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Dash
09-26-2017, 05:06 AM
Hi all,
I've been stalling on my tank upgrade because I'm feeling way out of my depth (see what I did there), and I've been hesitant to start a build thread here because you're all so intimidating to a newbie like me. :mrgreen: Anyway, I thought perhaps others out there like me would be interested in something like this instead of the amazing tank builds you usually see here, so I'm taking the big leap forward.

My 75-gal tank will be 2 years old this November. I bought 2 green spotted puffers that the LFS told me were freshwater, and long story short, eventually ended up buying a used tank on CL and setting up a SW tank for them with the help of some nice folks on the Puffer Forum. I learned about live rock and mixing salt, and now I think I'm hooked. My current set-up is pretty medieval. All second-hand stuff except for the lights. No sump, hob Remora skimmer, SB Reef lights. I do a 16-gal water change once a month with buckets, and manually top off water twice a day. I do not use RODI water. (Please don't hate me).

My fish in order of when they were added: 2 green spotted puffers, YWG+shrimp pair, ocellaris clown pair, long nose hawkfish, mandarin, tail spot blenny, flame hawkfish.
Coral...a bit of everything including RBTAs (a lot of 'em), zoas, and some lps & sps.

I've been having a real blast thus far and luckily have all my original livestock, except for a lawnmower blenny who wouldn't eat and a long-nose hawkfish that jumped (RIP Lenny & Fergus:cry:).

However, I know my skimmer is barely able to keep up, I need to learn about dosing, and I'd like to set up a sump so I can have a refugium to increase pod population (for future girlfriend for my mandarin).

*note: apologies for crummy iphone pics



My immediate hurdle - I have no idea how to plumb this.

Dash
09-27-2017, 04:28 AM
My current tank:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4426/37344077181_bf2a20f18b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YTYa6F)

The tank I bought: 72 x 18 x 18
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4390/37297147566_b08551daf0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YPPCyo)

It came with a stand. My husband stripped and reinforced it (he's reasonably handy and owns power tools haha).
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4431/36635014974_b295fc567a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XPj2Bd)


My immediate hurdle - I have no idea how to plumb this.

Dash
09-27-2017, 04:34 AM
Here is how it was originally plumbed:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4395/23492856088_348404cc83_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BMZ2CU)https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4363/23492856018_7afea2f2a7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BMZ2BG)

Before I go ahead and try to duplicate this, any thoughts on whether I should change anything? Any improvements I can make?

Here is the sump that came with the tank: 36 x 14 x 18
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4434/37087859910_781ff97f3a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YvjYCw)

It has no baffles (new term I just learned) so I would like to put some in and have 3 compartments. Kinda like this except the other way around (not my photo):
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4507/37088527390_67d38ab777_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Yvop3N)

So, I'm thinking, from left to right: skimmer, then refugium, then return.

Questions:
- I would like pipes to be black instead of white as they will be somewhat visible if tank is viewed from the sides. Is it better to paint or buy black pipes? I can order from the US as I shop online frequently.
- glass baffles for glass sump, right? Where is a good place to buy the glass?

Any tips, info would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks!

Dash
09-27-2017, 04:35 AM
Thanks for your help Wardog. Sorry for all the clutter:redface:

philg3
09-27-2017, 06:02 PM
It's not a huge deal, but since you're starting from scratch I would do

Filter Socks > Refugium > Skimmer > Return.

Refugium's work better when placed in front of the Skimmer, or even Parallel to the Skimmer because a lot of the nutrients that the refugium uses to grow would be "skimmed" out if the skimmer was placed in front. Obviously the skimmer won't skim out everything, but if we're going with best practice, try and feed the refugium as much good nutrients (and pods!) from the display as possible, and then let the skimmer pick up whats left over.

Some people even T off the overflow so that the water heading to the refugium doesn't go through the filter socks. This method is to save some of those pods that are coming from the display that would otherwise be caught in the filter socks and get thrown away. Check out some of the higher end manufactured sumps from Trigger and Eshopps to get ideas for layout.

For making baffles, I had good success just going to a local glass shop and having them cut me the glass to the correct size. Just make sure you get aquarium safe silicon and be generous - remember that bubble traps are your friend.

Dash
09-28-2017, 05:32 PM
Thanks for your input philg3. There seems to be a bit of a discussion about this, and I'm going to start taking notes since my head is swirling with info. Is the layout dependent on what the refugium is mainly for, ie nutrient export or pod farm? For me, I want a place to increase pod population. I was lucky enough to get great live rock that a local reefer had for more than 10 years. My tank never had a cycle, haven't had nuisance algae issues and it's supported my mandarin for a year. However, I'd like to get a mate for my mandarin and possibly pipe fish, so my aim is to establish a pod haven.

So much food for thought. I'm finding it hard to make any decisions, hence my new tank has been sitting since June:confused:

philg3
09-28-2017, 08:19 PM
If the goal is to provide pods to the aquarium, you just have to think about it as a "refuge" where there is slower flow and no predators. Rock rubble and Chaeto will give them a place to hide and the slower flow will help them from getting sucked away into the display before they have a chance to breed.

I attached a Diagram similar to the way I had a sump setup years ago. You put the Refugium on the other side of the return pump, so both the skimmer chamber and refugium empty into the return section separately from either side. You can either T off the overflow like on the diagram, or T off the return pump back into the refugium. Either way put a ball valve after the T and you can slow down the flow into the refugium while still having a high turnover through the skimmer and the rest of your filtration equipment.

Dash
09-29-2017, 03:42 PM
Thanks for the diagram. Really helps as it's hard for me to visualize these things

duncangweller
09-29-2017, 06:57 PM
If the goal is to provide pods to the aquarium, you just have to think about it as a "refuge" where there is slower flow and no predators. Rock rubble and Chaeto will give them a place to hide and the slower flow will help them from getting sucked away into the display before they have a chance to breed.

I attached a Diagram similar to the way I had a sump setup years ago. You put the Refugium on the other side of the return pump, so both the skimmer chamber and refugium empty into the return section separately from either side. You can either T off the overflow like on the diagram, or T off the return pump back into the refugium. Either way put a ball valve after the T and you can slow down the flow into the refugium while still having a high turnover through the skimmer and the rest of your filtration equipment.That's exactly how I did my sump way back when. Works great for pods and you can empty the pods from the filter socks into the fuge too.

Every now and then a few pods will leave the refugium, get sucked up by the return pump and go straight into the mouth of a hungry fish in the display. It works great!

The melevs reef website also has an excellent section on sump design if you need any more inspiration.

Dunc

Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk

Dash
09-30-2017, 07:28 PM
Ok thanks, this sump layout might work out for me - thanks!

How much room should I allot for the return compartment? I thought it would be small as it only accommodates the pump but then I read for various reasons it's sometimes the biggest. I'd like the refugium to be a good size though.

Question: Is there a way to remove the old plumbing going into the tank? Here's the old return with the plumbing sawed off. Is it in there for good, and we have to attach new pipe to it, or is there a way to get it off?

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4384/37414896851_7a2742cdaa_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Z1e8jt)

Same question for the other 2 pipes. I guess you can see it was a Herbie system in the far corner.

Thanks!

duncangweller
09-30-2017, 10:46 PM
I always liked a bigger return section. That way there is a bit more forgiveness as far as having to top it up all the time goes.

The refugium section doesn't need to be that big, yeah it would be nice to have a whole other tank as a refugium but not entirely necessary.

Just saw through the bulkhead and then buy new ones for the new plumbing.

Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk

Dash
10-01-2017, 12:37 AM
We'd like to put in a new bulkhead but it looks like it's glued in on the other side. I don't know if we can remove it:neutral:

Dash
11-13-2017, 05:04 AM
I finally have baffles in my sump! :happy: I went with a simple design and the husband did a pretty decent job with the silicone.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4567/26604567689_36127a07ef_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GwXn5V)

I did a water test on both the main tank and the sump, and all is well. Whew! I have to admit I was nervous filling up the big tank in the house. It was quite the job emptying it out afterward.

Now onto the plumbing. Went to JL and they had no 1.5" bulkheads in stock and no ETA for pending shipments. Then I couldn't find any pvc fittings at Home Depot - what? I thought they have everything. Will check out some other places this week.
Now I can move on to the plumbing, which is my

WarDog
11-13-2017, 06:12 AM
Nice work on the sump! Did you order black pipe yet? You can get coloured pvc pipe from www.formufit.com. They supply pipe to BRS and its much cheaper to order straight from them. As far as 1.5 " bulkheads, you might have to order from BRS. A little bit of a hassle with the crappy exchange rate and shipping but what can you do?

kyl
11-13-2017, 07:12 AM
Any idea how much shipping is with them Warren?

patpare
11-13-2017, 06:13 PM
If I was to order,with my order being 49$ U.S shipping is 45 $ U.S

WarDog
11-13-2017, 06:26 PM
It's just the nature of the beast with shipping. You are either willing to pay or not for a specific item. Having a PO box in Blaine can also help reduce the cost.

I would not paint pvc pipe. It always chips at some point.

Dash
11-13-2017, 10:27 PM
I order a fair amount of stuff online (pick up in Blaine) but having said that, after mooning over all the pretty colours, I decided to stick to something that's a bit of a myth in this hobby - a budget. I think I'll just paint the pipes black. No one will ever see them behind the tank and I can use the $$ towards something else (like coral!). Sigh...it's a compromise.

I do want to change this though...

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4543/38346159856_32dedf711e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21qw6nb)

The white part is really bugging me. Not sure what it's called, but I'll have to take out the bulkhead as it's glued in.

Tigweldpro
11-13-2017, 11:22 PM
Yes bulkheads with threads on both sides are best. unless your using slip on the inside and not gluing your standpipe or elbow. If you use slip glued on the outside and the rubber seal ring needs replacing you have to replace that whole section of plumbing.
https://i.imgur.com/cNWRUGUl.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/Atl4umvl.jpg
And you wont have the cheesy white slip x thread adapter inside the tank

Dash
11-14-2017, 03:02 AM
Ok thanks for the info. I've been trying to read up on this stuff but it's hard to get a lot of detail. It's a bit of a slog going thru this learning curve but it's a real benefit to get a better understanding of how the tank runs. I'm trying to sit through the BRS 52 Weeks of Reefing, and they did mention that it's best you're able to take stuff apart for maintenance.

Frogger
11-14-2017, 04:43 AM
I wouldn't worry too much about the white coupling on the inside of the tank. Within a couple months it will be covered in Coralline algae and it will look the same as the black at that time.

Dash
12-03-2017, 05:05 AM
I picked up my Black Friday skimmer purchase today! Kinda excited as this is the nicest thing I've bought for my tank. The packaging was pretty slick.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4529/38076700294_5a7aea5527.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/211H3qE)
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4584/23928496857_bb1064c354.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CstNsD)

I really like it:) - clean lines and very solid construction. Love how smoothly the cup screws in. Well, it looks nice anyway; I'll have to wait a bit to find out how it works. I didn't want to finish up the plumbing until I was sure that it would fit, so that should be done sometime this week.

Dash
12-10-2017, 11:53 PM
Plumbing is done! We also put the top trim onto the stand so I can be sure it is all fitting nicely before the tank is filled and immoveable. I am not 100% sure that I should paint the stand black. Wondering if it will be too much of a huge black thing. However, I don't have any other furniture that is white in this room so that wouldn't look right either.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4534/38233724504_dc51affef9.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21fzQfC)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/21fzQfC) by Magdaline Chu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/153252787@N08/), on Flickr

No more ugly white connector!
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4686/38949712711_bdb6aa649c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22kRsAT)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/22kRsAT) by Magdaline Chu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/153252787@N08/), on Flickr

I'm not sure about the next step. I need to test if the pipes are water tight but if I fill the whole tank with water, I won't be able to push it back against the wall to its final spot. I was thinking I can just add enough water to overflow to have water drain into sump. Or is this not testing it properly?

WarDog
12-11-2017, 12:12 AM
Fill it with tap water to test everything running. Also test your sump volume when the return pump turns off. After testing, add some vinegar to help remove oils and such. Run for 1 or two days. Drain it all and then push it into final position.

Also, it looks like your main drain and emergency aren't low enough into your sump. Water is going to splash everywhere.

Dash
12-11-2017, 02:36 AM
Ok thanks. Guess I can’t be lazy.

Yeah I haven’t attached that piece yet as I was making sure the skimmer could get in easily. You think the emergency should be lower though? I thought it should be high so the splashing if it happens will be noisy

WarDog
12-11-2017, 04:06 AM
I had both below the water line in the sump. When set up properly, the main drain is dead silent. If and when the emergency is used you'll know it, as it makes a crap load of noise either way.

Dash
12-11-2017, 04:31 AM
Ok, thanks again. I’ll give it a go (she said nervously)

Dearth
12-11-2017, 08:04 AM
I am not 100% sure that I should paint the stand black. Wondering if it will be too much of a huge black thing. However, I don't have any other furniture that is white in this room so that wouldn't look right either.


If your worried about colour clash that is a relatively minor problem in the grand scheme of things I have seen many people use cloth or fabric skirting to hide the colours and equipment. Primary concern should be having a running tank and access to equipment under the tank.

Other than that your build looks awesome so far keep up the good work

Dash
12-12-2017, 03:03 PM
IT'S ALI-IVE!

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4540/25137873278_13c72ab40f.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EimaWf)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/EimaWf) by Magdaline Chu (https://www.flickr.com/photos/153252787@N08/), on Flickr

The husband told me to stop procrastinating, so I finally put water into the tank. I still wasn't sure I understood it completely but once it was running, everything made sense. I re-read the entire GMA Herbie method basic guide again and understood it this time. It did show the that the two downspouts should be under the waterline (not sure how I missed that). The main line as I have it now is probably a bit too long (?) as it should be about 1/2" underwater I think. I left the emergency for now as it was good to see how it worked as I adjusted the valve. We turned off the pump and it was all good. My husband showed a lot of interest in playing around with the plumbing - he doesn't really care all that much about the livestock haha. He also looks forward to all the clutter being cleaned up.

I'm not really a religious person but I did say a little prayer before I went to bed. And lo, there was no deluge this morning.

So I added the vinegar and will let it run for the 2 days. Then some final adjustments, clean up the back, etc. When should I be testing the skimmer. It won't be working properly when there's nothing to skim, right?

Also, the sight of all that water in the tank made my husband think about insurance coverage. Any insight into this?

WarDog
12-12-2017, 04:32 PM
Main drain looks good. Definately bring the emergency below the rim of the sump. Running the skimmer now in the vinegar water will help get the manufacturing oils and dust off it. It will take a couple weeks to get it set properly once you introduce livestock. After you drain the tank don't worry too much about wiping down every last bit of vinegar water. Consider it your first carbon dose. If you speak to your insurance agent about additional protection, please share your findings with us. Not too many people do this.

Dash
01-09-2018, 06:12 PM
A new year, and new beginnings...
I thought it was a perfect time to fill the tank with saltwater:biggrin: The husband completed his part of the project by securing the pipes, adding the back to the stand and pushing the tank to its permanent spot. So now he can go back to his spot on the couch:lol:

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4762/27822460079_d13d2aefc8.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jozo4z)

After a couple of days I added my first live thing - a ball of chaeto in the sump fuge section. Hope it likes the pink light. Then I moved over a few rocks and a bit of sand. The old tank is only 3 feet away so I'm planning to move things over in stages. I'm pleased to see the little sponges and feather dusters on the rocks are still happy. (I forgot to not expose sponges to air, oops) I'm seeing the tiny white things on the glass just as I did with the old tank. Never did figure out if they are pods or what.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4699/38891233064_5b99af2deb.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22fFJD7)

I'm waiting for my new 32" SB Reef light to arrive to add to existing one. I have saved a spot next to the sump for an ATO container but I'm not sure what to use yet.
In the meantime I am mulling over plans on how to safely catch my little pistol shrimp as he will be one of the first to set foot in the promised land.

DKoKoMan
01-09-2018, 06:29 PM
Looking good! Great idea to plan for some future adding.

Dash
01-16-2018, 10:03 PM
I finally put the skimmer in. I made a stand with egg crate & per instructions letting it run without the cup for 24 hours. I really love this thing. So red and shiny. And silent.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4676/39010112484_409dd8a0c7.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22rc2mh)

So I got a canary to test the waters as it were. I guess in theory all creatures are equal but I didn't want my own fishies to be the first in the new tank:redface:. He's a Springer damsel, so he's supposed to not be evil. Also eats flatworms should the need arise. Having said that, I'm growing fond of him already. His name is Neil. One small step for...

He's doing great. Hid for the first day & coming out to eat the next.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4766/39010103744_d7a0d4ac9a.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22rbYKA)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4607/38821103565_9888aaffc5.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/229uizP)

DKoKoMan
01-17-2018, 01:21 AM
Lol... canary sounds more like new tankmate. FWIW... my damsel is actually pretty mellow and plays well with others. It could be that everything else is way bigger then him, but none the less he is super passive which is good.

smokinreefer
01-18-2018, 12:34 AM
Damsels are awesome!
Until they're not!

They're some nice fish, especially as juveniles.
As they grow, most tend to become more dull and aggressive.

Best of luck with yours, I have kept a few myself.

New set up looks like it's coming along nicely!

Dash
01-19-2018, 06:35 PM
Well, this Springer's damsel is supposed to be the most mild-mannered, but who knows. All my fish are pretty assertive, and everyone treats the mandarin like he's invisible (apparently he has a noxious slime coat), so I hope it will all work out.

So far, the Vertex has been easy peasy. After the 24-hour break-in, I put the cup on and adjusted the valve per instructions, and it's been silently skimming away. I do like to look at it foaming so nicely, haha. There's only a bit of crud collected as it's only Neil and 1 hermit:lol:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4661/39783917951_c9348c5c85.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23ByYKR)

I think the chaeto ball has grown already but could be wishful thinking. There are pods all over the fuge glass though. Very encouraging!

I pick up my lights in Blaine tomorrow, so this weekend will be the big move. I'm making plans for how to transfer things over. A little worried about the fromia as he likes to spend time on the glass and the new tank is too clean. They are supposed to eat sponges, which are all over, but I've never really seen him on them.

DKoKoMan
01-20-2018, 04:53 AM
Hahahaha you make reefing so much fun!
Following along...

Dash
01-20-2018, 05:37 AM
I’m interested in a lot of different things but I have to say this hobby is one of the most fun ever. Just now I spent 10 minutes on the floor squinting at the tiny copepods on the fuge before I have to tear myself away as the husband/kid have already started getting ready for bed.

I feel guilty sometimes as it does take up a fair bit of my time, as well as not being the cheapest hobby despite my best efforts to re-use & recycle. Everything from the old tank is being moved over, every grain of sand. Luckily so far the KISS methodology seems to be working for me, knock on wood.

Dash
01-20-2018, 05:48 AM
Thanks Shao! How’s your build coming along? Btw I bought a neon toadstool from you a while ago and I think it’s splitting? It’s folding in and looks like it’s forming a little frag. Chi-ching! :lol:

smokinreefer
01-20-2018, 09:57 PM
I'm too busy watching everyone's builds, no time for mine!

Yes, the Tyree toadstool is one of my favorites and it doesn't get huge like many of the other toadstools I've had.

Dash
01-23-2018, 05:40 AM
Spent the whole day Sunday moving everything over from the old tank. Whew! My plan of having one light on each tank so that I could move things over slowly (with possibly some procrastinating) got kiboshed when the husband wired and hung both lights over the new tank (he was watching hockey & obviously wasn't paying attention).

Despite planning ahead, drawing diagrams, etc, it never works out the way you think. Once you take rocks apart, they never stack back the same way no matter what :confused: The best laid plans, eh...
For the fish, I thought I'd start with the tailspot blenny as I needed to move his shell-house that was attached to a rock, but he disappeared. Next thing you know, he hitchhiked in another rock & showed up in the new tank with a WTF look on his face. So much for acclimation. I hate to think if he jumped and got stepped on. Yikes! I got pretty frustrated at one point, but finally the rocks just fit, the sand rinsed out nicely, and everything came together.

Great thing is, everyone was accounted for including the CUC. I even found my 2 little ring cowries which I haven't seen for a year. I thought I'd lost the tiny pistol shrimp but while draining the old tank, there he was halfway up the corner silicone. The fish are a bit confused but this morning seemed to be enjoying all the swimming room. They all thanked Neil for risking his life on their behalf by completely ignoring him. He's a great addition btw, very active with awesome colour.

The coral are fine and some seemed to enjoy things being stirred up. The candy cane was brighter than ever and all the zoas looked great this morning. I had taken time to give each rock a look over & quick cleanup, so all the little sponges were exposed to the air, but so far they seem fine.

I still need to tinker with the final rockscape but the basic framework is there. Have to clean up the wires and pretty up the the ceiling plug. But it doesn't look too bad I think.

Now for the clean-up!

A new day begins:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4603/24978863967_8dcb711ffe.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/E4id1p)

chizerbunoi
01-23-2018, 04:40 PM
The tank is looking great. I really like the aquascape. And the lights look so clean. Very good job! :biggrin:

Dash
01-23-2018, 06:00 PM
Thanks chizerbunoi :) I still need to work on the rockscape a bit and re-mount some of the coral. I was lucky that there was a light in that corner that we don't really use much so we converted it to a plug instead.

DKoKoMan
01-24-2018, 02:42 AM
Very nice clean setup! I was considering hanging my lights for my new build but was always unsure if it would look clean. Your lights being hung is done very clean and doesn’t take away from the tank at all. Great job!

Dash
01-28-2018, 07:32 AM
Thanks DKoKoMan...too bad these lights couldn't do a daisy chain so there are two cords, but I've since tied them up to look a bit neater.

So this past week, I've stolen an hour here and there to tweak the rockwork, and mount up the loose coral. There was some brown diatoms (?) on the sand mid-week but after I stirred the sand, it hasn't come back yet.

The fish are nicely settled in and happy. I recreated the caves that they like and now that the rocks are more spread out, they really enjoy swimming in the higher part of the tank as well. Pistol shrimp has reclaimed his spot under the first mountain. I was worried about the fromia but he seems fine and is as active as ever, so I hope he will stay around a while.

Bad iphone pics coming up...

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4652/26068616008_9d10294805.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FHAtjG)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4626/39908425612_8c45c5607c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23Nz7xE)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4752/39230244094_890197f7b5.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22LDfNS)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4762/39042482655_cfdb0d8c9a.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22u3VSF)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4658/25069087577_daabd48666.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EcgCkT)

Here is what the Vertex came up with after 1 week with livestock. I'm not sure if I need to make any adjustments. It's at 50% open right now.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4661/25069079697_60635a250d.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EcgA12)

Skimmer Juice
01-28-2018, 07:44 AM
very cool starfish you got , cant enjoy those as I have a harlequin shrimp :mrgreen: . Scape looks good and congrats on a successful tank swap

DKoKoMan
01-28-2018, 04:13 PM
Your AquaScape is very nice! Reminds me of a diving trip in St. Lucia at the Pytons. Large mountains in the ocean :smile:

Looking forward to more photos.

Dash
01-28-2018, 06:37 PM
Thanks Skimmer Juice,
And I can’t have harlequins cuz I have two puffers who love the shrimp cocktail:lol:

DKoKoMan,
Thanks -that is a great compliment. Mountains were my inspiration - the classic Chinese landscape. My dream is to go diving but as I am a poor swimmer I have to live vicariously through my little box of water. I did once snorkel off a very remote island near Bali. Amazing!

Dash
01-29-2018, 07:56 PM
So I haven't put in an ATO yet. A bit more evaporation than my other tank:neutral: but so far I don't find it a huge chore. I would need a fair size container to make it worthwhile but then that would mean the risk of water on the floor. Any thoughts on this?

I thought I'd show the guys that my tanks have been set up for: my green spotted puffers. They are way cool. Smart as anything.
(You can see my modest start at a zoa rock:p)
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4648/28192867759_87a69c1f20.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/JXiPmT)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4768/39940792952_1e4cb4f905.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23Rr1ef)

Dash
02-08-2018, 03:28 AM
Two weeks since tank transfer & everything is going swimmingly :lol:

There were a few patches of cyano on rocks in the old tank which I scrubbed off before transferring, and so far nothing has showed up in the new tank. My sand hasn't looked this good in ages. It seems fish are still "stretching their legs" as it were in all the new space but they look happy enough.

I emptied out my skimmer cup for the first time. Couldn't have been easier. No drips, no mess. I wiped off the neck section - it was a thick gelatinous paste. Did I mention I like my skimmer
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4697/39408674824_2bdb95734e_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/233pL3L)

Dash
02-09-2018, 05:20 PM
I ordered some copepods from AlgaeBarn & added them to the tank, along with their “Ocean Magik” phytoplankton. Yes, magik in my tank - gotta be good! It’s the 5280 mix of tigriopus, tisbe & apocyclops. Lots of tiny things swimming in the bag, so hope they result in a booming population as I hope to buy a girlfriend for my mandarin one day.

The glass on sump has always been crawling with tiny copepods but I don’t see too many on the DT glass. I tried shaking my chaeto ball in the DT. Any other things I can try? Or assume they’re just all hiding in rocks? My mandarin has been getting thinner though - that’s why I decided to boost the population.

Frogger
02-09-2018, 09:19 PM
Did you have them shipped direct or did you have them shipped to Blaine?

If you had them shipped direct how much was shipping?

I want to get some stuff from them as they have a good clean product.

Frogger
02-09-2018, 09:51 PM
I ordered some copepods from AlgaeBarn & added them to the tank, along with their “Ocean Magik” phytoplankton. Yes, magik in my tank - gotta be good!

Let us know how adding phytoplankton directly to your tank affects your phosphate levels.

They say it will use nitrates and phosphates but my concern is the phytoplankton is packaged in a high nitrate/phosphate solution.

Years ago a was growing phytoplankton but found when I added it to my tank I had uncontrolled hair algae growth afterwards. So I stopped adding it to the tank and filtered the rotifers before adding them to the tank.

Dash
02-10-2018, 12:15 AM
I picked it up in Blaine. I entered a coupon code (reef2reef?) & got a little discount. Terrible communication but package was delivered smoothly & was well-insulated.

I do have a bit of concern about dosing phytoplankton. How long would it be before issues manifest? My rock is pretty clean except for one piece that was newly added. It’s showing a bit of hair algae.

Frogger
02-10-2018, 02:03 AM
I would monitor any changes in phosphates.

I am currently using Reef Nutrition phytoplankton to grow copepods but not sure if I want to add it directly to my tank.

I add the copepods to help supplement my pipefishes diet.

Dash
02-10-2018, 03:24 AM
Full disclosure...I haven’t tested any parameters since the transfer:redface:
Did I mention I have no instruments to test for phosphates?

Where do you buy your copepods?

Frogger
02-10-2018, 05:22 AM
The only two things I regularly test for is phosphates and alkalinity.

The reason I test for phosphates is I add KNO3 to manage my phosphates and twice I have zero'd out my phosphates and fried my corals. First time really bad, second time I caught it in time.

I got my copepods from J&L (Tigerpods) and from Canada Copepods (3 different types of Copepods)

Dash
02-10-2018, 05:48 AM
I wanted tisbe pods as I think they're more suitable for mandarins, and can thrive in temps of most SW tanks. Last time, I bought Todd’s Pods, from Las Vegas. I’ve checked out Canada Copepods but their shipping is pretty high. I believe you get less pods for the dollar as well. Were you happy with the product?

I accept that phosphates is likely a factor in my tank since I do not use RODI but it has not been a big issue for me. Definitely not running a ULN SPS-dominant etc etc system.

spit.fire
02-10-2018, 06:56 AM
lol i recognize that tank lol, the old owner still owes me some zoas because i drilled it and built the overflow box. Looks good tho, i love the peak on the rockscape in the middle

Dash
02-10-2018, 07:07 AM
Yep, still holding water:p

Thanks, it’s all held by gravity haha

Dash
02-15-2018, 06:19 PM
I thought I'd try out my husband's work camera (Canon EOS M3) so I put it on all auto settings & tried it out. Big improvement but of course I have to now read the manual so I can use it semi-correctly. Still looks very purple I think but at least it's not all a blur :lol:

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4668/40286531921_aac2a85afd_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24nZ1nX)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4620/25415277987_ca4e400dd4_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EHRWG4)

And of course it helps that my dog is very photogenic. Meet Dash!
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4625/25415282507_549313a186_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EHRY2Z)

DKoKoMan
02-16-2018, 09:55 AM
These pictures are stunning! Also who doesn’t like a puppy dog eyes photo.

smokinreefer
02-17-2018, 12:07 AM
Pics are nice...
Really digging the RBTAs!

Dash
02-17-2018, 12:49 AM
Thanks!

If only my clowns felt that way - they completely ignore them and just like to sleep in the corner:confused:

smokinreefer
02-17-2018, 01:27 AM
Short of removing the clowns and reintroducing them directly into the nems (to get them to get familiar with them and the stings)

I've printed a pic of a clown in a nem and taped it to the side of the tank. The thinking is they may learn by example.

Dash
02-17-2018, 02:22 AM
I did the picture thing before, full colour life size. Nada.
Then I thought when I changed tanks that I might do a trick that I saw on Melev’s Reef, pouring them into the nems via an acrylic tube (I was gonna use a water bottle instead) but the tank transfer day was too hectic. Stupid clowns...

Dash
02-26-2018, 06:33 PM
Things are humming along. No noticeable increase of nuisance algae from adding the phytoplankton. However, I added a couple of "new" live rock when I did the tank transfer, one to the display and one to the sump, and I see that there is some hair algae on those whereas the old rocks are clean. Hmmm...

Chaeto has definitely grown, from a softball size to smallish cantelope.

I tried my hand at making some frags:mrgreen:

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4747/26630026948_937259e992.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GzcReE)

Dash
02-26-2018, 07:02 PM
Just wanted to share a touching story...get your hankies out.

Last Oct, I noticed my YWG had a strange white bubble on his side. Long story short, he spent 4 long months in QT & went through multiple rounds of meds under the guidance of those more experienced than myself. Worms were expelled, improvements seen or imagined were agonized over. Meanwhile, after Snape was taken out, his significant other, Blondie (a 1" fine-striped pistol), closed up all his entrances and was not seen again. Except for transfer day, when I thought I'd lost him only to find him clinging to the corner silicone with a couple of inches of water left in the tank. I had recreated his cave in the new DT. He scooted in, promptly closed the hole with shells and disappeared again.

Finally this month, I made the judgement call to return Snape to the DT. He has not completely recovered. (Who knows why. I believe there is a parasite embedded in his flesh and will continue trying to find a successful treatment). I put him next to Blondie's hole (after removing shells) but he didn't go in. He swam around all night, clearly confused by the strange surroundings. Next morning he was under a rock at the opposite end of the 6' tank. I was sad that there was a conscious uncoupling. Then lo and behold, there was Blondie behind him cleaning out a new burrow! Wow. Somehow, after 4 months and many inches of sand, they had found each other after just a few hours! While my husband made some rude comment about what they were up to in the burrow after 4 months abstinence, I was instead reminded of my favourite love story. I only hope Snape heals in this less stressful environment.

Reunited and it feels so good...
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4648/39791201954_99043ba0d3.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23Cdj37)

Ferociously defending his shrimp:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4672/40458667802_518037a65a.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24DcfnY)

DKoKoMan
02-26-2018, 07:32 PM
Love gobies and pistol pairs! My Yellow Watchman Goby managed to pair up with 2 pistol shrimps (came with my first 75g SW tank).

Dash
03-28-2018, 05:24 AM
A few more "firsts" for this tank...

Did the first water change! (My usual schedule being the 1st of the month) It was not too bad. I'll have to work on a few things to make it easier but not much maintenance to do at this point.

I also took my little bits & pieces of frags to JL & got some store credit. I was kinda nervous, since they weren't rare acropora from Timbuktu, but they took it. Chi-ching! So proud...:lol:

I guess I'll use some of that credit on a tang after all. I believe in keeping a balanced tank & most of my fish are carnivores, except for 2 pretty small blennies. There's a few bits of hair algae here & there, so I thought it might be good to have a tang. Narrowed it down to a Kole or Yellow. I do like the looks of a Yellow more. Any input as to which would work better in my tank?

I noticed that my bonsai was looking pale, and then the rainbow monti & stylo had some spots of STN. So I decided it was time to haul out the test kits, a couple of which are new & unopened :redface:. Good news is that the chaeto is doing its job - nitrates are zero or close to it. Anyway, not surprising that I got low readings of calcium & alk, so I guess I can't procrastinate anymore on the dosing, which is something I assured my husband would not be necessary on a "fowlr" tank, haha. I had some Brightwell Two Part sitting on the shelf so I've started that, but I can see it will not last very long. Do many of you use the BRS stuff? I'm not seeing something similar from JL, and I would like something dummy proof & easy.

Other than that, everything is going well. Interesting how the tanks have gone through all these stages. I had the invasions of amphipods and bristleworms, 3 days of pineapple sponge mania, then crazy numbers of vermetids (which just disappeared recently; I think puffers finally developed a taste for them). Now there are sponges and mini brittle stars everywhere.

Sponges are cool, and in pretty shades of pink, white, purple & blue.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4707/39590953045_ac81b492d4_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23jvZ1H)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4613/39776376634_bee191ae85_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23AUjZ9)

Dash
04-12-2018, 06:14 PM
I decided to order a BRS starter kit for 2-part dosing as it comes with everything I need to ease into this new experience. I've brought my numbers up over the last week or so to the desired levels of:
CAL 420 ALK 9 MAG 1350
So far I am dosing manually and actually it's been kind of fun. I'm happy to see that my rainbow monti which had lost some tissue now seems to be recovering. The bald spots are shrinking & all the edges are ringed with blue growth tissue. Whew!
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/901/40699339634_fe9c8da490_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/251sKJj)

I also had to make a new batch of food, as my fish seem to be eating more as they're growing. I hand chop mussels, clams, scallops, shrimp & squid. These guys eat pretty good, I have to say...
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/884/41107886602_e230c141ab_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25CyEvy)

I added a new guy recently - a segmented blenny. His name is Kenny, and he's grown quite chubby since these pictures were taken.
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/807/40355495254_4010abb7eb_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24u5sLW)
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/788/26193498407_346fde9359_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FUCwvv)

Dash
04-12-2018, 06:37 PM
I love the goings on in the tank. Thought I'd share some of the antics of the various creatures...

We have to stop meeting like this...
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4716/25673127297_204f69c4ef_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/F7DuiP)

Ack, caught in the act!
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4700/26672996978_8f17100c4d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GD15Jf)

The lone leopard, true king of the savannah, creeps towards the unsuspecting prey...
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/898/41064473101_bafdb6ac14_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25yJabV)

Get off my house! Ouch!
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/817/40355623844_b829f25cd9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24u6811)

What the -
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/885/41371209172_ac42b26bc1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/262Qg8S)

No self esteem issues here
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4625/40444016832_84bb606ba3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24BUaa3)

DKoKoMan
04-13-2018, 02:26 AM
What are you using for a grow light �� for chaeto? Any photos of the growth? I feel like mine hasn’t really grown and nutrients are available.

kyl
04-13-2018, 03:18 AM
Did you pick up across the border, or get BRS to ship it to NW?

Dash
04-13-2018, 04:48 AM
I just bought Chinese led lights from Amazon after reading some thread that said they were the best thing ever :lol: USD8.99 for 2 shipped to Canada! So I thought why not. I only got the 12W because I thought the bulb was so close to the water surface. I guess it’s not explosive growth but then again I have a fairly low bioload (I think). I had a ball the size of an orange & now it’s a

Dash
04-13-2018, 05:28 AM
....large lettuce (I feel like Trump going over the tweet limit). Maybe 5 times its original size? They sell bulbs with higher wattage.
How’s your upgrade coming along? Transfer date soon?

Kyl,
I ship to Blaine as I do for all my US online purchases. I find I save not only on shipping but on tax/duty as they never charge me at the border. Whereas I’ve shipped to Canada before & got hit on brokerage fees, GST, etc.

DKoKoMan
04-13-2018, 07:52 AM
....large lettuce (I feel like Trump going over the tweet limit). Maybe 5 times its original size? They sell bulbs with higher wattage.
How’s your upgrade coming along? Transfer date soon?


So I finished the transfer from my 150g to my 305g. I’m exhausted from the process lol. I guess I should probably fire up a build thread at some point or at least a follow along progress thread.

Myka
04-13-2018, 01:45 PM
This thread is awesome Dash! I love the photo commentary!

Dash
04-14-2018, 02:16 AM
Thanks Myka!

DKoKoMan, I could’ve sworn you already had a tank build thread...went to check & it was about your upgrade to the 150. Good grief, is this going to be an annual thing?:razz:
Hope everything went well. Whoa 305 gallons! Would love to see that. Yeah put some photos up!

Dash
05-05-2018, 06:21 AM
I was dashing off to pick up a couple of frags from Jess when I couldn't find $5 to make the exact amount. I desperately hunted around until I had the genius idea that criminals always get and went into my daughter's scrupulously saved-up tooth fairy money. Bingo! I had a moment of clarity as I drove off: you know you've fallen down that slippery slope when you've landed with your hands in your kid's toonie jar. Oh well, it was worth it :lol:

If I get half the colour of the ones in his tank, I'll be happy.
Here they are adjusting to the conditions of my tank.
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/905/41000484445_27653aae63_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25t5cAe)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/946/41856643182_a9f457fc33_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26LJeKL)

I think my daughter might be on to me though. Here's the drawing she did for my birthday card last month:

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/830/28030077618_532969ca43_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/JGVtwj)

Dash
06-18-2018, 07:31 AM
The tank has been humming along, doing its thing. Hard to believe it's been half a year already!

I've been following my dosing regimen (CAL 420 ALK 9 MAG 1350) and coral seem to be happy. The rainbow monti which had lost about 50% of its tissue has grown it all back, except for one little spot that is almost closed up. I'm pretty amazed that the dosing impacted things so quickly. My rainbow stylo still has some little bare spots where algae has sprouted up and this seems to be impeding the re-growth of new tissue. Should I prune the dead branches or just leave them and be patient?

So I've been adding things here and there. Pretty happy about my Oregon Tort. I never thought I'd have a coral this beautiful. This is the closest my camera skills can capture the colour. It's much nicer in real life.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1731/41969569875_150445f76b_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26WH1VH)

I took some mushrooms that I didn't want anymore to the LFS. Not much there but this caught my eye. So cool! My daughter doesn't understand my enthusiasm ("it's just a blob") but I like it. Hope I can keep it alive.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1730/41059503710_650153bdb0_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25yhFXL)

Meet my little monster Stanley. JL said he's a decorator crab but I believe he's a sponge crab. He is not reef safe so he's in the sump. I just had to have him because who can resist a crab with a toupee?
Funny story...I found him a week later, sans toupee & upside down. I was sad that he was dead. I examined him (cuz he's interesting) and he was heavy and perfect. I put him in one of my flower beds. A week later, there's Stanley in the sump, toupee and all. It had been a molt! How can a molt be so perfect? Anyway, I'm picturing him taking his toupee (it's the same ball of chaeto) off the molt and putting it on his brand new head :lol:
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/969/41899815371_4df43c07f9_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26QxvkR)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1754/42009530444_7cd2c4f904_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/271ePP3)

My mandarin had lost some weight in the last couple of months in the old 75 gal, but has definitely fattened up in the new tank. He is also much more active and spry, zipping here and there like a ninja. I think I'm ready to get him a lady friend, but it seems there are no female mandarins around. I've asked JL to let me know if they come across one.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1722/42678421612_5805a4b7c8_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/282m4Ro)

DKoKoMan
06-18-2018, 04:46 PM
Awesome updates! That crab looks evil :lol:... maybe the chaeto is a ghillie suit I’m which he uses to ambush unexpecting prey. I love the mandarin fish! Super jealous. I tried one way back when I had my 75g but he got so skinny and eventually died. I tried so hard to keep him alive spending a couple $100 in pods added directly in but it didn’t work.

It’s nice to see yours is doing well. I’m too scared to try another one, sometimes I look at night to try to count pods to convince my wife the tank is ready. I have also heard of some mandarins eating frozen mysis (probably hard to get).

Following along! Looks great.

Dash
08-30-2018, 10:10 PM
The summer has flown by. Luckily the tank is in our basement which stays very cool so the temps have been stable.

In memoriam...:cry:
Sadly I had a couple of losses in early August. I've been very fortunate & haven't experienced this a lot, and I have a hard time with it.

Basil the tailspot. Not sure what happened here, one day fine the next missing at evening roll call. He was almost 3 years old and was mature when I got him (I picked the biggest one) so was it old age? I really would like to get another one but hate to think they have short life spans :sad:
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1752/27858581457_9347ca0ffa_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/JrLvFX)

Peach the fromia. Well, I enjoyed her for 8 months. I've tried to read up on these guys and this seems to be about the average time they last in tanks. Anyone have a different experience? Beautiful creature - hate to think we are not able to provide the environment for them to live out their natural life span? Very conflicted about getting another one but loved seeing her in the tank. Here she is taking a ride on a snail & falling off.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1768/29391438428_d92db7c92b_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/LMdNEq)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1743/40917051070_94c190cfcd_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25kGzKL)

On to happier news...I finally got the stand doors on and painted. Went with black. Whew! Boring stuff all done.:biggrin:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1859/44285550562_ed3a6d3d75_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2atn2id)

Got my first (and only) tang! I was lucky and found one in perfect shape. Also just under 2.5" so the price was lower :mrgreen: He was shy for about 5 minutes and is doing very well. His personality is like the one in Finding Nemo. Very amusing despite being a tang.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1806/28392161057_03db568b7e_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/KfVfje)

I've continued to slowly add new coral and have settled into watching the tank evolve and grow. Here are some of the goings on...

Awesome new goniopora. Each little "petal" is tipped with a tiny bit of purple. (Not evident with my poor photo skills)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1819/44010191932_98236285ed_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2a42JLC)

Btw, above monti has totally recovered since I started dosing. This was how it looked back in March.https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1898/42525699420_59ec5ec305_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27MRjS9)

The other unhappy coral, a rainbow stylo, is almost back to 100%
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/887/40518310235_ba8269ea63_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24JsVZM)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1898/30466750568_a7789c2a70_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Nqf4uU)

The Jedi Mind Trick has become a bit of a monster and I've had to isolate the rock. I've circled the original frag I bought from WarDog Oct2016.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1848/43450770545_c35f90de53_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29cAyhi)

The Diablo has also put on good growth. Can't quite capture the colours. The entire canopy part is new growth.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1852/43428199905_aab416059b_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29aASPk)

Rainbow Loom is almost all bright yellow (doesn't show in photo). Not sure what I can do to get pink back. Pearlberry is nice though.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1878/30466734458_b3b50b21f6_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NqeYH9)

Cheato ball really needs to be harvested. Credit goes to Stanley's dedicated grooming. He goes over it like the Little Prince on his planet, carefully picking it over.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1829/42543078904_a34bc71ca9_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27Popbq)

My latest additions. So lovely. Hope they don't break my heart...
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1820/44058479101_931b0d96ee_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2a8idS2)


Hope everyone is enjoying the summer!

Dash
10-15-2018, 06:57 PM
My mandarin used up the second of his 9 lives (at least I hope he has that many). The first life gone was due to me being an idiot and cutting the top off the bag too fast. It exploded and he splashed onto the floor, right in between the washer and dryer. In a controlled panic, I carefully used my net to coax him into jumping towards me, then ran to dump him into the DT. So much for acclimation, etc. Now two years later, I was staring into the tank and thought, huh what's that pretty blue stripey thing inside the rock...turns out it's Po's face staring out at me. He somehow found a tunnel entrance under the rock where the pistol shrimp lives and got stuck coming out. Luckily my scape is not glued together, so I lifted up the rock & he swam out. Hid in his cave for 2 days barely moving, then he was fine. Any other rock and I wouldn't have seen him but this one was right in front. Whew!

He is especially grateful because JL came through and let me know they had a lady friend for him. She's lovely and the perfect size for him. This guy who does not know other living creatures exist (other than pods) immediately perked up upon seeing her, raising his fin. A little spirited chasing, nothing aggressive. She slept in his cave the first night, but don't judge her. Hoping to see the mating dance soon.

Well, hello... (Is that your dorsal fin or are you just happy to see me?)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1973/44594279994_75da81d194_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2aWDkNs)

The hawkfish trying not to notice the politically incorrect behavior
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1913/45268208582_b330490af9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2bYcphS)


You'll be back - you can't resist me...
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1977/44594310034_9a8611464d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2aWDuJo)

DKoKoMan
10-16-2018, 03:59 AM
Hahaha love the story book!!! I had a good laugh reading through your last posts. On a serious note, I think this has made me want to finally acquire a mandarin :biggrin:

smokinreefer
10-16-2018, 04:40 AM
Stunning fish!

lastlight
10-16-2018, 05:06 AM
Really enjoyed reading all your posts. Totally reminds me of that initial wonder I felt when I setup my first tank. No matter how into the hobby I get I can't quite capture those same feelings again. The new tank is really coming along well done!

Dash
10-16-2018, 05:10 AM
Thanks!
Finally finding a female is the culmination of a lot of planning and waiting. I only added one rock when I upgraded to the larger tank. I really think the chaeto & sump has helped boost the pod population.

Dash
10-16-2018, 05:28 AM
Lastlight, thanks for the kind words. Religiously reading everyone’s build threads (including yours) helped so much; if I only relied on LFS info, I’m pretty sure I would have failed miserably. This hobby has been so much fun. It’s pretty funny remembering how excited I was to get mushrooms with my rock when I was setting up my first tank. I was so worried they wouldn’t make it through the 5-minute car ride home.

WarDog
10-16-2018, 06:39 AM
Tank is looking really good! Keep doing what you're doing!

mrdss
10-16-2018, 04:17 PM
Hi all,
I've been stalling on my tank upgrade because I'm feeling way out of my depth (see what I did there), and I've been hesitant to start a build thread here because you're all so intimidating to a newbie like me. :mrgreen: Anyway, I thought perhaps others out there like me would be interested in something like this instead of the amazing tank builds you usually see here, so I'm taking the big leap forward.

My 75-gal tank will be 2 years old this November. I bought 2 green spotted puffers that the LFS told me were freshwater, and long story short, eventually ended up buying a used tank on CL and setting up a SW tank for them with the help of some nice folks on the Puffer Forum. I learned about live rock and mixing salt, and now I think I'm hooked. My current set-up is pretty medieval. All second-hand stuff except for the lights. No sump, hob Remora skimmer, SB Reef lights. I do a 16-gal water change once a month with buckets, and manually top off water twice a day. I do not use RODI water. (Please don't hate me).

My fish in order of when they were added: 2 green spotted puffers, YWG+shrimp pair, ocellaris clown pair, long nose hawkfish, mandarin, tail spot blenny, flame hawkfish.
Coral...a bit of everything including RBTAs (a lot of 'em), zoas, and some lps & sps.

I've been having a real blast thus far and luckily have all my original livestock, except for a lawnmower blenny who wouldn't eat and a long-nose hawkfish that jumped (RIP Lenny & Fergus:cry:).

However, I know my skimmer is barely able to keep up, I need to learn about dosing, and I'd like to set up a sump so I can have a refugium to increase pod population (for future girlfriend for my mandarin).

*note: apologies for crummy iphone pics



My immediate hurdle - I have no idea how to plumb this.


Those little puffers make all fresh water guys turn. I ALSO got into to salt because of those little puffers and never looked back. Not even close to being the same thing.



A sump is JUST another tank and nothing more no matter what others might say. A hang on filter is fine. Although I am a firm believer in a good skimmer.

Dash
10-17-2018, 07:50 PM
mrdss...
Glad to hear there's another Green Spotted Puffer fan out there:) These guys are the most personable fish around and it's easy to get very attached to them. So much smarter than the other fish, and of course the expressive eyes are wonderful. Would love to see pics of your GSP? How long have you had them?

Puff Diddy:
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/940/30060708588_afc62c20b1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/MNmZn7)

Nancy:
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4713/38712156830_5588e6c3b9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/21YRVvQ)

DKoKoMan
10-17-2018, 09:56 PM
Hahaha those puffers are hilarious! They look like lots of fun.

Dash
10-26-2018, 07:53 PM
A long while back, I noticed there were hitchhikers on my turbo snail. At first I thought they might be babies, then harmless symbionts scraping the glass alongside their host.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1920/44656971855_3eee7a717a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2b3bDUB)

Now, I noticed one on the shell of my Halloween hermit and decided to pry it off as it was getting big. I saw it had worn a little hole in the hermit's shell, and then I remembered my big turbo dying a couple months ago (I have my original 4 snails). Could they be parasitic? Anyway, I fished out my remaining turbos and pried all the little guys off. Sure enough, they had damaged the host shells. Then, because my puffers said please, I gave them a little treat. They were like oysters on the half shell for these guys. :twised:

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1915/43753206420_a2e434e1ae_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29EjBVW)

smokinreefer
10-27-2018, 12:35 AM
Those guys look awesome! My kids will want them for sure if they see them!

I'll entertain this...

They need to be found at a freshie store and acclimated to salt correct?
They'll decimate the bunch of trocus snails I just bought? And my cleaner shrimp?

Anyways I enjoy the pics of your tanks progression! Looking good!

Dash
10-27-2018, 06:03 AM
Yeah they’re usually sold as freshwater. I haven’t seen them around lately, maybe because of their reputation for being “difficult.” I haven’t found this to be the case. Some people acclimate them by slowly raising their salinity over months but I took the advice of doing a 24-hour drip. They were totally fine.

They love shellfish as much as I do, ha ha. Crustaceans are their natural prey. Most CUC have enough protection against them - I have snails, hermits, urchins and have not lost any. However I would not keep shrimp (although I do have a pistol with YWG).

They are my faves for sure.

DKoKoMan
10-27-2018, 06:10 AM
I cannot believe the puffers are freshwater lol. They look like they have some awesome personality in the tank.

Dash
11-04-2018, 05:00 PM
I always remove whatever I buy from frag plugs (mostly because I don't like the look of them), but when I got SpongeBob, I didn't want to disturb him thinking he'd die for sure, and he was fully encrusted on his little rock plate. Anyway, I got him in back in June and he's been doing his thing, which is a lot of nothing thankfully. Then the other day as I was moving things around as I often do, I see....dun dun dun - aptasia! My first encounter. Six of them peeking out all around his plate. Where have they been hiding all this time?

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1913/44657382475_4761352afe_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2b3dKYg)

After some quick googling, I decided to fish him out in a clear container and injected a bit of vinegar into each one. One of the larger ones withered & hung down in a heap immediately. It's been a few days and no re-appearance but I will keep an eye on Bob for a while.

Frogger
11-04-2018, 05:06 PM
When I get a frag/coral/sponge that I can't separate from the base or there are dead areas of the base that are exposed I always cut off as much as I can and I cover the rest with superglue right up to and on the edge of the live tissue. This helps reduce the potential for unwanted hitchhikers.

Hopefully they have not spread elsewhere

Dash
11-04-2018, 05:35 PM
I have to admit this was one addition I didn't inspect as carefully as I usually do. I was so worried about getting it into the tank without exposing it to air. It sure goes to prove how easy it is to bring a pest into the tank. On the other hand, my examination of it in the clear container also showed a low-growing cool sponge on the rock. So there's good with the bad.

Dash
11-04-2018, 05:42 PM
I also finally have a new tail spot blenny to replace dearly departed Basil. After hiding for a day, Jenny now goes all over the tank and gets along with the segmented blenny.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1905/44864983664_f30480aaa9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2bmyLz7)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1969/30648756527_58666162f9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NGjTwF)

Dash
11-10-2018, 07:20 PM
I might obsess slightly over the the puffers but they are such singular oddballs. On occasion, they will be frighteningly fat first thing in the morning. What could they possibly have eaten? First thing I check is the pistol shrimp. Nope, there he is opening up shop for the day. Hermits? All fine. Hmm... My best guess are giant amphipods (maybe 300 of them?) or 50 brittle stars.

This picture doesn't even capture how big his stomach is.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4900/31944527948_02a7cd6136_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QEQ4ef)

Frogger
11-10-2018, 11:01 PM
You definitely need to keep a daily head count of your crustaceans with that little cutie.

Dash
11-11-2018, 04:30 AM
One good thing is they cleaned up my vermetid snail issue. Only a few in places they can’t reach. My hermits & snails have been safe but the poor acropora crab lasted only a week. Definitely a heavy shell is crucial for survival.

Frogger
11-11-2018, 04:57 AM
One good thing is they cleaned up my vermetid snail issue. Only a few in places they can’t reach. My hermits & snails have been safe but the poor acropora crab lasted only a week. Definitely a heavy shell is crucial for survival.

Vermetid snail removal I could use some of that. Just afraid of what else might go missing.

Dash
12-11-2018, 11:21 PM
Being the frugal hobbyist that I am, I've been looking forward to Black Friday for a while. I finally got a new powerhead (Tunze). Just as well , since my cheap Jebao is coughing along and the Koralia that I started with 3 years ago for the 75g died the same day I noted smugly that it was still working and the day before the Tunze arrived. Whew! I felt I needed to stand there stirring the tank with a wooden spoon! Yeesh. Anyway, guess I have to buy another one as I like the Tunze. Boxing Day sales?

I also got a new screen top. Really glad because the old one that came with the tank was all bent and kinda ugly. I've been looking around at different options including screen windows. I like this one because it looks nicer and fits really snugly because it has a lip and sits on top of rather than inside the rim. Not even an eel can get out :biggrin: It's a D&D Jumpguard. I'm going to jerry rig a little lid for the feeding window as soon as the husband can cut me a little piece of acrylic.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4896/45366910065_c7887015ff_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c7VgNz)

Not a BF purchase, but I was surprised to get an email from JL that a fish I've wanted since I got into the hobby was available. I was so happy! I've never seen it locally, only on US sites. Walt is a red spot blenny and he is the bees knees. I am crossing my fingers that he will thrive as his needs are similar to a lawnmower, which is one fish I've lost due to not eating :cry: He is scraping stuff off the back wall, which I leave alone for the pods and such, as well as the rocks. Hope he'll eat other foods as he settles in. I love this guy!

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4814/45446667874_b9148cd1e2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ceY42d)https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4895/45455121774_92fdff0bd3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cfHo57)https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4879/32307392528_a497851fb3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RdTQe7)

As stuff is growing, I've had to increase my dosing. However, I haven't tested frequently enough and had a bit of a dip in magnesium and calcium. I corrected it but my Red Dragon announced its displeasure the next day:sad: (while I was admiring Walt perched underneath)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4844/32393196928_d66ac1ec30_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RmtATj)

While I mulled over what to do, the next morning another branch was white so I decided to frag off the live branches and pieced them together. I think this SPS doesn't really encrust but I hope it grows enough to hide my patch job :redface: Not sure how it will do...

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4869/32407909288_2f0c712dcf_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RnM1mG)

Frogger
12-11-2018, 11:55 PM
Do you quarantine your fish?

Dash
12-12-2018, 01:17 AM
A respectfully considered “no.”

Frogger
12-12-2018, 02:27 AM
I played Russian Roulette about 10 years ago, got velvet and lost everything in that tank, fish I had for 15 years. Sad thing was I usually quarantine but I wasn't set up at that moment and thought 1 little fish would be OK.

DKoKoMan
12-12-2018, 02:36 AM
Frags have grown quite a bit so far :smile:. The new red spot is an awesome looking Blenny, I’m sure he will do well!

Dash
12-12-2018, 03:22 AM
Frogger,
This is a heavily debated topic with valid points on both sides and I’ve read more pages about it than I can count. My philosophy is to run as balanced and natural an environment as I can with a glass box, and I don’t consider it to be Russian roulette. I mitigate the odds as much as I can with sourcing the livestock, feeding a good diet, etc and so far have never lost a fish to disease. So many things are a calculated risk. For example I’ve seen many times experienced hobbyists introducing a large number of fish, many with aggressive temperaments, all at once, even into a freshly cycled tank. I feel this is not a good recipe for success, yet no one bats an eye.
I did get stuff for a quarantine tank when I was intending to add a blue tang (calculated risks and all) but ended up changing my mind when I couldn’t get past its large mature size. I still have copper tests if anyone needs it..

DKoKoMan,
Thanks, from your lips to God’s ear:lol: He really is a character, like a grumpy old dude with measles. I hope he doesn’t get aggressive as some do. It’s funny how my tastes are evolving. I have a pink birds nest (my first SPS) that I was proud of which has grown to quite a size, very densely branched as well. Lately I’m resenting the calcium this monster is sucking up and thinking how nice it would be to replace it with something nicer, haha

Dash
04-22-2019, 08:38 PM
Spring really must be in the air because a couple of cool things happened with the fishies. Very exciting and satisfying for me as these were two big wants since starting the hobby 3 years ago.

First, my clownfish FINALLY decided to graciously accept their host, after a year of ignoring various "tricks" plus I even sold the old colony and got a new anemone back in December.

https://youtu.be/U6ThVr82Kak

Then, my mandarins Po and Tigress chose Daylight Savings to perform their spawning dance for the first time - under moonlights of course.

https://youtu.be/0VfQ2YWIG84

In Jan, my tank marked its 1st anniversary since upgrading from the 75gal. It has been a fun year and I've been lucky in that setbacks have been few and minor. I learned a lot and look forward to more lessons down the road.

1st anniversary of tank upgrade:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46746609035_a0e3086d9e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2edQAeR)


New friends:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/32728171677_cdf8d9e0f8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RS5rd2)
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/40704674663_2696743370_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/251W6Dz)

DKoKoMan
04-24-2019, 02:51 AM
Yes!!! Love the little puffer hahaha. The tank is looking great! You have had some really growth which is nice to see.

Dash
04-24-2019, 03:36 AM
Thanks DKoKoMan. Yeah the puffers are very curious, always checking things out. The red spot blenny is also watching it all from his shell. He’s like the grumpy old guy glaring at his neighbours. “What are those dang whippersnappers up to at this time of night?”

Have you added a pair to your tank yet?:biggrin:

DKoKoMan
04-24-2019, 05:48 AM
Thanks DKoKoMan. Yeah the puffers are very curious, always checking things out. The red spot blenny is also watching it all from his shell. He’s like the grumpy old guy glaring at his neighbours. “What are those dang whippersnappers up to at this time of night?”

Have you added a pair to your tank yet?:biggrin:

Ugh no! I did add a Red Sea Sailfin Tang that was re-homed. I think the next will be a pair of mandarins. You have had yours for some time? Do you deed with copepods often? My fear is I lose the pair from them starving.

Dash
04-24-2019, 05:58 AM
I’ve added copepods twice in the three years of the two tanks. Once just before I added Po (75 gal was 8 months old) and the second time was last year when I did the tank transfer. Your tank is way bigger so it should be good?

DKoKoMan
04-24-2019, 06:26 PM
Ok. I will give it a whirl. I just need to find a pair now lol.

Dash
08-04-2019, 09:29 PM
Hope everyone's enjoying the summer weather. I've been having fun observing the shenanigans going on in my tank...

Added this beauty, an Orange Tree gorgonian. Non-photosynthetic so I've been trying hard to keep him fed. His colour is not as bright now sadly.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48038279616_cfff9d0124_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gbYJUh)

Patrick the fromia can always be found in a comical pose
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48038387567_7b2f29e23c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gbZhZv)

Inkspot tunicate. He refused to be held by mere superglue, shrinking and inflating very defiantly, so I had to MacGyver him down. He's accepted it now, grew a "foot" into the rock in a couple of days:biggrin:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48457285327_18545fce52_n.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gQ1fGF)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48457281712_735ec91563_n.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gQ1eCm)

Can't get enough of Walt. What a face
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48038273346_ce10f98f05_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gbYH3b)

Before the anemone inflated in the morning, I tried to capture the fatness that is the female clown. Still doesn't show her girth. She is laying quite regularly, and I feel a bit bad when they fuss over the eggs.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48456578771_d024f1d3ac_n.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gPWCEF)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48456739217_e76fed73fb_n.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gPXsmZ)

Petey likes to stick himself to random spots to sleep.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48456950146_760f7c3733_n.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gPYx4G)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48456947861_7289dbd352_n.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gPYwoi)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48456586576_5068acb1d8_n.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gPWEZf)

Blondie decided a tiny door was adequate for Snape but swept the front yard clean
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48456760182_3c37808696_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gPXyAs)

I was quite surprised to see how big the Red Diablo was when I was doing a WC. I only see it from the front so it was twice as big as I thought it was:lol:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48456754957_6e2ce85b7e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gPXx3n)
Turned on the lights to capture the polyp madness of the Rainbow Loom
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48456748557_c54a4ff1c0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gPXv92)

DKoKoMan
08-05-2019, 06:35 AM
Tanks looking great!

Dash
08-06-2019, 12:10 AM
Tanks looking great!

Thanks! I’m having a lot of fun with it :biggrin:

Dash
08-27-2019, 08:53 PM
What a journey with this fish! I added her on Father's Day, into a little cave right up front that I thought would perfect for a jawfish. She didn't move for a couple of days, then disappeared under a rock in the very back. After a week or two of no activity, I saw her motionless tail through a crack and my curiosity got the best of me and I tapped the rock. No reaction so I thought she was dead. (No sign of her eating anything at this point) Decided to get her body out, so I lifted up ALL the rocks only to have her shoot away under a rock on the opposite end of the tank. I was happy because she made a burrow where I could glimpse a shadow of her but that only lasted a couple of days and she disappeared again. One night I finally saw her again when she for some reason kept bobbing and jumping at the waterline. If not for the top, she would have jumped out. I decided to just let her be, and was disappointed that I had added a fish I would never see and likely not survive.

And now, a few days ago, she re-emerged in the very cave I had first put her into, acting like it's her home and accepting frozen food like it's no big deal at all! What. After more than 2 months, I think she's finally decided she's fine with it :lol: (Of course, now she's going to disappear again tomorrow) Moral of the story as always in this hobby, patience is usually rewarded.

She has the loveliest face. I named her for Marilyn Monroe in her white dress.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48631752413_bdffba535a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h6qrFT)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48632247357_153cdc41ce_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h6sYPp)

gregzz4
08-29-2019, 12:42 AM
New fishies are lookin' awesome !! Both recent and throughout the pages.
Lots of people advocate for QT, but just as many feel QT kills fish.

So, questions for you Maggie...

Where have you bought all of your fish?
Have you ever lost any new or residents due to directly adding them to your display?
Do you freshwater dip or perform any other treatment/procedure before adding them to your display?
Have you ever noticed anything on or from the new fish?

Thanks,
Greg

PS: do you run a UV?

Dash
08-29-2019, 05:55 AM
Hi Greg,
No, I do not QT. No UV. I feel there is always a risk within our hobby and my approach is I try to mitigate the risks and get them into a good environment asap. First I research all I can about the fish’s needs. I check it out as best I can before purchase, do another visual at home, acclimate for about 15 mins, lower the lights, offer a prayer to the sea gods, and add into a quiet corner.

All my fish are from JL except for my green spotted puffers (freshwater LFS on Kingsway) and one clown from a Canreefer.

I have never lost a fish to disease. Two jumped (long-nose hawk and one of my original puffer pair, which broke my heart) and a lawnmower blenny and pair of pipefish wouldn’t eat. My first tailspot blenny passed away after 2 years, but he was quite large when I bought him and I’m not sure what their life span is.

I’ve lost a couple of turbo snails & hermits but otherwise most of my CUC are from when I started 3 1/2 years ago.

I did feel a bit nervous adding my only tang, a yellow. Gary is fat and healthy and not obnoxious although he is pushy at feeding time.

I feed what I think is a good diet. Main food is my homemade seafood mash, with nori, few kinds of pellets, kelp pellets also thrown in. I’m a believer in feeding well to build up their immunity. I think it also contributes to a peaceful tank.

So yeah, I feel I’ve been lucky so far. I’m thankful.

Dearth
08-29-2019, 02:59 PM
First off I have to say this

I am right there with you Maggie I have never QT a fish mostly due to lack of space in my time in the hobby I’ve lost maybe 3 fish in acclimation mostly due to stress I’ve never had a disease nor have I followed recommended acclimation procedures. Like you I understand the risks and accept them

Now that being said you have an awesome looking tank with some great looking coral and fish keep it up.

Dash
08-29-2019, 07:56 PM
First off I have to say this

I am right there with you Maggie I have never QT a fish mostly due to lack of space in my time in the hobby I’ve lost maybe 3 fish in acclimation mostly due to stress I’ve never had a disease nor have I followed recommended acclimation procedures. Like you I understand the risks and accept them

Now that being said you have an awesome looking tank with some great looking coral and fish keep it up.

Thanks! This hobby has been a so much fun:biggrin:

Dash
11-26-2019, 09:56 PM
I saw an ad for a small tank & couldn't resist spending the $30. It's about 25 gal. I had the intention of doing a freshwater planted but then...I thought what about a SW temperate tank instead, hmmm. I have some reservations but I think I'll enjoy the challenge. After cleaning it out, I put in some water & a rock from the DT. Also a xenia to test the waters. It's a little sad but bravely pulsing away. I plan to add some sand & a bit more rock. Need a hang on skimmer, new powerhead & a light if anyone is selling:wink:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49129250176_cc8db83638_n.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hRofrw)
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49129250461_dae6cbb2fa_n.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hRofwr)

Meanwhile, I've been trying to improve my camera skills with stuff in the DT. I'm lucky if I can focus but it's fun.

Hellfire milli has been a fast grower for me:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49128912198_814aab3780_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hRmvYj)

Some coral are starting to resent their neighbours:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49129581867_7b4ed47213_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hRpX3k)
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49128906303_208b04a993_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hRmudF)

Orange Passion starting to colour up more:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49129586647_b54f6a5f61_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hRpYsK)

Po checking out a patch of algae that I can't seem to get rid of:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49129587977_d8e077bc9c_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hRpYRF)

I was told this was a type of tuxedo:confused: - should've listened to my inner voice. So of course he grew huge in 3 days. Luckily he is well-behaved and is content to carry around something I give him.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49129592432_51317fecd1_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hRq1bu)

Love my rockflower - such a gentleman!
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49128923728_da6d742eb2_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hRmzp7)

These two are more tolerant of each other's company:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49129593952_f90eb82702_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hRq1CG)

Space Invader feeling hungry:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49129583267_0476fe0b7f_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hRpXst)

My latest acquisition: a strawberry coral. Hope it will do well, fingers crossed. I mounted it upside down and so far it seems happy.https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49128899713_2cd6294c55_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hRmsg4)

Marilyn the jawfish is doing well. She is always out when the lights are on, and the other day I saw her shoo away the puffer! Here's a little video clip of her:
https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/49129948352_fa1339f231_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2hRrPZ3)

Dash
11-26-2019, 10:04 PM
sorry double post

target
11-27-2019, 05:00 AM
You're tank looks really good. I just read through your whole thread. Can't wait for my new ta k to be running

Dash
11-27-2019, 03:52 PM
You're tank looks really good. I just read through your whole thread. Can't wait for my new ta k to be running

Thanks Daniel. Can’t believe you slogged through the whole thing:lol: Look forward to your build thread.

Dash
01-18-2020, 12:29 AM
Another new year means it's the anniversary for the current DT, and since I seem to like starting new things at the beginning of the year, I also got a nano tank off the ground:biggrin:
Everything is going well. However, due to increased feeding, tank has hair algae for the first time, patches here and there. I'm considering trying out Vibrant in a very conservative treatment, but I'm a bit chicken so I'm procrastinating as usual.

Main tank marks 2nd anniversary. How time flies...
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49400902873_74832d76e9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2igoxjH)

First thing to greet me when I come home through the mud room door:love:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49401586607_47b0c8b15e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2igs3ze)

This is one of my favourite things right now - a Japanese toadstool. It's super bright in whatever light and has great movement. Can't wait for the polyps to grow even longer.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49400954413_8bfab3d138_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2igoNDk)

So now that I'm an old hand at this (:wink:) it was easy enough to throw together the little tank. It measures 31 x 12 x 16. Throw in some old tank water, sand, rock, bing bang boom - instant tank! Add some soft coral & snails, nothing dies, great, add fish. I moved over my original clown pair that I bought at JL Boxing Day sale 4 years old when I started the hobby. They had been in the sump for a year because the new clown pair, who get to live in the main DT because they like to be hosted by the nem, tried to murder them. I mean she was charging at them with a machete.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49401572332_1bcd54687f.jpghttps://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49401388221_e63bc2a1d5.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2igr2AM)

A new couple: Popeye and Olive (tangaroa goby & candy cane pistol). I encouraged them to bond in the sump before the new tank was ready.https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49401390811_4c6376557b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2igr3nr)2 (https://flic.kr/p/2igr3nr)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49401391971_97b830f5dd.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2igr3Hr)

Didn't buy any fish this Boxing Day, just shrimp, which is exciting as I've never had these before due to the puffers in the main DT.

Winston the Wolf:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49401590222_cba7588d1a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2igs4Dy)

Sexy trio!
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49400734792_14e47b1674_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ignFmL)


I am on the lookout for interesting macroalgae and soft corals for the new tank, especially gorgonians and anything unusual, so please if you have something, let me know!

Wishing everyone a happy 2020:biggrin:

Dash
01-18-2020, 12:45 AM
I almost forgot:

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49401583751_d53abcd2c9.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2igs2HZ)


Only a few drops left in the bottle, started 4 years ago! It has served me very well indeed.

I just bought a new bottle at this year's sale, so I'm good for another 4 years :lol:

Dash
02-06-2020, 12:41 AM
:cry: Sad to find my tuxedo urchin passed away yesterday. Spike was added to my tank on Feb 5/2016, so almost 4 years to the exact day. He was an exemplary member of the CUC and will be missed. He had slowed down a lot recently so it wasn't a complete surprise. Luckily, I will be able to keep him forever because his skeleton is pretty cool. I guess I have to find out how to make it all white?

RIP Spike
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49494693601_6b38e8e642_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ipFf3e)


I've had time to play around with the camera...

Mirror image
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49494915067_4700c2b80c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ipGnSB)

Now I know why this is named Jedi Mind Trick...far out mannn
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49494925772_9f807a45ae_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ipGr4b)

Hello, I like you
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49494922562_76e006707c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ipGq6Q)

Carolinia finally starting to grow. Not sure why I can never capture the yellow colour in photos. It always looks white or beige? :confused:
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49494285533_c70051e451_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ipD9Jz)

I'm really getting up close haha
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49494710061_43937a9c86_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ipFjW2)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49494206718_2310a1acfa_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ipCKiG)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49494203828_9a5c24a4d2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ipCJrS)

Dash
04-29-2020, 11:54 PM
I'm having a lot of fun with the nano tank (25ish gal). My plan is for it to be a temperate softy tank, so I can keep some interesting critters in it. It was easy to set up, and has not gone through the "uglies." In fact it's got a lot more coraline than my main tank, which hardly has any. The modest little light and hob skimmer are also doing a fair job. I threw in a Cali tort for fun and it's growing well with good colour. I really enjoy seeing smaller lifeforms up close. Unfortunately, with the current situation, I haven't been able to add as much to it as I would have liked.

I can never seem to take a nice FT shot. It's not as messy as it looks in photos
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49835654617_4ce1b669c7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iVNKSr)

I love hitchhikers. These sponges came in on a frag and I had to be super careful to glue it to my rock.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49835345096_6701252146_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iVMaRS)

Taking a break from being sexy to groom a friend
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49835658647_4a07c3e548_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iVNM4V)

This mushroom decided an asterina was delicious
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49835656382_8e0c056d8d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iVNLoS)

Little hermit enjoying his perch
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49834820748_21b21e56cc_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iVJtZo)

These two fellas are tiny! So-oo cute
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49834825848_9e69ed8e89_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iVJvvj)

Mel likes to dash out at feeding time.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49835354281_d089eea087_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iVMdAe)

Woodstock is fuzzy. So cool. Looks more like a coral croucher than a clown goby? He likes to hide but it's easy to find him in a small tank. He's pretty tiny though
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49834824858_db0f5cc383_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iVJvdf)

WarDog
04-30-2020, 12:49 AM
Great pictures and commentary!

Dash
04-30-2020, 07:23 AM
Thanks Wardog. This is not the tank for you though - no sump, no dosers, no doodads :lol:

lastlight
04-30-2020, 05:20 PM
Checked out most of your build from the beginning last night. You've come such a long way in the hobby. Tank and pics are looking great keep it up!

This one made me laugh. Is that a bezerko cyphastrea? Mine has much more polyp extension which conceals the purple base quite a bit. I wish it looked more like yours (if that's what it is).


Hello, I like you
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49494922562_76e006707c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ipGq6Q)

Dash
04-30-2020, 07:12 PM
Thanks for the encouraging words - means a lot coming from you.

Yes it is a Berserko. I’m not sure why but it does not have the nice PE that it did when I first added it. It’s growing well though; was a tiny frag but now has covered the little rock. I’m trying to feed the tank more but it’s hard to get that balance. Any suggestions? (My SPS have decent PE)

lastlight
04-30-2020, 08:07 PM
Wish I had some words of wisdom for you! My own PE on a few of my SPS has not been good. In the past and even now, I have often had quite pale SPS. My nitrate tests show zero and so does my Hanna P04 (all I ever get is zero even when battling algae). I don't really trust either result a bunch but I may need more nutrients. I'm going to feed a bunch more and see what happens. Is your cyph on the sand? Mine does well at the very bottom of the tank.

Dash
04-30-2020, 08:52 PM
I also had pale corals for a while, but after feeding Reef Chili and feeding more, it really improved the colour. I was also having trouble with zoas shrinking, and that seems to be improving as well. I've been following a thread on R2R by a fellow (Bubba) who has amazing SPS, and he advocates feeding generously.
Yes, my cyphastrea is on the sand. I wonder if it's a flow issue. I have sand and so I don't have a lot of current blasting around.

Dash
05-16-2020, 11:02 PM
A couple of big events in the big tank.

First, a sad farewell to my YWG and pistol shrimp, from my original four saltwater livestock. RIP Snape and Blondie, you are sorely missed and I'm so sad to lose you after all we've been through. At the end of March, I noticed Snape was acting weird. I thought he was sick but realized I hadn't seen his shrimp all day, later confirmed MIA. After losing his buddy, Snape just went slowly downhill. Abnormal behaviour, wandering aimlessly around the open sand, staying frozen in one spot for several days even after lights out, never really eating. He was removed twice for treatment (eg. weird white welts on his body, likely caused by stress?) and the last one to treat a clouded eye (Furan worked wonders). At least 3 times, I thought he was dead only to be proven wrong. Went through terrible indecision over whether to euthanize or give him a chance to rally as he had done before. Anyway, sorry for the long story. I couldn't buy another shrimp during this shutdown and I never thought or heard that a goby would exhibit this behaviour. I guess I could say he died of a broken heart (he was healthy and I think that's why it took him 6 weeks to slowly starve to death). Others might say he was just in shock over losing a bonded partner. Whatever the case, I know he kinda broke my heart a little.

First photo together Jan04/2016 after getting them from JL's Boxing Day sale. Snape hadn't turned yellow yet. Man, was I ever excited to see them together lol
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49902765716_a3233f2abc_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j2JHEm)

I took this just a few days before he disappeared. Blondie was quite the builder, sometimes elaborate sometimes simple. Here, a piece of rubble perfectly placed in his doorway. Pefection lol. Snape went back to the burrow for a few days and then left again for good.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49902364438_f9799512d0_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j2GEnL)

The second event might be of interest to anyone having similar issues. The tank went though a Vibrant treatment and I'm happy to say it worked pretty well. I noticed a small patch of bryopsis, forgot about it, and next thing you know, it had grown into a thick forest everywhere. Coral were being smothered. I followed instructions from reading a long thread on R2R, did some manual removal, and went cautiously. After 22 doses (most of them twice weekly, the whole process was about 2.5 months), it's about 99% clean. Just a few tiny wisps of algae in a couple of places. No effects to fish, coral, etc at all although I had to remove macroalgae from fuge. I didn't take photos (couldn't stand how bad the bryopsis looked lol). It was slow at first and you think it's not doing much; then one day you look at the tank and realize your rock is nice and clean. I mean - clean. Slow and steady is definitely the way to go. I might do a maintenance dosage for a bit and then stop it altogether.

smokinreefer
05-16-2020, 11:45 PM
Thats too bad about the shrimp and goby. Always sucks.

But glad to hear about your good experience with Vibrant.

Keep on doing what your doing! Except maybe get that ATO up!

crimper
05-17-2020, 08:20 PM
Sorry that you lost your shrimp, not a goid timing as there is nothinh on LFS because of the virus.

Goid to hear that Vibrant worked on your battle with bryopsis. It didn't work on mine a couple of years ago, however Fluconazole wiped them out.

Keep doing what works for you. Keep on reefing

Dash
05-17-2020, 09:13 PM
It does take a leap of faith to try something like Vibrant & fluconazole. You’ll read so many success stories but also others who experienced coral/livestock loss. Every tank is so different. I’m very hesitant to treat the tank, preferring a more “natural” approach, and I was plenty nervous adding that first dose. But the bryopsis was so bad, I felt I had to take a chance. It does cause an imbalance in the tank. I have some cyano & a few small bits of dino for the first time, but I think I can take care of this more easily and let the tank slowly get back to a better place.

GreenSpottedPuffer
05-22-2020, 05:02 PM
I am so sorry to hear about Snape and Blondie. I remember watching them for a long time when we came to see your tank and they were such a cool (and busy) pair!

I feel bad that you had given me medications that you may have needed for Snape. :sad:

Pictures don't do this tank justice, it is really beautiful and meticulously cared for.

WarDog
05-22-2020, 06:03 PM
Sorry for your loss, and glad to hear about the Vibrant!

Dash
05-23-2020, 06:34 AM
Thanks for understanding you guys - my husband/daughter try to make an effort but I know my hobby is a bit of a mystery to them lol. It was hard to lose this pair. I remember I had to peek around the door the first few weeks as they would hide if I came near. So exciting those early days when everything was a wonder.

Justin, don’t feel bad. The meds weren’t an issue. I really feel the only chance I had would have been to get Snape a new shrimp which sadly was not possible. (Not sure what the life span of this type of shrimp is.) Snape’s symptoms were all borne out of his stress, even the clouded eye (which the Furan easily took care of). He didn’t want to eat. He was young when I got him so basically he had the shrimp most of his life.
Btw how’s your puffer? Hope he’s well.

Warren, the Vibrant treatment reminded me of your tank because I was wondering if it would work on bubble algae. (Sorry to bring that up lol). I saw one big single bubble on a rock & left it there to see what would happen. Different algae disappeared but not the bubble, and finally I manually removed it.

GreenSpottedPuffer
05-25-2020, 08:59 PM
Justin, don’t feel bad. The meds weren’t an issue. I really feel the only chance I had would have been to get Snape a new shrimp which sadly was not possible. (Not sure what the life span of this type of shrimp is.) Snape’s symptoms were all borne out of his stress, even the clouded eye (which the Furan easily took care of). He didn’t want to eat. He was young when I got him so basically he had the shrimp most of his life.
Btw how’s your puffer? Hope he’s well.



Oh, that is really sad.

The puffer is good, she ended up being named Moana haha, and I say 'she' because right after Moana recovered from internal parasites, she laid eggs! Thousands of tiny eggs.

Thank you again, without the meds she wouldn't have survived.

Dash
05-25-2020, 11:14 PM
Oh, that is really sad.

The puffer is good, she ended up being named Moana haha, and I say 'she' because right after Moana recovered from internal parasites, she laid eggs! Thousands of tiny eggs.

Thank you again, without the meds she wouldn't have survived.

What. That’s fantastic. Never heard of them laying eggs before. I think my puffer pair are male/female as they don’t fight, but unfortunately GSPs go into freshwater streams to lay eggs.

Dash
09-09-2020, 03:27 AM
It's been a bit quiet around here...
Well, 2020 has been lousy all around so far. Aside from all the troubling stuff going on in the world, my tank has not been at its best. The first two years breezed by seemingly without a care in the world. This year, I had algae issues for the first time, and lost fish:sad:. However, after endless days of blowing the rocks & vacuuming the sand, the tank looks presentable again. There are spots of green cyano that still pop up, and a couple of my SPS lost some branches, but all in all I'm feeling optimistic. Here are a few shots of the fellows that keep this hobby fun...

My anemones do weird things to confuse the clowns. During dinner, when powerheads are off, the main disk swells up to a crazy size and the tentacles shrink to skinny little things. Clowns hate it and feel exposed.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50322262022_629e33e3c6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jENKih)

At night, sometimes they do this, which drives the clowns to distraction
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50321413258_a200cdb6bf_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jEJoZq)

I got bored or something, so decided to do this. Hope it will cover the statue completely one day
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50322082886_98d99e1d8f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jEMQ3J)

Petey looks pretty sharp, I think. He is a model citizen.https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50322081016_e27c98e1f2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jEMPuu)

Gary checking out the new gorgonian. He always photobombs
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50321412098_c3db6cf30d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jEJoDq)

Gotta love this guy. Walt is the best looking fish ever (in his own mind)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50321411158_0561bc48de_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jEJond)

Dash
09-18-2020, 10:35 PM
I'm really smitten with my new coral, a Sunset fungia from Canada Corals. He opened up right away and has such beautiful colour. This might kick off an LPS obsession. I hope he continues to be pretty low maintenance.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50357375586_fa13967786_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jHUHky)

Dash
03-19-2021, 11:26 PM
So as we're (hopefully) at the tail end of Year of the Covid, I thought I'd do an update. It was not a great year, and it culminated with the loss of Dash, my 16 yr-old dachshund just a couple of weeks ago. Very humbling dealing with loss, algae, etc but things are looking better, and overall, the tank is not doing too bad. Added a couple of new frags last week and fingers crossed. Still a ways to go.

New lights! Reef Breeder Photons. Haven't cleaned up wires yet, but I like the lights so far.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51030853681_812b26dfce_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kKqsUR)

I lost a few SPS including 3 large colonies, but others are ok. This Rainbow Loom needs to regain colour but I'm happy it hung around https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51030956582_6a8c053afb_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kKqZv1)

Fish are happy. I am learning though, that as they are a fair bit larger and more established, they're not as nice to newcomers. I do need to add some fish though, as I think the bioload is low. Need more fish poop!
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51030854941_f3cd25328b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kKqthz)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51030127538_70407be825_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kKmK49)

Canada Corals has brought in some of the nicest gorgs recently, and I was lucky to nab a few for the little softy tank. Here are a few favourites.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51030959052_3345c5cc0e_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kKr1eA)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51030130738_6c9fbaca7a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kKmL1j)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51030126433_13c3a8416d_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kKmJJ6)
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51030129738_83d45245a2_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kKmKH5)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51030961222_9323e6dbe6_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kKr1T1)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51053628737_e9d702b15d.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kMrc9e)

Canada Coral also had a spiral coral, which I had never seen before. It's a black coral so its skeleton is jet black, which you can see at the very bottom. So cool looking
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51030857606_5f9f5cee76_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kKqu5w)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51030131443_aa02d22ff1_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kKmLdt)https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51030857951_f27b0416db_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kKqubt)

Still really enjoy my little softy tank as it lets me see moments like this. Tiny urchin and tiny fish meet up
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51030131853_2e1a6a5890_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kKmLkx)


Wishing myself and everyone a better reefing year!


"My heart has joined The Thousand, for my friend stopped running today"
Good night Dash...miss you
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50887883843_0a73088750_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kwMGXD)

H2o2
03-20-2021, 03:28 AM
Best friend loss is hard. Remember the things that made u smile and your water buddies love u2