WarDog's Tank Thread : Episodic Trial And Error

[WarDog]

I have an Elos potassium test kit and I'll be at Rich's tonight after 4:30

Edit: Hmm, just pulled it out. Best before date is 2 years ago :surprise:

Lol, thanks Greg! I wonder if Rich has a POT kit? We could test it against his. Or is expired, expired?

[Bblinks]

Lol, thanks Greg! I wonder if Rich has a POT kit? We could test it against his. Or is expired, expired?

I might have one, let me dust that one off too.

[gregzz4]

Maybe he does ya. I'd love to test against one.

As far as expired goes - I just opened a jar of Great Value mayo we found in the back of the cupboard. BB Apr 2014. Ate a sandwich for lunch yesterday and I'm still here :wink:

[WarDog]

Hmmmm... wondering if expired mayo is a good way to add bacteria to a tank?

[rishu_pepper]

Maybe he does ya. I'd love to test against one.

As far as expired goes - I just opened a jar of Great Value mayo we found in the back of the cupboard. BB Apr 2014. Ate a sandwich for lunch yesterday and I'm still here :wink:

I think you need to check the salinity of the mayo first, Greg. Just to be safe, you know? :wink:

[WarDog]

Well, tank is 6 months old.

Summer heat is killing me, but the tank has levelled out at 80*C. Decent.

Tank has been fish free for almost a month, NO3 dropped to zero, what a surprise. The Doc's Eco Matter seems to have worked wonders, pods and bugs everywhere, also finally getting some coralline here and there.

Started to get some decent encrusting happening, so I figured its time to start mounting.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/371/18660875474_3eca0c31f5_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/uqZS9j)

Followed the Bblinks method of mounting and just started plopping plugs everywhere, lol. Still a few left to do, ran out of putty.

Also need to create a Monti island on the bottom right.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/449/18660875634_05396fcdea_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/uqZSc5)

Had a slight problem with the ro/di. After filling the ato, the unit shut itself off and water proceeded to spill out all over the kitchen floor. Traced the water back to the high pressure switch.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/284/19277359972_f17f93f039_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/vntvvo)

Got in touch with Jeff at J&L and he spoke to the local Vertex rep. She suspects too much pressure after the booster pump. House pressure is about 40 psi and the gauge after the booster pump reads around 105 psi. Part will take a few days to come in and then I will swap it out, measuring pressure after, and make adjustments if need be.

J&L are amazing!

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/385/19095773368_ccf339b701_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/v6qQ8S)

Drip, drip, drip. Happy reefing!

[Ram3500]

Looking good Warren that should fill in nicely. What are you dossing to keep those corals fed while your tank is fishless ??

[WarDog]

Thanks Ian. Just dosing BRS alk, mag and Ca. Still just using Zeo start, Bak, sponge power and 2 drops of ZeoFood weekly. Haven't got around to getting any amino acids or the such yet. Which is too bad, as the Zeo sale ends tomorrow. The wife would kill me if I dropped a few hundred on supliments right now, lol.

[WarDog]

Oh, and I still feed Tims Pacifica Plankton twice a week.

[WarDog]

Time for a small update.

After mounting all the frags, the only thing left on the frag rack were the Rastas, which were quickly getting out of hand...

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/523/20241561112_7ac1d44abe_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/wQFhUY)

... they were even growing on the stem of the plug.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/285/20061850738_2f1bf2dea9_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/wyNehf)

Then, one evening, the RBTA was looking a bit weird. After a couple of hours, it split...

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/282/20241559372_5f3046112b_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/wQFhoY)

... and decided to go for a little walk. No harm done, whew!

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/542/20241560242_224a6c413c_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/wQFhDY)

Most folks seem to hate coralline, but I am welcoming it. Now it just needs to start growing more on the rocks.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5766/20713814692_c0c239c189_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/xypHs5)

Went to Cancun for a week and came home to a messy tank.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5741/20695389651_bde636c8b7_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/xwMhjX)

PO4 dropped from .03 to .006. Manually removed as much algae as I could, and added a sock to the sump.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5718/20501887039_02a8c4519b_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/xeFwK2)

Spent the last 2 days cleaning and doing a w/c. More work planned for the next couple days as well.

Not quite sure how to safely remove the algae from the snails.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/590/20535799380_3f81d44373_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/xhFkGy)

Got these weird bubbly things everywhere (dead centre of pic). At first I thought it was bubble algae, but they are more tear drop shaped, and not dark green like bubble algae. Perhaps Trochus snail eggs?

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/683/20067671173_9f6b540d04_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/wzj4uz)

Picked up an Emerald, but he's not interested in them. #freeloader. I actually think the SOB is flipping me the bird in this pic.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5739/20697555476_91757348b4_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/xwYo9L)

8 months running my first salt tank and I think I'm doing ok. Already wanting to upgrade (Rich... not one word from you!)!

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/681/20662365006_6402739bc7_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/xtS2fw)

Thanks for looking.

[Howie]

Lol for my snails I picked them out and placed them in a plastic container with tank water in it. Then I floated the container in my tank with multiple snails in it. Lol they cleaned each other off :)

[WarDog]

Lol for my snails I picked them out and placed them in a plastic container with tank water in it. Then I floated the container in my tank with multiple snails in it. Lol they cleaned each other off :)

Lol, good idea! I see them hitchhiking all the time, but not for very long.

[Howie]

And forgot to mention the tank is looking great!!

[Bblinks]

Time to upgrade! :multi::multi::multi::multi::multi::multi::multi:: multi::multi::multi::multi:

[WarDog]

Time to upgrade! :multi::multi::multi::multi::multi::multi::multi:

Every day I think about an upgrade!

Lots of additions to report. My fallow period ended the first week of August and I had a pair of clowns in the 20 for a few weeks of observation. Once I was happy that they were relatively healthy, I moved them over.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5784/21347240906_8612a867dd_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ywobZG)

Then Rich and I headed out to Ryanericksons for one of our little coral adventures and shopping spree's.

Tri-coloured Nana

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/705/21019764570_83ca9bc4eb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/y2rMFY)

Blue/green Cyphastria

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5647/21197520222_89042a08e8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/yi9QfA)

Sunset Monti

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5727/21019961918_4121860ffc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/y2sNmw)

In the above pic you can see the RR Wolverine at the top. Encrustation is good, however I have been having a hard time getting all the corals to colour up.
Knowing that I needed to start dosing Amino's, I thought I'd start with the cheapest products, so I picked up some RedSea Energy and dosed for a couple weeks.
Didn't really notice any change. In the end, once the bottles ran out, I bought some Zeo AA.
Under the AA you can see my fancy dosing schedule. Still a huge learning curve for me. Considering adding some T5's.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5657/21181621916_f8e6646f40_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ygKmeS) https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5645/21772563289_164d8667b0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/zaY5we)

Picked up a wicked Rainbow Monti from CanuckGod604.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5766/21336726804_2de2774d25_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/yvsiw5) https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5740/21338328903_980aac61ff_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/yvAvLt)

Once again, cell photos do no justice. I'll finish off with a side FTS.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/725/21336726704_35bfbbec87_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/yvsium)

Thanks for looking.

[Slyguy00]

Looks awesome man.

[Myka]

Tank's looking good Warren! That suspected Bubble Algae is Bubble Algae - it comes in several different varieties. Not all Emeralds will eat it ime. If you want small fish, make sure you buy female Emeralds. Just the males get the big pincers, and they will catch small fish.

[Bugger]

Get a spray bottle and some hydrogen perxoide from the dollar store and spray down the snail wait five minutes and put it back in the tank. that Amino acid should not be used if you have GHA it will just unlease a beast of algae on the tank.

[maron6977]

Looks good Warren .
Looks like my tank - got a bunch of small sticks & waiting for stuff to grow & become colonies

[WarDog]

Looks awesome man.

Thanks, getting there.

Tank's looking good Warren! That suspected Bubble Algae is Bubble Algae - it comes in several different varieties. Not all Emeralds will eat it ime. If you want small fish, make sure you buy female Emeralds. Just the males get the big pincers, and they will catch small fish.

Mindy, good to know. I'm thinking of picking up a couple more Emeralds as the bubble algae is starting to get out of hand and the one dude isn't making a dent. I'll make sure to flip the crabs and check their sex, as I am only interested in adding small fish at this point and maybe a Copperband, as the centrepiece.

Get a spray bottle and some hydrogen perxoide from the dollar store and spray down the snail wait five minutes and put it back in the tank. that Amino acid should not be used if you have GHA it will just unlease a beast of algae on the tank.

Surprisingly the GHA hasn't returned in a few weeks. The Trocus snails are breeding rapidly and keeping it in check. Either way, good info, thanks!

[WarDog]

Looks good Warren .
Looks like my tank - got a bunch of small sticks & waiting for stuff to grow & become colonies

Thanks man, I was thinking the same about your tank as well. Hate waiting.

[WarDog]

Another few additions from Ryanerickson, running out of room fast. Only planning to add a few more 'must have' specimens.

Jedi Mind Trick.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/608/22072289866_ce48166243_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/zCsfMQ)

Orange Yuma.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/570/22073738522_a9d8689845_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/zCzFqE)

Random Acro I'm naming Uranium 231, lol. Much brighter than the picture shows.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5619/21463387524_ea85a76357_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/yGDtkA)

Bubble algae is getting out of hand, and my Emerald seems to be MIA. Time to pick up a few more me thinks.
Parameters are good, still hoping for things to colour up. Dropped the intensity of the Kessils a bit, as I suspect I may be bleaching stuff.
Considering adding T5 strips, and using the Kessils as LED supplements. All the boys running hybrids seem to be very happy. I want to be happy too!
Also moved some rock around on the bottom right.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/630/21911552219_3d27083669_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/zofr66)

[Skimmer Juice]

electric blue hermits are pretty underrated for bubble algae . Tanks looking nice

[Ryanerickson]

I like the name warren uranium 231 tank looks great

[kien]

I'm caught up! Look good Dawg! The Jedi Mind Trick is like the only monti that I have never owned among all the montis that are available. Still on my coral bucket list!

[Myka]

Uranium 231 looks sweet!

[Bblinks]

You are running out of room buddy, need to upgrade asap. I will bring the 120 over this weekend.

[WarDog]

You are running out of room buddy, need to upgrade asap. I will bring the 120 over this weekend.

Oh man.

[Wretch]

Tanks looking great but aren't there supposed to be fish in a fish tank? Where are those clowns at? What else are you putting in there? Need more pics.

[WarDog]

Tanks looking great but aren't there supposed to be fish in a fish tank? Where are those clowns at? What else are you putting in there? Need more pics.

Ok, ok. More fish pics. Added this guy recently, he was an impulse purchase. He's about 2 inches and super friendly with a curious personality. My wife loves him.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/782/22107684648_90d6cec0f7_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/zFzEqG)

Bubble algae is rampant.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/642/22612957435_be6c406803_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Asejqt)

The Clowns are doing well and have bulked up a bit. Neither of them have even bothered with the BTA's, which is a little disappointing.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/682/21992279153_30d39d1500_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/zvoboM)

I'm taking it VERY slowly adding fish this time, learnt my lesson with the Ick outbreak, and the spike in NO3. Planning on a couple Ruby Red Dragonets next.
I've decided that a Copperband is just too large for the tank, and an advanced fish for my current husbandry skills. Also looking at some Firefish, and possibly a Cleaner Wrasse.
I'm also thinking of going the route of a school of Dottybacks or Basslets.

Picked up 3 more Emeralds to help with the Bubble algae issue, but they have barely made a dent. The Orange Yuma at the bottom of the pic below has shriveled up and is almost dead.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5806/21990187144_cc22f2fb19_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/zvcsvE)

[rishu_pepper]

Nice longnose, hawkfishes are very underrated.

Sucks to hear that the clowns don't get hosted, but you never know. Maybe one day they will start to notice and then they'll never leave it! :lol:

I think you made a smart decision not to acquire a copperband for the tank, mine roams around tons to hunt. A beautiful and personable fish; it used to hide all the time but now it follows me everywhere to beg for food! My secret: live blackworms. No fish has resisted it since I got them a few weeks ago, and they all seem more lively and less shy now. If you want to try, I can give you a spoonful and see if your fish likes it.

[Ginu]

Oh boy, not the bubble algae... hate that stuff and tore my last tank up due to bubble algae just to get it in the new one as well...

Heard foxfaces are good at removing that stuff...

[WarDog]

Nice longnose, hawkfishes are very underrated.

Sucks to hear that the clowns don't get hosted, but you never know. Maybe one day they will start to notice and then they'll never leave it! :lol:

I think you made a smart decision not to acquire a copperband for the tank, mine roams around tons to hunt. A beautiful and personable fish; it used to hide all the time but now it follows me everywhere to beg for food! My secret: live blackworms. No fish has resisted it since I got them a few weeks ago, and they all seem more lively and less shy now. If you want to try, I can give you a spoonful and see if your fish likes it.

Thanks Brian, I've been meaning to visit for weeks now. Still want one of your mutant hammers. Let me see what the wife has for plans tonight, I may just text you later.

Oh boy, not the bubble algae... hate that stuff and tore my last tank up due to bubble algae just to get it in the new one as well...

Heard foxfaces are good at removing that stuff...

I heard that too, unfortunately they are too large for my tank. I've also heard Electric Blue Hermits can help, waiting for J&L to get some in. I'll probably get a couple dozen, or several more Emeralds. :noidea:

[Aquattro]

I heard that too, unfortunately they are too large for my tank.
Just as well, mine doesn't touch it. Or much of any algae for that matter..

[Wretch]

What about electric orange hermits? J&L had some of those today.

[duncangweller]

I've never had anything that gets rid of bubble algae other than my hand with a pair of tweezers. The fox face used to eat it if I lost grip and it went into the water column, otherwise it would swim right past it.

Bubble algae is the reason I acid bathed my rock.

[Aquattro]

I've been just scraping it off the rock and letting it go into the filter sock. The MI will eat it if it's floating, but nothing eats it attached. Even emeralds. So far I'm making good headway like this, as long as you keep nutrients down, it slows and eventually stops growing.

[daplatapus]

Love the Hawkfish. I'd have one too but I love my shrimp :(

[WarDog]

So I got in a group buy from Fragbox with a few buddies. Figured I'd post a couple pics.

West Coast Coral Illuminati patiently waiting for delivery last night.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/779/22461624997_29c81b8f93_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/AdRGyv)

Pretty sure we broke some pieces during unbagging.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5702/22879762145_5c13bd4f4a_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ARNLaF)

Quick dip, can't go wrong. Everything nice and clean, typical with FragBox!

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/668/22472722649_a202ff0063_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/AeQzvk)

Lots of tank talk going on. Secret society stuff.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5668/22487758409_25bbc00866_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/AgaD7z)

Illuminati member 1 fixing his bandsaw. Coral Illuminati plotting world domination.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5643/22257169234_e6e8b6df8c_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/zUMNZ9)

Mad cutting skills. Illuminati member 2 had to take over.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5638/22472722589_94e2b9b686_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/AeQzui)

1/3rd of the way done. Thanks Illuminati member 1 for hosting, Illuminati member 2 for airport pick up, and March from Fragbox for some amazing tank candy.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5743/22487599869_8e2fc75baa_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ag9PZ8)

This morning.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/578/22854476116_45e22ce204_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/APzavE)

[acepumping]

HEY HEY HEY!! NO NAMES!!!:lol::lol::lol::lol:

[Skimmer Juice]

lol that kid leaning on the salt

[Myka]

That's a great idea to buy colonies and split them. :)

[WarDog]

That's a great idea to buy colonies and split them. :)

It worked out pretty good, and affordable.

[hunggi74]

That's gotta be the coolest kid in the world :biggrin:

[apexifd]

------

[WarDog]

That's gotta be the coolest kid in the world :biggrin:

That kids got swagger!

------

Cat got your tounge?

[WarDog]

Woke up this morning to the Longnose Hawkfish all dried up behind the tank. Sigh.

Not much other progress. I'll get some work done during the Xmas holidays, including a screen top it seems.

[Aquattro]

Woke up this morning to the Longnose Hawkfish all dried up behind the tank. Sigh.


Tree ornament? Hate to waste things :)

[WarDog]

Tree ornament? Hate to waste things :)

How could you be so insensitive? I'm going through regret, loss and a grieving period and you... ah screw it, got a safety pin?

[Aquattro]

How could you be so insensitive? I'm going through regret, loss and a grieving period and you... ah screw it, got a safety pin?

Doesn't it come with gills? Sorry, I guess they're stuck closed. I can send a safety pin..

[hunggi74]

LMFAO Brad is awesome as per usual

[rishu_pepper]

Dried fish is a tasty Asian delicacy. I advise you to release your inner Asian.

Sent from my LG-H812 using Tapatalk

[Wretch]

Sucks to lose a fish. Cover Cover Cover.

[Aquattro]

LMFAO Brad is awesome as per usual

'Tis the season. Waste not, want not.

[WarDog]

Lots of updating to do here, but it will have to wait. I understand now why Brad never updated his journal.

I will leave you with a few details;

Switched to T5's
Added a few fish and coral
Started dosing Peroxide directly to the tank to try and control the Bubble Algae.
Looks like I may have Bryopsis as well. Considering a restart.
Will post more pics at a later date and update Peroxide experiment (possibly in a new thread) once results are certain.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1446/23672569914_a39affe26e_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/C4S7i9)

[Bugger]

The perxoide to stop the BA is a bad idea you need concentrations that will also harm your corals. Nobody has had any luck with that.

[WarDog]

Nobody has had any luck with that.


Yeah, i can't find any evidence of that. People just say don't do it, which is what I'm sure they said about vodka. Although the corals are losing a bit of colour, I'm not seeing any major harm, and it appears to be working on the BA. Inconclusive results as of yet, but I'm not finished.

[Aquattro]

I understand now why Brad never updated his journal.



:)

[Etaloche]

Good luck, I'm so nervous about pests and whatnot to come in the future haha

[Bugger]

Yeah, i can't find any evidence of that. People just say don't do it, which is what I'm sure they said about vodka. Although the corals are losing a bit of colour, I'm not seeing any major harm, and it appears to be working on the BA. Inconclusive results as of yet, but I'm not finished.

I've tried it. It wasen't working

[WarDog]

I've tried it. It wasen't working

Hmmm.

[Bugger]

The only person that did it. also killed all there corals and they used alot of perxide to get rid of dinos

[Howie]

Peroxide works wonders, I had a go of dinos in my frag tank and did a 5 day blackout and dosed peroxide during the blackout and for 3 weeks after. I was dosing 2 ml for every 10 gallons each day. I lost a frag of utter chaos and that was all. Had a few lps, couple of sps and softies/zoas in there at the time.

[Howie]

Peroxide works wonders, I had a go of dinos in my frag tank and did a 5 day blackout and dosed peroxide during the blackout and for 3 weeks after. I was dosing 2 ml for every 10 gallons each day. I lost a frag of utter chaos and that was all. Had a few lps, couple of sps and softies/zoas in there at the time.

Also a side note a week before I did a 4 day blackout and the dinos returned 2 days after. I believe the peroxide definitely had a role in getting rid of them the second time around.

[Myka]

Warren, do you have an army of Emerald Crabs in there? Some Emerald crabs and some Naso Tangs eat it.

[WarDog]

Warren, do you have an army of Emerald Crabs in there? Some Emerald crabs and some Naso Tangs eat it.

I have 4 female Emeralds, they aren't doing squat. Naso is a little big for a 65, but I was thinking a baby Foxface... if the peroxide experiment doesn't work.

[Aquattro]

I got a Rabbit Fish for algae control. I think it's carnivorous ...stoopid fish..

[Myka]

I have 4 female Emeralds, they aren't doing squat. Naso is a little big for a 65, but I was thinking a baby Foxface... if the peroxide experiment doesn't work.
:lol: Naso is a lot big for a 65! I was just listing what I've had success with. :)

[Bblinks]

I had a blond naso in my biocube 29 that grew up to 8 inch with streamers so go for it!!!

[Bugger]

I have 4 female Emeralds, they aren't doing squat. Naso is a little big for a 65, but I was thinking a baby Foxface... if the peroxide experiment doesn't work.

Had a fox face never ate any green algae went for the red stuff though

[WarDog]

Update time.

Let's do a good news post first, the crappy news post can wait, lol.

So one of the great things is that Hunggi74 lent me his back up T5 fixture. Thanks Hung!
Here it is before I removed the Kessils.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1446/23672569914_a39affe26e_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/C4S7i9)

Stoopid happy! Should have gone T5 from the start. The Kessils were nice, but I don't think I was using them properly.
Here's a pic of my Forest Fire Digi, notice the polyp-less body from the shadows cast by the LED's.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1625/23672569264_83b5050a2f_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/C4S76W)

...and the same piece at about 4 weeks of T5's shining down.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1538/24674752396_416b2e5318_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DAqyes)

Next was to finally build the screen. Still can't believe I lost 2 Longnose Hawks.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1559/23932954689_6ff89ffdd7_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CsSDBP)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1609/24218282771_17a582f27c_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CU62Hv)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1650/24274637656_2d0175c1d9_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CZ4S4s)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1586/23672569244_a19751f2aa_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/C4S76A)

And some new livestock, I'll let the pics speak for themselves.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1690/24665936013_016d6752dc_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DzDnqR)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1447/25199607241_3f8f66f2cd_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EoNzhV)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1607/25292704835_5236afed46_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ex2HXR)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1578/24997131150_763fe74c89_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/E5UQcQ)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1704/24662092224_a071cbd99c_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DziENC)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1505/24665944193_7f1136e21c_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DzDpRT)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1503/25199599261_c4196abdc0_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EoNwVk)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1686/25174459902_3cb6648d16_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EmzFS7)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1672/24925058319_1a31430d91_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DYxrsP)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1714/24662095164_cc8299d864_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DziFFj)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1600/25174463632_0920bece53_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EmzGYq)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1591/24925056229_b2c3e53a06_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DYxqQM)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1718/24662095834_6b357c1c4a_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DziFSS)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1481/25292703735_73cde60b26_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ex2HCT)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1479/24662097034_eb5b318808_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DziGey)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1616/25174466982_305d6e4bcb_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EmzHYb)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1709/24997131010_ce9edfc247_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/E5UQaq)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1669/25174468222_143c9e1676_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EmzJky)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1455/24925063149_df44dc1f1b_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DYxsU6)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1681/25292709575_d4f4e34ab2_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ex2Knz)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1457/25292709285_2c03cf9fd9_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ex2Khz)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1640/24662102484_1834e2425b_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DziHRw)

Probably the last good news post for a while, if ever, lol.

Thanks for looking.

[Etaloche]

Wow awesome tank, what did you use to build that screen? Starting to add some fish to my tank and definitely don't want any accidental jumpers. I'd love to see the tank in real life one day!

[WarDog]

Wow awesome tank, what did you use to build that screen? Starting to add some fish to my tank and definitely don't want any accidental jumpers. I'd love to see the tank in real life one day!

Just a window screen kit from HD, Revy etc. Hard part is finding some clear mesh, usually somebody here has some. Come come.

[Bblinks]

Corals are really coming along buddy, great job!

[Rice Reef]

Nice pics Warren! Glad to hear things are finally turning the corner for you. By the way did you keep those kessils? They make nice night lights...

[WarDog]

Corals are really coming along buddy, great job!

Nice pics Warren! Glad to hear things are finally turning the corner for you.

Thanks fellas, trying to follow in your footsteps.

Update.

I'm one of the laziest people I know. I've had this fixture for months... and just hung it today. ATI 8 x 39W.

Front
-------
Blue +
Blue +
Blue +
Coral +
Actinic
Blue +
Purple +
Blue +

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1524/25459593103_378280a291_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EMM52M)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1560/25459593093_a3c9057b65_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EMM52B)

Bubble algae still completely out of control. Looks as if the only way to remove it will be with tweezers. Sigh.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1554/25996003121_950dab9855_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FBbj3n)

Forgot to mention, I lost a few Montis because of these little buggers... Montipora Eating Nudibrachs... the reason for my adding 3 wrasses at once.
You can see them munching on a Rainbow Monti on the left. If there's one thing I've learnt from my short time in this hobby, it's proper inspection, dipping, and QT of corals entering your tank.
Due to the mistakes I've made, I'm planning an independent frag tank system specifically for proper quarantine and treatment of current, and future corals.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1454/25266476396_77e0897367_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EuHiao) https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1671/24665935893_332213fb43_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/DzDnoM)

HAPPY EASTER!!!

[Bblinks]

Is that what I think I saw in the picture? :sad:

[WarDog]

Is that what I think I saw in the picture? :sad:

What picture, this picture?

What the? How did that get in my tank?

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1512/26146069300_f961115504_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FQrruh)

[Etaloche]

Whoah didn't see this when I was over couple days ago

[hunggi74]

Whoah didn't see this when I was over couple days ago

He is very selective about who he shows what. He hasn't even shown me his tank yet if it makes you feel better?

[WarDog]

He is very selective about who he shows what. He hasn't even shown me his tank yet if it makes you feel better?

'Your driveway is too steep and my legs hurt like a little girl!'

...somebody remember that?

[kien]

I'm pretty sure that's a fake. To be sure though, I recommend sending it to me for verification. I will even provide a certificate of authenticity after successful verification. There are a lot of fakes of these floating around these days. You can't be too careful.

[Bblinks]

Whats happening here....anything new going on?

[WarDog]

Whats happening here....anything new going on?

Not really, things are on cruise control. Getting some decent growth in some corals, and none in others. Some colours are good, some are bad. Happy with the bio load and no casualties. The Space Invaders Pectinia is the last piece my tank has room for.

Bubble algae still rampant, and some small spots of cyano and what looks like bryopsis. Added a MP10 from Laurie in hopes of getting some more flow.

The biggest problem I'm having is tank accessibility for general maintenance. Definitely learning from some of my mistakes and poor choices. I'll probably NEVER have a 25" tall tank ever again, and I'll never have an unmovable rock structure. I also see the value in a coral quarantine tank, and diligence in a solid dipping routine.

I'd say this build thread has come to an end, as I am planning a replacement display tank, plus a frag tank (which the wife recently approved). More details to follow near the end of the summer. I've got a couple of special projects in the meantime which will require your attention.

How many days until MACNA?

[Myka]

I'd say this build thread has come to an end, as I am planning a replacement display tank, plus a frag tank (which the wife recently approved). More details to follow near the end of the summer. I've got a couple of special projects in the meantime which will require your attention.

It's way past end of summer. Where's the "more details"? :D

[WarDog]

It's way past end of summer. Where's the "more details"? :D

Patience. You know how slow I work. Currently acquiring materials. Move along, move along.

[hunggi74]

Bump?

[WarDog]

Bump?

Nothing to see here. Move along move along.

[Aquattro]

Is this thread still active? Seems dusty...

[Myka]

Ok Warren, I did my part. I mounted most the frags/mini colonies (lol) in my tank, and then took/posted photos. Your turn.

[WarDog]

Ok Warren, I did my part. I mounted most the frags/mini colonies (lol) in my tank, and then took/posted photos. Your turn.

Ah crap. Wasn't prepared for that.

This post officially ends this tank. It sits dirty and grimy, waiting for a shutdown. The bubble algae is so completely rampant that it covers every single surface and coralline is growing on it. I have cut a ton of coral and moved it over to the 20 gal in hopes of saving it. Everything gets a major dip in Coral RX and Peroxide, just to be on the safe side. Most of the hardware will make its way to the new tank, along with half the fish and some inverts too.

I'd like to thank Rich, Peter, Wayne, Hung, Jess, Ryan, Chris, The 2 Dave's, Greg, Mike, Thomas, Ian, March, Tim T., Laurie, John, and that Jeff guy at J&L for all their help and encouragement along the way!

[WarDog]

Seeing as it's all the rage these days to update your Tank Journal..... I'll just leave these here.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1794/43834188981_e646417191_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29MtFdZ)

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1779/43117366594_0b8e3f0530_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/28G8LUj)

[WarDog]

EPISODE II : Attack Of The Aiptasia

It's been three years without a tank and it's time to scratch the itch. So I thought, why not build it myself?
Found a local glass fabricator that was willing to work with me. 1/2 inch glass, 3 sides Starphire, all edges polished.
49 x 19 x 16 1/2. Works out to about 60 gallons.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49795593657_399a79d89a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iSgr9e)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49795288851_3528635065_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iSeSwX)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49795288886_16d611714f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iSeSxy)

Leak test.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49795288811_a586a31238_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iSeSwg)

Held water for over a week with heater and powerhead.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49795593592_70a34432f8_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iSgr87)

Then Rich helped getting it in the house.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49795593667_499de4412e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iSgr9p)

[Bblinks]

That’s it!!!! I waited too long for this! Gimme more please!

[Ryancw]

awesome:lol: along for the ride!

[WarDog]

That’s it!!!! I waited too long for this! Gimme more please!

OK OK, get out of the way... you're blocking the view!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49794872663_7e9a5e136d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iScJPi)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49795560496_13b51884db_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iSgghu)

Still had to silicone the weir in.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49795560491_fac8bc8988_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iSgghp)

Went with an unconventional weir design. Just wanted to cover the overflow box, and keep the piping exposed. It'll all get covered in coralline anyhow.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49795560506_a5ff75d3ac_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iSgghE)

[brotherd]

Awesome! Custom screened top with feeder cut out from?

[WarDog]

Awesome! Custom screened top with feeder cut out from?

Concept. Lol.

[WarDog]

Little bit of work in the stand.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49799517588_db783ed72b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iSBxAd)

New techno roller thingy, all the rage these days.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49800373072_61f3c4e729_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iSFVTW)

Just as I started making water, I thought I'd update the firmware on the Apex classic. Long story short, I crashed it, opened a ticket, and fixed it over the course of 24 hours. What a nightmare.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49800373067_97c0d530e7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iSFVTR)

[hillegom]

I like it, especially the plumbing
precise

[Dash]

Looks fantastic! Amazing the things we can do when we’re stuck at home. (Although I still haven’t set up my ATO :redface:)

The sump area is the polar opposite of mine haha.

[WarDog]

I like it, especially the plumbing
precise

Hey, thanks!

Looks fantastic! Amazing the things we can do when we’re stuck at home. (Although I still haven’t set up my ATO :redface:)

The sump area is the polar opposite of mine haha.

Stuck at home, what the? I'm still trying to figure out how I'm deemed essential! Lol. No excuses, get on the ATO!

[crimper]

Little bit of work in the stand.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49799517588_db783ed72b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2iSBxAd)



Nicely done Warren. I haven't seen a plumbing/sump as neat as that.

I know now who to talk to on my next build :lol:

[Bblinks]

Nicely done Warren. I haven't seen a plumbing/sump as neat as that.

I know now who to talk to on my next build :lol:

Wait a couple of months and we will see how that goes....lol

[Mattyb]

Looks awesome, can’t wait to see it all set up

[gregzz4]

Yea progress !!

[DKoKoMan]

Looks great! I miss the shiny sump days, everything new and fresh. Looking forward to seeing this tank progress :biggrin:

[bauder1986]

God. That sump.

[Dearth]

I think he can startup a business just plumbing peoples sumps. Most of us strive to be as neat and clean as that most of us fail though. War dog would make a killing at this.

😎😎😎

[Frogger]

Looks too good to add salt water to

[Galizio]

Looking good Warren


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Skimmerking]

Warren man you have come a long way buds. This is one sexy build.

well done bro

[WarDog]

Thanks everyone for the kind words. If I ever decide to take the plunge and start that custom aquarium manufacturing business, you'll hear it here first.

[crimper]

Thanks everyone for the kind words. If I ever decide to take the plunge and start that custom aquarium manufacturing business, you'll hear it here first.

Go for it Warren I'm all for it especially if it's free, right Rich :lol:

[lastlight]

That sump is a work of art wow! Reminds me of what I tried to do in the past however I didn't come anywhere close to that. Nor did I have enough fancy equipment to pull it off! Nowadays I literally have my MP40 controllers simply hanging down behind the tank. I have to go fishing for them sometimes and try to pull them up and they tangle with dosing lines and other power cords haha.

Cherish these pics later when it's all full of life and grime lol.

[Bblinks]

Go for it Warren I'm all for it especially if it's free, right Rich :lol:

Someone said free...lol

[Bblinks]

Any updates? So boring...

[WarDog]

Any updates? So boring...

Shrimp cocktail in tank.
Ammonia at 0
No2 at 0
Keep calm.

[WarDog]

Added some Siporax and Marine pure. Calibrated all the old probes with no issues.
Did some cable management and brought the salinity up a bit.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49891855147_86be2111c4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j1LNk6)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49891855132_85e0b4dd1f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j1LNjQ)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49891542471_cde73d4816_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j1Kco8)

[lastlight]

That grimy length of medical hosing on your return has GOT to keep you up at night lol.

[WarDog]

That grimy length of medical hosing on your return has GOT to keep you up at night lol.

Lol, it's a bit long, but does the trick at keeping vibrations down.

[WarDog]

I've always loved the look of a floating aquascape and minimal rock in the tank, so I figured I'd go for that look this time around.
Found a couple pics online for reference. Not my photos, authors unknown.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49891611511_41ef4f75a4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j1KxUt)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49891924747_9f546c8414_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j1Ma26)

First step was to locate some branch, which luckily enough, one of the boys in our local group had some surplus of. Thanks Joe Reefaddict!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49891861592_2c82f1ffd2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j1LQfd)

Went to J&L, bought some Stax and a few extra fingers and came up with this.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49891036963_2ee05b6731_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j1GB7t)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49891863922_a60896968d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j1LQWo)

Not 100% satisfied, but I'm sure it'll look better with some coral on it.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49891553056_9899980790_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j1KfwC)

Finished it off with some Florida Crushed Coral, as I just don't like the look of bare bottom, sorry Rich.
The more I look at the tank, the more I think I should paint the back.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49891553046_5626088ffd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j1Kfws)

Top down's lookin pretty good.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49891553041_c7f7f1b296_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j1Kfwn)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49891553031_996c512504_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j1Kfwc)

Pretty much just waiting for some more cycle to happen then on to the lights.

[lastlight]

Lol, it's a bit long, but does the trick at keeping vibrations down.

Was referring to it's non Royal Exclusiv redness. It's length looks spot on!

Nice idea with the floating branch. Will take some time for that to pay off but I really enjoy the appearance of those tanks as well. There was a 'bonsai' titled thread on RC that did a really nice job as well but that was more of a vertical structure in a cube tank.

Edit: found it! https://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1288059

[Bblinks]

You planning to put a Canadian flag in the pole there?

[Frogger]

You planning to put a Canadian flag in the pole there?
By the time his water level hits that height for the emergency overflow to kick in it will already be way to late.

[Dash]

Although I appreciate the aesthetics of a minimalist look, myself, I always put my fish first and I’m not sure they’d be happy with this kind of structure. Before adding a fish I always think, “where can he sleep?“ as I think it’s important for each to have a home. I feel happy seeing them all snug in their spots after lights out. Also l like to collect anything that catches my eye so I don’t have the discipline for something like this lol.

On the other hand, it looks cool and it will sure be easy to keep detritus from settling.

[smokinreefer]

Love the scape! some of my favorites are scaped like that!

Wish i couldve done mine that way but with wanting lots of fish I need more territories to support them :P

Looking forward to seeing this tank grow up!

[WarDog]

I always put my fish first and I’m not sure they’d be happy with this kind of structure. Before adding a fish I always think, “where can he sleep?“ as I think it’s important for each to have a home. I feel happy seeing them all snug in their spots after lights out.

Wish i couldve done mine that way but with wanting lots of fish I need more territories to support them :P

Yes, I am starting to think I will add a little more rock to help with fish territories.

[WarDog]

Lots of progress lately. Rebuilt the mixing and water change system.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49982834862_aff6484bdd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j9P6qS)

Added a substrate vacuum to the drain side (which I didn't have on the previous tank).
Drain automatically loses suction at the 25% water change volume mark.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49982626991_2614662398_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j9N2CT)

Hands free draining right into the sink. All made from left over plumbing parts.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49982626981_3736d76c50_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j9N2CH)

WYZE cameras from Amazon.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49982056603_fc520d6575_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j9K75B)

Stuck one in the stand.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49982579301_f7e8feb4c0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j9MMsD)

...and one on the tank... oops, need a filter.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49982579336_7e6f9bf178_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j9MMtf)

Got a temporary light from Rich, until shipping from the States returns to normal.
Also Amazon'd some vinyl wrap for the back of the tank, just need to apply.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49982834877_52b04a82d7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j9P6r8)

Thanks for looking,

[Dash]

Wow your vacuum system puts mine to shame. I still fill a 2 gallon bucket & haul them to the laundry tub. I’m not confident enough to drain right into the sink in case I suck up something alive which is very unlikely but I’m paranoid (and very near-sighted).

[crimper]

Got a temporary light from Rich, until shipping from the States returns to normal.
Also Amazon'd some vinyl wrap for the back of the tank, just need to apply.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49982834877_52b04a82d7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j9P6r8)

Thanks for looking,

That's a one slick looking tank Warren! You're luck to have Rich as a friend. He also gives Free frags, just ask. :lol:

[WarDog]

Moved the Marine Pure balls out of the sump and into the overflow. Then made a cover to keep the light out and algae to a minimum.
Of course it's already starting to warp, so thinking of a Lexan replacement. The 1" pipe is for future Radion cables.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50053056687_02923f51ae_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jg1ZVZ)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50053056702_f840385ae0_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jg1ZWf)

[WarDog]

Got some fish and frags. Stepped up my dipping game.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49982056608_1eacb6b36e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2j9K75G)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50053109507_0ff1157d4f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jg2gCF)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50053109477_0bc6c6bdb7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jg2gCa)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50053109537_63b59a4193_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jg2gDc)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50053109497_44dcde4d6d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jg2gCv)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50052285818_598f76d2ab_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jfX3M9)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50052866871_aa65dbd9bf_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jg12vi)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50053109472_8f3f0e8730_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jg2gC5)

[hillegom]

lots of new stuff
Lets see it grow!!!

[spit.fire]

Try to find a sheet of abs for the cover. Won’t warp nearly as much

[WarDog]

Try to find a sheet of abs for the cover. Won’t warp nearly as much

Wouldn't have thought of that. Thanks Tyler.

[reefaddict29er]

Looking great Warren!

Keep the pics coming 👍


Makes me wanna dig up my old tank build thread and update it lol

[WarDog]

Had a small bacteria bloom, so hooked up the UV. Two days later, crystal clear.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50064373922_9a82546f4a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jh219J)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50064373982_c74f5db7eb_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jh21aL)

[crimper]

any update?

[WarDog]

Lots. So much work to upload pics. Lol.

[Bblinks]

Don’t be lazy. Get some of the recent pics uploaded. I can show you how. 😂

[crimper]

Lots. So much work to upload pics. Lol.

Ask Titus to make it easy for you :lol:

[WarDog]

Ask Titus to make it easy for you :lol:

I did. 3 years ago. Lol.

[Dearth]

Lots. So much work to upload pics. Lol.

I think someone is making excuses 😎

[crimper]

IKR.

I heared he's too busy growing snails. :biggrin:

[WarDog]

Update time. Tank is cruising along. Added some Reefbrites.... wish the expensive SPS would grow faster. Forest Fire Digi grows like a weed, frags in front are for sale. Snails still multiplying like crazy.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51091585978_9119707a7d_b.jpg

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51091852790_b7cab4f5c9_b.jpg

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51091132042_a3e7bda97c_b.jpg

[WarDog]

Had to get a new Apex head unit after the ethernet plug died on the old classic brain. Guess now I can run a Trident.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51091120614_7764b85b07_b.jpg

Also grabbed an EB4 for the added Reefbrites.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51091132017_819ed1ec19_b.jpg

[Bblinks]

looking good buddy!

[Wretch]

Tank is looking good.

[CoralNut]

looking good pretty cool aquascape

[WarDog]

So, 2021 was seeing some good growth. Lots of healthy happy fish, and Trochus continued to multiply like crazy. Thanks to all those who came and bought some. Sometime during the beginning of the year the wife decided it was time to move to a new, larger house. Couldn't really argue that.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043093176_3022e81571_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/511xk9)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043144443_f71b39f97c_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/1591tL)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043144523_520c0186f4_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/1kUyF5)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043093216_e432fc2776_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/292PGv)

[kien]

Larger house = larger tank.

[WarDog]

Around the same time I started to notice a few aiptasia. Since we were moving and I had to tear the tank down anyway, I didn't bother doing anything about it. It soon got out of hand.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043143841_b4e4a0125b_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/qtZFj9)

Needless to say, the aiptasia started stinging corals and fish. In my reluctance to do anything, I lost some livestock. Lesson learned. I began to remove the substrate to reduce the impact.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043391909_f87a55d137_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/8V5728)

In the summer I started to pull things apart. I am lucky to have reefing friends to help me out. Dave J was gracious enough to care for my remaining livestock during the move. The tank was definitely nasty.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52042139272_78baedc582_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/9y9cp7)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043391944_0c66242779_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/L685Ca)

[WarDog]

Larger house = larger tank.

Yeah, you'd think that, but not in the plans. Lol

[kien]

Over the course of last year I also developed a massive aiptasia issue. Almost got out of the hobby due to them because I had no clue what to do or how to deal with them. Then I figured I’d try something radical for fun. I had a jug of 35% hydrogen peroxide laying around that I use to treat algae in my pond. I decided to fill a needled syringe with it and inject the aiptasia with it. This was 100% effective and very satisfying. The aiptasia melt away from the inside out and liquify into water and oxygen. I did a few a day for a week and now they are all gone. If I ever see one again I just whip out the syringe and nuke it right away :twised:

[WarDog]

EPISODE III : Revenge Of The Upgrade

So we moved from PoCo to Maple Ridge in September of 2021. Brand new house, double the square footage, but no chance of having a fish room below the display tank as I wanted. Oh well, guess it'll wait for the retirement house. Honestly, I was getting quite tired of having blaring blue light flood the living room while trying to watch tv. So I made the decision to have the tank downstairs next to an unused washroom I can convert into a fish room.

All my stuff sat for a couple months while we unpacked and did a few quick renos to make our new home functional.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043236333_a9e692b20a_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043236353_d8c6826f74_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/FQXAz6)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043236308_f41f295510_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/ZUii5j)

The new spot is the downstairs landing, right next to a washroom. Not enough room for a couch, but I can squeeze a chair or two in there.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043236328_180bef37ff_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/xCv48P)

Rich came over and sprayed the back of the tank black, because he just couldn't stand looking at it anymore.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043694405_649682c17c_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/1u2fS5)

Then started the task of putting everything back together.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043185296_9962369376_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/EtMrHU)

And here's how she sits today. Guess I should have cleaned all the glass for the pic.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52043537996_23b7378191_b.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/gp/wford/735515)

Major upgrades to follow. Convert the washroom into a fish room full of gear. Order a new sump from Concepts. Switch the current sump into a fuge. Build an electronics cabinet for all the electrical do-dabs. Automate water changes and dosing. We will see how far I get with all this.

Updates to follow, thanks for looking.

[kien]

:pop2:

[gregzz4]

:pop2:

Ditto

[WarDog]

Finally got around to starting the fish room. Automated salt water mixing station. Waiting on a new sump from Concept, then I can begin the UV addition and electrical cabinet. Tank had been dealing with massive amounts of ulva algae in the spring and summer. Beat it with Vibrant, but caused some imbalance and now dealing with cyano. Cyano starting to recede in the last 2 weeks. A lot more work to be done, thanks for looking.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52338089170_db48a1a409_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2nJWotL)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52337662516_b4442e7340_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2nJUcDE)

[gregzz4]

Nice. Now you just need a TV next to the Brute so you have something to look at while bathing :rolleyes:

[brotherd]

That prefilter sure looks like it's pulling some nasties out of the source water!

[WarDog]

That prefilter sure looks like it's pulling some nasties out of the source water!

It's about 2 years old lol. TDS is still 0 at the clean end.

[gregzz4]

Good to see you're keeping up with the replies to your thread !!!

Don't poop on me .... I know you're busy

[Skimmerking]

looks good man liking the clean look. what's with the rock on top of the egg crate to give it more flow in the rock

[WarDog]

Good to see you're keeping up with the replies to your thread !!!

Don't poop on me .... I know you're busy

I see what you did there.

looks good man liking the clean look. what's with the rock on top of the egg crate to give it more flow in the rock

Initially yes, however I had a problem with Ulva algae and that structure is long gone. Hopefully I can get some work done on the tank over Xmas and post some updates and pics.

[gregzz4]

Initially yes, however I had a problem with Ulva algae and that structure is long gone. Hopefully I can get some work done on the tank over Xmas and post some updates and pics.
I'd be curious to know what your NO3 and PO4 levels are - that is if you're still battling nuisance algae ...

Don't forget that I rid myself of all that junk, and removed both my GFO and Carbon reactors, by dosing the mentioned stuff

Not that I want to make things easier for you ...

[WarDog]

I'd be curious to know what your NO3 and PO4 levels are.

So would I. Can you swing by and test please?

[WarDog]

Major update and photo dump! Its been a while since I've posted but things have been moving along.

Got a new sump from Concepts. Thanks to Kay for receiving it at King Ed.
Decided to go back to socks because I find they are just easier to clean. Plus the motor failed on the fleece roller I was using.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258317811_deee5080ec_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9fNoP)

Power has gone out in Maple Ridge a lot more times than it did in PoCo, and I lost some livestock, so never again. Picked up a genny from Dave H.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258317906_4c404e9004_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9fNqs)

Did some more plumbing on the w/c station, although its not complete yet.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258666284_5826745e52_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9hzYY)

Added a couple shelves and some decoration to the fishroom.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258806230_7b2a4462d4_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9iizQ)

Started the plumbing on the UV. Wanted a bypass for ease of maintenence, and a drain.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258806265_91fd4d2c2e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9iiAr)

...and mounted it to the wall. Screwed up one pipe cut and it's a little crooked. My OCD is making my eye twitch.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258317776_36e7413c62_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9fNod)

Started the drawings for the new electrical cabinet...

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53257439762_788270be46_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9bio3)

...and began to build the boxes.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258611693_79d72ab668_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9hiKK)

Upper and lower box.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258611673_e07e444c75_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9hiKp)

Time for paint.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53257439727_730ea15916_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9binr)

Install lower box, then upper box.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258666344_d314927904_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9hA11) https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258611753_a05005f58d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9hiLM)

Plan out the door, drill, and paint.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53257439752_6c07ab4ecc_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9binS) https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53257439742_7ec925885e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9binG)

Install and begin to populate.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258317891_101a80e1e2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9fNqc) https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258666364_e645b729e6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9hA1m)

Added a 6 plug outlet on an extension cord fed from the furnace room. Its on a dedicated circuit and can easily be unplugged and run from the genny when needed.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258806185_a2024eb60b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9iiz4)

Recent full tank shot. Parameters are stable and colour is good, although this isn't the best picture. Still plenty of work to do within the tank, but I am wanting to get the hardware upgrades done first. Hoping the new sump and plumbing can get done this coming weekend. Then all the electronics can be moved into the new cabinet. Thanks for looking.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53258317881_30e0d2437b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2p9fNq2)

[gregzz4]

Wow Buddy Nice Work !!! Some great thinking/planning "inside" the box going on here. I really like the cabinet boxes

I agree with your move back to socks. Did you go with 7" ?

[WarDog]

Thanks dude. I definitely love the building and hardware part. They're just 4 inch socks.

[Ken]

Really nice work, love the electrical box and UV

[Skimmerking]

someone was busy

[WarDog]

The Myth, the Legend, the GOAT, BBlinks came over to help plumb the new sump. Added a new Fluval SP4 for the return.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53295618374_c090da1d65_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pcxYxY)

Got the new sump done in a couple of hours. I can't stress enough how helpful the Canreef community is on the west coast.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53295712480_d8f7e1c858_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pcyswu)

Doser, containers and ATO will all be moved in the future. Added a 1" flow sensor to the return just because. Still need to bring the UV online.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53295489258_9b0061dfd5_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pcxjaQ)

Began stacking rejuvenated Siporax that was pulled from the old tank 2 years ago.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53295712560_e6478e7d1e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pcysxS)

Added the Borg Cube to the sump, on top of the existing Siporax.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53295712540_ee73011a6c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pcysxw) https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53295712465_886eb5b983_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pcyswe)

Started to get some RTN on the Loom, cut it off hoping to halt the decay. It worked for a few days but it continues to erode. Started to scratch my head and figured a bit of testing was in order. Phosphates through the roof. Figure the rejuvenated Siporax was still holding PO4 within, even after boiling, acid and bleach baths.

TEST, TEST, TEST... and always make small changes!

Doing a w/c today, and more testing later tonight. I've got Phos Down ready to go if needed. Ordered a bio pellet reactor from BRS.

Thanks for looking.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53294363667_aebec27b98_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pcrxz6) https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53295618344_18fde21df1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pcxYxs)

[Skimmerking]

The phos I guess went up holy crap take your time using phos down or phos ban good luck my buddy well down looks sick bro. I need to redo plumbing for my tank and since I am upgrading to a 180 starfire I will redo have a manifold and have one pump run all

[WarDog]

someone was busy

It never ends!

Really nice work, love the electrical box and UV

Thanks!

The phos I guess went up holy crap take your time using phos down or phos ban good luck my buddy well down looks sick bro. I need to redo plumbing for my tank and since I am upgrading to a 180 starfire I will redo have a manifold and have one pump run all

Yup, slow changes for sure. Multiple water changes incoming. Keep us posted on your upgrade Skimmer!

[Skimmerking]

Using the same one I bought for my 54 gal corner with a 40 gal sump it’s about 90 gals
Reef Octopus elite 150 int 6” it’s over kill for my 90 but it’s good for the 180 it has a DC pump got it off reef central from a fried. For 150 US it’s a 800 dollar skimmer good find

[Dearth]

It’s coming a long nicely and I see you’re taking your time to do it right.

Waiting for more updates

[WarDog]

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone!
Got a bunch done over the Xmas break and even had time to visit Adam at Frag Garage in Victoria to pick up some coral.

So let us continue with the upgrade porn. After discovering the ridiculously high PO4 I did a much needed water change.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53447180333_ccea8ce8d7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqWLDc)

Drains right into the tub.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53447048256_27538f495b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqW6o1)

Then filling up the tank with new water. Currently using Red Sea Blue, but I may change to Tropic Marin because all the cool kids are doing it.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53447048331_c59173a7ba_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqW6pi)

Time to relocate the ATO to the fishroom. Started by drilling the tank.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53447365559_c8c1ab1675_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqXHGK)

...And fitted a bulkhead.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53446124027_0c34f3f8f9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqRmD2)

Needed to beef up the base of the water change station so I added 3/4 ply.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53446124077_b65d442c5b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqRmDT)

Time to clean up this mess. Was going to have the Apex control the water filling and auto water changes, but after speaking with some reef Jedi's, they saw no real benefits from auto water changes.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53447180298_dd44f3e8d6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqWLCA)

Finished product minus the brute that sits in the front. Added a 6 gang plug to clean up the electrical and hopefully protect it a bit.
The ATO gravity feeds directly into the sump (through the wall) where I installed a float valve in the return section.
One line goes to the Brute, not shown, and one line feeds to the tub if I want some RO.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53447462010_94752b4684_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqYdnG)

More progress on the Apex cabinet coming soon.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53446124092_03588d5074_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqRmE9)

Thanks for looking,

EDIT

Found some more pics for the ATO so I may as well upload them while I'm still motivated, lol.

New float valve in the sump.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53447316398_1961a1924a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqXt69)

ATO line hugs the wall and around through the wall into the fishroom.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53447599490_040519d4e1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqYVf3)

Some close ups.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53447316378_e0851d9494_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqXt5N)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53446262117_472591ac4d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqS4FT)

The completed product, plus a shut off that still needs to be added for better accessibility.
Currently seen mixing water.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53446262122_2ba20abe4f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqS4FY)

I will leave you with an Apex cabinet tease.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53447316393_5376103b74_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqXt64)

[hillegom]

Nice work Warren, well thought out.

[WarDog]

Two snow days in a row. Spent a few hours shoveling Tauntaun poodoo yesterday, and planning to spend time today on the build. Lets get into the progress.

Had the water change titanium heater explode on me for unknown reasons.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53472238283_872958d555_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ptacuP) https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53472238278_5af19ab779_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ptacuJ)

No idea what happened, but apparently these heaters are packed with sand, and it ruined a full bucket of NSW.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53472408039_32542561b8_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ptb4XD)

Gave everything a good clean and made another batch for the next water change.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53471198012_2d215d0e18_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pt4Sg7)

Finally hooked up the Trident, after sitting in the box for 382 days.
Mounted a second doser that will be used for more additives.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53446299612_9688775c7d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqSfQm)

Time to clean up this mess. Had to add a PM2 because the temp probe cable was too short to reach the Apex head unit and then tuck away nicely.
Need to figure out the main power cable as all the conduits are full.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53447537959_78800c2501_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pqYAXa) https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53472418129_4169e06432_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ptb7XB)

It blows my mind how many wires we have to deal with in this hobby. I've done my best to organize them, leaving enough slack to allow the door to open. I don't think anyone can really eliminate the rats nest of aquarium wiring. Added a magnet to help the door stay closed. The only things left to add are 6 more power blocks for the new light fixture (which is the next big hardware upgrade)... and possibly an exhaust fan in the roof of the cabinet.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53472110256_e3079e1547_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pt9xrs)

Really happy with the final product. Adding more dosing lines today.
Why don't I have an Eb832 you say? Because they look horrible, seem to be Neptune's number one failing product, and my Eb8 continues to work without issue (fingers crossed).
Plus I wanted to keep the look consistent.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53472529410_cffddaed28_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ptbG3f) https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53472121946_a083180029_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pt9AV1)

Thanks for looking.

[smokinreefer]

You made me google tuantuan poodoo :lol:
Great progress, lookin good.
I love how you straight hijacked a bathtub for a water station.
I made page 69.

[WarDog]

Got all the Red Sea colours hooked up to the new doser. 1.4 ml per day each.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564117978_abcd945fa5_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pBh78u)

Needed a small container to dose the Reef Energy AB+, and as they recommend using only one weeks worth out of the fridge, I had to come up with a solution. Got a syringe from Amazon and built a custom container to house it. Not my best plastic work, but we will give it a try.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53563070257_a5d1c09e86_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pBbJFk) https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53563070242_9aa96b8160_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pBbJF5) https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564366890_170047d3fd_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pBio85)

Tank pics to follow.

[titus]

Hello

Wow look at all those photos. Nice and clean setup.

Titus

[WarDog]

Hello

Wow look at all those photos. Nice and clean setup.

Titus

Thanks!

Got the Red Sea Energy AB+ dosing container filled and tested. Currently dosing 20ml every morning while the lights are still off. Not entirely sure I'm going to continue with this schedule, as I think it may be too much.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53580418054_0c7318f4f5_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pCHDzh)

Picked up some inverts last weekend. The Peppermints didn't last 2 days... expensive fish food. 6 Trochus to replenish the herd. They bred like crazy in the last tank... but this time, nada.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564118033_8190713fcd_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pBh79r)

Went to see Wheelman76 and grabbed a couple cyphastrias. I highly recommend a visit if you've never been and are looking for coral.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53580114711_5b8f45e4f9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pCG6pe)

Pulled this guy out of the tank and put him in the sump...

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53580328128_804b31b6d2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pCHbQQ)

...because I picked up some Berghias for the dreaded aiptasia.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53580114686_100fb08cf6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pCG6oN) https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53580431479_06ba18cf01_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pCHHyK)

Nudis in the wild.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53580556110_1cd98ebb40_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pCJmBy)

And some of the most recent tank pics. Definitely need more fish. A trip to Shoreline is needed.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564247684_b502d629ac_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pBhLFN)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564118038_3f1fb01b3b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pBh79w)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53564247679_1942ba2ebe_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pBhLFH)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53563929851_b9fd91477c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pBg9cV)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53580431489_846a12baab_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pCHHyV)

Just going to spend some time dealing with the aiptasia for now, then I have a lighting upgrade planned next.

Thanks for looking.

[WarDog]

So, a pretty major thing happened.

After hearing that Australian Stripey's can do wonders on Aiptasia I decided to give one a go. Now they are not completely reef safe, as they will eat some LPS (of which I have limited amounts) but I can report that within 5 weeks he has decimated the visible Aiptasia in the display. He has showed no interest towards the hammers, cyphastria, or favias. He was accepted immediately by the tangs, and is not agressive to any of the other fish. I have also since returned the Filefish to the display.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53768672742_db06e9cb6b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pVmv8L)

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53768672737_46eb640f17_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pVmv8F)

Still planning a lighting upgrade and getting PO4 dialed in. Also dealing with cyano and some algae.

Thanks for looking.