105G Custom Shallow Paradise

[JDigital]

I know what a few are probably thinking... "What? ANOTHER tank?" ... I know I know... For anyone who knows me really well, knows that this is just how I am with any of my hobbies... When I played paintball I went through 4-5 different guns, 3-4 different face masks, SO much clothing gear I could put a womans wardrobe to shame! :redface: As a photographer I've gone thru 2-3 different camera bodies, a ridiculous number of lenses. etc... It's just the way I am. :lol:

Aside from my compulsive buying nature, I also decided against continuing with my 187G build as I would like to wait until I'm not renting anymore, at which time I will go larger than 187, that reason coupled with my love of Tangs has persuaded me to upgrade my 30G Shallow cube, which I absolutely love because of its shallow design. I will continue the shallow look into my upgrade (1. Addicted to shallow tanks... 2.Save on tank cost).

Some pics of my inspiration and what I'm trying to go for look-wise.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/NA007011.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/NA007015.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/NA007016.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/photo.jpg

Planning to have a fairly open sand bed and lower rock piles, ridges to create ample swimming space, as well as minimal scape to provide a sense of depth. This will be the first tank where I won't have any sort of back drop on the tank.

I have decided on getting a custom tank built by Red Coral to the dimensions of 72x24x14 trimless tank(with a 12.5" waterline). This makes upgrading the stand fairly simple as it becomes a basic addition to the current tank stand in heightxdepth. Current tank can stay running while I do the add-on.

I've already been working on the stand add-on. Will get some pics posted when I can take some.

This is just from when I was spacing out the tank to make sure it would fit... http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0297.jpg

[kien]

wow those pictures are inspiring..

great idea can't wait to see it come to fruition!

PS: dibs on the 30g when you are done with it! :-D

[JDigital]

PS: dibs on the 30g when you are done with it!
:-D

Actually I got dibs... it's becoming the sump tank.:wink: Should work well with the short stand height of 29", should be able to work in the sump. Leaves my skimmer choices rather slim though. :lol:

I'll just have to silicone a glass panel over the current overflow holes.

[fkshiu]

My tank is 72"x24"x17". In hindsight I would have gone even wider to say, 72"x36"x17" - that extra room gives far more aquascaping options and you'll get much better flow if you leave a clear lane at the back of the tank (i.e. not have any LR propped up against the rear pane).

[fishytime]

Your gonna love the six foot length....gonna be saweet.

[Zoaelite]

Your gonna love the six foot length....gonna be saweet.

That and a 12.5 inch water line will make for one sweet top down tank!

[JDigital]

Your gonna love the six foot length....gonna be saweet.


That and a 12.5 inch water line will make for one sweet top down tank!

Thanks guys.. Put the order in for the tank yesterday... Just playing the waiting game now.

[Delphinus]

Wow that is going to be shallow. While I'm excited for you and agree with your reasoning, I am also interested to see how you will continue to like it particularly with the challenges such a shallow tank runs. I have what I call my "carpet tank" (2 gigantea's) which is 24x24x12 (the GLASS is 12", so the waterline is more like 11"-11.5", and it is trimless ... so it is a particular challenge for me to keep the water flow I would like in it, plus I worry about how easy it is for the fish to jump out. And then last but not least it's just a tremendously difficult tank to get good photos of.) So I'm not sure what I think of shallow tanks anymore. Don't get me wrong: I'm not trying to rain on your parade, as I think this will be a great tank for you anyhow, but I'm just interested to see how you end up dealing with it. If nothing else maybe I'll learn a thing or two about how to get more-gooder/more-better photos out of the shallowness by seeing what you end up doing. :p

Anyhow good luck and can't wait to see more. :)

[JDigital]

Thanks Tony.

The 30G cube I currently have running is a 24x24x12 as well, and like you the water line is really 11-11.5" depending where you measure from. And yes, I have to be very careful cleaning the glass as the water likes to splash up over the sides, however the actual flow (Vortech mp20) never gets it so wild that in crests the rim of the tank.

With this tank I made a small adjustment with the dims and went 14.5" tall (glass dimension) and 12.5" water level giving me a full 2" of glass, which I am hoping will resolve the previous issue.

As for photos.... I should be ok. :wink:

Time will tell I suppose. :razz:

[Parker]

The first step in getting help is admitting you have a problem! lol

Looks like it's going to be a cool tank...

[lastlight]

Now that Leonardo over at RC has seemingly abandoned his shallow tank dreams you've got a chance to carry the torch man. I wish you luck! Those photos you posted are the BOMB.

[JDigital]

Now that Leonardo over at RC has seemingly abandoned his shallow tank dreams you've got a chance to carry the torch man. I wish you luck! Those photos you posted are the BOMB.

What?! He did?? I sent him a PM last week asking for more pics.. his thread seemed quite alive last I checked..

[lastlight]

Nov 8:

"My future tank won't be a very shallow one. Maybe I go back to the shape I started with"

- Leonardo

Maybe we'll get a bigger (and badder) Formosa Forest?

[JDigital]

Nov 8:

"My future tank won't be a very shallow one. Maybe I go back to the shape I started with"

- Leonardo

Maybe we'll get a bigger (and badder) Formosa Forest?


Well that's a bummer.. I love his current Lagoon tank though!

[JDigital]

Not much of an update but.....

.... I finally got my light rack modified (as it was designed for a different tank build) and bolted to the stand. I realize it looks a bit overkill, but it was originally designed to support 3-36" T5 Fixtures, but it saves me from having to get a new one built.

Still haven't decided how I want to skin the stand, but I do want it closed in. Might just cheap out and wrap it in black fabric. :mrgreen:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0490.jpg

[JDigital]

Some new pics while I wait for the tank to arrive.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/30G%20Cube/IMG_0541.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/30G%20Cube/IMG_0545.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/30G%20Cube/IMG_0542.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/30G%20Cube/IMG_0544.jpg

[elitesurfer]

Those are some amazing shots. ;)

[Skimmerking]

looking great man, time for a clean on that cube all the salt creep shame on you.:biggrin:

[JDigital]

time for a clean on that cube all the salt creep shame on you.:biggrin:


Are you sure we are looking at the same tank?? haha..

[Ross]

:popcorn: Just along for the show.

[Boomboy]

hows the tank coming along? not sure if you said or not are you going BB or sand?

[JDigital]

hows the tank coming along? not sure if you said or not are you going BB or sand?

No word on the tank yet.. soon I hope though.

Sand bottom.. always. Gonna try and keep it <1" deep though.

[Skimmerking]

Are you sure we are looking at the same tank?? haha.. may be from the light that it looks like salt creep sorry man. :cry: :smile:

oh ya the Acans are doing great pass that on to Kevin ok .

[JDigital]

may be from the light that it looks like salt creep sorry man. :cry: :smile:

oh ya the Acans are doing great pass that on to Kevin ok .

haha, yea the camera might have overexposed the loclines.. I do get salt creep there, but I clean it off every water change. :biggrin:

Glad to hear your acans are rocking! Give us some more pics!!

[Skimmerking]

As Soon as I can get home here if you read my location in the thread it tells it all. after the 15th of Jan I will be in mexico or Disney:mrgreen:

[JDigital]

I don't remember adding one of these guys to my 30G tank, and none of the rock is from my 75G, so I'm assuming he hitch hiked with the rock I used for this tank, but can't believe I have NEVER seen him before... but welcomed none the less... :mrgreen:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/30G%20Cube/IMG_0011.jpg

[fishytime]

Hey...nice score Josh....*wonders why the only hitchhikers I get are the bad kind*....sweet pics too man.

[JDigital]

FINALLY!!...:lol: Just got home with the tank, and of course it had to be -37C with a windchill today, it felt like insta-frostbite getting the tank from the back of fishytimes truck to my basement. (Thanks again Doug) Tank is sitting in my storage room thawing out right now.

Haven't decided if I want to do the transfer before or after Christmas. I leave on the 19th for BC for 10days or so. I got a knowledgeable tank-sitter, but don't really want to leave the responsibility of a fresh tank in their hands over the holidays.

Couple crappy pics... I apologize for the mess, I gotta make a few trips to the dump once the weather warms up. :redface:

Hope you guys approve. :wink:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0097.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0098.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0099.jpg

[MMAX]

Are those some old dirty socks laying around on the floor? Nice tank.

[The Grizz]

Looks like my place when I did my 155. The maid took the whole damn week off, lol. Nice tank though for sure.

[JDigital]

Are those some old dirty socks laying around on the floor? Nice tank.

Not old nor dirty.. just not picked up. :lol:


Thanks guy!

[fishytime]

Im just glad you got my truck back in one piece:lol::wink: j/k man... your gonna have to let me take the canyon for a spin....

[lastlight]

good catch on the crusty socks.

What's the hole for in the back pane? I dig the tank man.

[JDigital]

Im just glad you got my truck back in one piece:lol::wink: j/k man... your gonna have to let me take the canyon for a spin....

As long as there isn't a tank in the back! :mrgreen:

good catch on the crusty socks.

What's the hole for in the back pane? I dig the tank man.

That's my return line. Only looking to run about 5-600gph through the sump..

Thanks! I'm pretty pleased with the look of it..

[JDigital]

So here is where I am at so far...

30G is SHUTDOWN! The transfer is underway. Emptied the LR, coral & fish to a 30G Brute trash can/5G bucket with tank water, heaters & powerheads. 2 Clowns are in the 5G alone, the other guys are in the Brute trash can...

Got the 105G up on the stand.. So far I've added about 25G of fresh SW.. I think I might be a bit short on my water supply so I am making up a new 15G batch just in case.


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0121.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0122.jpg


To be continued!

[JDigital]

So... after a lot of work and a lot of stress yesterday, everything is in the tank and recovering. Slowly been adding fresh saltwater through out the day today and will continue until I get up to the return.. I'm waiting for my baffles to finish converting the 30G cube into my sump.. As you can see, fits like a glove. Now the hunt is on to find a skimmer short enough to do the job.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0125.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0127.jpg


Started doing the plumbing tonight. Herbie overflow.. etc etc.. Can't get to far on the plumbing until the sump is baffled. Dunno why I made this B&W, but thought it would be a neat change. :razz:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0128.jpg

[Carmen]

Neat looking tank Josh! Kinda like it! The shallow depth makes it look longer! Will grow some awesome SPS I am sure!

[JDigital]

Neat looking tank Josh! Kinda like it! The shallow depth makes it look longer! Will grow some awesome SPS I am sure!

Kinda like it?!? Come on! :lol:

It does give a bit of an illusion of length... (don't even think about the jokes guys!!!)

Anyways, finally finished up my plumbing tonight.

Starting off where my last pic left... the under side of the overflow. Running a gate valve for the Herbie. I mounted a couple of L-brackets to my stand to help support the drains and reduce any torsion/pressure on the bulkheads.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0130.jpg

From there, into the sump, which STILL needs baffles.. :censored: Doesn't sound like I will be getting them before I leave Saturday, and even if I did, the silicone probably wouldn't have enough time to cure, so couldn't add water anyways.

From the return pump I added in a T to branch off a ball valve. This will allow me to do a water change without shutting down my return pump. Open the lower valve, and shut the top one. I always like connecting the pump to the return line with hard plumbing, comes down to millimeters to get it all lined up properly. :mrgreen:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0129.jpg

And finally, up the backside. Union Check Valve for the "just in case" moments. I would have liked to add another ball valve between the check valve and the top union so I could remove the Check Valve for maintenance, however it would be CLEARLY visible through the tank glass and I didn't want that. When the time comes to switch out the Check valve I will just plan a big enough water change to bring my water level below my return bulkhead.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0131.jpg

That's about it for now, until I get the baffles for the sump.. Need to hunt down a skimmer next, then finish up with lighting, and add my sandbed.... and then aquascape, and and and.....

[Delphinus]

Boooo check valves. :( Otherwise all top-notch build. :p

[muck]

I mounted a couple of L-brackets to my stand to help support the drains and reduce any torsion/pressure on the bulkheads.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0130.jpg

Why not use some of these instead..

http://www.thinkvacuums.com/fittings/images/pipestrapbig.jpg

You should be able to pick them up at any Home Depot Rona in either the vacuum pipe aisle or the grey PVC ones by the electrical conduit pipe/fittings.

Ryan

[Delphinus]

Link didn't work for me Ryan..

[muck]

Link didn't work for me Ryan..

What link... or do you mean the pic of the strap i posted? (That is white and almost blends into the background.)

Edited my last post so its easier to read for Tony. :p

[Delphinus]

Actually I meant the picture wasn't displaying. It wasn't until I got a cookie setup at vacdepot.com before it would display. So it was just showing up as blank and when I tried to copy and paste into a different frame I got a "How dare you try to cross link one of our photos, you thievous jerk" type error message (might be slightly paraphrased).

[muck]

Actually I meant the picture wasn't displaying. It wasn't until I got a cookie setup at vacdepot.com before it would display. So it was just showing up as blank and when I tried to copy and paste into a different frame I got a "How dare you try to cross link one of our photos, you thievous jerk" type error message (might be slightly paraphrased).
Ahh ok... well I thefted a different pic and swapped the image. Does this one work fine?

[JDigital]

Boooo check valves. :( Otherwise all top-notch build. :p

I can't complain about Check Valve, especially these ones, because they have yet to fail on me *Knock on wood*. :mrgreen:

Why not use some of these instead..

http://www.thinkvacuums.com/fittings/images/pipestrapbig.jpg

You should be able to pick them up at any Home Depot Rona in either the vacuum pipe aisle or the grey PVC ones by the electrical conduit pipe/fittings.

Ryan

MONEY!! Will Swing by a HD or Rona today.. even though the those L brackets work. Or Maybe just replace them when the time is right.

[lastlight]

Tile on the stand before you leave would be rad too. Let me know when you can get to that bro.

[muck]

Should be doable in 19 hrs... i would think. :wink:

[JDigital]

Tile on the stand before you leave would be rad too. Let me know when you can get to that bro.

:lol:... Riiiight.. I might end up getting fishytime to finish my stand for me, when I get around to buying the supplies.

[Delphinus]

Check valves suck bro.. even fancy clear PVC ones won't sell me off that idea. :) I'll never trust another one again for a sump return line. Having said that, I see your outputs are near the top so you probably don't really have a huge latent problem on your hands like those who submerge their return lines at half depth or more..

[JDigital]

The math of it all works out very close.. Sump will have a 10G allowable limit, plus I have an extra 5-6G in my refuge tank. Based on where my DT water level will be relative to my return bulkhead, I shouldn't have more that 14.1G flow back to the tank even if the Check Valve fails.

[kien]

I thought that check valves worked on a spring.. doesn't that restrict flow as well ? I suppose there are non-springy check valves? I wouldn't know, I haven't used one in a zillion years.. I wonder if fishy will come over and skin my new stand as well.. I have no motivation at all to skin the new stand.. heck, i hear he is doing plumbing these days too. I should just get him to finish my build.

[JDigital]

These "fancy clear PVC" check valves, have no metal or spring inside. It works on a rubber flaps that seals shut in the event of back flow. They do affect head pressure slightly.

To each their own I guess. I'm sure if they had failed on me in the past like Tony has experienced, I'd be un-easy to use them as well. But I've got a perfect history with them so I can only advocate them.

[lastlight]

The only issue is they've failed for an assload of people lol. But it sounds like a harmless precaution as you can handle the backflow anyways I think. It's basic math but I just skimmed.

[fishytime]

The reason these plastic flap ones fail is the seal builds up with crud and then doesnt seal properly....nice thing about them (and I recommend this at shop all the time) is the are true union....so you can swap in a clean on on a regular basis and soak the original to clean it....

I used to have it in my signature that I do custom stands and canopies....If your serious Kien shoot me a PM... I w i l l d o t h e p l u m b i n g f o r y o u r a q u a i u m t o o .(wanted to be really clear in the wording there...with all the pervs around).

Looking really good there Josh....(the tank that is....darn pervs)

[Delphinus]

True with proper maintenance you can reduce the risk of failure, .... just not completely eliminate the risk of failure because you just never know when a stomatella shell or something is gonna get jammed in it. Sorry, it's just a pet peeve of mine. The spring loaded ones are worse because they put a lot of backpressure on the pump reducing flow, and the springs can rust up (even though they're not supposed to).

Don't get me wrong, tank is top notch ... I sort of question whether you really need it in the first place but I suppose if you already have it you might as well use it. :p

[lastlight]

So if the tank below can handle all the backflow why use the check valve? Just curious.

[JDigital]

So if the tank below can handle all the backflow why use the check valve? Just curious.

I don't want my sump filling to the rim every time I shut my pump off or the power blips/goes out. Yes, according to my math the sump can handle it, do I want to tempt that every time? No. What's wrong with an added piece of security? Just Curious.:wink:

I had one on my 75G and I had to shut my return pump off 1/week for 7-8months for waterchanges.. Not once did it fail. You guys are talking like they fail every time they get used. Sorry for your bad luck, but I can't argue with success. :mrgreen:

[lastlight]

Are you worried that the sump filling that high will cause a break? Wasn't your sump an old display?

If you don't need a check valve then using one certainly isn't bad. Maybe it reduces your flow a tiny bit but not near as much as say...sch 80 pipe.

[JDigital]

Are you worried that the sump filling that high will cause a break? Wasn't your sump an old display?

Has nothing to do with breaking. What if something else fails, say my ATO, and pumps my entire reservoir into my sump (which will be 10G once everything is said and done... Then say the power goes out. I certainly wouldn't have the room for that extra water now, nor do I have the space to plan for that, that's where the Check Valve would save me. If they both fail at the same time, well F-Me!! :lol:

[kien]

ah.. nothing like a little controversy in a build thread :biggrin: I'm going to put 5 check valves in mine just for fun. :lol::lol:

anyway.. did I read or hear somewhere that you were going to do a closed loop? Did you have holes drilled into the bottom like your 75g? I didn't notice any holes in the pics. Or did I just totally make that up ?

[JDigital]

ah.. nothing like a little controversy in a build thread :biggrin: I'm going to put 5 check valves in mine just for fun. :lol::lol:

anyway.. did I read or hear somewhere that you were going to do a closed loop? Did you have holes drilled into the bottom like your 75g? I didn't notice any holes in the pics. Or did I just totally make that up ?

Nope, no closed loop this time around. Gonna get my flow using 2 MP20's and 2-3 Tunze's.

[jimbo222]

SWEEET .// So what kind of tang are you gonna add now that you have the room.

[Delphinus]

No controversy, just sharing of opinions. The check valve sticks out as the one and only "B-" in the report card of otherwise all straight "A++'s" and so I felt Josh deserved to know why I felt that way.

Off topic a bit, but Kien and Josh, do either of you use those little lens cap holder strings with your camera stuff? ... just curious. :)

[kien]

I do not use them no. All my lens caps came with them but I just threw the strings out and snapped off the little loop on the caps that the strings attach to. I just shove the cap in my pockets.

[JDigital]

^^ I just remembered what I forgot to do before leaving the house this morning....... DOH!! :redface: Can't believe I forgot to leave the PVC out for you kien. So sorry man!

As for the lens cap strap, I've never owned a lens that came with one.

What with all the "Just Curious" questions these last few days.. :lol:

Jimbo - I'll probably get flamed for this but my tang choice(s) is a Powder Brown (Japonicus) and Convict Tang.

[Funky_Fish14]

Whats size tunzes are you going to be using? 2-3 tunzes and 2 vortechs in a shallow 105 sounds like its pretty high flow? I cant remember what is going in this (yeah I guess I should just read page 1 lol).

Cant wait to see this come together!

[JDigital]

Whats size tunzes are you going to be using? 2-3 tunzes and 2 vortechs in a shallow 105 sounds like its pretty high flow? I cant remember what is going in this (yeah I guess I should just read page 1 lol).

Cant wait to see this come together!


Looking at Tunze 6045's. I had a MP20 (100% Reef Crest) in my 12" tall cube tank and never had any issues with sand or flow. The actual turnover compared to the cube is actually gonna be less (83x in the 30G compared to 65x in this tank)

This tank will mainly be SPS.

[kien]

^^ I just remembered what I forgot to do before leaving the house this morning....... DOH!! :redface: Can't believe I forgot to leave the PVC out for you kien. So sorry man!

As for the lens cap strap, I've never owned a lens that came with one.

What with all the "Just Curious" questions these last few days.. :lol:

Jimbo - I'll probably get flamed for this but my tang choice(s) is a Powder Brown (Japonicus) and Convict Tang.

No worries. I was in tuscany anyway to drop off stuff at a clients so no buggy.

I was going to try a vortech in my shallow tank but everytime I see the price tag I gag a little bit.. Hehe. I know they're awesome, I've seen tonnes of them in action but they are so darned expensive :-(

[JDigital]

If you still want it I can PM my roommate...

Yea, Vortechs are a bit pricey, but I think 2 MP20s are close to the same as 2 6055's w/ 7095 controller. With similar or even slightly more flow.

If I could afford more than 1 more MP20, I'd probably run 4 on this new tank.:mrgreen:

[Funky_Fish14]

Cool info about the vortech! Im considering trying out an MP10 or 20 on my 52 to target a dead spot. But yeah the price tag is '2 large'.

[lastlight]

Hold off Chris. If I decide to go that route on my cube you can buy it used for a lot less in a little bit =)

[Funky_Fish14]

Haha, ok, thanks. I've been waffling over it for months anyways :P

[JDigital]

Looking to get some input on my stocking list. Mostly looking for some help on who to add first->last. Any certain ones that I should maybe avoid (please give reason). Tangs will obviously go in last (at the same time)

Keep in mind, I already have 2 Occelaris Clowns, 1 Coral Beauty, and 1 Sixline Wrasse. Thanks in advance for any input.

2x Pseudanthias squamipinnis
http://www.acquaportal.it/ARTICOLI/Marino/Pesci/anthias/images/Pseudanthias_squamipinnis2.jpg

2x Nemateleotris magnifica
http://www.nano-reef.com/fish/images/firefish1.jpg

1x Pseudochromis Aldabraensis
http://www.tropicalfish.at/saltwater/Pseudochromis/pseudochromis_aldabraensis.jpg

1x Opistognathus randalli:
http://www.liveaquaria.com/images/categories/product/p-71185-black-cap-jawfish.jpg

1x Halichoeres chrysus:
http://www.liveaquaria.com/images/categories/product/p-76385-wrasse.jpg

1x Acanthurus japonicus:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/75G%20Continued/kush3.jpg

1x Acanthurus triostegus:
http://www.ultimatereef.net/iddb/images/fish/tangs/tang12.jpg

[fishytime]

Theres room for more in there:razz:

[karazy]

only problem i would see is that the jawfish and wrasses are jumpers.

[JDigital]

Theres room for more in there:razz:

I don't got as much live rock as your tank man.. haha

only problem i would see is that the jawfish and wrasses are jumpers.

I knew the wrasses were, didn't think the Randalli was a jumper.

[karazy]

yup. all jawfish are pretty bad when it comes to jumping. ive heard stories where they even jump through the holes in eggcrate

[fishytime]

yup. all jawfish are pretty bad when it comes to jumping. ive heard stories where they even jump through the holes in eggcrate

Yup, pretty much all gobies, blennies, jawfish and wrasses should come with parachutes

[Funky_Fish14]

Randalli's are terrible for jumpers.

Cheers,

Chris

[JDigital]

Maybe I will drop the Randalli and add a couple more squamipinnis..

[Myka]

Jawfish are sweet shizz though. I prefer the Pearly over the Randalli though. Prettier. Mine have not had any jumping issues (knock on wood). My jawfish are quite entertaining as a trio. You may have issues keeping the 2 Anthias...may be better off to keep 1 or 6+. I'm also thinking the PBT will end up being too big of a fish for a mere 12.5" depth to the tank. That sure is shallow. Based on your stocking outline, I would trade the PBT for another 4 Anthias so you have 1 male and 5 females. Would be a sharp look. I think I would avoid big fish in that tank as they would look bulky since it is so shallow.

Oh ya, the order I would do; Jawfish, Anthias, then the rest doesn't really matter imo. They will all be fairly boisterous.

[Funky_Fish14]

Like Christy said jawfish are awesome! There are many other types to look at including 'dusky', yellowhead/pearly, bluespot (these are NICE)... I just happen to hear of/see a lot of Randalli jumpers... higher frequency than other types.

[ElGuappo]

if my pearly jawfish wasn't in an rsm he would have hit the floor more than once.

[Myka]

if my pearly jawfish wasn't in an rsm he would have hit the floor more than once.

I think it helps that my Kole tang dive bombs the Jawfish. I think the Kole gets entertainment out of trying to catch the Jawfish, but they are waaaay too fast! Even at feeding time they don't risk going any further than like 6" from their burrows.

[fishytime]

I think it helps that my Kole tang dive bombs the Jawfish. I think the Kole gets entertainment out of trying to catch the Jawfish, but they are waaaay too fast! Even at feeding time they don't risk going any further than like 6" from their burrows.

It may be a "bristletooth/goby type fish thang"...we have a chevron in the display at the shop that hates the orange spot diamond goby with a passion...

[JDigital]

Well, back from Christmas holidays, and unfortunately I lost a frag and 1 of my clowns. The frag stn'd on me, and my tank sitters aren't sure how or why, but my clown got sucked into my pump (my fault as I didn't have the cover on the intake).. They figured a piece of mysis was getting sucked in and the clown followed it in to grab it... :( Other than that, everything else is looking ok after the transfer, SPS is going through some color swings, but still getting PE and no brown outs.

So pretty successful tank transfer.

Angel and Wrasse are finally out of hiding, and the cleaner shrimp is doing awesome after the transfer. Hope to get my sump baffles installed in the coming days and get this thing filled up and running 100%. :mrgreen::high5:

[Delphinus]

Oh man, that sucks about the losses, sorry to hear man. I hate going away for as much as two days for fear of the surprises waiting for my return.

Glad to hear everything else is working out though. :) Welcome back and stuff. :)

[JDigital]

Thanks Tony, trust you had a nice christmas?


I felt 80% comfortable leaving for 10 days considering I had infamous fishytime (who did a WC on CHRISTMAS DAY for me!!) and my roommate looking after the tank. So it was in pretty good hands. :mrgreen:

Does suck about the clown as I'm pretty sure they had finally figured out who was gonna be the male and female.. Plus they were, well one still is, perfect Ocellaris specimens.

[Delphinus]

Scored me some new fish. I don't have a tank journal for my 115 so I don't know where to post pictures of them. :lol: Maybe I'll start a new thread in the pictures forum (doesn't make sense to start a journal now on a 5 year old tank whose days are theoretically numbered anyhow, but who knows).

A tanksitter who does waterchanges. :lol: You dogs!! I need me some tanksitters to do that down southways. :)

[JDigital]

Picture sub-forum?!?! :der:

[Delphinus]

there's a pictures subforum? Who knew!!!

I just meant I wasn't sure if it was worth a thread on its own. Sheesh. You're mean. :p

[kien]

Scored me some new fish. I don't have a tank journal for my 115 so I don't know where to post pictures of them. :lol: Maybe I'll start a new thread in the pictures forum (doesn't make sense to start a journal now on a 5 year old tank whose days are theoretically numbered anyhow, but who knows).

A tanksitter who does waterchanges. :lol: You dogs!! I need me some tanksitters to do that down southways. :)

Post pictures of your new fish to Josh's build thread :lol:

I actually don't mind doing water changes. Call me up the next time you're on holidays :P~

Anyway.. So are you running sumpless and skimmerless right now ???

[Carmen]

Josh you have some serious bad luck with clowns!.:wink:..Happy holidays to you and glad the tank did okay otherwise while you were away.

[JDigital]

there's a pictures subforum? Who knew!!!

I just meant I wasn't sure if it was worth a thread on its own. Sheesh. You're mean. :p

:lol:



Anyway.. So are you running sumpless and skimmerless right now ???

pretty much.. i've filled the tank up more. Its now above the return bulkhead, and about a 3/4" from the lip of the overflow. (Check valve working properly BTW.. haha!!)

Couple random snaps... nothing fancy. Pretty Ghetto actually..:lol:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0146.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0141.jpg

[JDigital]

Josh you have some serious bad luck with clowns!.:wink:..Happy holidays to you and glad the tank did okay otherwise while you were away.

Yea no kidding.. I thought these would be the two I'd have forever!

[Skimmerking]

wow nice looking tank man

[JDigital]

wow nice looking tank man

Thanks Mike..:)


Trying to make a bit more progress tonight. Picked up 30lbs of Aragamax Select Sand. Adding the bag in thirds, and rinsing with 10G of RO water for each third (or until satisfied). Got another 10-12 lbs to go I think.

Anyways, typical photo. To the citizens of "Shallow Paradise" overnight weather forecast: Cloudy/Overcast Water.. :lol:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0149.jpg

[lobsterboy]

this tank is going to be sick. I am totally stoked to see it stocked.

what are you thinking of for lightings?

[Kryptic4L]

led build!

[lastlight]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0149.jpg

So that's what coral snow looks like =)

Can't wait to see this badboy with some corals and mad flow. Going to be addicting to sit in front of.

[JDigital]

this tank is going to be sick. I am totally stoked to see it stocked.

what are you thinking of for lightings?

I'm still up in the air...

ATI Sunpower 2x 6x39W
Tek Elite 2x 6x39W
2(or3)x250 MH Galaxy Ballast with Lumenmax Elite Reflectors (14K Pheonix)

led build!

Not on any of my tanks!! haha

So that's what coral snow looks like =)

Can't wait to see this badboy with some corals and mad flow. Going to be addicting to sit in front of.

It's already addicting to sit next too... especially since the water cleared up today..

[lastlight]

I'm still up in the air...

ATI Sunpower 2x 6x39W
Tek Elite 2x 6x39W
2(or3)x250 MH Galaxy Ballast with Lumenmax Elite Reflectors (14K Pheonix)


Boy did I have a light for you =) Too bad the timing was poor.

I got a sneak peek of the tank cleared up tonight. I'd definitely be parked on a couch next to that every night. Looks awesome already!

[JDigital]

I would have loved that light man... :mrgreen:

[JDigital]

Couple pics of the aquascape:

Left Half:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0181.jpg

Right Half:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0180.jpg


If anyone has about 5lbs of un-used Caribsea Aragamax Select sand they don't need, let me know.. :mrgreen:

[lobsterboy]

that island looks sweet man, keep it up!

[Carmen]

Looks really neat Josh!:biggrin:

[Delphinus]

Looks nice! Like the long exposure shots and the effect on the surface it gives. Interesting that the sand isn't moving around enough to blur on the 2.5s shots.

Would love to see a shot down the long side if you get a chance .. :) (please and thank you)

[JDigital]

that island looks sweet man, keep it up!

Thanks Jon!

Looks really neat Josh!:biggrin:

Thanks Carmen.. Rock worked out pretty good... might add a piece or two from the shop still.

Looks nice! Like the long exposure shots and the effect on the surface it gives. Interesting that the sand isn't moving around enough to blur on the 2.5s shots.

Would love to see a shot down the long side if you get a chance .. :) (please and thank you)

Sand doesn't move at all except for one 4" length along the front glass. :biggrin:

Long side pics don't come out all that great as either the lit end is completely overexposed to properly expose the unlit end or the unlit side of the tank is underexposed to properly expose the lit side of the tank. :lol: Will have to wait till I get my lighting sorted out. :wink:

[Lance]

I like it!

[sitandwatch]

Very Nice, I really like the shallow look.

[Skimmerking]

yup i really like the shallow look well done man

[Marlin65]

Nice tank love that rimless look.
I have some sand but you are a bit too far away.:wink:

[JDigital]

I like it!

Thanks Lance!

Very Nice, I really like the shallow look.

Thanks Brian,

yup i really like the shallow look well done man

Yea, thanks Mike... I'm pretty stoked on the visual outcome.. Basically what I had in mind from the beginning.

Nice tank love that rimless look.
I have some sand but you are a bit too far away.:wink:

Don't let Myka see you talkin about "rimless".. :wink: I figure I'll end up buying a bag of sand before I find half a one.. :lol:

[JDigital]

Bit of an update: A local reefer here offered up temporary use of his skimmer until I get mine ordered... Which is awesome.. Thanks again Kryptic4L!


Added 2 fish to the tank tonight... I replaced my Occelaris Clown that I lost while away for a christmas and brought home a tank raised True Perc. I thought they would be a BIT closer in size than they are though, not that it's a problem. The remaining occelaris and this new guy seem to be buddy-buddy already..

2nd addition was a McCoskers Flasher Wrasse... this one has me a bit nervous with regards to jumping... tempting fate with this purchase.. :eek:

I'll try and get pics of both as soon as I can, the McCoskers' been in hiding since adding him...

[freezetyle]

Im looking forward to some top down photos on this thing when everything starts growing. Lobsterboy may have some competition...

[lobsterboy]

Im looking forward to some top down photos on this thing when everything starts growing. Lobsterboy may have some competition...

no doubt, this tank is going to be awesome.

[Myka]

Looks great Josh! I love the look of less rock, more water. Seeing your rockscape, I think the PBrT would probably look quite nice (albeit a shoal of Anthias is AWESOME). Do you still have the same stocking plans now?

Don't let Myka see you talkin about "rimless".. :wink:

Ya, that trimless look is real nice, eh? :lol: Seriously though, it does provide a nice, clean look. I am a fan of it, and my own tank would have been trimless, but my Jawfish harem plans needed a lid! :D

[JDigital]

Looks great Josh! I love the look of less rock, more water. Seeing your rockscape, I think the PBrT would probably look quite nice (albeit a shoal of Anthias is AWESOME). Do you still have the same stocking plans now?



Ya, that trimless look is real nice, eh? :lol: Seriously though, it does provide a nice, clean look. I am a fan of it, and my own tank would have been trimless, but my Jawfish harem plans needed a lid! :D


Thanks Mindy...

PBrT is still a for sure.. Convict I REALLY REALLY want.. but I'll have to see what I add before the tangs go in.. I am on the look out for a Pair of Zebra Angelfish, they are quite sharp. Also a Pacific Redstripe Hogfish (currently on hold at RC). Sunburst Anthias perhaps instead of my previous choice. So not doing the BEST job at sticking to my plans, but that's usually how it happens! :lol:

Love the tank... the shallow is a must from now on.. haha.. wish it was 30" wide instead of 24" though......... :cry: But that's for another time.. :lol:

[Skimmerking]

what is the thickness of the glass for that tank. might think of doing a long shallow one at the new house/ like 12 ft long :biggrin:

[JDigital]

Im looking forward to some top down photos on this thing when everything starts growing. Lobsterboy may have some competition...

Top Down won't look all that hot till I get all my lighting, or even just a 2nd MH up and going. So I will be waiting before taking any... I'll do is as a before and after.. :mrgreen:

no doubt, this tank is going to be awesome.

I got alot of catching up to do I think... :lol:

what is the thickness of the glass for that tank. might think of doing a long shallow one at the new house/ like 12 ft long :biggrin:


This tank was done with 1/2" glass... If it was much taller I would have gone 5/8s to 3/4"..

[Myka]

Thanks Mindy...

PBrT is still a for sure.. Convict I REALLY REALLY want.. but I'll have to see what I add before the tangs go in.. I am on the look out for a Pair of Zebra Angelfish, they are quite sharp. Also a Pacific Redstripe Hogfish (currently on hold at RC). Sunburst Anthias perhaps instead of my previous choice. So not doing the BEST job at sticking to my plans, but that's usually how it happens!

Ya these things happen. :lol:

[lobsterboy]

any pictures or lighting choice yet ?

[JDigital]

Yea, I'm pretty sure I will be going 3x250W Lumenmax Elites, Galaxy Ballasts, and Phoenix 14K bulbs.

I'll see if I can get some pics this weekend. I have only had a 2 glimpses of my McCoskers Wrasse since adding him.... Once last night when he shot straight vertical out of the water about 2ft into the air infront of my face :eek: That was a serious WTF moment, and I realized I just bought a fish and rolled the dice!! 2nd time was tonight when I my 6line harassing him, but now he is back hiding..

I will get some pics of the corals, they are doing awesome after the transfer, most barely lost any color... :biggrin:

[Carmen]

Shoulda got rid of the sixline when ya had the chance!:lol:
Rolled the dice for sure. Maybe you need to set a sixline trap!:biggrin:

[JDigital]

Took a couple pics today... Highlight a few of my encrusting montis and such..

"Pokerstar Monti"
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0184.jpg

"Superman Monti"
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0186.jpg

Green Slimer and Blue Tip A. Tenuis (I think):
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0189.jpg

1ft Section of the tank:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0191.jpg

[JDigital]

Not really an update, just posting so I have a date record of when these frags went into my tank for reference. :mrgreen:

Thanks Again Greg (Snappy).. That Supergrape looks great, had PE 2 mins after adding it.. :)

Montipora Confusa:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0194.jpg

Acropora Granulosa:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0196.jpg

Yellow Purple Polyp Acropora Austrea:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0198.jpg

Supergrape Millepora:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0199.jpg

Ultimate Prostrata:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0200.jpg

Purple Polyp Monti:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0197.jpg

[lastlight]

Josh did you mount that frag on its side? Curious as to whether you've done this before. From what I've read the results are much more natural.

Killer frags!

[JDigital]

Well Greg mounted all those... haha but I have done it both ways. I don't find either way works better.. certainly easier to mount them flat, so they don't tip over while trying to balance them. :lol:

[fishytime]

when you mount he frag sideways its will produce more branches than if you mount it upright

[burtonboy]

Tank looking sweet! Where did u get the Pokerstar Monti and superman monti from? ive been wanting these for along time.

[fishytime]

Tank looking sweet! Where did u get the Pokerstar Monti and superman monti from? ive been wanting these for along time.

I know where he got the PS monti from:biggrin:

[JDigital]

Tank looking sweet! Where did u get the Pokerstar Monti and superman monti from? ive been wanting these for along time.

Thanks!

I got the Pokerstar from fishytime and I think I got the Superman from Red Coral.. was just a lucky find one day.. :mrgreen:

[yycguy]

Josh, tank and pictures are fantastic, I really like the Pokerstar Monti and Superman Monti! hey i see a bit of hair algae do you want to borrow my sea hare??? lol...............

[freezetyle]

Hey Josh. Get the lights in yet?

[JDigital]

Josh, tank and pictures are fantastic, I really like the Pokerstar Monti and Superman Monti! hey i see a bit of hair algae do you want to borrow my sea hare??? lol...............

Thanks Joel... I think your sea hare would only be usable for a few hours.. that's a very small patch of GHA, easily finger prune-able.:)

Hey Josh. Get the lights in yet?

Not yet Jon... trying to get through some personal stuff.
I'd love even just 1 out of 3 lights so I can mount a bunch of frags I got sittin on the rack.

[JDigital]

Couple new livestock pics... wish they came out a bit better but I shot these at the end of my tank that still doesn't have any light over it.

Couple pics of my new pair of clowns, well just the replacement of one, but they paired as soon as I added the new guy. Took the female a while, but she just finally switched her original night-time sleeping spot, and moved to the COMPLETE opposite corner where the male stays (day and night).

Occelaris Female:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0204.jpg

True Percula Male:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0206.jpg

Cleaner Shrimp that does NOT clean:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0203.jpg

[JDigital]

Might as well throw a few coral pics up..

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0208.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0220.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0212.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0209.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0210.jpg

[Carmen]

Very NICE Josh! Love the first and last pic! Always loved that Favia and those last Zoos are so bright!

[lobsterboy]

any FTS yet ?

[JDigital]

Very NICE Josh! Love the first and last pic! Always loved that Favia and those last Zoos are so bright!

Thanks Carmen.

any FTS yet ?

Can't get a really good one yet... as only 1/3 of the tank has lighting right now... So it's either overexposed on 1 half, or underexposed on the other.

[lobsterboy]

i still think it would look sweet. haha. great tank and great photos

[kien]

Take three photos. Move the light each time, then stitch all 3 photos together. Come on man, you have a tripod, get creative! :lol:

[JDigital]

This is about the best I can get ya... to show what is looks like aquascape-wise.. but can't see the coral really.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0227.jpg

[JDigital]

Take three photos. Move the light each time, then stitch all 3 photos together. Come on man, you have a tripod, get creative! :lol:

My light isn't movable... :lol:

[fishytime]

sure looks different with the sand in there and you tweaked the pile....looks good man.....and of course , the pics:thumb:

[kien]

My light isn't movable... :lol:

that's okay, the pic you did will do! Nice! It has officially inspired me to finish my tide pool.. hopefully this weekend!

[Ross]

"get creative"...

Shoot raw, and pull a single image HDR out of it... :silly:
ok, i'll leave now...

[freezetyle]

Love the Depth in the zoa pictures. Tank is going to look killer when the "sun" finally hits it.

[Delphinus]

Looks great man. Now all you need is a 4" wave splooshing back and forth. Ok on second thought maybe what you have is pretty good already. :)

[JDigital]

sure looks different with the sand in there and you tweaked the pile....looks good man.....and of course , the pics:thumb:

Thanks man... which pile are you referring to?

that's okay, the pic you did will do! Nice! It has officially inspired me to finish my tide pool.. hopefully this weekend!

Thanks Kien. Nice!, you got my PM eh?

Shoot raw, and pull a single image HDR out of it... :silly:
ok, i'll leave now...

:lol: ... I shoot RAW anyways... but not a fan of HDR photography.

Love the Depth in the zoa pictures. Tank is going to look killer when the "sun" finally hits it.

Unfortunately I need to order my BM skimmer as well to I can return a loaner skimmer back to Kryptic4L... So not sure which is going to come first. :redface:

Looks great man. Now all you need is a 4" wave splooshing back and forth. Ok on second thought maybe what you have is pretty good already. :)

4" would make it seem like I am really at the beach/ocean... wet feet everytime I walk by the tank! :lol: Thanks Tony.

[Carmen]

It looks great Josh! Can't wait to see it all lit up and covered in coral! I love the length! The shallow depth really makes for a unique look. I LOVE it!:wink::mrgreen:

[lobsterboy]

looks great josh, the 4" wave would be dope.

[bauder1986]

one word and onlt one word applies here....Cooool :razz:

[JDigital]

It looks great Josh! Can't wait to see it all lit up and covered in coral! I love the length! The shallow depth really makes for a unique look. I LOVE it!:wink::mrgreen:

I can't wait to have it completely lit up either... :razz: It's driving me nuts.

looks great josh, the 4" wave would be dope.

I think the wave would look better if it was an all softie tank.. :wink:

one word and only one word applies here....Cooool :razz:

haha! Thanks. :biggrin:


I ended up ****ing off a few corals today. I decided to ditch the 1 piece of LR that had GHA growing on it, but in that decision I had to break off my Pokerstar Monti (actually got most of it off in one piece. :D ), Green Millepora, and 2 deep waters that I'm unsure of the species. Tossed that rock in a rubbermaid to cook and replaced it with a piece from the right of the tank.. Aquascape hasn't changed too much, however it did open up a bit more sand bed...

[JDigital]

Couple new kids in town today... Thanks to Kevin (Red Coral) for these 2 beauties. Starting to fall farther and farther away from my original stocking list though. Almost picked up a pair of Purple Firefish as well, but just wasn't in the cards (bank cards that is :lol: ).

Striped Bristletooth Tang.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0256.jpg

and

Blue Sided Fairy Wrasse.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0258.jpg


Currently Stocked List:
1 Female Occelaris Clown
1 Male True Percula Clown
1 Coral Beauty Angel
1 6 Line Wrasse(hole)
1 Blue Sided Fairy Wrasse
1 McCoskers Flasher Wrasse (MIA currently)
1 Striped (or Blue Lipped) Bristletooth Tang

[freezetyle]

Great looking fish. Its funny how stocking plans change. although i think you should keep this one in there


1x Pseudochromis Aldabraensis
http://www.tropicalfish.at/saltwater/Pseudochromis/pseudochromis_aldabraensis.jpg

[JDigital]

Great looking fish. Its funny how stocking plans change. although i think you should keep this one in there

I will definitely pick up one of those guys if Red Coral bring them in again in the future.

[Leah]

Wow! Love the Bristle tooth, great shot of him/her. :mrgreen:

[JDigital]

Wow! Love the Bristle tooth, great shot of him/her. :mrgreen:

Thanks Leah.. He figured who I am today (day 3 of feeding).. so he wasn't quite as skittish when I moved around the room as he was the past 2 days. Busy little worker fish!

[JDigital]

Small temporary upgrade until I can get around to buying my lights... I got a temporary Hamilton 250W mh (on loan:mrgreen: Thanks again Kev) tonight.. It is only a 10K bulb, but at least I can get some frags mounted and provide them with some better lighting.. I was forgetting what it was like to have a fully lit tank.. :lol: The end is actually more lit up than it appears in the pic.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0274.jpg

[freezetyle]

When its fully set up this tank is going to look awesome. Looks good right now and its only at 2/3 strength.

[JDigital]

When its fully set up this tank is going to look awesome. Looks good right now and its only at 2/3 strength.

Thanks Jon... 2/3 strength with mismatched lighting spectrums!.. :lol:

[JDigital]

Well with the loaner light hung and in place.. I was able to mount 7 frags that been sitting in my frag rack poorly lit and not getting the flow they needed.

Welcome to Stick-ville... 5/7 are just that! :lol:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0277.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0278.jpg

Montipora Confusa:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0279.jpg

Acropora Granulosa:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0282.jpg

All 7 frags:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0283.jpg

[JDigital]

Finally starting to gain some trust from the 2 newbies in the tank, which helps get some better pics than I posted previously.

Missed the focus on this guy, but couldn't pass up sharing the pic..
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0285.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0301.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0313.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0318.jpg

And one more coral pic that I forgot earlier:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0316.jpg

[Delphinus]

Man I love them fairy wrasses. I had a pair of bluesides in a small tank and lost them to jumping the same night. (Was away, tanksitter forgot to close the hatch in the canopy that night .. what are the odds! Boo urns. :( )

But, on a happier note, yours has really exquisite purple colouration I don't think I've seen in Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura before. Very cool!

[Mr.nintendo]

Lovin this tank

[Doug]

I,m in awe of the pics. Very nice, as always.

[DCDN]

Looks absolutely gorgeous, I'm in awe of what you've managed to do

[JDigital]

Man I love them fairy wrasses. I had a pair of bluesides in a small tank and lost them to jumping the same night. (Was away, tanksitter forgot to close the hatch in the canopy that night .. what are the odds! Boo urns. :( )

But, on a happier note, yours has really exquisite purple colouration I don't think I've seen in Cirrhilabrus cyanopleura before. Very cool!

Thank Tony.. He is quite the character.. very curious! I can forsee a couple more wrasses in this tank I think.

Lovin this tank

I,m in awe of the pics. Very nice, as always.

Looks absolutely gorgeous, I'm in awe of what you've managed to do

Thanks guys!


I've been debating about adding a background to the tank. Either Blue or Black, but not sure yet. Any input?

[ALBERTA REEF]

NICE! More pic's! :razz:

[JDigital]

NICE! More pic's! :razz:


I got a bit trigger happy tonight with the camera :redface: Fish pics tonight folks! At least until my coral grows in a bit more. :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0357.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0352.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0393.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0334.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0362.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0418.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0406.jpg

And finally one "FTS" shot down the length of the tank! Bloody Vortech sure can pull an undertow! Tank has become half SSB and half BB..:lol:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0460.jpg

[ALBERTA REEF]

Sweet! :biggrin: Wheres the powder brown tang?

[JDigital]

I made the executive decision today to not have one in this tank. Convicts are much more docile/peaceful and can get along in pairs/groups. These 2 looked to good to pass up and I wanted something you don't see a lot in other tanks. I have done a fair amount of research on them in the past couple months, and that's the only reason why I pulled the trigger today.

They acclimated amazingly well and within about 10mins were grazing the microalgae in the tank and barely flinched when I would approach the tank. They have been grazing ever since. Definitely one heck of a "worker" fish. :)

My striped bristletooth showed no aggression to either of them at all, so things should stay fairly peaceful.

[ALBERTA REEF]

I made the executive decision today to not have one in this tank. Convicts are much more docile/peaceful and can get along in pairs/groups. These 2 looked to good to pass up and I wanted something you don't see a lot in other tanks. I have done a fair amount of research on them in the past couple months, and that's the only reason why I pulled the trigger today.

They acclimated amazingly well and within about 10mins were grazing the microalgae in the tank and barely flinched when I would approach the tank. They have been grazing ever since. Definitely one heck of a "worker" fish. :)

My striped bristletooth showed no aggression to either of them at all, so things should stay fairly peaceful.

The Convicts are different and a nice looking fish. Pairs or groups of tangs are always nice to look at.

[freezetyle]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0393.jpg


Kind of looks like you photoshopped that mouth on him so it looks like he is smiling... Might be the beer goggles

[Delphinus]

They look great Josh!!

[JDigital]

The Convicts are different and a nice looking fish. Pairs or groups of tangs are always nice to look at.

Yea, I only know one other person in Calgary with a Convict, and I just met him today! :lol:

Kind of looks like you photoshopped that mouth on him so it looks like he is smiling... Might be the beer goggles

nah man, he's just happy. :mrgreen:

They look great Josh!!

Thanks Tony.. I am extremely happy with them.

Couple more pics from last night..

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0350.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0398.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0355.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0373.jpg

[Carmen]

They all look great Josh! Beautiful! You take great fish pics! Well and coral pics...just an artist at Photography!:mrgreen:

[lobsterboy]

tank is looking great.

[JDigital]

They all look great Josh! Beautiful! You take great fish pics! Well and coral pics...just an artist at Photography!:mrgreen:

tank is looking great.

Thanks you guys! :redface:

[JDigital]

Couple Top Down pics..

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0484-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0481.jpg

[Kryptic4L]

tell your second shooter to gtfo of the way next time :P just joking adds a bit more interest to the photo. looks good

[JDigital]

Just when you think you got a tank on the go, life likes to sneak up behind ya and kick your a$$.

Found out today that the landlord is planning to sell the house I currently rent. Thankfully not for 2-3months, and I do have a place to move into after, unfortunately this tank will not be allowed in the other place. So looks like I will be posting up a For Sale thread in the next little while. :sad:

[Zoaelite]

Just when you think you got a tank on the go, life likes to sneak up behind ya and kick your a$$.

Found out today that the landlord is planning to sell the house I currently rent. Thankfully not for 2-3months, and I do have a place to move into after, unfortunately this tank will not be allowed in the other place. So looks like I will be posting up a For Sale thread in the next little while. :sad:

I have been sitting in the background watching this thread and all I can say is WOW that sucks, hope the move goes smooth for you. Someone is going to get one hell of a nice system!

[Mr.nintendo]

sucks it's gonna go :(

if only you were in vancouver...

[superduperwesman]

So how much you want for it?

[Carmen]

WHAT? OMG Josh! That sucks! Sooooo sorry to hear!!!:sad:

[JDigital]

WHAT? OMG Josh! That sucks! Sooooo sorry to hear!!!:sad:


Same deal with Laurier. We're both pretty upset, to say the least. :neutral:

The other place I have an opportunity to move into is a friends Townhouse but he doesn't want anything this size in his first home (still being built actually), just in case some horrible leak happened, and I respect that, as a 100G break/leak could ruin his place, and 2 neighbors possibly.

Might be allowed a smaller tank, so I may re-incarnate the 30G tank.. but still need to discuss that with him in detail.

[kien]

Ah man, sorry to hear. That sucks. It was just getting good too.

[ALBERTA REEF]

Sorry!

[Leah]

Wow..... so sorry you have to sell your tank, glad you have a place to go though. :biggrin:

[lorenz0]

Yep sucks cause josh just got his tank up and running and mine broke the 1 year marker and everything just started to grow in nicely. was a huge shock to the both of us today

[DCDN]

That really sucks, sorry to hear that. Was really looking forward to watching this tank grow

[christyf5]

Aww, sorry to hear that Josh. I hope you can run the 30g at least (or maybe something like a 50?)

[fishytime]

Dude!:cry:

[blueyota]

Aww man thats BS :sad: good luck with the new place

[JDigital]

Wow..... so sorry you have to sell your tank, glad you have a place to go though. :biggrin:

Thanks Leah... A roof over my head is much more important to me than my tank.. My buddy said he will give the big tank some thought, but I doubt he will change his mind.

That really sucks, sorry to hear that. Was really looking forward to watching this tank grow

Me too! :lol:

Aww, sorry to hear that Josh. I hope you can run the 30g at least (or maybe something like a 50?)

Yea, I found out last night that the 30G wouldn't be a problem in the new place, so I may try and twist his arm to allow something 15-20G bigger.. but time will tell.

Dude!:cry:

Us reefers be havin' a tough 2010 eh.. :neutral:

Aww man thats BS :sad: good luck with the new place

Thanks Shawn!

[Carmen]

How soon do you have to move?:neutral:

Any luck with the garlic btw?

[JDigital]

How soon do you have to move?:neutral:

Any luck with the garlic btw?

Been told apr/may/june... or around that time.. gonna leave the tank running for a bit, see how big of a tank my buddy will allow (30G been approved, but I've got ideas for a 30x28x16or17") Really not THAT much smaller gallon-wise, but visually to a non-reefer it may look a lot smaller and be allowed. :lol:


No luck with the garlic yet... how'd that bulb look?

[Carmen]

Been told apr/may/june... or around that time.. gonna leave the tank running for a bit, see how big of a tank my buddy will allow (30G been approved, but I've got ideas for a 30x28x16or17") Really not THAT much smaller gallon-wise, but visually to a non-reefer it may look a lot smaller and be allowed. :lol:


No luck with the garlic yet... how'd that bulb look?

Ya it's all about perception, Right!:wink:

Haven't had a chance to try it yet, been a little side-tracked. Thanks though...perhaps get a chance to try it tonight.

[lastlight]

Best of luck Josh.

First with Doug and Mike we've seen some false retirements so I hope you're the latest we can add to that list.

[JDigital]

Best of luck Josh.

First with Doug and Mike we've seen some false retirements so I hope you're the latest we can add to that list.

Not so much a retirement... At the very least a downsize.. just hopefully something bigger than my 24x24x12 tank.. that's smaller than I would really like to go.

[Delphinus]

Find a different place to live. Problem solved.

:neutral: Just kidding .. well, sorta. I dunno. Maybe. Good luck to both you and Laurier..

[JDigital]

Find a different place to live. Problem solved.

:neutral: Just kidding .. well, sorta. I dunno. Maybe. Good luck to both you and Laurier..

I can't really pass up the very affordable rent at this other place. :wink: Plus it's BRAND new, so will be an awesome place to live even if I have to downgrade for awhile.

I've considered just storing this tank until I can set it back up too.. I'd like to buy a place in the next 2-3years, so see how things go.

[superduperwesman]

Just in time for the new nano contest :) So you gonna join?

[shrimpchips]

Can this tank just go in the basement or somewhere close to a floor drain?

[JDigital]

Can this tank just go in the basement or somewhere close to a floor drain?

No real "basement" in this new place.. "Main floor" is the entrance, laundry, garage... 2nd Floor is the main floor, Kitchen, living, dining... 3rd floor is Bedrooms/bath. All are developed..

[ALBERTA REEF]

No real "basement" in this new place.. "Main floor" is the entrance, laundry, garage... 2nd Floor is the main floor, Kitchen, living, dining... 3rd floor is Bedrooms/bath. All are developed..

I know set it up over the bath tub.:lol:

[JDigital]

Couple pics from tonight... :biggrin:

Remember this frag Doug?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/75G%20Continued/Bluetipacro.jpg

It's now this...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0511.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0499.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0503.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0518.jpg

[lastlight]

Hot damn that frag took off!

[JDigital]

Hot damn that frag took off!

That's about 10months of growth.. Probably would be bigger if I hadn't had to move it all the time. :lol:

[imisky]

im liking the dimensions of the new tank its going to look very interesting once the corals grow into it.

[JDigital]

Thanks Eugene...


I've been wanting to get a shot after lights out of my Favia, but I end up getting too lazy or some other pitiful excuse.:mrgreen:. Finally got off my arse tonight, and captured this sweet image. I'd certainly have more LPS if I could keep it happy enough to look like this during Lights on! :lol:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v314/JDigital/105G%20Shallow/IMG_0520.jpg

[burtonboy]

sweet pic!:thumb:

[Leah]

Very nice, Josh...wish I could even keep one alive...:sad:

[christyf5]

Great pic! :biggrin:

[fishytime]

That one grows "great" for me too Josh.....perhaps the Latin name is a hint? prolifera.......ans sweet fav pic mang!

[JDigital]

Maybe tonight is a good time to start shutting down......

Got home this evening, to find that I have lost one of my Convict Tangs.:cry: The juvenile. He had been AWESOME up until last night, when I noticed that he was just "chillin" which is odd, as he has been grazing the algae in the tank since day one ferociously and there is still PLENTY to be eating, haven't cleaned my back glass for like 5-6weeks.. He just kinda quit doing his thing, looked weak even though my larger Convict is still active and eating (Finally got him on Nori this week!!).

I am guessing an internal parasite or such, but really have no idea. :sad:

[lastlight]

Bummer man. Sorry to hear that.

[freezetyle]

sorry to hear about the shut down. I can imagine how excited you were to see this in full force. hopefully you figure something out. i didn't remember reading it in the thread, are you going to keep the majority of your supplies for later on?

[JDigital]

Thanks,

Yea I will be keeping the MP20, Tunze ATO, maybe a K3, and thinking about re-using the sump tank.

Will be upgrading the return pump, Ehiem probably. Still going with a BM180CS skimmer, and thinking about switching to T5 and picking up a 6x24W Sunpower. Thought about the 36" but would look a bit odd overhanging the tank I think, and the rock work in the tank will only cover a 24"x14" foot print.

I got the final go ahead from my buddy for a 33x24x17 tank size (really 32x23x15.5" water volume). It's gotta be a very "safe" build too. Which is fine, forces me to make this setup look clean and finished. Rather than an unfinished 2x4 stand. :lol:

When the time comes I will get a thread started. :)

[karazy]

thats too bad to hear josh. from my expierience convict tangs are much more prone to virus's and "mysterious deaths" than other tangs.