. The screen itself was a bit opaque, so I replaced it with some finer, more translucent netting to improve clarity.

• Glass quality was very nice for the price point. Polished edges, trimmed and even black silicone. 10/10 all things considered.

• Footprint was a little awkward, being biased towards the front/back dimensions to accommodate for the subtank section. This is fine with me. It's still very 'cubey'.

• The acrylic bracket for mounting the light was a little hokey. I busted it by overtightening the plastic thumb bolts. Nothing a little Weldon couldn't fix, but it was an annoyance nonetheless. Still, properly installed, I have little more to complain about.

• The return pump and overall operation of the system was surprisingly quiet.

IMHO, the entire package packed a ton of value into an alarmingly affordable price. This system blows the Oceanic Biocube and JBJ Nano-Cube, etc out of the water in terms of quality-of-life touches. The fact that it isn't sporting any of that cheesy crap plastic molding is a big plus when considering it alongside home decor.


With the aquarium unpackaged, my next step was to deal with the aquascaping. A few of you may be familiar with my work and know that I am a bit particular when it comes to rock structures. I don't like stacking rocks and I don't like using liverock. Here's what I came up with:

Front

http://i.imgur.com/nqqBdgpl.jpg

Back

http://i.imgur.com/p2E03bnl.jpg

Side

http://i.imgur.com/eRRkwxPl.jpg

Side 2

http://i.imgur.com/3aEZlrnl.jpg

Top View

http://i.imgur.com/QbNkGZQl.jpg


Overall, I was happy with the shape and structure of the rockwork. I went on to glue a few hardy corals to the structure while the concrete was curing (Zoas, Palys, some soft corals and a photosynthetic Gorgonian).

With this step completed, my next step was to fill the tank with some freshly mixed saltwater and seeded filter substrate (Hydroton). I also added a small Koralia powerhead.

Here's the tank with the first structure in place:

http://i.imgur.com/EtvZOTLl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/tA7Yofwl.jpg

It felt a little flat, so I deliberated over that for a bit. 24 hours later, after I felt that the water seemed stable enough, I resolved this agenda by unloading the contents of my 3.5 gallon home display into the tank:

http://i.imgur.com/3mw3VNNl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/4TjRAgJl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/MpXTIYil.jpg

I also threw in a couple of fish, a Swalesi Basslet and a Royal Gramma. Debating on what my next livestock choices are going to be.

Anyway, that's it for now. I'll update this post with more pictures soon :D

Sharkbait-huhaha
12-20-2014, 11:37 PM
That's awesome! So packed

Ryanerickson
12-21-2014, 12:54 AM
Nice work Albert looks great

hillegom
12-21-2014, 01:09 AM
Looking good
Nice work!!!

Madreefer
12-21-2014, 01:39 AM
Very cool. I like it!

christyf5
12-21-2014, 02:08 AM
Wow, that looks fantastic! Almost makes me want to set up my Nuvo tank thats sitting in the basement. Need more time...:twised:

NIVLEM09
12-21-2014, 03:38 AM
Just saw this tank today and was really impressed.also,talked to Paul about getting a tank custom made which I'm pretty excited about.upgrade time!!!

shiftline
12-21-2014, 04:04 AM
I have a Nuvo 24. Very sleek little tank Your tank off to an awesome start!

Bblinks
12-21-2014, 08:59 AM
Looks great Albert. I think I will pick one up for my quarantine tank.

SeaHorse_Fanatic
12-21-2014, 09:57 AM
Gorgeous. A few great looking Nanos are being set up lately. Thanks for a very informative writeup w pics (something we all appreciate)

The Guy
12-21-2014, 12:04 PM
Saw this little beauty a couple of days back when I dropped into Oceanic Corals, very impressive nano build Albert. :first:

acepumping
12-21-2014, 05:14 PM
Ahh man. Def makes me wanna get a nano ;)
Good work like always albert

WarDog
12-21-2014, 06:05 PM
Very, very nice! Inspiring rockwork to say the least.

albert_dao
12-21-2014, 06:58 PM
Thanks for the comments guys -- Feel free to AMA about the tank!

Here's some more pics :D

http://i.imgur.com/Jx6qxCHl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/5nrgQ4hl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/sqOuexNl.jpg?1

http://i.imgur.com/KR6Fpail.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/GaHxfNhl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/ztsnPifl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/7zahTmsl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/KXuwTnXl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/g9R8GOgl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/KqyOxsYl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/MgBuZDml.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/Pn7GVTZl.jpg

Tn23
12-21-2014, 07:11 PM
Looks great albert... now the question is... are any of the corals in that tank for sale? :)

albert_dao
12-21-2014, 07:15 PM
Looks great albert... now the question is... are any of the corals in that tank for sale? :)

Isn't everything for sale for the right price?

christyf5
12-21-2014, 11:49 PM
Isn't everything for sale for the right price?


LOL!!

While I understand the tank hasn't been set up for long, how do you deal with the constant sloughing of rock and the bare bottom? (or is it just me, my current nano has little piles everywhere. It doesn't even have any life in it except for a few ricordea). Are some types of rock just prone to this or are we destined to siphon constantly?

albert_dao
12-22-2014, 01:11 AM
LOL!!

While I understand the tank hasn't been set up for long, how do you deal with the constant sloughing of rock and the bare bottom? (or is it just me, my current nano has little piles everywhere. It doesn't even have any life in it except for a few ricordea). Are some types of rock just prone to this or are we destined to siphon constantly?

I haven't really had this problem in my nano tanks. Are you using liverock? I've always just used stuff that's been bleached out or acid washed.

christyf5
12-22-2014, 05:03 PM
Yes, I just took some "extra" pieces out of my display tank. Never been acid washed or bleached.

albert_dao
12-22-2014, 08:03 PM
Yes, I just took some "extra" pieces out of my display tank. Never been acid washed or bleached.

Yah, I think if you acid wash them, the problem should subside in a big way. Give it a go with a couple extra pieces! Also, brittle stars are awesome. They eat tons of debris.

kien
12-23-2014, 03:29 PM
cool. I want one of these for my bedroom!

Also, I think ricordia mushrooms poop.

tang daddy
12-23-2014, 03:36 PM
Nice set up and rock work Albert!

christyf5
12-23-2014, 07:06 PM
cool. I want one of these for my bedroom!

Also, I think ricordia mushrooms poop.

ROFL! only if they get fed :razz:

lastlight
12-23-2014, 11:04 PM
looks great!

how thick is the glass? I need a little nano for my office but the catch is I want to tie it into my sump so I'd need to drill it.

albert_dao
12-23-2014, 11:41 PM
*Shakes head*

I'm disappointed Brett; my gloves were on waiting for you, and here you are with this very cordial, very agreeable commentary. Sigh...

Looks like 4mm to me.

lastlight
12-24-2014, 01:35 AM
*Shakes head*

I'm disappointed Brett; my gloves were on waiting for you, and here you are with this very cordial, very agreeable commentary. Sigh...

Looks like 4mm to me.

Shame to put gloves on those pretty boy hands :)

And I stand by what I said. I'm sorry man it just looks great I've got nothing else for you lol.

albert_dao
12-24-2014, 02:21 AM
lol, you're never going to drop that, are you!

Anyway, thanks for all the comments guys! Just added more fish. Pics up in an hour or two :D :D :D :D :D

The Guy
12-24-2014, 03:34 AM
Saw this little beauty a couple of days back when I dropped into Oceanic Corals, very impressive nano build Albert. :first:

I hear tell good things are happening at Oceanic Boxing day, I think I'll check it out. :gossip:

albert_dao
12-24-2014, 04:17 AM
I hear tell good things are happening at Oceanic Boxing day, I think I'll check it out. :gossip:

lol... Maybe eh?

Okay, as promised:

Full tank shots

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10675656_764473393622333_4183161045288700503_n.jpg ?oh=5f4263ad3023a8a0b335f64b59a72687&oe=553D461F

Then I added some new fish

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10675667_764485876954418_8055024816483826098_n.jpg ?oh=d32013f31770b138a38f01ff3da8335d&oe=553D09CC

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/1524853_764483653621307_124052413144226076_n.jpg?o h=ee81be3c85b8f5f19956dbaeb91e5fcb&oe=55355650&__gda__=1426608850_b31d69b3f5652db0e804df17b4d0e92 6

New Ringtail Cardinals

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/10385304_764480846954921_511561651023851275_n.jpg? oh=051dec2fe0a83c16fac4ddfc702137c2&oe=55360D12&__gda__=1429927532_84ee92c87c1206d7e2e5ece2da5eb91 2[/B]

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/10710533_764486203621052_129631134763966965_n.jpg? oh=fd0928cdb9c98038cd787066c04f8126&oe=55383352

https://scontent-b-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10881566_764511460285193_9185345020915617950_n.jpg ?oh=1e82f9235b5286f95848b9d1c02d4699&oe=5532AD9A

Previously lurking

Royal Gramma

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/1475957_764485010287838_855338699629833135_n.jpg?o h=93f01adeff15a5bb6daf5aaa1b042215&oe=55357887

Swalesi Basslet

https://scontent-b-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10509726_764484603621212_282516310880239529_n.jpg? oh=e87fd3c84ac2dcfada524be8a9083d69&oe=550375F4

Coral Closeups

Dendro started to open up, hopefully it'll be at its full extension after the weekend :D

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/10881575_764480596954946_529126852297364710_n.jpg? oh=0f98ddd1712e29dec62bac70e3a69218&oe=54FC16DF

Really nice orange and green Fungia

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10689465_764481270288212_2249890834863244448_n.jpg ?oh=8369027344585649b72f2b6d5f4183db&oe=553EF2D4&__gda__=1426387976_8b592e0a68d7702d64f1b910d990bc2 a

Bright green Fungia - Loooooooove this piece! Some interesting history, this dude was grown by Spit.Fire from a tiny hitchhiker that he got off another coral about four years ago.

https://scontent-b-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10406678_764482690288070_2849144182804732507_n.jpg ?oh=f620bbccc9040af4b3a723f933d1372d&oe=55082460

Toxic Tiger Chalice - This piece doesn't have the strong green streaking that made this piece such a prize... I sold all of those guys at the frag swap :(

https://scontent-b-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/l/t1.0-9/10858351_764481320288207_5639996056461522141_n.jpg ?oh=639daffb1d28fa30f962684f7706c46e&oe=55063E2D

Pulled this awesome Paly from a cluster of wild stuff. Forgot where the Ultra Rainbow Acan came from though

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/10885040_764481536954852_978953614612640637_n.jpg? oh=e1777b41a9bcb5abf78436e80e29324a&oe=5541BBED&__gda__=1430094710_8045e804e053d3d0ef56f4a478e4599 4

Another Ultra Rainbow Aussie Acan, some Sherbert Zoas, a super cool People Eater-type Paly, Utter Chaos and some Aussie Yellow Zoas

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/10393775_764481886954817_3259103566641961004_n.jpg ?oh=3a51434846ac0251467854d47d81151e&oe=55305C93&__gda__=1426019610_fcabe05ec782a86f2f3a0151fa3031e 9

albert_dao
12-24-2014, 04:20 AM
Tyree Green Toadstool I set towards the back of the tank

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10407146_764482226954783_5577301416417936645_n.jpg ?oh=d9ad3238bfbe7bc7beeb5aab591cfb38&oe=54FBAF9C

OC Fuzzy Blue Rhodactis

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/1613875_764482513621421_4811742744106045429_n.jpg? oh=502a2dda0742d180ac53c6b501ecb648&oe=54FFE40A

Some more Ultra Acans and Sherbert Zoas

https://scontent-b-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/1545041_764483056954700_2426383664269707958_n.jpg? oh=e1b5feab6b018b0d963381ffa9d88405&oe=554578AC

I'm thinking of adding one of these guys to the tank :)

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10882105_764510016952004_5659347327937317861_n.jpg ?oh=ef1d20f6dd65d20aa82e1c5750442761&oe=5506BFC5&__gda__=1429561519_9fc07867a6efc59d2e26f6f3f4f20f2 2

That's it for now!


PS - and before someone calls me on it, yes there are some of those red planaria on my rocks. Drives me nuts, but it's from my 3.5 gallon nano that I never did any maintenance on. I'll deal with them soon enough :(

lastlight
12-24-2014, 08:19 AM
The mouth on that fungia is incredible. Mad jealous!

frd72
12-25-2014, 12:19 AM
http://i1273.photobucket.com/albums/y408/Teddy_Sesbreno/Mobile%20Uploads/20141218_155305_zpsh1vm5eep.jpg (http://s1273.photobucket.com/user/Teddy_Sesbreno/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20141218_155305_zpsh1vm5eep.jpg.html)

nice work albert..need to visit OC to fill up my biocube..

albert_dao
12-25-2014, 06:25 PM
Nice tank Tedster! You might not even need to fill it up much! I'm lovin the simplicity :D

frd72
12-25-2014, 09:08 PM
Thanks..sorry to hijack your thread..
Do you think i need to use skimmer?

albert_dao
12-26-2014, 01:39 AM
There are severe diminishing returns when it comes to adding a skimmer to a super small tank. Just do 90% water changes.

frd72
12-26-2014, 01:52 AM
90%? So just like having new tank everytime??

albert_dao
12-26-2014, 02:06 AM
90%? So just like having new tank everytime??

No, all of the bacterial ecology that keeps your tank stable remains exactly where you left it -- In the rockwork, substrates and any media you are using. The idea that water carries some sort of "stabilizing" bacteria is anecdotal wuju juju :)

frd72
12-26-2014, 02:22 AM
Thank you...

albert_dao
12-27-2014, 06:17 PM
More pics post feeding!

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/1469923_766394346763571_691512460645277604_n.jpg?o h=0e35294fc2c2325e9ec67c3d1babc3c3&oe=553BC4FB&__gda__=1425797753_eda90ec770d0ec804737a9b2641bc51 f

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/10882321_766393810096958_7235721448178872721_n.jpg ?oh=eefd47ffd4c09c37651c6160aec0419f&oe=55012CAC

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/1897877_766393383430334_8794368125792919808_n.jpg? oh=45194cf4042d56117ed297494058dd4c&oe=54FF4682&__gda__=1425678802_e7bdb7b67481051e30b0f0c909a74a6 1

Also found out that the Tail Ring Cardinals will eat stray bristleworms :)

jhj0112
12-27-2014, 06:31 PM
saw this tank in person! AMAZING!!! this is the best word I can come up with!!

SeaHorse_Fanatic
12-27-2014, 07:02 PM
No, all of the bacterial ecology that keeps your tank stable remains exactly where you left it -- In the rockwork, substrates and any media you are using. The idea that water carries some sort of "stabilizing" bacteria is anecdotal wuju juju :)

Absolutely right. I cringe when I hear of people buying tank water from the LFS to help "cycle" their new tank. If your live rock is cycled and just pulled out of one tank and immediately placed into the new tank, it should be completely fine and not require any cycling. I've tested this theory multiple times with my own tanks.

albert_dao
12-27-2014, 07:22 PM
I need to do a writeup one day dispelling all the wuju juju that us reefer's seem to do out of sheer habit and misguided haplessness, haha.

albert_dao
12-28-2014, 08:40 AM
Top down time!

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10891607_766977606705245_874027370033757514_n.jpg? oh=0d47e909686d2e557a79c4ebe5069701&oe=5548036C&__gda__=1426181413_988ddac09476abe610dbec7739b10b4 f

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/10882324_766977233371949_660126007571166139_n.jpg? oh=e511534eb6678ec03a35d69f2968e483&oe=54FAA55D&__gda__=1429427491_9e3f1bf79f972e1b5809e411ad3f10d 2

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10888434_766976963371976_3115410583008452791_n.jpg ?oh=c10928e70c00980450d2ec06785a0501&oe=553434D4&__gda__=1429476460_2f0397dc9ccb64b0a4b0cb1c014ee42 5

albert_dao
01-03-2015, 07:26 PM
Quick picture updates:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10897048_771086129627726_8093830423009735749_n.jpg ?oh=d3243678fff647d7efa7de0839b9c512&oe=5525EC04&__gda__=1425695960_47efe2f0dd0eb0768d0ac5f3fbc4df9 2

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10885247_771085776294428_6352356206551717564_n.jpg ?oh=0d05cb7c0fbf38286831aa4c7f408a60&oe=5530C7A9&__gda__=1430401731_8422931db901297346659b47fab1c7e 6

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10689500_770824909653848_1982491222382004370_n.jpg ?oh=57840e8c577ea39d807c8f6c2cefd8f0&oe=552C86C9&__gda__=1429209365_7dfec066cae0755b6e0d9287fb9e3ec 0


Some good news, a few of the Palys have started to sprout babies. At some point, I intend to upgrade the lighting to get better colors out of the corals (the rendition leaves a lot to be desired, IMO) -- but in the meantime, the fixture has been surprisingly effective at keeping the corals well-nourished.

albert_dao
01-03-2015, 11:20 PM
Shy guy:

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/l/t1.0-9/10885440_771671512902521_4687284664597073033_n.jpg ?oh=442289845737c606c70057b056da7c16&oe=553CF797

lastlight
01-04-2015, 12:08 AM
Nice dendros do they have polyps out under lights ? I've held off getting some thinking they're drawn in when the tank is lit.

Tn23
01-04-2015, 12:33 AM
Lots of dendros will extend their polyps during the day. Might take some training or small food partials in the water but most of the dendros I've seen are open even during daylight.

Slyguy00
01-04-2015, 12:48 AM
My dendros are always out. Its rare to see it closed up, day or night.

SeaHorse_Fanatic
01-04-2015, 01:35 AM
Mine are the opposite of suncorals in that they are open 90% of the time, if not more.

http://i1250.photobucket.com/albums/hh524/SHFanatic/Dendros_zps16373f2d.jpg (http://s1250.photobucket.com/user/SHFanatic/media/Dendros_zps16373f2d.jpg.html)

Proof! :biggrin:

Just taken at 6:35pm.

lastlight
01-04-2015, 06:01 AM
Bangin news! I'm always feeding.

albert_dao
01-11-2015, 12:32 AM
Here's how you do a water change on a nano :D

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10919036_777271765675829_6274770203924764579_n.jpg ?oh=a63a025b41b83c37d5cd4053f5f5d2dd&oe=5531E76D&__gda__=1428563121_ae25eb27fc117e01f2b3b951b128107 d

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10897827_777272085675797_7456582161055188162_n.jpg ?oh=433e1ed9c0e4c86c7c3aa3bd37c59c02&oe=556F6430&__gda__=1428343276_592cc202603bea1319cdfba8acf734b 3

Ten minutes later, everything looks exactly like it did before the W/C.

acepumping
01-11-2015, 01:00 AM
Lmfao! ! Good one.

lastlight
01-11-2015, 01:14 AM
I hope you've got a valved bulkhead in the bottom rear of that tank. Be the quickest water change ever lol.

albert_dao
01-11-2015, 01:17 AM
Lmfao! ! Good one.

Skimmers are for chumps. Real men drain the entire tank. Then they walk away without looking back.

shiftline
01-11-2015, 04:15 AM
So 100% water changes?! :P

albert_dao
01-11-2015, 05:42 AM
So 100% water changes?! :P

I would if there were no fish :(

albert_dao
01-11-2015, 08:14 PM
Some quick updates and pictures.

• Corals are looking fabulous.
• Fish are looking great, but the organization of the cardinals seems to have broken down. They no longer bunch together tightly. Minor aggression, but no ripped fins. Very stable pecking order.
• The minor nuisance algae growth from setup has seemed to ground to a complete halt.
• I've been hand feeding the corals a TON of food. I've also been dumping a cube of cyclopeeze in every two days or so. The animals go wild for it.
• I'm more or less convinced that bare bottom is the key to easy maintenance while supporting dense stocking and overfeeding.
• 90% water changes rock. I wish it was practical to do this with my bigger system.

So far, the fish list looks like this:

• 4 - Ringtail Cardinals
• 1 - Royal Gramma
• 1 - Swalesi Basslet
• 1 - Jaguar Goby
• 1 - Molly Miller

I'm thinking I wouldn't mind putting in a single Bangai Cardinal and a pair of Ocellaris Clowns.

Onto the pictures:

Ultra Acan after feeding :D

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/10606003_778047675598238_4329862637284410612_n.jpg ?oh=9512375ea857ac3cf07edc6e8db26b6c&oe=55313A66&__gda__=1429559120_ab758db45f4e9f501d3125ea1a80f1d 4


Utter Chaos and company

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/1688624_778048935598112_6323656725020804031_n.jpg? oh=51a31b57f87d8fd8c8ce49f66828e191&oe=553C9757&__gda__=1428243916_19b3cc965f507dcd84f7df36e4e5c3d 2


Added some Rock Flower Anemones

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10915214_778049558931383_9092949148452120891_n.jpg ?oh=0506df523eeaf2451db77930f862f850&oe=553DF163&__gda__=1429747135_d758d80b30fd39bce6e3ebe7c4b76c4 3

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10923611_778050162264656_4167515905399779487_n.jpg ?oh=e8be09cd36468e370708c4af15f9d829&oe=55345449&__gda__=1433360419_8ed204ebc278722d96ded2403aa5ab9 5


Finally got a picture of the Royal Gramma

https://scontent-b-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/524181_778050835597922_2779710264580246474_n.jpg?o h=b18d1f5e50cd1018738fa167aa6bdddf&oe=5539699C


I also noticed a couple tiny Aiptasia, so rather than uproote the rocks and manually extract them, I decided to add a Molly Miller to deal with them. Bonus points for eating nuisance algae and being super cute.

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10003538_778051058931233_8419656071613695189_n.jpg ?oh=0073bcbf8b48fefa8dd2852157399eb2&oe=553AC2FC

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/10933878_778052535597752_7153667464886354470_n.jpg ?oh=ff4b1d40a1b2d80862f20332ca1801b7&oe=553EB6AC


And finally, some updated full tank shots

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10898285_778082145594791_764761932945771960_n.jpg? oh=6f9ea7f5aa354195c8b78dbee0707576&oe=553969B5

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10923289_778082832261389_619225987531882358_n.jpg? oh=e0c655737427286f6364700d5d6b376a&oe=5522BEBF

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/1620824_778082862261386_4435462605613664734_n.jpg? oh=159dbc1d108b66bf239ef3c0ccba866c&oe=55325AD9&__gda__=1428497944_7bbe7b02365d0d1639a7274f59c4c0d 5

shiftline
01-11-2015, 11:11 PM
Lookin awesome

reefwars
01-11-2015, 11:15 PM
Can we see that water change in slow motion that was too fast I blinked lol :)

gregzz4
01-11-2015, 11:24 PM
Great pics Albert

SeaHorse_Fanatic
01-12-2015, 01:27 AM
Cute fish. Any more Molly Millers available and price for one please.

Thanks,

Anthony

albert_dao
01-12-2015, 02:38 AM
Cute fish. Any more Molly Millers available and price for one please.

Thanks,

Anthony

None left :(


I just looked at this thread on a friend's monitor... Colors were way off, lol... Friggin Instagram.

christyf5
01-12-2015, 03:29 PM
Skimmers are for chumps. Real men drain the entire tank. Then they walk away without looking back.

thats ballsy :razz:

lastlight
01-12-2015, 03:31 PM
thats ballsy :razz:

I think he refills before he walks away though :biggrin:

christyf5
01-12-2015, 03:31 PM
I think he refills before he walks away though :biggrin:

thanks, now my monitor has tea on it :razz: LOL!

albert_dao
01-14-2015, 09:32 AM
Got some mugshots today :D

Molly Miller

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10805839_779173842152288_3258612119915770070_n.jpg ?oh=316addf8a2eaa2af22e33b539799fc64&oe=552A8041


Swalesi Basslet

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/10917309_779174612152211_1674693154243514470_n.jpg ?oh=904c3bf5b4a38a694253c17393976a03&oe=553618F6&__gda__=1432793536_d7ed0bed8706285d78d8bc1764f6312 4


Jaguar Goby

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/10917306_779175675485438_2793738227382883448_n.jpg ?oh=1568eba068090cce805c4ebe73ddb610&oe=556AEA91


And lastly, here's what you can do in a barebottom tank with impunity - Drop a whole cube of Cyclopeeze in followed by some Mysis for good measure:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/10306632_779174425485563_2922293155543505697_n.jpg ?oh=f0ea0b6fda4f38d76bc7a77e8d495d24&oe=556AEF24&__gda__=1432977426_1ea73b6ff2c2ac9ca387ba02f8aefe3 2


Thanks for looking!

monza
01-14-2015, 03:51 PM
Nice little tank, looks great!

Skimmer Juice
01-14-2015, 04:07 PM
great fish selection , man I wish you were still working at gold's. We dont get cool fish anymore :cry:

shiftline
01-15-2015, 02:27 AM
Looking good. Nice pics on the wee fish

Myka
01-15-2015, 03:43 AM
Nice nano!

kien
01-15-2015, 04:51 AM
Nice. I want one of those Swalesi !

albert_dao
01-15-2015, 08:45 AM
Updates

• Added a pair of Curious Worm Gobies. They were almost food for the cardinals. Almost. I don't have a picture of them (yet), but they look like this:

http://www.nano-reef.com/uploads/gallery/category_3/gallery_24237_3_1356252501_49503.jpg

• Added a couple Porcelain Crabs.
• Added a Dwarf Yellow Boxer Shrimp.
• I tried to add an Anemone Shrimp, but the Molly Miller wouldn't stop harassing it. No large surprise there as they look more or less like a big Mysid. Ah well, such is life.

albert_dao
01-15-2015, 10:59 AM
I'm just going to leave these here:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10931454_779671442102528_6898696427955870470_n.jpg ?oh=7e690eb5174b7ca1c7cea6ab2fe65fcd&oe=55373D7F&__gda__=1429110435_2b0ad211414f81170251ec55e054962 8

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10929563_779670842102588_534881690509324036_n.jpg? oh=89e30ee822d21a1c14766ad19a4ee063&oe=55262FF2&__gda__=1432535247_1bd38f653c43ff4c1ad2c7c008b2a28 e

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/10712925_779670508769288_3762851003776083435_n.jpg ?oh=9579a3535a4f289005b75c44b7ccf74e&oe=5528FFA3&__gda__=1432725266_f3f5a9bb8b250efd628f555a9e814e9 a

albert_dao
01-16-2015, 02:19 AM
O____________O

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/1610861_779985428737796_4353587017734404919_n.jpg? oh=8da2b5b8c99eb4d771ccae54a9b3a38e&oe=5537E130&__gda__=1432992939_cf42aa47a12e7a8f7ddf12b01204e2f 3

albert_dao
01-16-2015, 10:17 AM
Got a pic of the Curious Worm Goby :D :D :D

https://scontent-b-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10915254_780078832061789_3389672868211253713_n.jpg ?oh=a104e9133f6e724e5902b365c6a24531&oe=5536EDC5

I want to throw one of these in there...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/10868218_780077358728603_5503371229535130797_n.jpg ?oh=73696fd702d14ca208b4dc24c785a004&oe=5533E92F&__gda__=1432884894_5efff86df75484eb6ab1dbbf61c7041 8

Added a Borneman Anemone (pic sux, I'll get a better one tomorrow):

https://scontent-b-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10941915_780066122063060_5026114664871282430_n.jpg ?oh=bab4081d553a7db471e0feb09e52e43a&oe=552745AD

Also added a bunch of hitchhiker Porcelain Crabs and Pistol Shrimps! We'll see if they survive, heh.

Tomorrow is water change day!

spit.fire
01-16-2015, 12:57 PM
Go to bed

reef-keeper
01-16-2015, 01:30 PM
How often do you change your water?

albert_dao
01-16-2015, 05:03 PM
How often do you change your water?

Once a week. But I'll do one off schedule in a pinch if anything looks funny. It's not come up so far, but I've always felt nanos should be operated on by ear in addition to habit.

Koleswrath
01-17-2015, 03:05 AM
Albert, great tank- love the huge water changes. Any worries about some of the cyclopeeze getting in the rock and missed during water changes/bottom siphoning? I'd like to feed like this but it seems that even with a bare bottom I can still miss a lot of organics in the rock- even with basting once or twice a week. Seems to always be crap in there ( like christy said- never seems to stop shedding).
Greg

albert_dao
01-17-2015, 03:49 AM
Ahhh I don't really concern myself with that. Brittle stars and bristleworms are your friends in this respect. My rocks don't shed, so yah.

albert_dao
01-18-2015, 12:29 AM
New Borneman Anemone - This is a tricolor variant:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10929017_780790218657317_4282869540729518616_n.jpg ?oh=893c73655e2dec084142d51f25a2c40c&oe=5535155A&__gda__=1433046498_b7530573c984acf7ae3552fada9a578 6

albert_dao
01-20-2015, 12:20 AM
Quickie update:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10407434_781380548598284_6373614143909021095_n.jpg ?oh=5b2f876310b2a02c23435d13efa25fe4&oe=5567241D&__gda__=1429328503_db9d3c70d6bf328d94b36da917c99e7 9

The Borneman was particularly puffy today:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/1656257_781192848617054_7720978217833114260_n.jpg? oh=6a6c953789e309b1752a4030bd81a7e5&oe=5524BE77&__gda__=1432391916_7e0580498f9931a29fd6e61836e4e1f 5

As were these two:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10420164_781192751950397_7430707792367971976_n.jpg ?oh=fca800f6a72cb8ce7849ee61fe859418&oe=552824A5&__gda__=1432976249_b1628fabd4f98220d97cf447e1dc763 c


Finally, here's a preview for the next Frag meet at MEZZ!

https://scontent-b-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10417580_781380231931649_440368028385160225_n.jpg? oh=838799f0831fc2af29a4b7991dbb5354&oe=552889D4

Bring on the empty tank one liners!

Ryanerickson
01-20-2015, 01:48 AM
Two fish are in a tank. One is driving and the other one is operating the gun.

mufflerfist
01-20-2015, 09:42 AM
Great tank


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

albert_dao
01-23-2015, 03:20 AM
Some new updates:

We now have SPS! Threw in an A. austera a couple days ago. It's still looking good. In the past, I've had difficulties keeping SPS from getting dull in small tanks. I have my fingers crossed that this tank will break the trend.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/10407385_783314698404869_172343535529568036_n.jpg? oh=03e35d0b0fc7386affd8b2f333a657fc&oe=552B97CB&__gda__=1432700315_b7ee1e0754a800b709cd4d141f03a0c a


I was initially a bit skeptical about the stock lighting, but have since gained a lot of confidence. Here you can see my Utter Chaos sprouting new heads. I started with three polyps and have since counted seven.

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/10929224_783314225071583_4509176146383145211_n.jpg ?oh=1d6a979b6a899a87d6344a608237317f&oe=5563A90B


Really tempted to throw one of these guys in there...

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10922663_783226858413653_6020523323260184139_n.jpg ?oh=8cb8b4073a8eb70fca4af54838d6f3ec&oe=556C7918&__gda__=1428418464_2e6ea56c77ba9513fd1eeecd6c72a92 6


Caught the Bumblebee Snails fighting over a piece of Mysis:

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/10896957_782652758471063_54044768261119992_n.jpg?o h=79b645598c630d9f276b514ffa47fb85&oe=5522C434


Meanwhile, over at Mezz Lounge....

https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/10926373_783307121738960_3648867549783267283_n.jpg ?oh=28a6d7075ecb0daf49954e262a88f5db&oe=555A4421&__gda__=1432998312_4ce4289e7e226899c9fff8965c2f151 1

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10941829_783307611738911_2959885879775282559_n.jpg ?oh=bc00bc897ae688ec0cfe906f263d6a77&oe=5566E255

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/984263_783307775072228_4176946747824210741_n.jpg?o h=25bc9127d6be2f6c411afa94a475ef8d&oe=5565451E&__gda__=1432261859_8f1a4ed4cc9cbcfec56ebb3f943466b 0

https://scontent-b-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10931250_783308075072198_2079763464827759035_n.jpg ?oh=d828e6dbe31cccb506bf7f2cc2029b55&oe=5563BA4F

Will update some more as we fill this guy up!

Slyguy00
01-23-2015, 04:48 AM
Looking awesome albert!!

SeaHorse_Fanatic
01-23-2015, 05:59 AM
Looks great Albert. Really shows how awesome a nano can look when done properly.

Anthony

jason604
01-23-2015, 12:53 PM
Prob the nicest nano tank I've ever seen. I need me an orange donut coral!!

albert_dao
01-23-2015, 10:38 PM
Thanks guys!

Feeling really comfortable with the stability of the system, so today, I've started adding some supplements:

KZ Amino Acids - 1 Drop
KZ Coral Vitalizer - 1 Drop
KZ Pohl's Xtra - 0.5 mL
KZ Coral Booster - 0.05 mL
KZ Stylo-Pocci Glow - 1 Drop

I'll be dosing these once every 2 days and adjusting as needed. Will report!

albert_dao
01-25-2015, 03:44 AM
And the best fish awards goes to: Molly Miller!

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10931310_783745235028482_4233966065584808359_n.jpg ?oh=3fd26c58bb6cc80d802d63dc0a953521&oe=556B897B

Ate all my Aiptasia, algae, flatworms AND it sits in my hand like a puppy!

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10952268_783758018360537_1600601254375069731_n.jpg ?oh=cfc206212f595fa11023f883c35505ab&oe=55622CCA&__gda__=1432456726_a848906dda4001d5efd58621c7067e0 7

Dodgiest fish awards goes to: Jaguar Goby - Thanks for only coming out into view when no one else is there to see you -___-

https://scontent-a-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10850114_783745151695157_8169418097862822021_n.jpg ?oh=2419a67bcda1fd5bafedfc38dadf4841&oe=5526B402


In other news, here's another Fusion 10 I helped set up :D This one belongs to my buddy Daryl.

https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10923590_783747265028279_4860341419738154157_n.jpg ?oh=968d88b6af378224b6448dbcf9703a0b&oe=556C1353&__gda__=1428457963_bdd855e78d3fe4f5d2aace09dbb20df 2

This is honestly the best AIO product I've worked with so far. I have another 20 going up in a couple weeks. I'll try to document some of the rockwork and whatnot as it progresses :) Thanks for looking!

SeaHorse_Fanatic
01-25-2015, 06:01 AM
Any Molly Millers for sale Albert?

albert_dao
01-25-2015, 06:18 AM
No... :(

albert_dao
02-04-2015, 11:32 PM
Another week, another 90% water change:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10584049_788525834550422_3625945467323463417_n.jpg ?oh=c06b659bf3c41f8a22cbdf5baaa763a3&oe=554CE251&__gda__=1432561211_9a5c77747790514a2f1def7f81bfc2f 9

I pulled out the Tyree Watermelon Chalice at the front to make room for some new Palys I intend to mount this weekend.

Still thinking about throwing in a Bangai Cardinal... Or a pair of pipefish? What do y'all think?

WarDog
02-05-2015, 12:01 AM
So many purdy colours... drool...!

albert_dao
02-05-2015, 01:29 AM
Next project: Biocube 29 for a new young reefer named Max

Front view

https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10435095_789265527809786_4325920732682975921_n.jpg ?oh=9d9cd38b5b9dde5cb5f4b9c8e49421c5&oe=555FD2E6&__gda__=1431321228_d9a436a1b4cd2a87d15afaa4b06c280 0

Left side

https://scontent-b-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/10245291_789265654476440_5964633178088441019_n.jpg ?oh=7b55f26cfe92858429da1fb4d1905a9b&oe=555F8D3C

Right side

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/1479322_789265817809757_6670124650639450436_n.jpg? oh=bfa08a70ac0bd6e06afe06a905ba0483&oe=55494C1F&__gda__=1432888452_2165240d104b8c875fda9ea021f585d b

Sorry for the marks on the glass. Didn't think to clean that out when I snapped the shots.

shiftline
02-05-2015, 03:04 PM
How do you like the bio cube so far? I have been debating a bigger tank and thinking about them

Skimmer Juice
02-05-2015, 04:09 PM
pair of pipefish would be super cool

albert_dao
02-05-2015, 04:10 PM
I don't.. Tank is for a customer. I've never liked them, especially stacked up against the fusion (which comes in a few larger sizes).

shiftline
02-21-2015, 06:59 PM
Good think I didn't go with it then!

albert_dao
05-02-2015, 08:33 PM
I haven't updated this in a while, so here's some feeding pics :D

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xtp1/v/t1.0-9/11165312_832341860168819_256112910509880907_n.jpg? oh=389f1e092c8873e7f28af0e19c142385&oe=55DFAB33&__gda__=1439796934_6540768cec56a00f5a12a5eaa9828d3 7

https://scontent-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/11188309_832342036835468_2113643889426828071_n.jpg ?oh=c6f2bb8e9bedc0c131e226c1828e083b&oe=55CE365E

https://scontent-sea.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/11081286_832343903501948_7686581217488484253_n.jpg ?oh=cf22ebb7d32f07ba72b9c3f518ed964f&oe=55D33CB8