SPhelps' Intelligent Reef: Tank Up for Grabs, FREE

[sphelps]

The Intelligent Reef

$395 Budget:

Equipment:
2 24W T5 bulbs and reflectors: $25 (purchased used off Scythanith)
Workhorse 5 Ballast - $21.75 (Used, originally purchased from "Natural Full Spectrum Lighting" for $28.99)
Maxi-Jet 600: $16.47 (used, priced from J&L)
Visitherm Heater (50 Watt) - $16.47 (used, priced from J&L)
Total - $79.69

Livestock:
Large Brain - $20
Small Wellsophyllia - removed
Large Wellsophyllia - $20
2.75" Rainbow Lobo - $17
Small Orange Lobo - $15
Large Green Closed Brain - $20
Small Burgundy Closed Brain - $15
Small Green Moon Brain - Removed
Small, Small Polyp Red & Green Acan - $15
Large Green & Red Open Brain - Removed
Single Acan Polyp - $5
Small Red Monti Cap frag - $10 Deceased
Med Purple Acro Tort Frag - $15 Deceased
4 Small Zoo Frags - $20
Small Squamosa Clam - $20
Very Small Chalice Coral Frag - $5
Small Clove Polyp Frag - $5
Large Bright Green Closed Brain: $20
Small Red Chalice Coral: $15
3 Hermits @ $1 - $3
1 Urchin - $15 Deceased
Red Octopus - $60
Total - $315.00

Free Budget:
Tank - $20
Scrap glass, plastic and building supplies for tank mod - $0
Old Terrarium Canopy used for Light Fixture - $0
Rock - $40
Sand - $0
Mag Float - $15
Acrylic for lighting canopy - $40
Total - $115

SUMMARY:

10 gallon tank:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1379.jpg

Modified:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1398.jpg

October 19th 2008
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/DSC_1435.jpg

Theme change November 1st 2008
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1491.jpg

Full View November 9th 2008
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/November08/DSC_1706.jpg

November 15th 2008 FTS
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/November08/DSC_1724.jpg

December 15th 2008 FTS (yeah yeah bad pic, I know)
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/December08/DSC_1856.jpg

January 15th 2009 FTS
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/FTS.jpg

February 15th 2009 FTS
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/Fev09/DSC_2648.jpg

March 15th 2009 FTS
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano Contest/march09/2357513e.jpg

April 15th 2009 FTS
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/April%2009/DSC_2994.jpg


Random Photos

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/d9fa5d1d.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/a1c149e8.jpg

Octopus Video: Einstein (http://www.facebook.com/v/66612409531)




------------------------------------------------------------------------

OK, I'm interested in entering this contest, I wanted to setup something for the office and this sounds interesting. I just wanted to clarify a few things:

1) First off can I enter? I guess I'm considered a vendor and sometimes people feel I would have some kind of unfair advantage.

2) The display tank, stand and other building supplies are not part of the budget, correct? So basically the budget covers the lighting and filtration and livestock? What about frags from another tank of yours?

3) Entry fee goes to who? and how?

[phillybean]

Not my call to make, but I have no problem with you joining. As long as the prices we all pay are the same for you, which the rules state would be, I see no reason why you can't.

[ElGuappo]

i believe the deadline is the end of the monthe.

The only things you get free are LR, sand, All glass standard 10g tank, stand, canopy(excluding lights), and knick knacks for under 15 ie mag cleaner, nets.
plumbing and food are also free. glass for sumps and such must be deducted.
the only partof a diy project that is free i believe is plubing and egg crate.

If you are going to be fraging corals form a different tank you must deduct a "fair market value".

for registation please contact either michika or jdigital.

[sphelps]

So you have to use an "All Glass" 10 gallon? Can't build your own?

Deadline was stated Oct 15

[Phanman]

I was thinking of joining as well but i was under the impression that ALL building materials are free. Egg crate, zip ties, LR, plumbing and anything else you plan to use for the construction. Anything costs within the 300 is lighting, pumps if required, and live stock. Is this wrong? Also if you use fans to cool the tank is that a free building cost, or is that deducted from the 300.

Oh and you can pay Cathrine the fee...

sorry for the partial highjack but I thought that this would also be informative to you as well.

[Phanman]

So you have to use an "All Glass" 10 gallon? Can't build your own?

Deadline was stated Oct 15

Im pretty sure you can build your own as long as its a 10gal Glass aquarium... could be wrong thou

[rocketlily]

I also agree that you can join. However, I think in all fairness, that if you add something special to your tank (livestock) you should share with the rest of us.:biggrin:

[scuglass]

Nope cant build your own as per the main thread... has to start as a standard tank.... that being said im sure you could take it all apart and get glass cut drilled ect to make a custom dimension lol....

i suggest taking it apart and using the glass pieces as covers on a 180 gal. all deducted from the 300 that is....

[JDigital]

You must use a STOCK AGA 10G tank... you can not build you own custom tank or use Nanocube, RSM-esque, Bio-cube, etc style tanks. You can mod the Stock one however.

sphelps, You are more than welcome to join, as are all vendors, but you must follow the same rules as the rest of us, and deduct costs for corals/livestock as per the rules. (Failure to follow the rules, does result in DQ, for everyone with no refund of your entry fee!)

Building supplies (wood, scrap acrylic, plumbing (elbows, pipe, T's, ball valves), etc.. if you go crazy and use/buy an OceanMotion Super Squirt/4way/etc, expect this to come out of your budget!! LOL )

Deadline is Oct 15, 2008, Entry fee comes to ME via paypal preferably (Online Interac, Money Order or Cheques are alternatives... Cheques better NOT bounce! ;) )


I will PM you shortly sphelps. :)

[sphelps]

I did read the main thread but unless the contest is sponsored by All Glass I think building your own tank should be allowed. You can build your own stand, correct? What's the difference?
In addition, I'm not sure how many of you have actually seen an All Glass 10 gallon but I can't setup that up in my office at work, if I breath too close to it, it might break.

Anyways, no worries, I guess this contest isn't for me. Thanks for the replies.

[JDigital]

I did read the main thread but unless the contest is sponsored by All Glass I think building your own tank should be allowed. You can build your own stand, correct? What's the difference?
In addition, I'm not sure how many of you have actually seen an All Glass 10 gallon but I can't setup that up in my office at work, if I breath too close to it, it might break.

Anyways, no worries, I guess this contest isn't for me. Thanks for the replies.

It's not about giving $10-20 to Aqueon (AGA now).. its about everyone starting on a level playing field. Same tank, same chance.

I'm sorry that's not going to work for you.

[rocketlily]

Do you think that enough additional interest would be generated by adding another category "Custom Nano up to 10 gal" with the same spending limits?

[Scythanith]

Come on Steve, don't be a baby lol.

I know you have more than enough supplies laying around to build you own tank, but what's 15-20 bucks for the starter tank? Just buy the tank and take a picture of it and then cannibalize it and change it into what you want. I don't know if it says anywhere in the rules (please correct me if I am wrong) that you can't take the tank apart after you buy it and re-use the material and redesign the tank? If you get into this Steve I'll make one as well.

I have a couple good ideas I'd like to try, but I have to ask Wendy first as she'd be the one taking care of it haahaa.

Let me know if you want to build one anyways. Plus, we still need to have that BBQ before it snows!!

Cheers,

Scott

[sphelps]

haha very funny. I actually had an idea in mind for a small tank for my office, I thought it would fit the guidelines of the contest and figured I might as well support the contest and enter. I really don't want to use the standard 10 gallon tank, trust me it's not the money.

I'm down for another contest, perhaps a more open one. Say custom nano, any size under 20 gallons. But with this one I think it would be better if the budget attained to the setup only, that means stand, tank, lighting, and so on up to $300 or whatever. I don't think livestock should be included in the budget.

Probably too late for that though.
Hey Scott, we'll have our own competition and we can even put up a little wager.:mrgreen:
Oh and BBQ for sure but you gotta get off work this time.

[michika]

I definitely want to do a custom version next time! I think there would be a lot of appeal for a lot of people to DIY it from the very beginning.

Next time we do the contest I will definitely push for a full custom option, whereby all your tank has to meet for standards is proof of its measurements to prove how many gallons it holds.

Definitely next time!

[Scythanith]

Stupid work.... I left on the 7th for a 5 day well...... I'm still out here. Hey Steve, I got Colby to order me up a Mini BK 180 for my frag tank. Think it's big enough haahaa. Are you still looking for some of the watermelon chalice? Mine needs to be pruned a little. The only problem is I can't take it out of the tank so it's going to be a challenge.

Some of the SPS on the rock you gave me are thriving (pocilopara and an acro) the others rtn'd when I was away for a weekend. I have two nice monti's from Rommel that you and Colby can have a chunk of when they grow out more. One is a sunrise Equiestacea and the other is an incredible hulk monti (nothing too special). But I did get my hands on the chalices I've been wanting for a while! Lineaged Mummy Eye chalice and a Bubblegum Monster chalice. My Bazooka Joe chalice and JPM's watermelon are both growing nicely as well.

I should be home this week, Ill get a hold of Colby and we'll BBQ! We can talk about a little nano contest haahaa. I still think you should consider this one. Take the AGA apart and use the glass as baffles haahaa.

Cheers Steve,

Scott

[sphelps]

So finally you're joining the BK club, too bad it's a mini, haha just kidding. Yeap still looking for that watermelon but don't go too far out of your way. Some of those SPS were pretty close, I figured only so many would survive. I got lots more when you're ready. Congrats on the new corals and let me know about the BBQ. I'm pretty sure you'll just break the tank trying to take it apart, the glass is only 3mm thick.

[EmilyB]

Sheesh, get over yourself....:mrgreen:

[sphelps]

OK so if you didn't figure it out already I decided to suck it up and enter, after all it's just for fun.

So since I never like to do things the conventional way you may find my build a little different from others, which I hope will be a good thing and not cause too much controversy :wink:.

So without further delay, my accomplishments this weekend:

Got the tank, not tricks it's a standard 10gal.
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1379.jpg

A little deconstruction:
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1388.jpg

A little more, broke the bottom pane and couldn't salvage the plastic trim.
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1389.jpg

Some scraps!
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1387.jpg

A little reconstructive surgery :)
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1391.jpg

Cleaning it up with some molding and acrylic panels
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1392.jpg

Painted with an all in one curtain in the back
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1393.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1398.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1397.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1403.jpg

Ok so before anyone jumps the gun, let me explain.
The three viewing sides are the original sides from the standard tank.
The back pane was cut up and used for the bracing, the broken bottom used for the baffles in the back. So all glass was used.
The rules state you can mod the tank as much as you want provided to start with the standard 10 gal tank.
Basically I see this as an all in one 10 gallon with a little more hidden depth.
All material used can either be classified as building material or scrap.
Sorry for not having more pictures but once silicone or paint came out the camera was put away, it's just way too expensive.
The white base is HDPE which will be used to support the rock structure.

[Ryan_Lap]

lol:biggrin:

[sphelps]

So do I get bonus point for being the first with rock? And I'll be filling it tonight, not waisting anytime.

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1409.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1410.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1411.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1412.jpg

Not the best pics and it's hard to see but there are lots of overhangs and caves. Tried to keep the rock a little lower for coral space :razz:

[JDigital]

Tank has to stay dry till Oct 15th...

[ElGuappo]

Tank has to stay dry till Oct 15th...

This is killing me aswell. doing no mods as i am not that handy when it comes to glass. i always end up usingmore blood than silicone :wink:

[sphelps]

Tank has to stay dry till Oct 15th...

OK good thing I went out last night. She'll stay dry.

[JDigital]

This is killing me aswell.

I know there are a few people ready, but there are still people who don't have a tank/thread yet even.

It's been discussed in the original thread. :smile:

OK good thing I went out last night. She'll stay dry.

Thanks Steve. :)

PS: BTW, tank looks good.

[michika]

Looks great!

[rocketlily]

Nice tank

[mseepman]

Really nice tank!! I don't even want to go into the sweat and tears and time that went into just building the overflow on my nano after seeing you bang that together so quickly.

[Keri]

Beautiful!!


But how can you switch from coke to pepsi?! :lol:

[sphelps]

But how can you switch from coke to pepsi?! :lol:

Just trying to keep things fresh!

I'm glad everyone approves, I was a little nervous that I may have pushed the envelope a little too far. Thanks everyone, I've got more surprises planned for this one, so stay tuned!

[OCDP]

I really dig the rockwork... looks great.

[noirsphynx]

I love your tank!! I only wish I were that handy.

[Scythanith]

And that's why Steve needed to be in this competition! Ingenius! Congrats man, I can't wait to see it progress. My tank will be up before the deadline.

Congrats Steve, looking good!

Scott

[JDigital]

Just trying to keep things fresh!

I was a little nervous that I may have pushed the envelope a little too far. Thanks everyone, I've got more surprises planned for this one, so stay tuned!

You were close... sorta.. lol It was "mentioned" briefly in the original thread to be 10G display. But never "added" to the guidelines. lol... Yours isn't 10G anymore.. :wink:

[justinl]

Would it be against the rules to cure the rock in a lit vat or something? I seem to recall the rules stating only the display had to be dry till the 15th. I just figure getting the cycle over with before the 15th would allow a little more time for stocking/growing/maturing.

[ElGuappo]

thats where im at. i am just going to be robbing my display of some lr and sand. so its ready to go. i would like to at least get set up so i can see if this tank is goung to cycle at all as i will be using some dried LS and maybe some dry LR i have that i was ridding of aptasia.

[michika]

Would it be against the rules to cure the rock in a lit vat or something? I seem to recall the rules stating only the display had to be dry till the 15th. I just figure getting the cycle over with before the 15th would allow a little more time for stocking/growing/maturing.

Go ahead, just keep your tank dry until the 15th.

[JDigital]

So where's the water... you were so excited to get it in there last week, I would have thought you'd be one of the first! haha.

[superduperwesman]

Just trying to keep things fresh!

I'm glad everyone approves, I was a little nervous that I may have pushed the envelope a little too far. Thanks everyone, I've got more surprises planned for this one, so stay tuned!

I know one of the surprises :D

[sphelps]

So where's the water... you were so excited to get it in there last week, I would have thought you'd be one of the first! haha.
I did get water in the tank but I've been busy trying to get the pump fitted properly and the wave maker working. I will post pictures this weekend.

I know one of the surprises :D
You know nothing ;)

[sphelps]

Got pretty much all my livestock in place. I'm having a little algae bloom from the rock and the water is a little cloudy so sorry no good pictures yet.

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1435.jpg (http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/DSC_1435.jpg)

[Ryan_Lap]

algae or not it looks good.

[ElGuappo]

algae or not it looks good.

+1

[superduperwesman]

Posts a tiny little picture ahah What a hoser.

Looks good from what I can see... This weekend when I come down I'll sneak my camera over to your place and snap a bunch of photos and post them extra huge for everyone to see everything in detail

[rocketlily]

I agree. With the pictures you usually post this one is very tiny.

[JDigital]

Pics should be 800x600.... :mrgreen:

[sphelps]

yeah, yeah. The pictures small cause there's not much to see, just wanted to show water in the tank. I was planing on posting some better pictures once things settled but... Oh did you try clicking on the picture?:mrgreen:

[JDigital]

Oh did you try clicking on the picture?:mrgreen:

I did before you editted your post.. LOL.

What are you doing for lighting?

[sphelps]

I did before you editted your post.. LOL.

What are you doing for lighting?

Yeah you got me. I retro'd a 96W quad 50/50 PC with a WH5 into an old canopy I had lying around.

[superduperwesman]

yeah, yeah. The pictures small cause there's not much to see, just wanted to show water in the tank. I was planing on posting some better pictures once things settled but... Oh did you try clicking on the picture?:mrgreen:

Yes I also did before you edited it... and I checked photobucket to see if there was a bigger one ahaha

[OCDP]

Lookin' pretty dang sweet!

[JDigital]

Some of your SPS frags are looking bigger than 2"... I see you took 10small @ $100 though.

< 2" = $10
2-5" = $15
5-15" = $20.

Please follow the price guidelines. (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=45252)

[sphelps]

Some of your SPS frags are looking bigger than 2"... I see you took 10small @ $100 though.

< 2" = $10
2-5" = $15
5-15" = $20.

Please follow the price guidelines. (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=45252)

come measure them if you want, most are about 1" one is 2" so I deducted an extra $5. My tank is shorter than others, the viewing panel is 9.5".

[Ryan_Lap]

Anyway you can get a measuring tape beside them? lol j/k

[sphelps]

Here's a pic with a measuring tape right in front of the glass. You can use it as a reference with the previous picture. As you can clearly see only one frag is slightly over 2" which I already corrected for and would have before if I had known there were prices for different sizes but at the time I only saw one price for SPS frags.

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/DSC_1441.jpg

So much for the "honer system" :confused:

[Ryan_Lap]

I was only joking about the measuring tape:mrgreen:

[sphelps]

Yes but JDigital made it a requirement.

[JDigital]

Yes but JDigital made it a requirement.

Well, when (IF) you come to me asking about someone elses tank, that you feel is unfair, I'll ignore you and leave that person alone.

All i asked for was a simple photo, and you went and blew it out of proportion refusing to take a pic.

And in the end, you did have SPS larger than you accounted for. (Based on your photo)

[Ryan_Lap]

Well, when (IF) you come to me asking about someone elses tank, that you feel is unfair, I'll ignore you and leave that person alone.

All i asked for was a simple photo, and you went and blew it out of proportion refusing to take a pic.

And in the end, you did have SPS larger than you accounted for. (Based on your photo)

You have to admit it is hard to tell the size of a piece of SPS. Especially since he was only out .5 of an inch. Honor system should apply as this is suppose to be fun and not a bitch fest.

[JDigital]

^^ So am I suppose to ignore another contestant when they come to me with a complaint/speculation? I feel it was fair to ask for a quick photo to find out. There shouldn't have been any harm in that. (Obviously there was).

And I do admit, it is hard to tell, and as sphelps told me in PM that pic still isn't accurate as the frag is farther back. But at least the pic gives an idea. That's all.

BTW, this is my last post regarding this mess.

[Der_Iron_Chef]

Yay! Isn't this fun?

[sphelps]

^^ So am I suppose to ignore another contestant when they come to me with a complaint/speculation? I feel it was fair to ask for a quick photo to find out. There shouldn't have been any harm in that. (Obviously there was).

And I do admit, it is hard to tell, and as sphelps told me in PM that pic still isn't accurate as the frag is farther back. But at least the pic gives an idea. That's all.

BTW, this is my last post regarding this mess.

Yes you should have ignored it and said the contest is based on the honor system and it's hard to tell size from a picture. A quick photo? Not really, I have to break out my big camera, install the right lens, track down my measuring tape, line it up with the tank so it sits still for a picture, take the picture, copy the file from the memory card to a computer, upload it and post it. PITA! and for what?

When the issue came up I corrected the budget for the one coral that was a little on the large size. After that you still insisted on a picture which I posted despite how outrageous I thought the request was. It's funny how now your mood has changed. I hope this is your last post on such a stupid matter and I don't ever want a PM from you which threatens to kick me out of this contest when I've followed all the rules.

[EmilyB]

You had to know that this would go downhill, didn't you?

[sphelps]

You had to know that this would go downhill, didn't you?

Well I don't really think anything went downhill. I think lessons were learned and at least now I think the whole honor system will hold true. :razz:

[cdhollan]

Ha ha this JDigital needs to lighten up, I thought you guys said this was for fun. Think he is scared of getting his butt kicked the set up looks pretty cool and very creative design.

[JDigital]

Think he is scared of getting his butt kicked.

LMAO... :lol:

[superduperwesman]

You had to know that this would go downhill, didn't you?

I love going down hill... way easier then pedaling up.

[sphelps]

So I thought I'd share some info on my pump choice.

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/DSC_1444.jpg

It's a DC pump similar to a Tunze and comes with a controller. The controller has three adjustments but is quite limited. Basically three nobs control the time limit the pump is run at "small" power, "medium" power and "high" power. The pump works very well and runs absolutely silent and doesn't seem to generate any significant heat. The only problem is that on the high setting it will destroy my tank so I had to modify the controller so the high setting does not turn on, normally you can only adjust it so it turns on for 2 seconds (you can't actually turn it off). The pump does generate a lot of flow and for the price it's a good deal. The only down side is the size as it's quite large. I had to cut shroud basically right down to the impeller to make it fit.

I plan on making a new controller for the pump similar to that of a tunze single controller, I want two adjustable power settings with a adjustable pulsing time.

[AndyL]

If you want a spare (non functional) resun 1500 for parts, let me know... I should still have one in a box packed away around here somewheres... Hopefully you have better luck with these pumps than I did.

[sphelps]

If you want a spare (non functional) resun 1500 for parts, let me know... I should still have one in a box packed away around here somewheres... Hopefully you have better luck with these pumps than I did.

What happened to yours? I read a few people having some issues with the controller but no problems with the actual pump. Hopefully mine will work for at least 6 months, I wanted to use a tunze 6055 with controller but that would have used the entire budget on it's own :cry:

[AndyL]

No clue where the problem lies; decided after the 2nd failure wasn't worth pursuing another warranty replacement. Shipping back n forth to taiwan gets expensive...

Yeah I hear ya on the budget, I'm having lots of fun trying to work everything I want in staying within the budget + within the wifes budget :mrgreen:

[sphelps]

OK so I'm doing a livestock overhaul and incorporating a theme into this tank. No idea what exactly yet but I should have it figured out by the end of the month. I'm pretty sure I'll be ditching the SPS though.

I'm open to ideas if anyone has something to share.

[Chaloupa]

OH no, ditching the SPS...I was eager to see it grow out...that's too bad:sad:

[sphelps]

OH no, ditching the SPS...I was eager to see it grow out...that's too bad:sad:

Well I might keep some just for fillers but I can't think of a theme to go with SPS. Plus I have a full out SPS tank so something different might be nice.

[sphelps]

I got a new coral but I'm still not sure what to charge for it as there's a gab in the price list. It's a lobo measuring 2.75" at the longest part, so $17.50??

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/thumbs/DSC_1450.jpg (http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1450.jpg)

[sphelps]

Here's a pic in the tank, me likey :mrgreen:

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1452.jpg

[JDigital]

I got a new coral but I'm still not sure what to charge for it as there's a gab in the price list. It's a lobo measuring 2.75" at the longest part, so $17.50??

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/thumbs/DSC_1450.jpg (http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1450.jpg)

You can if you want... I'm not gonna enforce that .5". Just didn't want PM's for "mine is 2.92", what should I take?" LOL Will help to avoid that .5" thing from the past. :wink: I don't think anyone will argue if you take either 15 or 17.5.. Your just making really accurate. :mrgreen:

[sphelps]

cool I'm going to take 17.50 just to be safe.

[Scythanith]

That is an awesome lobo Steve!!! Good snag!

[Chaloupa]

Beautiful coral...and the picture is awesome!

[sphelps]

Well I decided on a theme, the tank will be dominated by various kinds of brain corals including lobos, open and closed brains and anything else that is sometimes referred to as a brain coral. Still got a few other corals for fillers and a little variety.

I also took out my Resun pump, after tying to develop a new controller I discovered that the pump runs on AC not DC just like the Hydors meaning the DIY controller I want won't work :sad: Kind of a PO as it was advertised as a DC pump which is why I bought it. So since the pump wasn't doing anything special for me right now I just stuck in my maxi-jet until I get something else figured out.

Some updated pics will follow.

[sphelps]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1491.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1490.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1481.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1480.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1476.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1472.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1471.jpg

[Ryan_Lap]

Looks damn nice. I like the orangy/redy/purply lobo. A close favorite next to the huge maze brain.

:biggrin:

[Scythanith]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/October08/DSC_1490.jpg

I like the intelligent theme! Where did you get the orange zoo's from, they are really nice! Is your chalice frag still hanging on? That A. rotundoflora will spread out fairly quick if you get a little epoxy under any ledges around the growth edge so it's not trying to grow over any gaps.

That lobo (large picture from before) is sick man, I love the slight rainbow colours on the inside edges!

[Ryan_Lap]

Those orange zoas/palys are the exact same as these....one of my favorites in my tank.

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii239/Ryan_Lap/90gpics002.jpg

Funny how different lights can make corals look so different.....

[Scythanith]

It's always neat to see a coral in different tanks. Especially once it settles in and gets growing!

[Ryan_Lap]

It's always neat to see a coral in different tanks. Especially once it settles in and gets growing!

If you want a frag ever Im sure we could swing a trade.......:mrgreen:

[superduperwesman]

ahah dude... you need to slow down... I love that massive brain... almost as big as mine :D

Where do you have this tank??

[sphelps]

I like the intelligent theme! Where did you get the orange zoo's from, they are really nice! Is your chalice frag still hanging on? That A. rotundoflora will spread out fairly quick if you get a little epoxy under any ledges around the growth edge so it's not trying to grow over any gaps.

That lobo (large picture from before) is sick man, I love the slight rainbow colours on the inside edges!

Thanks Scott!
Got the orange zoos from Gustavo, I'll keep that in mind about the acan.
Chalice was doing good, I gotta move it as it just took a hit from the maze brain sweeper.

[sphelps]

ahah dude... you need to slow down... I love that massive brain... almost as big as mine :D

Where do you have this tank??

Yeah it's pretty big, don't realize until you take it out of the water.
Tanks on my desk, far right side corner.

[superduperwesman]

Yeah it's pretty big, don't realize until you take it out of the water.
Tanks on my desk, far right side corner.

Cool cool... but at home not work right??

[sphelps]

yeah home.

[Der_Iron_Chef]

I like the theme....everything looks great.

[sphelps]

New addition! Wellsophyllia (flat bottom open brain)

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/November08/DSC_1632.jpg

:mrgreen:

[titus]

Hello,

Wow nice.

Titus

[OCDP]

Real purdy!

[Delphinus]

Wow nice indeed. :) Can't wait to see the Wellsophyllia inflated, that should be real sharp.

What are the maze brains? Are they Platygyra sp.? They look a little darker than the Platygyra's I've usually seen. Very nice!

I'd love to try some Diploria sp. but I doubt the day will ever come where we see them legally available in the hobby. :( Unless maybe out of Cuba or something .. not sure if it's illegal to collect them there but it's for sure illegal pretty much everywhere else in that coral's range. ..

[sphelps]

What are the maze brains? Are they Platygyra sp.? They look a little darker than the Platygyra's I've usually seen. Very nice!


I know the smaller brown/burgundy maze brain is a Platygyra lamellina and I'm not 100% sure but I believe the large green one is a Colpophyllia natans. The one in the back is a type of Favia.

I'd like to find one of these:

http://www.advancedaquarist.com/2007/6/travel_album/DSC01220.jpg

http://www.marinephotography.net/images/brain_coral.jpg

You know something in the yellow to orange range.

[sphelps]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/November08/DSC_1706.jpg

[superduperwesman]

NIce! I like it

[JDigital]

I don't know how'd you get any work done. :mrgreen:

[rocketlily]

Looks great. How do you keep your desk so clean? I would have trouble finding room for a goldfish bowl.

[Boomboy]

what kind of fish is that on your screen, ive seen one in the fish store but had no idea what it was.

[superduperwesman]

what kind of fish is that on your screen, ive seen one in the fish store but had no idea what it was.

http://canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=46407

[Boomboy]

thanks

[sphelps]

Got a little tired of the PCs so I decided to join all you T5 folks.

Built my fixture from clear acrylic them lined it with black. I chamfered the top edge to expose the clear and create a lighted rim effect.

Hard to take pictures of something completely black but..

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/DSC_1713.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/DSC_1714.jpg

I like the fixture but think I might build some legs or try to hang it some how, it's longer than the tank so when it sits right on top it looks a little funny.

[Chaloupa]

VERY nice!

[Scythanith]

That looks very neat Steve! I can't wait to see it glowing! How are the end caps affixed to the hood?

[sphelps]

That looks very neat Steve! I can't wait to see it glowing! How are the end caps affixed to the hood?
Glued with solvent :mrgreen:

[JDigital]

Contest Reminder:

**Updated FTS and Budget Required today (Nov 15/08) to remain in the contest**

[sphelps]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/November08/DSC_1724.jpg

[Scythanith]

Hey Steve, is this the chalice frag you got from me? Looks like it has grown plenty if it is!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Canreef%20Nano%20Contest/DSC_1724.jpg

Tha acan frag is looking killer as well!

[Lance]

Very Nice. I like.

[sphelps]

Yeap that's the one, it took a good shot from a brain sweeper but recovered.

[Der_Iron_Chef]

Sooo...when are you going to get some color in there? ;-) Mwaa ha ha.

Nice.

[superduperwesman]

Sooo...when are you going to get some color in there? ;-) Mwaa ha ha.

ahah

[sphelps]

Made some hangers for my light fixture.
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/DSC_1732.jpg

Magnetically coupled for easy removal.
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/DSC_1734.jpg

[superduperwesman]

I vote for little cables instead of the chains

[sphelps]

I vote for little cables instead of the chains
Yeah I might change it up a little, I used what I had at home.

[superduperwesman]

Yeah I might change it up a little, I used what I had at home.

Yeah the magnets are a good idea but I'd get those tiny little cables

[Doug]

That sure is a purdy little reef Steve. :D

[sphelps]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/November08/DSC_1714.jpg

[LeeR]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/November08/DSC_1724.jpg


Is that brain on the left a full ball or is it cut off at the back?

[sphelps]

it's a new addition, not in that FTS.

[LeeR]

ohh.. i mean the one in the FTS in the front left the purple looking one.... it looks like a full round colony.... you dont really see a full colony that often.. :biggrin:

[sphelps]

oh, my bad. Yeah it's a full ball about the size of a human brain. I've had it for about 5 years and grew it from a smaller-flatter piece.

[LeeR]

very cool. :mrgreen:

[sphelps]

My budget is up to date and I'll get some new pics up tonight. I picked up another crazy Wellso yesterday so tank's looking sweet. Still waiting for that key addition though, damn!

[sphelps]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/December08/DSC_1839.jpg

[sphelps]

I was having a few issues with exposure tonight but this will do

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/December08/DSC_1840-1.jpg

[Ryan_Lap]

Seems to be an error with the pic, unless its just me....
Very nice looking addition :biggrin:

[JDigital]

Seems to be an error with the pic, unless its just me....
Very nice looking addition :biggrin:

I'm getting the same error.

[karazy]

i am also having the same error

[sphelps]

Damn you guys sure are quick, what are you just sitting on my thread waiting? :lol:

The picture is still uploading, patience.

[karazy]

you planning on putting any fish in that bad boy sphelps?

[Lance]

That is one nice looking tank. Good job!

[rocketlily]

Very nice.

[sphelps]

you planning on putting any fish in that bad boy sphelps?
Something like that :wink:

[karazy]

you should get a few different pico gobies (trimma,eviota, ect)

[sphelps]

you should get a few different pico gobies (trimma,eviota, ect)
Yeah maybe, for now I'm going to stick to the theme though.

A couple more pics:

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/December08/DSC_1848.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/December08/DSC_1838.jpg

[KennyKen]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/December08/DSC_1848.jpg


oooooooooooooo, thats nice,
what is that.

[sphelps]

Clove polyp

[noirsphynx]

Love that Multi color clove, I waaaaant!!

[StirCrazy]

Man, you got to lay off the photo shop a bit.. this looks horable. try a pic and just leave it alone, you over saturated this one to the point your sand is multi colored.

other than that, nice layout and corals.

Steve

I was having a few issues with exposure tonight but this will do

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/December08/DSC_1840-1.jpg

[sphelps]

Like I said I was having issues with exposure, give a guy a break. That's what the sand looks like BTW, green and red algae is growing on it.

[StirCrazy]

Like I said I was having issues with exposure, give a guy a break. That's what the sand looks like BTW, green and red algae is growing on it.

ahh, that partially explains it.

it wasn't the red and green algae I was talking about it was the yellow, purple, blue hehe

[sphelps]

ahh, that partially explains it.

it wasn't the red and green algae I was talking about it was the yellow, purple, blue hehe
Blue from the light, yellow and purple are shades of red and green algae. It's a result from over exposure, I never touched saturation and if I did it wouldn't have done the effect you describe. Sorry if doesn't meet your standards, after all it was you all along I was trying to impress. :lol:

[StirCrazy]

Blue from the light, yellow and purple are shades of red and green algae. It's a result from over exposure, I never touched saturation and if I did it wouldn't have done the effect you describe. Sorry if doesn't meet your standards, after all it was you all along I was trying to impress. :lol:

hey, I like the tank, you must have missed that part.

you'll find though I have an aversion to the way photo shop has been used over the years, and yes I use it also, well used to till I got Vista and am to cheep to go buy one that will work with Vista:mrgreen:

the problem is that a lot of on line vendors were photo-shopping the heck out of the corals, and doing a nice job at it, so when you got your coral it was nothing like the WYSIWYG pictures and never would come close to it.

Also there were a lot of people posting photo shopped pics of there tanks. the problem with this one was it was at a time when no one new much about lighting (kinda like today :mrgreen: ) this was my pet peeve was that there was no info out there on lighting, hence it is why I spent 10K in 3 years on lights, PAR meter ect. anyways I digress

back to photo shop. in a time when everyone was trying to learn what lights were good people were posting photo shopped pics of tanks lit by PC's VHO's, 170w MH, ect.. so looking visually at a picture there was no reliable indication of how they were relay affecting the color of the corals.

Icecap was a player making claims about there VHO ballast which I went head to head with them and got them to admit it wasn't what they said, T5's were one of the biggest though when they were first introduced it was amazing the photo-shopped pics... or pics showing T5s on a tank that was amazing. But, I knew the tank and the guy who owned it, they took the MH off put the T5s on took a pic and then went back to the MH.

so the problem isn't with a pic that has been photo-shopped it is how it is used.

yours wasn't intended to be used like these, it was just at a contrast and sharpness than made it hard to look at on my monitor and I was just letting you know it looked messed up.

no hard feeling intended, just didn't know if you knew how it looked on a LCD monitor.

Steve

[sphelps]

I meant no offense either, I thought we were just kidding around.

I know what you're getting at with the PhotoShop and vendors but it's part of the game and it's all about buyer beware. Corals will look different in every tank, no matter what.

Just so you know, that pic never touched photoshop, it was edited in Capture NX2 and it was not edited in they way you may think. The pic was shot in RAW mode and the over exposure is to blame, not over editing. I didn't feel like setting up again for another shot last night, it was a long day so I posted it to meet the 15th deadline. I plan on replacing it when I get a chance, as I'm not happy with it either. But lay off the "horrible", that's not helpful.

[StirCrazy]

But lay off the "horrible", that's not helpful.

ok, wrong word :mrgreen:

Steve

[Boomboy]

yeah i agree with stircrazy. but hey that would be awesome if we could get those colours in our tanks as a norm. but i still love your tank alot, just great coral selection, and great placement of the corals, i hope if you get a fish or some kind of creature it fits with the tank perfectly.

Edit- not saying that you photoshopped yours, just agreeing with stir. but you can tell something is up with the pic, but your last months picture was still wicked. keep it up

[sphelps]

Hows this one?

Brain Macro
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/December08/DSC_1854copy.jpg

[Ryan_Lap]

Looks good to me..... Id say it represents its true colors.

[OCDP]

That's one colourful little reef you've got going on there :mrgreen: Really nice..

[sphelps]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/December08/DSC_1856.jpg

[sphelps]

FTS
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/FTS.jpg

Lost a couple corals and things looking a little rough this month. I was gone for 2 weeks and the tank is slowly recovering. Stupid Nanos! :lol:

A couple more pics. Most of these were taken with my new camera and case I got for Scuba Diving and snorkeling. Just trying it out.

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/IMG_0107.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/DSC_2116.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/DSC_2104.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/DSC_2106.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/DSC_2114.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/DSC_2115.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/IMG_0110.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/IMG_0119.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/IMG_0114.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/IMG_0115.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/IMG_0116.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/IMG_0118.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/January09/IMG_0121.jpg

[ElGuappo]

looks great i really like the acro at the top.

[Scythanith]

looks great i really like the acro at the top.

I don't think that acro is doing to well... aka.... dead. The large brain on the front left has to be my favorite in this tank. Nice specimen!

[Delphinus]

What is the tiny red guy between the squammie and the Trachyphyllia?

[ElGuappo]

I don't think that acro is doing to well... aka.... dead. !

Yup missed the close up and thought i may be tri color from the FTS.:wink:

[Scythanith]

What is the tiny red guy between the squammie and the Trachyphyllia?

Discosomas sp., red mushroom?

[Scythanith]

Yup missed the close up and thought i may be tri color from the FTS.:wink:

Looks like he may have lost his Montipora sp. just below the Acropora sp. as well. But like he said, gone for two weeks and had some issues.

More to Steve's credit is the fact that he has left them in there and hasn't tried to just "erase" them from his budget! Now that's the honour system.

[sphelps]

What is the tiny red guy between the squammie and the Trachyphyllia?

Yeap some kind of red mushroom, I'm guessing it hitchhiked on the clam as it just showed up one day :mrgreen:

I lost the two SPS corals and one of the welso's got too close to one of the lobo's and they both got damaged but should recover. I just did a large water change so most stuff isn't looking the greatest but I'll get things back on track, hopefully :wink:

What do you think of the pics from the new camera? It's a Canon G9 with underwater case.

[Scythanith]

Shots are looking good man! They are very true to life. If you can get shots like that while scuba diving, good for you! Usually scuba pictures are blue as all hell.

That sucks about the sps, but I know you'll be able to find more if you want! Might be easier to keep it LPS if you're going to be away for a while.

You'd be so proud of me Steve, I am actually testing and dosing for Ca, dKh, and Mg! I noticed the Monti's were looking burnt so I tested dKh in the 85 gal and it was at 3.5 haahaa. Ooops. Maybe that explains the algae that won't go away! On the road to recovery, the montipora's are looking better already.
Cheers!

[sphelps]

Thanks Scott, I got this camera specifically for scuba diving because it has the settings I think will produce the best pictures underwater. I can set and save two preset WBs so that should help with the blue and it even has aperture priority mode so I can just set it to 2.8 and I'll always get the fastest shot possible. I can also shoot in raw mode which should also help with the blue. It should be good but we'll find out for sure in a couple weeks :mrgreen:

I'm too bothered about the SPS, like you said plenty more where that came from. My large brain however is receding from the base which has me concerned. Not sure what to due other than hope it stops?

I'm always proud of you buddy, you're my hero!

Cheers!

[BlueAbyss]

Hmm noticed that recession on the large brain, some sort of damage maybe?

Other than that, this looks awesome! Quick question about that orange coral above the large brain in the picture, I'm assuming that's the orange lobo in your budget? Easy to keep? Aggressive? Curious because I think I'd like something like that for my tank (once it's up and running) but I don't want anything with crazy sweeper tentacles.

Again, well done! :biggrin: Love this tank.

[Rbacchiega]

...brain damage....hahaha

off colour but funny none the less.

.... a little anyways

[Scythanith]

Steve hurry up and get your update in man!

[sphelps]

Sorry, here's my Feb update. Nothing new.

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/Fev09/DSC_2648.jpg

[Lance]

Nice!

[rocketlily]

Still looking great and very clean too.

[BlueAbyss]

Awesome no more 'brain damage' :dance:... I'd say the big brain made it through college unscathed.

Aww, I was gonna pollute this thread with a banana smiley.:twised: The tank looks great!

[JDigital]

No livestock yet eh? haha..

Tank looks good though. Is that SPS frag in the middle back starting to come back, or is it a complete goner'?

[sphelps]

Hmm noticed that recession on the large brain, some sort of damage maybe?

Other than that, this looks awesome! Quick question about that orange coral above the large brain in the picture, I'm assuming that's the orange lobo in your budget? Easy to keep? Aggressive? Curious because I think I'd like something like that for my tank (once it's up and running) but I don't want anything with crazy sweeper tentacles.

Again, well done! :biggrin: Love this tank.
Yes that is an orange lobo, easy to keep and not very aggressive, it may bother other corals if they touch but that's it.

Thanks!

[sphelps]

No livestock yet eh? haha..

Tank looks good though. Is that SPS frag in the middle back starting to come back, or is it a complete goner'?
What are you talking about, the tank is full of livestock :mrgreen: haha, I know what you're getting at but no nothing yet.

Thanks and yes that SPS is a goner!

[sphelps]

Video (http://www.facebook.com/v/66612409531)

[Delphinus]

Oh man, that's is easily the 7th level of awesomeness. Or something. :cool:

How have you escape-proofed the tank, or was it fairly well locked down to begin with?

[rocketlily]

Seriously! That's in your little nano? Amazing!

[karazy]

You win automatically! :lol:

but seriously, thats freakin awesome. is it a dwarf octo?

[sphelps]

Oh man, that's is easily the 7th level of awesomeness. Or something. :cool:

How have you escape-proofed the tank, or was it fairly well locked down to begin with?
I planned this from the start, the tank is sealed up fairly well with a glass and mesh lid. The overflow and pump is also isolated, I don't think it can go anywhere but I guess time will tell. I've already seen it squeeze through a tiny gap in the rock, it was ridiculous.

You win automatically! :lol:

but seriously, thats freakin awesome. is it a dwarf octo?
Not sure, it was called a red octopus, I'm not entirely sure how big it gets. Hopefully not that big, but I could always upgrade after the contest if I need to :mrgreen:

[karazy]

kool. i hope it works out for you. the only downside to octo's is their lifespan :(

[superduperwesman]

Dang! I was hoping you wouldn't get one ahah

What did you take the video with??

[sphelps]

Dang! I was hoping you wouldn't get one ahah

What did you take the video with??
haha sucka!
I used my Canon G9. I wanted to take a few pics but my battery was dead in the other camera.

[Delphinus]

Bimac maybe? That's my completely uneducated (well, slightly educated) guess..

[michika]

Pretty sweet!

What is Einstein eating?

[sphelps]

Bimac maybe? That's my completely uneducated (well, slightly educated) guess..
I'm putting my money on it being a Octopus rubescens, which does stay quite small.

Pretty sweet!

What is Einstein eating?
Just got him last night, haven't tried feeding it yet. Will try silversides and krill tonight.

[sphelps]

I'm changing my guess to O. mercatoris, pictures show very similar characteristics. Plus I think my last guess is a cold water species so that can't be right :biggrin:

[Chaloupa]

WICKED! That is sooo very cool!

[fishoholic]

Very very cool!

[Scythanith]

Congrats man, I was wondering when your Octo would show up! I can't see the video out at work but I should be home in a couple days and might need to get some sps frags from ya lol!

[sphelps]

Congrats man, I was wondering when your Octo would show up! I can't see the video out at work but I should be home in a couple days and might need to get some sps frags from ya lol!
Yeah for sure, I don't have a frag tank setup anymore so anything I cut I just end up throwing out, come by and I'll set you up.

[sphelps]

Fed the octopus a silverside last night, so he's eating now :biggrin:

I guess you're suppose to keep these guys occupied with toys of some sort, anyone got any ideas on what to use?

[Okguy]

That's funny, I just finished reading this.

http://www.thebostonchannel.com/entertainment/18863876/detail.html

I bet with your building skills you could come up with something similar...:mrgreen:

some more ideas

http://www.impactlab.com/2007/06/19/olly-the-octopus-gets-lego-toys-to-prevent-boredom/

[fdiddy]

Very cool man! I would love you see a video of feeding time. I've heard they can open jars so maybe you can put food in a jar and watch him open it :)

[noirsphynx]

If you find something to give Einstein you should video it to share.

http://www.thecephalopodpage.org/OctopusToys.php

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KEgLXnZFAM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxEpHzu05Z8&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_umYYoqaGl4&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8cf7tPoN5o

[sphelps]

Awesome, thanks for the ideas.

[fdiddy]

lol I like the background noise you got goin on in the video too.

[sphelps]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/77a0f8db.jpg http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/5ef65847.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/9eac3e5b.jpg http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/52f75292.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/229b4bcf.jpg http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/d2633e85.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/c4830e03.jpg

I had to crank up the iso on the camera to get these pics, too much light in the tank makes him hide almost instantly plus he's constantly moving. Anyways that's why the pics are grainy and some are still blurry. Never the less hope you enjoy! He's a very difficult subject to shoot.

[Pan]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/77a0f8db.jpg http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/5ef65847.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/9eac3e5b.jpg http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/52f75292.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/229b4bcf.jpg http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/d2633e85.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/c4830e03.jpg

I had to crank up the iso on the camera to get these pics, too much light in the tank makes him hide almost instantly plus he's constantly moving. Anyways that's why the pics are grainy and some are still blurry. Never the less hope you enjoy! He's a very difficult subject to shoot.

Cool they are so neat to have...unfortunately they live very short lives.

[sphelps]

Cool they are so neat to have...unfortunately they live very short lives.
True but they have short live expectancy in general not just in captivity which makes it somewhat ideal for a contest tank.

[sphelps]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano Contest/march09/2357513e.jpg

Budget is also up to date

[noirsphynx]

Is that a Devon Rex?

[rocketlily]

As usual, a beautiful looking tank. Cat on the light? I can't believe that I get upset with my cat when he looks in the tanks and you let yours sleep on the light!

[sphelps]

Is that a Devon Rex?
Yes

[noirsphynx]

Yes

They're awesome cats. I have an orange & white one as well but mine's an old fatty now.

[sphelps]

As usual, a beautiful looking tank. Cat on the light? I can't believe that I get upset with my cat when he looks in the tanks and you let yours sleep on the light!
I'm just happy when he's sleeping, it could be in the tank for all I care :wink:
But seriously no harm no foul, the light's warm and he has no fur.

[sphelps]

They're awesome cats. I have an orange & white one as well but mine's an old fatty now.
Mine is still young around 13 weeks. So tell me do they ever settle down? This one is completely insane and driving me nuts!

[noirsphynx]

Mine is still young around 13 weeks. So tell me do they ever settle down? This one is completely insane and driving me nuts!

Oh yes but it'll take a couple years, lol. Mine's a lazy old fart now but likes tummy rubs like a dog, lol. I used to have 2 but had to put one down when he was only 4. Do you mind if I ask which breeder yours came from? I got my boys from Giggles.
This is my guy
http://canreef.com/vbulletin/picture.php?albumid=12&pictureid=794

[sphelps]

Oh yes but it'll take a couple years, lol. Mine's a lazy old fart now but likes tummy rubs like a dog, lol. I used to have 2 but had to put one down when he was only 4. Do you mind if I ask which breeder yours came from? I got my boys from Giggles.

I got him from friends in Martensville, Saskatchewan. He was from their first Devon litter. I believe they plan on doing one more then focusing more in sphinx. I can get you their email if you're looking.

[noirsphynx]

I got him from friends in Martensville, Saskatchewan. He was from their first Devon litter. I believe they plan on doing one more then focusing more in sphinx. I can get you their email if you're looking.

No, not looking any time soon. I was just curious. One Devon & one Sphynx is enough for me right now. I used to have another Devon before I got my Sphynx and would much prefer 2 Devon's over having the Sphynx. One day I'll get another but not anytime soon.

[Chaloupa]

would much prefer 2 Devon's over having the Sphynx.

I soooo agree with you! I'd trade my Sphynx for a Devon any day...I had one too, and it was an awesome cat! Loved my Devon sooo much!

Sphelps...your tank is looking fantastic!

[JDigital]

Wow... impressive that the light can support the cats weight.. :lol:

Tank looks good tho.. Looks like that Acro came back for you?

[sphelps]

Wow... impressive that the light can support the cats weight.. :lol:

Tank looks good tho.. Looks like that Acro came back for you?
Actually since I got the octopus I've placed the fixture directly on top of the tank to prevent the lid from being lifted up (safe measure). So there isn't much problem supporting the cat which only weighs 1.5kg :mrgreen:

Thanks but the acro is still dead, not coming back :sad:

[sphelps]

I soooo agree with you! I'd trade my Sphynx for a Devon any day...I had one too, and it was an awesome cat! Loved my Devon sooo much!

I actually wanted a sphinx but the gf would never allow it so I went with a Devon. I think I made the right choice by the sounds of things :biggrin: His mother however was actually half sphinx.

Here's a quick pic of Eddie
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2604/186/53/589944531/n589944531_2205387_5764176.jpg (http://b.static.ak.fbcdn.net/swf/mvp.swf?8%3A149819=&v=58525861926&ev=0)
Click on the picture for a video of him fighting with our other cat!

[Chaloupa]

He is soooo freaking cute! Good choice that's for sure!

[Boomboy]

is that a dead urchin in the bottom right corner??

[sphelps]

is that a dead urchin in the bottom right corner??
Yes, you can check the first post for updates on livestock. :biggrin: means it's doing really well, :sad: means it's dead, nothing means it's doing OK.

[sphelps]

On top of the clam
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/15c4715a.jpg

Thinking....
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/169c743a.jpg

Thinking...
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/fb3fcc83.jpg

Opening...
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/360f792e.jpg

Ureaka!
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/1336777c.jpg

Fresh meat
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/d972de73.jpg

Extracting
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/8d55da9e.jpg

Package acquired
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/672b8fc5.jpg

Gobble, gobble.
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/d6633773.jpg

[Myka]

Very cool!!

[sphelps]

Can you see it?
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/811fa12e.jpg

Camouflage
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/1c3f0810.jpg

Next to my chalice frag
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/c41a4fb8.jpg

On the move
http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/b7486012.jpg

BTW the lights were just turned on before taking these pictures so obviously corals were still closed up for the most part.

[Skimmerking]

Steve he looks great man.

[JDigital]

pm re: budget. :smile:

[sphelps]

pm re: budget. :smile:
Thanks! All should be good now.

[Delphinus]

Gahhh!! That has got to be the coolest thing ever! Sweet pics man.

[sphelps]

Gahhh!! That has got to be the coolest thing ever! Sweet pics man.

Thanks, got one more for you

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/d9fa5d1d.jpg

[Boomboy]

wow love that last shot.... NOOOO DONT EAT ME, im not a fishy.

[sphelps]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/march09/DSC_2938.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/march09/DSC_2940.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/march09/DSC_2941.jpg

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/march09/DSC_2945.jpg

[sharuq1]

Insanely gorgeous pics, as always :whoo:

[golf nut]

Stunning.

[wisesam]

wow, the colors are unreal.

[Myka]

Awesome pics!! Do you have any recent FTS? :D

[sphelps]

Awesome pics!! Do you have any recent FTS? :D
One from march 15 (http://canreef.com/vbulletin/showpost.php?p=399717&postcount=201), nothing has really changed

[Scythanith]

Nice shots man, I'll have to photoshop the backgrounds out as well to get my colours to pop like yours!

I love the green growth ring on the alien eye chalice. I'm glad it's doing well for you. The marbled blue/orange in the Lobo is very cool as well!

[sphelps]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a174/sphelps/Nano%20Contest/April%2009/DSC_2994.jpg

[Skimmerking]

stevo looks great man, i have the same brain and clam in your nano funny

[rocketlily]

Looks fantastic. How to set the standards.

[sphelps]

stevo looks great man, i have the same brain and clam in your nano funny
No kidding? Which brain? The clam is being camera shy today but doing well, hows yours?

[sphelps]

Looks fantastic. How to set the standards.
Thanks, when's your final pic going up?

[rocketlily]

As soon as I finish supper.

[Chaloupa]

absolutely stunning! Well done!:biggrin:

[superduperwesman]

Beautiful as always!

[sphelps]

If anyone is interested, the tank I used in the contest is sitting in my backyard. If someone wants to pick it up you can gladly have it for free. It's just the tank itself, no lights, pump or heater.

If you want it, come get it this weekend. If you don't have my address already send me a PM.

[noirsphynx]

If anyone is interested, the tank I used in the contest is sitting in my backyard. If someone wants to pick it up you can gladly have it for free. It's just the tank itself, no lights, pump or heater.

If you want it, come get it this weekend. If you don't have my address already send me a PM.

Coming to Edmonton any time soon?

[sphelps]

Coming to Edmonton any time soon?

Nope, you gotta pick up from my yard if you want it, otherwise it's going to landfill next week.

[noirsphynx]

Nope, you gotta pick up from my yard if you want it, otherwise it's going to landfill next week.

Okay, thought I'd just check. I'd love it but can't make it all the way to Sask. to pick it up, lol.

[sharuq1]

Man, could have used this a few weeks ago for our club, oh well

[noirsphynx]

If there's anyone that might be coming from Saskatoon towards Edmonton, even close to it and could bring the tank back with them that'd be awesome :mrgreen:!