DKoKoMAN’s 305g Basement Reef [Archive] - Canreef Aquatics Bulletin Board

DKoKoMan

04-18-2018, 04:49 AM

So I had been contemplating an upgrade to a larger tank for some time and had some room on each side of the wall where my current 150g tank. Most my fish have been with me for a couple of years and have grown quite big. My wife and I were talking about purchasing a larger tank to allow for the fish to have more swimming room... so it began.

I had been browsing to ask for some time and measuring the stairwell leading to the basement as this is where the tank would be setup. I pushed the limits to where in theory the tank would be able to make it down the stairs and around the corner. I had been looking at plenty of tanks for some time and finally decided to pull the trigger naturally on a custom build. My main goal for this tank was to provide ample swimming room, minimalistic aquascaping and as quiet as an overflow I could go.

After tons of research and the ability to design what I wanted I chose to go with the bean animal style overflow. To stick to my original plan of maximizing swimming space I decided on utilizing an external overflow box (just shy of a coast to coast). Naturally I wanted a black vinyl back as I had the back blacked out on my 150g and loved it.

I had always loved the look of a Concept Built tank and often admired many fellow Canreefers who had these tanks. After looking at the options I chose to have my new tank built through Concept. Dave was great to deal with through the process and began drafting up some drawings for my review. I decided on a eurobraced aquarium as I often struggled with getting around the middle brace in my last tank. I went with the starphire glass on 3 sides and two return pumps drilled on the back corners. I opted to have the stand powder coated this go around for longevity. In addition I wanted a large simple setup sump for equipment and ease of maintenance. I also chose to have an ATO container built to match the sump. I wanted all parts of this tank to be visually appealing.

Here are the drawings I settled on:

http://i.imgur.com/F9Qt1tI.jpg

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

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

DKoKoMan

04-18-2018, 06:34 PM

http://i.imgur.com/bX0soS3.jpg
The tank put together and I’m glad I went with the black silicone.

http://i.imgur.com/Zgw9nxg.jpg
Overflow box setup for the Bean Animal.

http://i.imgur.com/zmQycLS.jpg
Black vinyl applied and acrylic overflow weir.

http://i.imgur.com/ZKwzvAb.jpg
Another view.

http://i.imgur.com/XJOJRyW.jpg
New shiny sump! (wish it would stay clean like this) :biggrin:

DKoKoMan

04-18-2018, 06:44 PM

I ended up going with the schedule 80 plumbing (overkill) simply for the grey colour as the pipes would be exposed from the back. The tank although against the wall is in our basement media room so you can see the exposed plumbing from the one side while on the couch. I’m happy with the choice and it turned ot well. The 3 drain pipes were secured to prevent any sagging over time or stress on the plumbing joints.

http://i.imgur.com/LsG9jAH.jpg

My goal was to try and keep the top of the tank as clean as possible but I still wanted a lid for peace of mind. Dave and I discussed the option of a clear acrylic top which would inlay and have clear mesh. After looking at some photos I definitely think this would achieve a clean and secure lid. Here is the lid on the CNC machine.

http://i.imgur.com/LqJREN5.jpg

Mattyb

04-18-2018, 10:21 PM

Exciting!! Will be following this build. The lids that Dave build are awesome. Have one myself

Dash

04-18-2018, 11:24 PM

So shiny...

DKoKoMan

04-19-2018, 02:09 AM

Exciting!! Will be following this build. The lids that Dave build are awesome. Have one myself

Omg I know right! I will eventually get a photo of the finished lid up here.

So shiny...

So fresh and clean. Lost all my coraline algae lol :lol:

DKoKoMan

04-19-2018, 03:18 AM

Trying to plug away when I get time in between shift work. Eventually I will get caught up and it will be up to date :smile:

DKoKoMan

04-19-2018, 04:26 AM

The wife and I made the trip down to Calgary to pickup the tank. I decided that I would rent a cargo trailer to avoid the tank being exposed to any of the elements. It worked out well as the Saturday we drove down there was a bunch of snow that was coming down. I was super pumped to pick this bad boy up as I eagerly waited for it to be finished.

I met Dave at Concept and he took the time to show me my tank. My wife and I were both impressed with the build quality and how sleek it looked. I never had the chance to see the old Concept Aquariums however I was impressed by the new update / refresh and all the nice frag tanks. Dave took the time to show us around and was very accommodating during our time in the store. Dave and his staff packed the trailer, stand and sump in to the trailer taking the time to make sure everything was protected.

Arrived back in Edmonton in one piece and I managed to wrangle up a bunch of people from my squad at work to help get this in the basement. Nothing like a little beer and pizza to convince people to help.

http://i.imgur.com/F4Me3Uh.jpg

DKoKoMan

04-19-2018, 11:21 PM

So with the new tank at home and ready to be setup my 150g would need to be taken down. Now the pain of this transfer is the new tank will be setup in the exact same location where my 150g is. I figured I would post a couple of photographs of what the 150g looked like before being taken down. I apologize in advance for the cell phone photos.

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

http://i.imgur.com/9R7j9Dt.jpg

Mattyb

04-19-2018, 11:23 PM

Good luck with the transfer. Hope it all goes well

DKoKoMan

04-19-2018, 11:24 PM

Good luck with the transfer. Hope it all goes well

Thanks! However I already transferred last Sunday and I’m behind :redface:.

Stay tuned... plugging away at this lol.

DKoKoMan

04-20-2018, 10:31 PM

So I was lucky enough to have 7 people including myself to help with getting everything out of the trailer and in to my house. Everything went smoothly, panicked a little when the tank was brought inside. Although I measured, remeasured and took the time to ensure this tank would fit it appeared super tight. The external overflow box made for a challenge on the way the tank would need to be carried down to allow getting through the door frame.

Everything was now in place except for the tank itself. Let the games begin...a lot of sweat, blood and tears were present. It didn’t help that the tank glass temperature changed and condensation was now present. I wasn’t able to use the suction cups due to the tight space. Eventually we got it through the door, down one of the small flights of stairs and stood it up on be landing. Then the hardest part was making the tight turn on the landing, lowering the tank down on the stairs and clearing the ceiling in the process.

There was a lot of pivoting happening which led to my wife refer to the episode of “Friends”. I have attached the link for the video https://youtu.be/Tam7KO4qhUI.

The tank was eventually carried down and put in to place. Everyone enjoyed beer and pizza. That was enough for the one day.

DKoKoMan

04-22-2018, 05:44 AM

Started the tear down on the 150g the following day. I used a series of heavy duty Rubbermaid containers (4 containers in total). The LR was placed in each Rubbermaid, all Rubbermaids had a heater and Powerhead to keep the water in check. Everything was removed and the fish were then able to be caught and placed in one of the Rubbermaid’s with a small amount of LR. Most my LR had corals encrusted and were placed the best I could to prevent them from breaking.

The tank was emptied preserving as much of my original water as possible for the transfer. The 150g was moved out of the way to make room for the new tank. I used a heavy duty exercise mat for the floor where the steel stand would be put in place. The new stand was set in place and levelled. The tank was placed on the stand, the sump was put in and all the plumbing connected (got to love unions).

http://i.imgur.com/y0kxf5Q.jpg

All new Live Sand was used as I didn’t want to go through the trouble of washing the old sand and I simply couldn’t due to the take down and setup. Water was added...luckily I made up a bunch of extra saltwater as it didn’t hit how much more volume this tank would be until I started pumping the water. Salinity was matched up and everything was put in to the new tank. All the fish appeared to be very relaxed and all the steps to reduce stress appeared to work.

Everything was back in and the tank was now functional. The total time for the tear down and transfer was 12 hours...what a long day. :surprise:

DKoKoMan

04-22-2018, 05:49 AM

The tank all setup and running! :biggrin:

http://i.imgur.com/wQyn8c5.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/cc7bX5O.jpg

DKoKoMan

04-22-2018, 06:05 AM

All in all the transfer went quite well. The next day it was discovered that I lost two fish... my flame angel and my rainbow wrasse. All the other fish appeared to be as normal and I tested the ammonia which was “0”. All the parameters were spot on. In addition I lost my fromia starfish (I expected this as they are finicky) and a couple Acros had STN. Over the week (transfer was done on a Sunday) everything appeared happy and I dialed in the flow for the tank. I have two MP40’s on each end of the tank point at each other and running between alternating constant and reef crest mode.

The lighting schedule was left untouched. As the tank is wider than my last one I turned the radions to run front and back. I added two additional radions to provide overlapping light in the tank to prevent any dead spots. This way lower light demanding corals will be at the bottom and the mid of the tank will still be able to grow most SPS.

At the end of the week no further losses were incurred and everything was looking back on track. My LR and scape is a minimalistic approach with lots of room for the fish to swim. I have no LR touching the back or sides of the glass so there should be little dead spots.

I may add additional LR in a couple places but not at this time.

Serpantkeeper

04-22-2018, 06:58 PM

Tank looks great man!!! Glad everything went as smoothly as possible. Can’t wait to see it in person.

DKoKoMan

04-23-2018, 12:32 AM

Tank looks great man!!! Glad everything went as smoothly as possible. Can’t wait to see it in person.

Thanks man! Still have a bunch more things to update. How are your frags doing?

DKoKoMan

04-23-2018, 06:15 AM

Couple photos of the many zoas I have moved over. Everything is looking happy and opened up.

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

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

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

http://i.imgur.com/k8kshCV.jpg

DKoKoMan

04-23-2018, 06:15 AM

http://i.imgur.com/Pf3IfdM.jpg

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

http://i.imgur.com/dAmTn0Z.jpg

DKoKoMan

04-23-2018, 06:40 AM

http://i.imgur.com/iGUV4Rc.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/d1oqJl5.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/bSYqys2.jpg

Dash

04-23-2018, 05:25 PM

Sorry about the fish & fromia, but glad to see everything else is looking good. You must be glad the hard part’s behind you! You’re probably getting bored already:lol: At one point I had 3 tanks going before my transfer & now I’m amazed I hardly have anything to do, haha. Time to plan next year’s upgrade...

DKoKoMan

04-23-2018, 06:01 PM

Thanks Maggie. It’s a bummer losing fish, coral is one thing but fish sucks. I’m just glad I didn’t lose any of the old timers as the larger tank was for them. I miss my star already, I will let everything settle in and get another. I have been pretty busy with this tank so far, my wallet is getting empty :lol: and only a couple more things to buy.

I took your advice on the Skimmer and your feedback (*spoiler alert*).

DKoKoMan

04-24-2018, 02:09 AM

The one piece acrylic lid with mesh inserts that was custom made to fit the tank is great. I was really wanting to keep an open top but working shift work I feared if I had a jumper I wouldn’t be able to deal with it. This was the next best option as the design allowed for a tight lid with a minimalistic design. I love how the acrylic was cut on the CNC precise that it inlays so the top of the tank is still flush.

Here are a couple photos of the lid on the tank. In the future I may change the mesh inserts to black although the clear is not reflecting as much as I though it would. Let me know what you think.

http://i.imgur.com/lTH3J2E.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/9g46cQj.jpg

Mattyb

04-24-2018, 03:41 AM

Just had the same lid made. I love it. It’s so low profile. Makes it feel part of the tank rather then a window screen on top. Tank looks great! Sorry about ur losses

DKoKoMan

04-24-2018, 04:23 AM

Thanks Mattyb! Ya I’m so glad I went this route instead of the window frame style. Best you can do for lid IMO. Sucks losing fish without a doubt, but in reality transfers are stressful. I’m just glad everyone is doing good now.

DKoKoMan

04-24-2018, 05:48 AM

New Toy! I went back and forth on different skimmer options for this build. I initially made up my mind that I was going to purchase the Reef Octopus Regal or keep the cost down and buy the Bubble Magus Curve 9. I searched the internet reviewing the most popular skimmers and what worked for a larger tank.

I ended up purchasing the Vertex Alpha Cone - 200 which is a very nice looking Skimmer. Based on reviews I read this Skimmer is a beast and the external pump allows for good water draw. I put this bad boy in the sump and away it went. It took some time to dial it in but within a day or two it was pulling out dark skimmate. I really like that it is still quiet when running but produces tons of micro bubbles. The acrylic body is very nice and I’m curious to see how the screw off collection cup works out over time.

Photos of the sump and skimmer

http://i.imgur.com/JT3asg1.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/I9Yfg5j.jpg

DKoKoMan

04-24-2018, 02:51 PM

This time around I decided to purchase an ATO to keep the salinity consistent. I was able to manage this manually in my 150g but I’m sure there was a bit of swing happening as I work a variety of shifts. My fear of the ATO was for it to stick on and pump a bunch of water in to the sump causing the salinity to take a dive. I also was pretty worried that it would overflow etc.

I did a bunch of research on the ATO’s on the market and found that many have different fail safes to prevent disaster from happening. I really liked the idea of a magnetic mount optical sensor. I came across the Neptune ATK and was immediately sold (first Neptune product I have purchased). This ATO has a low water optical sensor, a high water optical sensor and a traditional plastic float valve if they fail.

I setup the ATO which was overall pretty simple to install. I did use the included siphon break as the water level in the 5g pail was higher than that of my return pump section. I had to fiddle around a little as the top optical sensor would ever so slightly be covered with water and trigger the 10 min alarm. I have since got it working and other then the siphon valve spraying when the pump turns in it a great unit. The pump itself is quiet, I love that the intake is on the bottom and the pump is compact. It sits upright making it run until there is absolutely no water left in the reservoir. I am temporarily using a 5g pail until I receive my glass ATO container which is around 15g.

Here are a couple photos.

http://i.imgur.com/Tb1YRY8.jpg
ATK module, simple plug n play.

http://i.imgur.com/MJPA71i.jpg
Magnetic mount with two optical sensors and traditional plastic float. Overall pretty compact but does take a bit of room in your return section.

http://i.imgur.com/XqXSaJW.jpg
Compact pump and attached siphon break.

smokinreefer

04-24-2018, 04:58 PM

Awesome, I was leaning towards the Neptune for my next ato.
Thanks for the feedback.

Wondering how long the 5g or even the 15g will last you on a tank that big.

DKoKoMan

04-25-2018, 02:19 AM

Awesome, I was leaning towards the Neptune for my next ato.
Thanks for the feedback.

Wondering how long the 5g or even the 15g will last you on a tank that big.

Funny you mention that! So 5g lasted about 2 days. Im hoping a topped up container approximately 18g will get 7 days for a vacation but not sure if that will work out.

smokinreefer

04-25-2018, 05:45 AM

Well it's easy enough to use a temporary container when needed for vacations. Just sit it beside the tank while you're gone.

DKoKoMan

04-25-2018, 03:40 PM

Well it's easy enough to use a temporary container when needed for vacations. Just sit it beside the tank while you're gone.

Never even thought of that! Thanks for your input.

DKoKoMan

04-25-2018, 04:15 PM

Received my new ATO container which was custom made to fit under the stand. The Ato container shipped up from Calgary and was very well protected by a wooden crate. The capacity is approximately 18g up to the black trim. I’m liking that a lid was included as this should help cut down evaporation. Fingers crossed that it will come close 5-7 days before being empty. Here’s some photos.

http://i.imgur.com/9UPAuFS.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/va74Pzm.jpg

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

DKoKoMan

04-26-2018, 08:24 PM

Welcome Barney, the newest addition and final tang. My tang gang is completed with this addition.

http://i.imgur.com/w1r5CuN.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/BAMHGo9.jpg

DKoKoMan

04-26-2018, 09:49 PM

I am looking for feedback from those of you who have larger systems on what your water change schedule is like. On my 150g I used to do biweekly 15% WC. I also did his based on a heavy bioload and high nutrients. I am just wondering what folks with lager tanks are doing for WC.

Biweekly or monthly and how much percent of the system are you changing during these?

Appreciate any feedback.

DKoKoMan

04-27-2018, 08:26 AM

Well since the tank transfer it’s been approximately 2 weeks, my clown finally laid eggs again. I’m taking this as a good sign of the water quality.

http://i.imgur.com/BmDa8tg.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/Pv2HRMq.jpg

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

Dash

04-28-2018, 05:59 AM

So glad all is going well for you. Very jealous of your clowns. Mine totally ignore the anemones I got for them. Argggh.
Also I’ve seen them exhibiting what I think is mating behavior but I’ve never seen any eggs.

DKoKoMan

04-28-2018, 06:13 AM

They usually will almost tackle each other when they display mating. I’m no expert in this realm but I always know my female is going to lay when she bites at the rocks. What kind of anemone do you have for them? I can’t take credit as these clowns came with my original 75g tank and with the ritteri anemone they host in.

On another note, I’m still hoping I will get some feedback on people’s WC intervals and amounts. :smile:

DKoKoMan

04-30-2018, 06:13 AM

This guy surfed the whole tank as I cleaned the glass. Of course as soon as I’m done and put the magnet back he exits stage left :lol:

(Yes I do have a diatom bloom on the sand).

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

DKoKoMan

05-01-2018, 05:44 AM

Today I was topping up my brute with RODI water and noticed my TDS netter went up to 1ppm before returning to zero. I have the Vertex Puratek and have had the unit for approximately a year. I’m just wondering if I should replace my DI resin? Should I replace the carbon block and prefilter as well? I have read the RO membrane is good for a year, is this correct? The DI resin is the original that came with the vertex unit and it appears that it is changing colors.

I have attached a photo of the puratek and the DI chamber to assist in identifying if I should swap it out.

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

http://i.imgur.com/WgcLvm5.jpg

Myka

05-01-2018, 12:48 PM

DKoKoMan

05-01-2018, 05:38 PM

This is totally normal on start up. If you placed a TDS sensor between the RO and the DI you would notice that the first blast of water will typically be about the same TDS as plain tap water. The DI resin will not catch all of it so you'll see some in the product water. This is one of the reasons why it's so important to run the RODI for long periods rather than short periods and why your fish RODI should never be hooked up to a pressure tank.

Ok awesome! Thanks Mindy. I figured if the DI Resin was shot the numbers would be constant on the TDS and not just when the valve is first opened. Makes sense to me, I will just have to keep an eye on it to make sure it’s not registering constant.

DKoKoMan

05-02-2018, 03:19 AM

Looking at purchasing a clam in the near future for this tank. I was hoping to get one that would be able to sit on the sand bed, I like the more colorful species. Lighting is not an issue as this tank will eventually be filled with SPS, select LPS and ZoAS. Any suggestions on a nice colorful clam species that can be kept on the sandbed with success? I was looking at the electric blue squamosa online and it was pretty nice.

Anyone currently having success with a nice colorful clam on the sandbed please chime in :biggrin:

dino

05-02-2018, 11:55 AM

I have never been able to get myself to buy one and im no except but different types like different locations in the tank.Derasa or Squamosa are best for the sand? I think?

DKoKoMan

05-02-2018, 03:07 PM

The only ones I have really saw for Sale are the squamosa, crocea or maxima. I would prefer to have the clam on the sand bed as i have a really nice place for it. Besides aesthetics, I believe clams filter nutrients in the water. I could be wrong... finally have room for a nice clam though.

DKoKoMan

05-03-2018, 05:21 AM

One of my reactors arrived today (others are in backorder). The Aquamaxx reactor should do the trick for running GFO. Hopefully the other two will be sufficient for carbon on this size of tank. I also have my manifold all connected and supported using some black brackets I found at ikea. I was surprised how well these curtain brackets worked for the application and how sleek they looked. I also went ahead and ordered the acrylic bracket to allow the weight to be supported off the sump. Overall the reactor should be easy to remove for cleaning and refill. A couple photos to accompany my rambling.

http://i.imgur.com/7jO7YK2.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/V0CVf1Z.jpg

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

DKoKoMan

05-04-2018, 04:33 AM

Ugh. Work always gets in the way of tank time. Hopefully I will be able to get this reactor online and test out the plumbing manifold. :razz:

DKoKoMan

05-06-2018, 05:00 AM

No one has really chimed in regarding WC volume and frequency for a larger tank. Obviously if NO3 and PO4 goes up it is time for a WC but this can be controlled by carbon dosing or specialized media. I’m looking more for replacement of of trace elements and general health of the reef. I am currently doing biweekly WC of 10% and overall everything is looking good. I was just wondering if I could get away with monthly WC to cut down the amount of time spent.

Please feel free to offer suggestions or feedback.

smokinreefer

05-06-2018, 05:28 AM

DKoKoMan

05-06-2018, 05:42 AM

WC is subjective, find a routine that works for your system.
If 10% biweekly is working out so far, adjust from there if you want to spread apart.

Try say 15-20% every 3 or 4 weeks. Do that for a while and see how the tank responds.

Some do WC few and far between, some do weekly changes religiously.

FWIW, way back my nicest sps dominant 180 got very random infrequent WC. And usually I would do 30G at a time.

Now having said that, on my new display which will be SPS dominant, I'm going to try aim for regular monthly WC of about 10-20%. (Probably 10% at 30G). This is probably on the lower end of the spectrum I'm guessing.

Thanks for the information! I like 30g WC myself as it is quite easy to do in the new tank. I always bock at the idea of doing the 30g WC monthly but cave in shortly sticking to biweekly.

I have read a bunch of information that states small frequent WC really take the SPS to the peak in colour and growth. I guess I will just stick to what I have been doing for a couple months. I may brave stretching the WC out and see how he tank reacts. Everything is still settling in so I don’t want to rock the boat too much.

e46er

05-06-2018, 03:02 PM

I did 50 G every 2weeks on my 250 with a 75G sump

Your tank looks good!

DKoKoMan

05-06-2018, 08:03 PM

I did 50 G every 2weeks on my 250 with a 75G sump

Your tank looks good!

Thanks for your input :smile: your tank was a bit larger than mine but very close. I’m not super lazy when it comes to WC, just wasn’t sure if it’s worse to do biweekly vs monthly.

Thanks for the compliment. The tank is coming along, since the setup all the sps have been showing great PE and growth. I will try to get some photos up of some of the mini colonies showing growth.

DKoKoMan

05-08-2018, 10:13 PM

So today I ended up doing a 10% WC and decided to hook up one of the Aquamaxx media reactors to the manifold. I may hard plumb it in the future but for now I chose to use flexible hose. The ball valves make it easy to adjust the flow from the return pump in to the reactor chamber. I set this one up with GFO inside and it is throttled back to allow for a light tumble of the GFO. I may need to upgrade my return pump in the future when I add the other reactors.

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

DKoKoMan

05-08-2018, 10:20 PM

I also installed my new clamp and grow bulb 💡 (ordered from amazon) on to the Fuge. This bulb is more of the red/purple spectrum and will hopefully boost the chaeto growth. I was looking at the Kessil H380 however the price point for a Fuge light is a little insane. I will try this light and see what happens. This has smd leds (red, blue, green and uv) compared to my old light which consisted of (red, blue, green and white). Here are a couple photos of the light and reflector clamp. I will try to get a shot when the bulb is lit at night.

http://i.imgur.com/S02LI5r.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/nO9A640.jpg

Dash

05-08-2018, 11:55 PM

DKoKoMan

05-09-2018, 05:22 AM

Wow, you’re getting a lot of toys in there. And I was so proud of myself for getting these:

The hand pump is very high tech. Saves me the trouble of having to open the jug & having to tip it to pour it out. And no ugly electrical cords!

Hope the fuge light works for you. Btw, what does that silver reflector do & did it come with bulb? Now I want one too haha

First of all those jugs are sweet for manual dosing as you definitely will have less chance of spilling with daily dosing :smile:. Right now I have some cheap Rubbermaid 1g containers I use for alk, cal and mag. They work wonders and these little hacks definitely make things easier.

I loved my my TLF reactors however when you double your size and get in to the larger systems you need to replace things :sad:. The silver reflector has a sweet clamp that is flexible for different mounting options. It’s supposed to reflect any light 💡 back down that in turn reflects off the water surface (who knows). Found them both on amazon, the bulb was listed with the clamp as “usually bought together” so I did exactly that lol. It only came to $50 to my door, so it’s worth a try. I have some hopes with this new light as it mimics the spectrum of the Keswick H80 and H380 “grow” setting. It is marketed as a grow light so here’s to a bountiful chaeto in the Fuge :biggrin:.

DKoKoMan

05-09-2018, 05:45 AM

I managed to take a photo of the lit up Fuge with the new light. I removed the cover and almost went blind!!! Everything looked green in my downstairs lighting :mrgreen:. I’m really hoping this 100w bulb does the trick on the chaeto.

http://i.imgur.com/SxlL3BT.jpg

dino

05-09-2018, 11:54 AM

DKoKoMan

05-09-2018, 02:40 PM

I have bought a lot of those bulbs off ebay and they work great. only issue is they don't seem to like the moisture and only last around 6 months for me. but they sure do the trick. how many watts? oh and that's why I always run a separate pump for my toys as it steals a lot of flow from the return. I also find its harder to dial in your overflow when feeding other things

That’s awesome. Hopefully this sucker does it’s thing as it sure is bright. This bulb is 100w. I will have to keep an eye on this as I definitely need at least one reactor at this time for Carbon and the other one is not needed at this time. That was the other plan, I was thinking of a separate return pump to feed the manifold and isolate the return in to the tank. I may have to go this route after the second reactor is added as I still want decent output in the return lines. I also didn’t think about the overflow aspect considering less flow from the returns and dialing it in. It was hard enough to get the bean all dialed in (at least for me) :lol:. Thanks for the advice as it’s always good to hear from potential problems and what works.

DKoKoMan

05-10-2018, 08:41 AM

Anyone know where to purchase schedule 80 pipe and fittings in Edmonton? I would like to get some spare 3/4” pipe and want an additional union for when I change my return pump. Did the old google search and didn’t really locate a store in Edmonton.

DKoKoMan

05-11-2018, 09:46 PM

So this morning after work I came home to my Skimmer overflowing. It has been a little finicky lately with the slightest change causing it to overflow. I decided to take it apart and see what is going on.

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

- Found some chaeto in the pinwheel which was removed and everything is running smoothly.

I also took the time to put a couple sharpie marks on the Venturi of the pump and wedge pipe. This was done to help with tuning in the protein Skimmer as the vertex has both adjustments. This way I have a point of reference when turning the Venturi and wedge pipe. Hopefully I will be able to get it dialed in so the skimmate being produced is nice and dark. Couple photos.

http://i.imgur.com/uNHTW7b.jpg

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

http://i.imgur.com/ER5uR7B.jpg

DKoKoMan

05-12-2018, 05:17 PM

I was playing around with taking some photos with my iPhone the other day. What’s a build thread without lots of photos right? I figure this will also serve as a good reflection to see the growth of the tank.

Enjoy the photos!

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

http://i.imgur.com/1lmuxuk.jpg

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

http://i.imgur.com/E0pbx4c.jpg

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

http://i.imgur.com/G89ldE2.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/Kz4m4Lt.jpg

DKoKoMan

05-12-2018, 05:23 PM

http://i.imgur.com/AX4dsPy.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/3wEV3Br.jpg

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

http://i.imgur.com/w9mgurX.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/k6sAVxV.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/39fz8qt.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/aO62Ufg.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/YmYfGD4.jpg

DKoKoMan

05-12-2018, 05:30 PM

http://i.imgur.com/z5IOyDh.jpg

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

http://i.imgur.com/CFM2Fx2.jpg

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

http://i.imgur.com/GpQ5lgN.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/201wva9.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/C4AX0By.jpg

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

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

http://i.imgur.com/TUXN0wx.jpg

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

DKoKoMan

05-12-2018, 05:36 PM

http://i.imgur.com/1kydbUX.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/tyIjcB4.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/Rx9azPC.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/FzWV1CX.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/Ta6B7aH.jpg

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

http://i.imgur.com/HPxxi5k.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/Aygtg3p.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/yW3sSqz.jpg

H2o2

05-14-2018, 05:09 AM

Thinks are looking great but that Hollywood stunner just a side note Evil the sweepers on it just keep getting longer and hotter. Maybe in the middle all alone but they grow fast. Enjoying the thread

DKoKoMan

05-14-2018, 06:37 AM

Thinks are looking great but that Hollywood stunner just a side note Evil the sweepers on it just keep getting longer and hotter. Maybe in the middle all alone but they grow fast. Enjoying the thread

Thanks for the kind words. The Hollywood Stunner is isolated to its own peak to plate out luckily. :smile:

DKoKoMan

05-14-2018, 08:00 PM

I’m just wondering if anyone is able to help me identify this white (almost a feather pattern) thing that is on the corner of my glass. It literally appeared over night. My guess is maybe some sort of eggs got laid... is it good or bad? :question:This is the second time I have saw this, the first time was in the opposite corner and when I was using my magnet it all detached. Any help is much appreciated! :wink:. I have attached a photo (hard to get a great photo).

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

Dash

05-14-2018, 09:21 PM

If you google snail eggs, you’ll see all the cool patterns they make.

DKoKoMan

05-15-2018, 12:52 AM

Nailed it Dash!:lol:

I guess I should have googled snail eggs hahahahaha. The images that come up are the same pattern. I was probably too worried to google and thing I had some invasive pest. Crisis adverted.

DKoKoMan

05-16-2018, 04:37 PM

My jebao dcp-8000 is having issues with the power supply cord. Not sure if it’s the controller or the power cord itself. I found my return pump off twice with “erro1” and luckily my ATO alarm had went off. I was able to get it going again but the power cord instead of being plugged straight in has to be torqued to the side. I have it rigged with a tie strap right now.

This is not good as o work 10 hr shifts, luckily my wife comes home earlier than me just in case. Hopefully I can order a new return pump soon and get the reliability back. I will take photos later on to show what I’m talking about with the jebao. I don’t want to touch it right now and risk it not turning back on.

Dash

05-17-2018, 12:02 AM

DKoKoMan

05-17-2018, 01:02 AM

Are you getting a replacement for the same pump or going with a different one? I have a Jebao powerhead & it was always glitchy, with the controller finally going. They wanted me to buy a new one, grrr...

Jebao has a nice price point (which is pretty important to me) but I wonder about the reliability.

I ordered a Sunpole (Aquamaxx) Magnus VSR-9000 DC pump to replace my current jebao. This will be capable of around 2370 gph. I agree jebao was a great price and very quiet pump. The problem was with the controller and power supply. I tried turning it up past 80%, it would overpower and get an error leaving me with no return pump until I unplugged it and plugged it back in.

IMO this is not reliability for a reef tank. Then the power cord (where it plugs in to the controller) acted up. Today my wife text me and it once again turned off!!! Stability is a goal and this jebao is not cutting it. My Alpha Cone Skimmer overflowed and now I have to tinker with that. Not what I want to deal with all the time. I’m hoping the new Sunpole pump proves itself reliable and is good quality. I contemplated the Vectra and Neptune Cor20... maybe down the road of this one doesn’t work out.

FWIW this pump has a $340 price tag, so it is still on the lower end for a dc pump. I will post photos and a review later on when I get it (hopefully here on Friday).

DKoKoMan

05-17-2018, 04:17 AM

Once again this darn jebao return pump stopped pumping. Took a closer look and the power cord end melted on an angle along with the controller plastic cracking.

Just an FYI for anyone with a jebao to take a look at the photos and make sure your power cord and controller aren’t getting wrecked.

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

http://i.imgur.com/iNQ5nzh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/A6hjelJ.jpg

chizerbunoi

05-17-2018, 03:39 PM

That's kinda scary. Glad it didn't burn down and start a fire.

Dash

05-17-2018, 03:52 PM

You know, I read about this particular issue somewhere. On my powerhead controller, when I pull that cord out, there’s always a little spark, which is a bit scary.

That’s my next upgrade - buying better powerheads. Can’t avoid the fact that you have to spend a bit more for peace of mind.

DKoKoMan

05-18-2018, 02:14 AM

That's kinda scary. Glad it didn't burn down and start a fire.

I agree! Melted that plastic end on an angle. Definitely wouldn’t recommend to anyone as reliable or durable.

You know, I read about this particular issue somewhere. On my powerhead controller, when I pull that cord out, there’s always a little spark, which is a bit scary.

That’s my next upgrade - buying better powerheads. Can’t avoid the fact that you have to spend a bit more for peace of mind.

My plug would spark here and there on the controller. Since it started acting up it sparks like crazy! I’m definitely over it, we invest so much in to the tanks and a return pump is the heart of the system. Fire is bad as well.

I have since removed the controller from where it was mount and have it sitting flat on top of the ato. Fingers crossed my new return pump arrives tomorrow. It could be just a one off however I prefer better quality over the low cost. Lots of good powerheads options that don’t have to cost a lot! Obviously lore then the jebao but that goes back to quality.

DKoKoMan

05-19-2018, 04:25 AM

My new return pump just arrived today and thought I would post a quick photo. Hopefully I can get this installed this weekend :wink:

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

DKoKoMan

05-21-2018, 12:38 AM

So got this pump setup and with a little plumbing tweaking it was a breeze. Simple controller which matches the pump with an attractive red color. There is not a lot of controllability (doesn’t bother me as I have it max) and it has a feed mode. So far I’m impressed with the build quality of the pump and especially the controller. Blows my jebao out of be water as when I tried to run it at max it overloaded and would turn off. Not cool for a return pump. 2 days and this pump is humming along.

I will post an update in a couple months for this. Here are a couple photos as always.

http://i.imgur.com/olx0Up1.jpg

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

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

Dash

05-21-2018, 07:12 AM

So, you don’t miss the sparks and melting plastic?:wink:

DKoKoMan

05-21-2018, 07:01 PM

So, you don’t miss the sparks and melting plastic?:wink:

:lol: My wife one time was like why is this thing sparking from the plug. Me: “oh that’s totally normal”.

Now it melted the plug end and controller... wife wins as the return pump
Went in to the garbage and was a fire hazard. What a gong show! Of course it completely shuts down at 10pm so I had to change all the plumbing and install the pump at night.

I have to dial in my Alpha Cone Skimmer again because the last leg of the old return pump caused it to overflow and now it’s a really wet skim. How’s your vertex omega treating you these days?

Dash

05-22-2018, 01:06 AM

DKoKoMan

05-22-2018, 01:10 AM

My Vertex was completely plug and play. I have never adjusted a thing. I googled & apparently the foaming is reaching the sweet spot in the neck. It came at 50% open (whatever that red dial thing is) and I’ve never changed it. Skim mate is black, like I can’t see through it.

Ugh :neutral:. Mine is more the color of tea which is annoying. Does your pump have the white Venturi dial on the pump that is supposed to be adjusted as well? Mine was working well until it overflowed from the return pump. :evil:

I have my red stand pipe completely open and the foam head is right toward the top creating the wettest tea like skimmate.

DKoKoMan

05-25-2018, 05:09 AM

Anyone have experience with the Vertex Alpha Skimmer? I have the standpipe fully open and the adjustable white (screw) volute set at 1.5 turns from completely closed. I have read what I could find and watched a couple videos on YouTube.

I cannot get my foam head to drop. The Skimmer is Sitting in a water level of 9” and this does not fluctuate. The stand pipe is fully open...even with the volute completely screwed in and the stand pipe fully open, the foam head is so high that my Skimmer cup is full with a watery mix in 2-3 days.

The weird thing is when I first bought the Skimmer it worked great. I’m hoping someone who has experience with this Skimmer can chime in.

smokinreefer

05-25-2018, 06:47 PM

Sounds like the skimmer needs to be elevated a bit. Get it up out of the water another inch or so.

DKoKoMan

05-25-2018, 06:54 PM

Sounds like the skimmer needs to be elevated a bit. Get it up out of the water another inch or so.

I will give it a try. Recommended is 9-10” but clearly this is not working out. :lol:

gregzz4

05-25-2018, 07:26 PM

DKoKoMan

05-25-2018, 11:53 PM

Sounds like it’s not getting enough air. Not familiar with your airflow adjustment but check it to ensure it is open enough, or open it more. The more air it gets, the lower the water will be. If that’s not working, remove the Venturi from the volute and air line, and check for calcium buildup or a blockage. Also inspect the impeller in case something got in it.
Keep in mind too much air will cause it to surge up and down, and cavitation can damage the impeller.

https://i.imgur.com/uNHTW7b.jpg

I find that the more I turn the white volute in the less height of the foam head I get. I started with 4 turns out, to 2, to 1.5 and now I’m at 1. When I screw the volute out the bubbles rise very high.

https://imgur.com/ER5uR7B

The stand pipe is completely open and I haven’t even got to the point of turning it as the water level and foam head is so high.

I checked the propellor and nothing is stuck in it. The Skimmer is only 2 months old as well. Could that cause the instability?

DKoKoMan

05-26-2018, 12:06 AM

https://i.imgur.com/ER5uR7B.jpg

For some reason this photo didn’t show up on the previous post, so here it is.

gregzz4

05-26-2018, 01:17 AM

Have you taken the entire Venturi out to inspect it for built up calcium?
I see it’s very new but doesn’t hurt to check
When you adjust it, you are looking for find bubbles to the bottom of the cup, and larger full ones above that.

DKoKoMan

05-26-2018, 04:26 AM

Ya I have taken the Venturi out and it’s not gummed up at all. The Bubbles are fine at the base of the cup and the larger ones are popping past the half way point of the cone. At one point it was at halfway of the collection cup and the skimmate was perfect. Just can’t get the foam head back to halfway...it’s toward the top and the cup has been filling quick in 24 hours.

I drained the cup this evening. I will post a photo tomorrow when I wake up to show how much wet skim is being collected.

DKoKoMan

05-28-2018, 03:25 PM

Well I have been turning in the Venturi every morning half a turn to hopefully get the foam head to be less and to not have half a cup of watery skim in 12 hours. I am now at half a turn from he Venturi being completely screwed in. At least the skim is a bit darker, the cup is less full and it’s not overflowing. Not where i want it but it will do for now.

https://i.imgur.com/o5knUZh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/kVUBrcE.jpg

albert_dao

05-28-2018, 04:33 PM

Do you use filter socks? Are any of them new?

DKoKoMan

05-28-2018, 05:31 PM

Do you use filter socks? Are any of them new?

I have relatively new filter socks 🧦 on the system. Most have been washed a couple times though. I only change them when the first sock fills up and only the second one is draining.

http://i.imgur.com/wuzY5O9.jpg

albert_dao

05-29-2018, 12:44 AM

Try giving them all an extra wash with some bleach. Filter socks come starched when new to prevent wrinkling. Your skimmer should be fine at 9-10", so I'm guessing there is an external factor to your issues.

DKoKoMan

05-29-2018, 01:58 AM

DKoKoMan

05-29-2018, 02:39 AM

A couple more photos of some fish I was able to capture today. What’s a build thread if there is a lack of photos right :lol:

http://i.imgur.com/GiJu4o1.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/xSS79wz.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/xsIP9SC.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/1KbIf4U.jpg

DKoKoMan

05-29-2018, 02:55 AM

A couple more zoas and sps (finally some grown :mrgreen:).

http://i.imgur.com/o9j9CRj.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/96STvrc.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/XCD9cXV.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/RFDHr3a.jpg

DKoKoMan

06-02-2018, 10:30 PM

My wife has named every fish in the tank almost. Here are a couple of the superstars.

Barney
http://i.imgur.com/mmocMgU.jpg

Lemon
http://i.imgur.com/7haB2tM.jpg

Blueberry
http://i.imgur.com/ffw3NXc.jpg

Foxy (original from my 75g)
http://i.imgur.com/JPslids.jpg

Dory...the one and only:lol: (original from my 75g)
http://i.imgur.com/mjGK7O1.jpg

DKoKoMan

06-03-2018, 01:53 AM

Tanks looking great tonight! Thought I would share a quick photo.

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

Dash

06-03-2018, 02:59 AM

DKoKoMan

06-03-2018, 03:16 AM

Haha, that familiar blue glow.... it’s so great when it’s all looking good eh. I just did my monthly water change today and was feeling pretty pleased with myself.

I name all my livestock, even the inverts:lol:

How old is your Dory & how big is she?

It’s totally a nice feeling just to see everything happy and growing. I have had my battles and I am still waiting for my cyano to burn out. But overall I’m pretty happy with the tank right now. My Skimmer is back to normal, still running wetter then I would like but it’s nice and dark. Takes about a week to fill up to around half of the collection cup.

My Dory is roughly 5 years old and approximately 6” now. Last time I was at the LFS and be Dorys are so tiny!

DKoKoMan

06-03-2018, 09:50 PM

Finally got the chaeto growing like crazy! Nitrates are stable at 2.5ppm using a salifert test kit. It really took off out of nowhere with this new light.

http://i.imgur.com/MLHt1gj.jpg

albert_dao

06-04-2018, 04:38 AM

Tanks looking great tonight! Thought I would share a quick photo.

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

Try downloading the Open Camera app. It has some decent white balance control features. I've found it very useful for taking pictures of my tanks straight off the phone.

DKoKoMan

06-04-2018, 05:52 AM

Sounds good Albert. I will give it a try!

DKoKoMan

06-04-2018, 10:27 PM

Here is the foam head being produced by my Vertex Alpha along with the skimmate in the collection cup. It is still watery but it is nice and dark. Also it smells horrible and my nitrates are steady at around 2.5ppm between my Skimmer and chaeto in the Fuge. Let me know your thoughts on the consistency of the skim.

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

http://i.imgur.com/1wd2T8I.jpg

DKoKoMan

06-04-2018, 10:44 PM

On another note... I’m finding it harder to find Reef Crystals at the LFS these days. I picked up a pail of Fritz Rpm salt as big als now carries this as a replacement to the Reef Crystals. I only bought be one pail as I have never used be Fritz products and I want to ensure it mixes well and within stable parameters.

Parameters*
Salinity 35 ppt (1.0264 sg)
Calcium 400-450 ppm
Magnesium 1300-1400 ppm
Alkalinity 8.0 - 9.0 dKH
Strontium 9 ppm
Potassium 400 ppm

These numbers seem to be good if they are true to the mixing table. I will be using RODI water as my source. Anyone have experience with this salt? Used it and went away from it? Looking for feedback. Thanks.

http://i.imgur.com/aPGF1o8.jpg

albert_dao

06-05-2018, 01:58 AM

Reef Crystals is old technology. These newer mixes are much better, mixing clear within minutes and ready to use within the hour. I go through a pallet of this every month. It's great.

DKoKoMan

06-05-2018, 02:14 AM

Reef Crystals is old technology. These newer mixes are much better, mixing clear within minutes and ready to use within the hour. I go through a pallet of this every month. It's great.

You go through a pallet of Fritz RPM every month? In your opinion the new mix is worth the switch? Looking for a new go to as I go through a fair amount of salt due to biweekly water changes.

albert_dao

06-05-2018, 02:28 AM

Yah, 50pcs of 200 gal mix. I wouldn't go back to reef crystals if a pallet was dropped at my front door and Taylor Swift asked me nicely.

DKoKoMan

06-05-2018, 03:09 AM

Well I feel a lot better about my purchase of this new salt :lol:

Nano

06-05-2018, 03:48 AM

I'm fresh back onto the reef scene and was excited to try a new brand(fritz) I've almost had my tank running 3 months now all together and with a month having corals in. Almost all of my sps have grown completely over the fresh plugs I put them on and some are starting to creep onto rock already. I've been watching my parameters for the last while and my calcium has stayed in the mid low 400s mag around 1350-1400 and alk has stuck steady for the most part strangely around 9.5-10~ I like it a lot so far as compared to the past using instant ocean seems a lot more beneficial imo.

DKoKoMan

06-05-2018, 04:42 AM

Awesome! I’m glad to hear you like the results. I’m definitely going to give t a try and as long as the parameters are solid I will try it over a couple months. I guess this is the push I needed to get off of the Reef Crystals wagon. :mrgreen:

DKoKoMan

06-05-2018, 09:12 PM

Top down left to right on tank. Eventually I will get better at taking photos and get rid of the blue :wink:

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

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

dino

06-05-2018, 09:30 PM

Common Albert. I’m sure you would eat he pallet of salt if Taylor swift asked lol

DKoKoMan

06-05-2018, 10:40 PM

T-Swizzle has her ways of making people do strange things :wink:

albert_dao

06-05-2018, 11:46 PM

Common Albert. I’m sure you would eat he pallet of salt if Taylor swift asked lol

Sure, but not if she asked nicely.

albert_dao

06-05-2018, 11:51 PM

DKoKoMan

06-06-2018, 12:56 AM

Try the 'shade' white balance option on open camera. I use the same lights at this clients (Edmonton) and can get it into a manageable balance.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BinhtNFFeMV/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=344xgcqzv6ut

I played around with the contrast, brightness and the different effects. I was unable to drown out the blue :sad:. Photography is not my strong suit :lol:

DKoKoMan

06-08-2018, 01:03 AM

Just out of curiosity does the Fritz RPM mix to 1.026 with roughly 2 1/2 cups of salt for 5g pail? I’m just looking for a ballpark, I will check and confirm via refractometer.

albert_dao

06-08-2018, 02:29 AM

Just out of curiosity does the Fritz RPM mix to 1.026 with roughly 2 1/2 cups of salt for 5g pail? I’m just looking for a ballpark, I will check and confirm via refractometer.

Super unhelpful answer incoming:

No clue, I've been mixing salt for so long now that it's intuitive. I just add scoops by feel, screw off and come back to 1.022-26 90% of the time.

DKoKoMan

06-08-2018, 08:12 AM

Super unhelpful answer incoming:

No clue, I've been mixing salt for so long now that it's intuitive. I just add scoops by feel, screw off and come back to 1.022-26 90% of the time.

Hahahahaha fair enough! Had a good laugh as each salt mixes differently... I get it. I was just hoping to save the guess and check. Been using Reef Crystals so long I got my 2 1/2 cups down to a tee.

I will start with that and go from there. At least you said it is good salt or I would have been angry for changing it up. I’m a creature of habit.

DKoKoMan

06-10-2018, 07:37 AM

Sad day as my female clownfish of 4 years died today :sad: after laying another round of eggs. She left behind my little black onyx clown who is currently looking after the eggs. Today the wife and I picked up another clown in hopes that they will now pair up and continue to host in the ritteri anemone.

Meet snowflake

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

DKoKoMan

06-10-2018, 07:40 AM

Took a couple more photos of the tank and tried playing around with my iPhone settings to wash out be heavy blue. Somewhat getting the hang of it I think...let me know what you think :wink:

http://i.imgur.com/8mx5I2A.jpg

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

Dash

06-10-2018, 09:37 PM

Very nice! Can definitely see all the colours better.

Sorry about your clown. I’m pretty attached to my fish so I know that can be a real bummer. Just last night I dreamed my tank cracked open and I started grabbing containers to put the fish in. I was so relieved to wake up and realize it was just a dream ha ha. The new clown looks really cool though - hope they bond nicely.

DKoKoMan

06-11-2018, 12:56 AM

Ya it totally sucks. Especially for my “OG” fish as they have been with me for years. Thanks Dash. Fingers crossed for the bonding.

When I introduced the new clown it quickly went into the nem and my other clown was chasing it around. Now the new clown “snowflake” is in the upper portion of the back corner by himself. Hopefully it sorts out and he doesn’t live there :lol:.

Yay for colors in the tank Haha. Omg those are not good dreams to have!! I’m glad your tank is doing well. Looking forward to some new photos :biggrin:.

DKoKoMan

06-16-2018, 07:58 PM

I took a look at the tank this morning and panicked as I didn’t see the new clown fish. He has been up on the top left corner for days and has been eating with no problems. To my surprise I found the little guy playing in the anemone. My other clown hasn’t kicked him out yet so hopefully in the future they pair up without issue. My current clown is still looking after the remaining eggs

http://i.imgur.com/85NaxrH.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/XLC53IO.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/EFTQ7qI.jpg

Dash

06-16-2018, 10:58 PM

Aww so jealous

DKoKoMan

06-17-2018, 02:23 AM

All 3 clowns that have been in the tank love the magnificent anemone. I’m glad he’s been in it and hope my black onyx takes interest in the new black snowflake. Fingers crossed.

DKoKoMan

06-23-2018, 09:38 AM

So my wife surprised me with an early birthday present!!! Some sweet Zoa frags

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

Dash

06-23-2018, 05:00 PM

Wow - she did good! Beautiful variety of form & colour.

DKoKoMan

06-23-2018, 07:26 PM

Wow - she did good! Beautiful variety of form & colour.

Thanks! I am going to place all of them on ththe right side of my tank where I have a a shelf rock and make it in to a large Zoa combo rock.

DKoKoMan

07-13-2018, 05:17 AM

Just a quick update...chaeto has been growing great leaving me trim once a week or once every 2 weeks. Here is a couple photos to show the massive trimming (usually half at a time).

http://i.imgur.com/HR5wrAq.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/z8VdKOm.jpg

DKoKoMan

07-14-2018, 05:45 AM

A little coral spot feeding and my little helper letting me know I missed a spot :lol:

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

Dash

07-18-2018, 10:43 PM

Ha, so nice that someone shares your interest. My cat completely ignores the tank. I’ve even held him up to it

DKoKoMan

07-19-2018, 08:22 AM

Ha, so nice that someone shares your interest. My cat completely ignores the tank. I’ve even held him up to it

Hahahahaha ya he is obsessed with the tank when I’m down there. My wife also put a cat tree near the tank so he can lay and watch the fish. He is well behaved and has never shown any interest in jumping on top.

DKoKoMan

08-08-2018, 07:06 AM

Just a quick update... tanks looking great and everything is really starting to grow. Most my acros are growing new tips and some of the new pieces have encrusted the plug. The bad news my wife and I closed on a our dream acreage and will be moving by the end of the month.

Sadly I’m going to have to tear down this system, once again stress out all my fish and probably incur losses. The good thing is after this move the tank should be settled in for years to come and it will finally grow out. One day in stride, looking at a large move which I dedicated an entire day of the move to the 305g.

Dash

08-08-2018, 07:11 PM

Wow, congrats! I love that word - acreage:lol:

Good luck on the move. Your fish are gonna be like, what?

DKoKoMan

08-08-2018, 08:16 PM

ugh... poor fish and moving the tank. That being said it will just be left alone after that...or will it hahahahaha

kien

08-17-2018, 05:56 PM

Good luck with the move!

DKoKoMan

08-27-2018, 04:52 AM

Ok... I have been away from canreef more then I usally am. So I left off with letting everyone know I would be moving the 305g basement reef tank. I dreaded this decision however the wife and I were able to purchase our dream acreage. My wife is not into reef tanks like I am, although she has put in a great deal of effort.

The Good!
The tank move commenced... I have been in this position before so I was adequately prepared for what was need regarding supplies. The fish/inverts were removed and it went by fairly quickly. The tank was setup at our new house and all the fish survived.

The Bad!

So all said and done the transfer for livestock was not the worst. The fish were transferred in 5g pails and put in Rubbermaid’s at the new house. Now, the darn mp40 would not stay running for more than 5 mins for some reason. I tried moving it a bunch of times but it didn’t seem to work. So that was a real hiccup during the move but mainly everything survived. I lost 2 of my corals... my red dragon colony RTN’d and my Aussie green highlighter completely browned out /. STN’d.

The Ugly!

So naturally a big tank, so I took every precaution I could in prepping the tank for the move. My squad worked a night shift but everyone reluctantly to go for the next morning. I had a total of 8 people including myself to get the aquarium out of the basement. We managed to work against gravity and one step at a time navigated the stairs.

All was well until I hear ...*crack*...the external overflow box bottom crack near both drill holes :sad:. No choice but to carry on we struggle but get the tank out of the basement and in to the trailer. Of course at this time I have 2 people honking like crazy as my truck is jackknifed with the trailer on the driveway. Really people just go around sheesh.

Eventually get the tank to the new house and begin the trek to try to move it to the basement. At this time everyone is ****ed off, angry and upset that the tank had already cracked. My buddy and I carried down the metal stand which made it clear that this was a tight fit and the angle in which the tank would be required to travel would be tough for the weight. In fear that someone would get hurt, the wall would get destroyed or the hardwood stairs, it was decided that the tank was not going down.

I contemplated be upstairs office... this is a 2000 sq/ft. Bungalow, however the overflow was cracked and I worried about water leaking. Long story short, the tank ended up in the garage fully setup and operational. Now I’m lucky the garage in the new house is oversized and the tank fits great with the vehicles in. I’m contemplating removing a basement window to slide the tank through but the idea has been tabled at this time.

So the tank is setup in the garage and looks like a hurricane wiped out my reef. I went from 3/4 of a 5g pail leaking to 1/8 of a bucket. The salt managed to plug most of the rack as well i siliconed the cracked piece a bunch. I reached out to Dave_C (Concept) the day of and he quickly responsed on how to make it work for the time being. Awesome customer service even after the tank has been built. I will have to cut the bottom piece of the external overflow out and have it remade. I’m not great with silicone but I hope I’m able to remove and replace the bottom glass piece. I will end up having to order a couple new sch. 80 piping and elbows after bulkheads are replaced.

Couple photos of the damage...

http://i.imgur.com/b4VxuJo.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/a98nGT6.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/Eb2JlwC.jpg

kien

08-27-2018, 07:58 PM

Dash

08-27-2018, 09:44 PM

Gosh sorry things were a bit bumpy. Hope it’ll work itself out now that you’re settled in. Do you still have plans to bring the tank inside the house?

davej

08-27-2018, 10:14 PM

The Bad! The fish were transferred in 5g pails and put in Rubbermaid’s at the new house. Now, the darn mp40 would not stay running for more than 5 mins for some reason. I tried moving it a bunch of times but it didn’t seem to work.

Is it possible having the mp40 on the Rubbermaid, that the dry side and wet side were too close together? Did you use it with proper spacer to make sure the 2 parts are the right distance apart. Might have caused mp40 to shut down.

DKoKoMan

08-30-2018, 07:49 PM

Ouch! Well, glad to hear no one got hurt. Moving those massive tanks is a beeotch. So many things can go wrong. On the bright side it looks like your tank has secured its own fish room (garage) in your new house.

You hit it out of the park with that statement... it going to lie but getting it down was an absolute chore. Now working up the stairs was heavier then one could describe. So I initially just chose the garage as a placement because where else do you put a large leaky tank? Focus is to replace that bottom glass on the overflow box (thank the stars, I went with an external). That being said I’m really starting to like that the oversized garage in or new place has a huge offset which the tank doesn’t impede...oh and lots of room to expand to a fish room ahaha. The wife hasn’t complained about it being in the garage either. Little water on the epoxy floor...doesn’t bat an eyelash.ob and there is in floor heating so that should take away from the Alberta winter cold, one would think.

Gosh sorry things were a bit bumpy. Hope it’ll work itself out now that you’re settled in. Do you still have plans to bring the tank inside the house?

ya it was nerve racking experience. I’m so happy no fish were lost and it was only the overflow box plate. Surprisingly my water parameters didn’t change and all my sps look great (other then majority of the branches broken off my colonies). I’m exploring the idea of taking it downstairs however I’m worried as the whole house has hardwood floors including the stairs. Really worried about damaging them with the big tank going down the stairs. I may explore removing one of the large windows (day window) in the basement. Then just replace with a new window but not sure how expensive that will be.

DKoKoMan

08-30-2018, 07:51 PM

Is it possible having the mp40 on the Rubbermaid, that the dry side and wet side were too close together? Did you use it with proper spacer to make sure the 2 parts are the right distance apart. Might have caused mp40 to shut down.

I would definitely say that I think it came down to the thickness of the Rubbermaid compared to my glass. It would just tumble and eventually turn off after 5 mins. I put it back in to my tank and wham-o, runs like a dream again.

DKoKoMan

08-30-2018, 08:00 PM

On that note... my Frags came in 2 days ago from Jess and they are gorgeous. I’m getting angry at the various things from the move that are taking up my time. Right now they just sit on my frag rack looking oh so colorful and all I want to do is get them secured o my rock work. On top of all that I am on nights this week. First world problems!!

On another note my wife and I are going to Cabo at the end of October and my in laws booked me a couple dives as a birthday present. So I’m super pumped for that. I’m just debating g if I should tackle the overflow box before or after our week vacation? I just don’t want a disaster to come home to. The leak was slowed as much as I could with silicone (1/4 of a 5g pail) in 24 hours.

Anyone have a good idea on how to cut the bottom plate out without jeopardizing the remainder of the sides. My goal would be to get the bottom out as clean as I can so I don’t have to do a whole bunch of new silicone work (not my strong suite). Also a pain in the but is I will have to cut my drain pipes to get the bulkheads out and replace them. Got to love finding sch 80 1.5” fittings, unions and pipe. Open to any suggestions, tips, do’ and don’ts :lol:

lastlight

09-05-2018, 02:26 AM

DKoKoMan

09-05-2018, 06:58 PM

Sorry to hear of your tank-moving woes. I'm picking my tank up tomorrow and I've got a sick feeling about it already. As for cutting that pane out I would use the smallest guitar string. use a blade to make a hole or just push it through. Then saw up and down with the string. I cut apart my 400g this way and that had inner eurobraces in the bottom. Would have been nearly impossible without the guitar string!

That’s a pretty good idea! I know they use wire to cut pvc so that would definitely work. My goal is to try and get the bottom panel out without compromising the rest of the overflow box.

gregzz4

09-06-2018, 02:57 AM

I cut apart a 90g with an Olfa L2 and multiple passes until the blade went all the way through.

DKoKoMan

09-06-2018, 02:46 PM

I cut apart a 90g with an Olfa L2 and multiple passes until the blade went all the way through.

I thought this may work with a bunch of snapping the blade to keep it sharp. My other worry is cutting the black vinyl while trying to remove this darn piece.

DKoKoMan

09-13-2018, 07:20 PM

Well I have been looking at my tank and the plumbing over the weeks. It looks like I might be able to cheat a little on the plumbing by ordering a couple new spears unions. I already have unions in place and should be able to add the small amount of plumbing to the existing half of the union. I will have to replace all 3 bulkheads and a couple short runs when the bottom plate is replaced.

I am just waiting for Dave @ Concept to make up the replacement overflow plate. For anyone on the fence with Concept, I would like to assure you I have received great customer service even after the tank was completed...just saying.

On that note it’s been almost 4 weeks since I moved the tank. I lost a total of 3 Coral Frags, no fish and the parameters have been spot on. The only hands on I have been doing is ensuring my salinity hasn’t dropped to much from the crack in the external overflow. Other then that it’s business as usual. I’m a little annoyed as I found a couple aptasia that I need to get rid of. In my first tank I used to use lemon juice and give them a squirt. I hadn’t had to deal with them for a long time. Is there any new effective methods for removing them? I plan on buying 10 peppermint shrimp to toss into the display. Let me know reefers what works for you in the meantime!

DKoKoMan

09-13-2018, 07:33 PM

Silicone repairs to the massive crack in overflow plate.

http://i.imgur.com/RE0sA9k.jpg

Full tank shot. Scape is almost the same with a couple tweaks.

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

saltynuts

09-13-2018, 10:39 PM

Looking good sir!

I’ll have to start the 150 build journal now lol

DKoKoMan

09-13-2018, 10:45 PM

Looking good sir!

I’ll have to start the 150 build journal now lol

Thanks Ed. Yes you will have to document all your progress! Looking forward to following it.

DKoKoMan

10-13-2018, 01:18 AM

Couple frags received from Jess! I definitely have to give a shoutout as the frags were gorgeous. My photo skills do no justice for these pieces, they are all encrusting nicely. Unfortunately my MP40’s program went astray and the flow changed causing my anemone to walk over my Marshall island :sad:. Here are a couple photos (don’t mind the aptasia outbreak).

http://i.imgur.com/Lbqzg4u.jpg

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

http://i.imgur.com/itwof2i.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/isTv1Zg.jpg

DKoKoMan

10-14-2018, 06:03 AM

So I came across a person shutting down there large tank and re-homing some fish. A Copperband Butterfly was needing a home and I couldn’t resist! Snagged him, he is known as “Spot” and was in the system prior to my purchase for 2 years. I have always loved the look of the CBB however was always worried about taking the plunge with a fish that struggles in captivity. I have seen that many people have CBB in their beautiful reefs and I’m hoping for the best with this guy. I have accepted that my Hawaiian feather duster will be eaten as part of the decision to purchase the CBB. Hopefully he’s a model citizen and enjoys my reef.

As always, here are a couple photos.

D

http://i.imgur.com/j6QhQOA.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/qu5UwSP.jpg

smokinreefer

10-14-2018, 06:38 AM

That's awesome. Copper bands are definitely one of my faves.

Dash

10-14-2018, 02:42 PM

Ah he’s beautiful! I’ve gone back & forth about getting one of these guys but couldn’t decide for one reason or another. Hope he does well in your tank!

H2o2

10-14-2018, 06:23 PM

I have 1 and love it to bits. The bonus with mine he loves aptasia so hopefully yours will clean that up ASAP

DKoKoMan

10-15-2018, 04:55 AM

That's awesome. Copper bands are definitely one of my faves.

His name is “spot” and I’m super stoked. His colors are stunning and best of all he is a butterfly fish.

Ah he’s beautiful! I’ve gone back & forth about getting one of these guys but couldn’t decide for one reason or another. Hope he does well in your tank!

Thanks Dash! Today was a great day as Spot started swimming throughout the tank and blueberry (powder blue) left him alone. His little mouth is comical and he is really social for being in the tank for 1.5 days.

I have 1 and love it to bits. The bonus with mine he loves aptasia so hopefully yours will clean that up ASAP

Fingers crossed that he takes care of the aptasia. I leaned toward a CBB to deal with the aptasia but also love the fish in general. I figured it made sense to acquire a gorgeous fish over multiple peppermint shrimp. If he doesn’t eat the aptasia...oh well. Still a great addition.

gregzz4

10-18-2018, 01:06 AM

Have you replaced the bottom plate yet, or just applied that mass of silicone inside?

DKoKoMan

10-18-2018, 03:54 AM

Have you replaced the bottom plate yet, or just applied that mass of silicone inside?

Funny you mention that! I have received a new bottom plate from @Concept but haven’t replaced it yet. My wife and I leave for Cabo in 2 weeks and didn’t want to have any issues while we are away. The silicone managed to seal fairly well (looks terrible) for applying and putting water back within a couple hours. I’m left with a small drip 💧 which catches in a 5g pail. I cannot wait to get it replaced though!

DKoKoMan

10-25-2018, 05:34 AM

Couple photos of the scape and corals. Also an attempt at some top downs :smile:

http://i.imgur.com/DXXX9Sg.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/UQnh2ye.jpg

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

http://i.imgur.com/WtasV9E.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/D1VTotl.jpg

gregzz4

10-25-2018, 01:26 PM

Lookin' good!

DKoKoMan

10-26-2018, 07:06 PM

Have you replaced the bottom plate yet, or just applied that mass of silicone inside?

Thanks Gregzz!!

Dash

10-26-2018, 07:27 PM

Wow, that provides a cool perspective of your tank - a very nice view! Makes me appreciate the wider tank as far as aquascaping. I have to squish everything together.

DKoKoMan

10-27-2018, 06:09 AM

Wow, that provides a cool perspective of your tank - a very nice view! Makes me appreciate the wider tank as far as aquascaping. I have to squish everything together.

Thanks dash! I know the feeling from my 75g bowfront to my 24” wide 150g. Definitely like the aqua scape which was designed to allow the “tang gang” to swim laps around and through the caverns.

DKoKoMan

10-27-2018, 06:15 AM

R.I.P. Hawaiian 🌺 feather duster. “Spot” (CBB) made a meal of you. Was on an original piece of LR in my 75g.

https://i.imgur.com/GpQ5lgN.jpg

DKoKoMan

10-30-2018, 04:18 PM

so Spot (CBB) has settled in very nicely and within 3 days appeared as if he had been in the tank forever. My Powder Blue chased him around for the first day but eventually got bored. He has been eating aptasia and my feather duster lol. Spot also eats frozen mysis which is fed every other day

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

DKoKoMan

11-10-2018, 10:59 PM

Checked out the Edmonton Frag Fest this morning. Picked up a couple mice pieces from fellow canreefer (Scythanith) and they are already happy on the rack. Awesome frag selection and took the time to show me colonies etc. Couple photos of the frags which will be mounted sometime this week.

RR Ultimate Orange Passion
http://i.imgur.com/xYubzrM.jpg

CM Hellfire Milli
http://i.imgur.com/TYtmhz5.jpg

DV Cali Tort
http://i.imgur.com/ueUinmM.jpg

Red Planet
http://i.imgur.com/ZrbthjA.jpg

Scythanith

11-12-2018, 03:36 PM

Glad you like them! They look to be settling in fine :)

DKoKoMan

11-12-2018, 05:36 PM

Glad you like them! They look to be settling in fine :)

Now to finish my week at work so I can get them on to the rock :biggrin:

DKoKoMan

11-22-2018, 04:49 AM

playing around with the camera today, a couple new photos of the corals and growth.

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

http://i.imgur.com/y4IjwiZ.jpg

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

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

http://i.imgur.com/IWt25D8.jpg

DKoKoMan

11-22-2018, 04:52 AM

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

http://i.imgur.com/qpE4GYe.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/VilWH4H.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/W7KFT7M.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/RtIj4p9.jpg

DKoKoMan

11-22-2018, 04:55 AM

http://i.imgur.com/ixLp1gP.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/AJadz51.jpg

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

http://i.imgur.com/ScVW3ZT.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/ZK4Cmse.jpg

DKoKoMan

09-11-2019, 06:25 AM

Update:
It’s been a while since I posted any updates (been busy with work) but no excuses. My wife and I moved to an acreage and the tank spent 6 months in the heated garage. Everything for the most part was fine, lost a couple sps pieces but what can you do. I have since moved the tank in to the basement after planning for a month or so. The basement window was removed and the tank was successfully put in its new spot. I plan on keeping it here for the long haul at this point.

My sps growth has stalled out from the move, but seems to be picking up steam in the last week. Nothing was lost during the move, some corals lost colour and were angry but are rebounding. I plan on taking some photos in the near future to provide a proper update :smile:. I’m pretty sure my 4 friends from my old squad will “be busy” if I upgrade my tank LOLLOL.

https://i.imgur.com/5i082Tz.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/vFe2EED.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/IwF3jUB.jpg

DKoKoMan

09-11-2019, 06:28 AM

Just some photos of my clown pair and Ritteri Anemone

https://i.imgur.com/qOXOwrN.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/MT7vL7P.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/mDJnwKE.jpg

Dash

09-11-2019, 09:32 PM

Long time no see:lol: Look forward to more updates

hillbillyreefer

09-11-2019, 10:50 PM

Looks good!

One day I’ll get back up there and get some more stuff from you. My tank is currently battling a GHA problem, so it won’t be for a while.

DKoKoMan

09-12-2019, 02:48 AM

Long time no see:lol: Look forward to more updates

I know right!? I plan on doing some more updates once everything settles in.

Looks good!

One day I’ll get back up there and get some more stuff from you. My tank is currently battling a GHA problem, so it won’t be for a while.

Absolutely! Blah sorry to hear about the GHA. How bad?hopefully it hasn’t covered your corals. The only good thing is it’s not bryopsis which is hard to deal with.

DKoKoMan

09-12-2019, 02:54 AM

Not sure if the link will work? But a short video of the active fish in the reef.

https://imgur.com/a/xXYqt5K

DKoKoMan

11-17-2019, 05:03 PM

Update:

I’m not sure what is going on currently in my tank. I have been battling an algae or Cyano bloom that happened last month. The only thing that changed in the tank was my Neptune ATK crapping out and salinity rising to 1.026 from 1.025. Lost a couple of the more sensitive SPS pieces due to the salinity swing. The ATK would work, then stop, then work and eventually kicked the dust. I then manually topped up before and after my work shift (I believe this constant swing killed SPS).

I since got a brand new Tunze osmolator and salinity has been rock solid. I have continued my biweekly 10% WC. This stuff will be siphoned out and creep back over the next couple days. I think it may be Cyano, Tang’s will sometimes pick at it but it seems more on the slimy side. It is covering most of the sand Bed and rocks. Recently it has been covering most my Zoas and SPS.

Anyone able to help me out on identifying this stuff!!?

https://i.imgur.com/4y5xXJ1.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Mqasgqp.jpg

Dash

11-21-2019, 08:13 PM

bauder1986

11-21-2019, 08:42 PM

Now that I think about it, it looks like bubble algae. If it is then prepare for battle. Use emerald or ruby crabs or rabbitfish or juvenile emeralds(one per handful of algae)

Now remove the algae manually also. And carefully. Before the bubbles burst and spread spores throughout the tank and make it harder to flush out.

Also for extremes, use a UV sterilizer as well. But if you do so prepare to dose your tank with Seed bacteria as well because UV sterilizers kill all bacteria and algae spores.

If you're running a refugium then double check to make sure that there's a copeopod population going on in there. They eat up lots of micro sized particles as well that could be causing a bacteria algae break out. If you don't have a copeopod population in the refuge then add some fuge mud or sand or LR rubble to the bottom of the refuge and stop flow to the refuge and add some copeopods to the system with some phytoplankton to feed them. Should be able to pick that up at your LFS.

Wash rinse and repeat. Try and keep the algae from smothering your coral. Also watch your PH like a hawk. These algaes love O2 and will devour whatever is in the tank for O2. Consider increasing your tanks dissolved O2 if the pH drops to much.

That's all I got for now. Good luck man

bauder1986

11-21-2019, 08:44 PM

Not sure if the link will work? But a short video of the active fish in the reef.

https://imgur.com/a/xXYqt5K

Oh really nice btw!

DKoKoMan

01-03-2020, 10:15 AM

Sorry to hear - losses are no fun.

I just had similar experience. I bought an ATO secondhand early this year but still haven’t set it up:redface: I still top off by hand twice a day. When central heating kicked in recently, evaporation increased & a couple of SPS had some STN. My salinity was too high & the swing was a bit wide. It was just a blip though & they are recovering fast. Maybe my poor coral are used to my antiquated system? Lol

I had a bit of that green stuff in previous tank & thought it was due to high nutrients?

Now that I think about it, it looks like bubble algae. If it is then prepare for battle. Use emerald or ruby crabs or rabbitfish or juvenile emeralds(one per handful of algae)

Now remove the algae manually also. And carefully. Before the bubbles burst and spread spores throughout the tank and make it harder to flush out.

Also for extremes, use a UV sterilizer as well. But if you do so prepare to dose your tank with Seed bacteria as well because UV sterilizers kill all bacteria and algae spores.

If you're running a refugium then double check to make sure that there's a copeopod population going on in there. They eat up lots of micro sized particles as well that could be causing a bacteria algae break out. If you don't have a copeopod population in the refuge then add some fuge mud or sand or LR rubble to the bottom of the refuge and stop flow to the refuge and add some copeopods to the system with some phytoplankton to feed them. Should be able to pick that up at your LFS.

Wash rinse and repeat. Try and keep the algae from smothering your coral. Also watch your PH like a hawk. These algaes love O2 and will devour whatever is in the tank for O2. Consider increasing your tanks dissolved O2 if the pH drops to much.

That's all I got for now. Good luck man

Thanks for the replies guys! Poof! Like that this stuff was gone in a couple days. My guess is maybe a green Cyano that came and gone. Who knows, everything has perked up despite some losses of the SPS. Darn ATO fail pushed my buttons.