Jasonanatal's JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI Nano Reef Aquarium.

[Jasonanatal]

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Hello everyone, it has been quite some time since I have had the chance to sit down and share the joys of recreating a beautiful piece of the reef right within my own home. I have focused on the preservation of a Nano Reef Aquarium within my home so that I can share the experience with my now 1 month 6 day old son Jayson Michael Natal.

[Jasonanatal]

Who Says Good Things Don't Come In Small Packages?

Life is full of difficult decisions especially when the decisions pertain to being able to provide for you family and participate in a hobby that you enjoy. So with that being said a large Reef Aquarium was definitely not in my future anytime soon. But that of course is not necessarily a bad thing. So I though why not venture into the world of Nano Aquariums. In my personal opinion it is definitely cheaper to setup and maintain. However, the benefit of being able to make a small mistake here and there that are acceptable in a larger aquarium definitely does not apply on this playing field. In the world of Nano Aquariums attention to detail is the key component in what seperates an aquarium that is doomed for catastrophe.

In search of the perfect aquarium to suite my needs I have decided to go with the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI which has an open back for easy access and addition of external components and a stock 150 watt Metal Halide Lighting System with 14,000k Bulb, Dual 300gph Return Pumps, JBJ Wave Maker and Protein Skimmer. So the Ms. and I drove out to a Local Fish Store and purchased the setup with Aquarium & Stand for just over $750.00, not a bad deal in my thoughts.


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Photograph Thursday October 25, 2007 - After a long drive and no help from any friends in lifting this Aquarium it is finally home. Too bad I actually have to go to work in 1 hour.

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Photograph Thursday October 25, 2007 - The location for my new JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI Reef Aquarium. I painted the room for this occasion.

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Photograph Thursday October 26, 2007 - Finally standing after 3 hours of ridiculous instructions to setup the stand, which I acutally had to hunt down instructions on Drs. Foster & Smith's website to complete the construction.

[Jasonanatal]

A Strong Foundation Is Just The Beginning.

Well in my past experiences I have dabled with different types of sand from different manufacturers and I always find myself coming back to my favorite. CaribSea Arag-Alive Live Aragonite Reef Sand. Best part about it the sand is already seeded with beneficial bacteria to speed up the cycling process of new Aquariums. A 20 lbs. bag can be purchased for around $28.00.


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Photograph Friday, October 26, 2007 - 20 lbs. of CaribSea Arag-Alive Live Aragonite Reef Sand made for the perfect sandbed. Looks absolutely beautiful as well.

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Photograph Friday, October 26, 2007 - Fillling the Aquarium with Instant Ocean Reef Crystals and RO/DI Water using the good old fashioned bag trick to reduce the sandstorm.

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Photograph Friday, October 26, 2007 - A beautiful look sand bed for the foundation of my greatest Aquarium ever.

[Jasonanatal]

Harnessing the Power of the Sun In Order to Create Life!

Lighting was an important factor in the consideration of selecting a Nano Aquarium that was suitable for creating a full blown SPS Dominated Nano Reef Aquarium. Many of the Nano Aquariums available on the market currently availble with only Power Compact Lighting Systems which can sustain Soft Coral such a Mushrooms and Leathers at best. Some customizing option are availble to upgrade to Metal Halide Lighting Systems but come at a cost of drilling or removing stock Aquarium parts in order to achieve this goal. The JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI that I selected is a new product that comes stock with a 150 watt Metal Halide HQI Lighting System with four 1 watt LED Moonlights already intregrated into the hood for a 24 hour lighting solution. The electronic Ballast is a bit huge for my taste but it has integrated sealed ball bearing fans that run silent within it and 4 sealed ball bearing fans that are also integrated into the hood.


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Photograph Friday October 26, 2007 - Integrated 150 watt Metal Halide Lighting System with 14,000K Bulb and four 1 watt LED Moonlights. The glass is tempered to keep it from shattering from water condesation or splashing.

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Photograph Friday October 26, 2007 - The Electornic HQI Ballast is a bit large for my taste but it has integrate seal ball bearing fans which run silent. Don't ever touch it though, its hot!

[Jasonanatal]

Temperature Swings: Managing Heat & Keeping It Cool.

Maintaining an environment while minimizing the fluctuations within temperature whether it be too hot or too cold is a common concern with Nano Aquariums. Since my Nano Aquarium has a Metal Halide Lighting System integrated into the hood it was time to put a chiller into play. I have integrated a JBJ Artica 1/15 hp Titanium Chiller into the aquarium setup in order to cool things down a bit. But when the chiller does its job alittle too efficiently or the night time air cools the entire room I have installed a Marineland Visi-therm 100 watt Heater. The two pieces of equipment working in conjunction with each other manage to keep the Aquarium temperature within a range of 78.0 degrees Fahrenheit to 78.6 degrees Fahrenheit. The swing is minial at best but I'm thinking that sometime in the near future that I can install a Digital Aquarium Controller such as the Digital Reefkeeper 2 so that is can independantly controll both pieces of equipment to reduce the range even further.


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Photograph Friday, October 26, 2007 - My JBJ Artica 1/15 hp Titanium Chiller fed water by a Maxi-Jet 1200 powerhead.

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Photograph Friday, october 26, 2007 - Water Flow diagram for JBJ Artica 1/15 hp Titanium Chiller and Phosphate/Carbon Reactor.

[Jasonanatal]

The Family: My Little Piece of the Reef.

Just thought I would stray off topic a bit and show some photographs of my family and myself. Smile!


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Photograph Saturday, October 27, 2007 - Me and my little frag... I mean son Jayson Michael Natal taking a nap while mommy cooks.

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Photograph Saturday, October 27, 2007 - My little man in his camo Go Navy! (Yes the Navy actually wears camo.)

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Photograph Thursday, October 25, 2007 - The little man and me at Beital's Aquarium. Already starting early or using him as an excuse to buy something for me... not entirely sure.

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Photograph Saturday, October 27, 2007 - The love of my life, my best friend and mother to my child Diana Rose Natal. She is the most beautiful mermaid I ever laid eyes on!

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Photograph Saturday, October 27, 2007 - The there just plain old me in need a shave desperately.

[Jasonanatal]

Aquascaping the Reef: The Journey for the Perfect Live Rock Structures.

With a limited amount of space I found that I had to be pretty precise in what pieces of rock I would purchase to recreate what I believe in my opinion would be the perfect structures for my NanoAquarium. The difficult part would be locating such pieces that would allow for not only a natural look but allowing for the most real estate to place my SPS Coral, Clams, Polyps, etc. As many of us now purchasing Live Rock from a store comes with its pros and cons just like many other things. Your definitely going to pay a large amount and quite naturally walk out with very little rock since your rock is weighed wet and you may get some cool hitch hikers that you love or get some nasty terrors that you just can't seem to get rid of.

Well I decided to turn to a local member and sponsor of the Talking Reef website since I have heard such great feedback about the quality of his goods and services. I gave Marc from Marco Rocks "The Finest Aquarium Rock Available" a call... and another call... and yet another call... and an E-mail... and eventually after finding out about the Hurricane in his area I finally got in contact with him after much stalking! I spoke with him about finding some of his signature pieces and placed my order. Now normally my patience is well... lets just say I have no patience. But I waited and wow is all I could say. My order of Marco Rocks was delivered in record time and the quality was amazing! I will never ever get my rock from anywere else. Thanks once again Marc for the assistance! So with Marc's cherry picked rocks and two sticks of Marineland Molding Putty I went to work (my wife thinks I should put up caution signs when I do this).


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Photograph Thursday, November 08, 2007 - My shipment of 27 lbs or Marco Rocks delivered via UPS. I'm glad the UPS driver thought this was too heavy to toss around (you should see some of my other deliveries).

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Photograph Thursday, November 08, 2007 - My Marco Rocks unpacked and quite frankly they are the most beautiful pieces of rock I have ever seen.

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Photograph Thursday, November 08, 2007 - After some trial and error and creative thinking my Captive Reef has been created... Gensis 2:2 And God had finished on the seventh day his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.

[Jasonanatal]

Compensating for Evaporation While Minimizing Swings In Salinity.

Due to having a limited volume of available water evaporation is one aspect that must be checked in order to minimize the swing in salinity. I have installed a Do-it-yourself Automatic Freshwater Top Off System to effectively reduce the effect of Salinity reduction due to evaperation. The Float Switch is installed in the rear chamber of the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube Reef Aquarium which is activated when the water level falls below a particular level. Fresh RO/DI Water is then pulled from a 2.5 gallon All Glass Aquarium Resevior by use of a Tom's Aqualifter Pneumatic Pump rated at 3 gph. Once the water level has returned to normal the pump is deactivated and water flow stops. Their is a secondary safety float that will deactivate the unit should the primary float switch become stuck and continue to pull water from the Freshwater RO/DI Resevior to prevent an overflow of water into the aquarium which would result in a sever drop in salinity and a flood.

Personal Observation: I am definitely pleased with the results of the Do-it-yourself Automatic Freshwater Automatic Top Off System. However, their are some shortcoming to this system. Evaporation is currently occuring at a rate of about 0.75 gallon per week which represents about 50% of the Freshwater RO/DI Resevior capacity. I anticipate that once I incorporate Kalkwasser or another type of Calcium Additive that evaporation will increase requiring a need to upgrade the resevior capacity. Also the JBJ Wavemaker which is currently set to alternate pumps every 2 minutes causes chamber where the float switch is installed to have a slight reduction in water level with causes premature dosing of Freshwater into the Aquarium. I'm considering upgrading the the Tunze Osmolator Universal 3155 "Water Level Regulation System with Static Sensor".


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Photograph, Thursday, October 26, 2007 - Do-it-yourself Automatic Freshwater RO/DI Top Off Float Switch with Secondary Overflow Sensor.

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Photograph, Thursday, October 26, 2007 - Freshwater RO/DI Resevior with Tom's Aqualifter Pneumatic Pump.

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Photograph Saturday, November 10, 2007 - Water Flow Diagram of the Do-it-yourself Automatic Freshwater RO/DI Top Off System and Toms Aqualifter Pneumatic Pump.

[Jasonanatal]

Electrical Sparks: Bringing Life to the Aquarium.

In order to allow all my toys to work of course electricity is required. I have used 3 seperate Power Strips to provide more then enough outlets for all the gadgets within the Aquarium while allowing plenty of space to add more. The load for each outlet is staggered to the next seperating each set of electrical components based on the level of importance. I'm not pulling an extreme level of power but just a precautionary measure.

Personal Observation: I'm considering replacing all power strips with an Eletronic Aquarium Controller such as the Digital Aquatics Reef Keeper 2 or the Neptune Systems Aquacontroller 3. This will allow me to better automate components of the aquarium with less clutter and allow for digital logging and control through a Personal Computer.


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Photograph Thursday, October 27, 2007 - 3 seperate power strips mounted within the lower cubicle of the Aquarium Stand each with Electrical Power Surge Supressing capabilities.

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Photograph Thursday, October 27, 2007 - Electrical Wiring Diagram for my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium.

[Jasonanatal]

Phosphate/Carbon Reactor: Giving That Extra Touch of Perfection.

I have incorporated a Precision Marine Fluidized Reactor which is filled with Fauna Marin Ultra Carb L (Fauna Marin Ultra Carb L is an extremely pure, vapour-activated and pre-washed activated carbon for efficient removal of yellowness, turbidity and harmful toxins, essential for maintaining good water quality in any aquarium. Ultracarb is almost entirely free of phosphate and has an extremely high capacity). This Reactor is maintained for 1 month and then media is swapped out. For the next month I will use ROWAphos (ROWAphos is the most effective phosphate remover on the market today. ROWAphos will not only remove phosphates but will never release them back into the system. The product is easy to use and will improve the water quality wherever Phosphate or Silicate is a problem. It is of interest to Marine and Reef Aquariums where its unrivalled capabilities have shown it to be extremely beneficial in the control of nuisance algae’s and the growth of hard corals. Unlike other phosphate removal products, it does not shock the animals or cause problems when used regularly. In fact constant use of the product is recommended, as its abilities to control nuisance algae is a major benefit). This schedule will rotate continuously for every month.

Personal Observation: I am considering purchasing a second Precision Marine Fluidized Reactor which will be daisy chained to provide constant removal of Ammonia, Phosphate, Silicates, etc. without the need to have a swapped media schedule within a shared Reactor.


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Photograph Thursday, October 26, 2007 - Precision Marine Fluidized Reaactor currently filled with Fauna Marin Ultra Carb L media for another 2 weeks.

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Photograph Thursday, October 26, 2007 - Precision Marine Fluidized Reactor Water Flow Diagram.

[bigtyguyy]

wow how are you levels? that was a short cycle period. that rock wasn't live rock was it?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11159496#post11159496 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by bigtyguyy
wow how are you levels? that was a short cycle period. that rock wasn't live rock was it?

Bigtyguyy, My levels are all within normal range. 75% of the Saltwater used was from an existing 10 gallon Nano Reef Aquarium that I had running already and the substrate is Live Aragonite which is already seeded with beneficial bacteria to decrease the cycling period.

[Jasonanatal]

Water Quality & Chemical Test Results.

Date: Monday, November 05, 2007
Previous Water Change: Never
Temperature: 77.9 Degrees Fahrenheit
Salinity: 1.025 SG
Ammonia: 0.0 PPM or Undetectable
Nitrite: 0.0 PPM or Undetectable
Nitrate: 0.0 PPM or Undetectable
pH (Lights Off): Not Tested
pH (Lights On): 8.0 pH
Calcium: 420 PPM
Alkalinity (Carbonate Hardness): 9.0 dKH (Carbonate Hardness)
Magnesium: 975 PPM
Phosphate: 0.0 PPM or Undetectable
Notes:

- 45 ml. of Kent Marine Tech M Expert Series ionically balanced Calcium supplement added. Calcium level currently at 450 PPM.
- 62.5 ml. of Kent Marine Tech M Expert Series ionically balanced Magnesium supplement added. Magnesium level currently at 1350 PPM.
- 5 g. of Seachem Reef Builder pH supplement added. pH level currently at 8.1 pH. Alkalinity level currently at 9.5 dKH (Carbonate Hardness).
- No Alkalinity supplement added.

[reefman13]

What fish are in it? It looks like you have two different types of clown fish....

[Stormtrker]

Rock work looks great! I have almost the same setup, including the Marco rocks. Only diff is I have a Current Prime 1/15hp chiller. Hope your parameters stay good. I had a strong cycle lasting about 3 wks with my Marco rocks. This was even after cleaning the rock of any visible debris/washing throughly with ro/di water prior to placing in tank. Ammonia didn't really take off until wk 2 then a full cycle followed. I also used about 15g of water and some pieces of rock from my 180g to help seed the 28g from the start. I plan to wait until tank is about 2 months old before getting first fish or coral for the tank. Did put in small cuc couple days ago as diatoms and green microalgae was really taking off. I plan to follow along with your thread and wish you good luck. Your son is a beautiful guy and know you and your wife are on cloud nine with him! Hope he is letting both of you get some sleep at night.:D Believe me this grandma knows all about!
Carla

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11159644#post11159644 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by reefman13
What fish are in it? It looks like you have two different types of clown fish....

Reefman13, I actually do have two different types of clownfish. One is a Gold Stripped Maroon Clownfish and the other is a Percula Clownfish. They actually get along with no problems at all. Who knows might even be able to raise some Picasso Clownfish one day. I also have a Starry Blenny. I will document more concerning livestock currently inside my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube SPS Reef Aquarium shortly.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11159796#post11159796 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Stormtrker
Rock work looks great! I have almost the same setup, including the Marco rocks. Only diff is I have a Current Prime 1/15hp chiller. Hope your parameters stay good. I had a strong cycle lasting about 3 wks with my Marco rocks. This was even after cleaning the rock of any visible debris/washing throughly with ro/di water prior to placing in tank. Ammonia didn't really take off until wk 2 then a full cycle followed. I also used about 15g of water and some pieces of rock from my 180g to help seed the 28g from the start. I plan to wait until tank is about 2 months old before getting first fish or coral for the tank. Did put in small cuc couple days ago as diatoms and green microalgae was really taking off. I plan to follow along with your thread and wish you good luck. Your son is a beautiful guy and know you and your wife are on cloud nine with him! Hope he is letting both of you get some sleep at night.:D Believe me this grandma knows all about!
Carla

Stormtrker, thank you very much for the compliments.

[reefman13]

Reefman13, I actually do have two different types of clownfish. One is a Gold Stripped Maroon Clownfish and the other is a Percula Clownfish. They actually get along with no problems at all. Who knows might even be able to raise some Picasso Clownfish one day.

>1. I am very surprised they get along well
>2. You will be EXTREMELY lucky if they even pair up, so good luck raising fry;)

Waiting for new pics:)

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11163538#post11163538 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by reefman13
>1. I am very surprised they get along well
>2. You will be EXTREMELY lucky if they even pair up, so good luck raising fry;)

Waiting for new pics:)

Reefman13, tell me about it. I was pretty sure that the Gold Stripped Maroon Clownfish would tear the little Percula Clownfish apart within a few days but they swim together and share the limited space within the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube SPS Reef Aquarium as though they where the same species. I'm crossing my fingers if they do decide to provide me with some offspring but then comes the challange of raising Clownfish Fry especially since I have never done so.

[deepblue68]

very nice setup and a beautiful family enjoy and cherish all of them!
great job well thought out.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11165599#post11165599 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by deepblue68
very nice setup and a beautiful family enjoy and cherish all of them!
great job well thought out.

Deepblue, thank you very much for the compliments.

[Slakker]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11163427#post11163427 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jasonanatal
...Who knows might even be able to raise some Picasso Clownfish one day...

Picasso's aren't a Maroon/Percula hybrid, fwiw.

[deeplove]

Cute looking kid you got there son. Bless him.

:D

I'm about to start off my own S. Water tank and I'll be following yours. It looks like something I'll be doing myself. Good luck.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11165982#post11165982 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by deeplove
Cute looking kid you got there son. Bless him.

:D

I'm about to start off my own S. Water tank and I'll be following yours. It looks like something I'll be doing myself. Good luck.

Deeplove, thank you for the compliments.

[Jasonanatal]

Moonlight: Watching the Sea Come to Life at Night.

The JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium come with 4 1 watt Blue LED Moonlights built into the hood of the Aquarium. It emits a beautiful blue glow that is not intense enough to light up the room, but bright enough to allow night viewing within the Aquarium.

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Photograph Tuesday, November 13, 2007 - Four 1 watt Blue LED Moonlights installed into the Hood of the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium.

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Photograph Tuesday, November 13, 2007 - Moonlight viewing at night.

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Photograph Tuesday, November 13, 2007 - Moonlight viewing at night.

[Jasonanatal]

Ultraviolet Sterilization: Safer than Ozone, Better for Fish and Corals.

After much thinking I have decided to install an my Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer. In my pesonal opinion I feel that it is safer then Ozone dosing and will provide a safer parasite free Aquarium environment for my Livestock and Corals with the benefit of destroying free floating Algae. The Aqua Ultratviolet 25 watt Sterilizer can handle Marine Aquariums with a total water volume of 125 gallons and features a safety window that allows you to see that the unit is currently on while still protecting you from Ultraviolet Radiation. The Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer has been plumbed directly into the rear center chamber of the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium and powered by a Aquarium Systems Maxi-Jet 1200 Powerheadrated at 295 gph. The unit has been mounted vertically and secured on the floor in order to ensure that air bubbles if pushed into the Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer are able to escape the unit.

Personal Observation: I have installed the Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer with some reluctance of the unit actually being to power for the total water quality. On one side of my debate you have a poweful Ultraviolet Sterilizer that will operate efficiently and eliminate any Parasite & Free Floating Algea with ease. On the other end of the spectrum you have a Ultraviolet Sterilizer that is too powerful for the setup and is not only eliminating Parasites and Free Floating Algae but beneficial Bacteria as well which could adversly effect the Aquarium Environment in some aspect. Well I guess experience will be my teacher and if any adverse effects are being observed then the unit can be easily removed from the system.


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Photograph Tuesday, November 13, 2007 - Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer measuring 22.5 inches in Height and 4.5 inches in Diameter.

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Photograph Tuesday, November 13, 2007 - Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer Ballast. Nicest looking Ballast I have seen.

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Photograph Tuesday, November 13, 2007 - Aquarium Systems Maxi-Jet 1200 Power Head rated at 295 gph. This particular type and manufacturer of Power Heads have been the most reliable I have ever used in my Aquariums.

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Photograph Tuesday, November 13, 2007 - Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer safety window. This feature allows you to observe the light in operation while protecting you from harmful ultraviolet light so that you know the unit is operational.

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Photograph Tuesday, November 13, 2007 - Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer plumbed into my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium with 0.25 inch Flex Tubing.

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Photograph Tuesday, November 13, 2007 - Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer safety window being obeserved at night.

[Jasonanatal]

Ultraviolet Sterilization: Safer than Ozone, Better for Fish and Corals Continued...


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Photograph Tuesday, November 13, 2007 - Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer plumbed into my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium with 0.25 inch Flex Tubing.

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Photograph Tuesday, November 13, 2007 - JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium Diagram displaying the current equipment setup and water flow patterns.

[Achapman]

Looks great so far. I have the same tank and I am about out of the cycle.

How do you like the stand? I am thinking of recreating it using actual wood.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11188966#post11188966 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Achapman
Looks great so far. I have the same tank and I am about out of the cycle.

How do you like the stand? I am thinking of recreating it using actual wood.

Achepman, I actually like the stand alot. I wish the bottom came with another door or glass enclosure but I will be working on it shortly. It was just a pain in the neck to put together with the so called included instructions.

[Jasonanatal]

Our Habitual Duty, the Good Old Fashion Water Change.

During a normal day on the forum we Reef Aquarist can be onslaughted with different debates concerning what duration Photo-period is mody beneficial for our Corals or what Salt Manufacturer to use for your Salt Mixes and what level your Salinity should be at, etc. But in a world where I do it this way and it works and you do it the opposite and it works one thing we can all agree on. Their are no substitutions for water changes! Whether your Aquarium has been established for 1 month and you do weekly water changes or your aquarium has been estblished for years and you have your routine of doing water changes every 2 months it al narrows done to this one little fact. Water changes eventually have to be done and in an Nano Aquarium such as mine. Water changes are the deciding factor if all the money that I spent provides a beautiful habitat that my little one can thrive in or if I just wasted thousands of dollars for the world's most expensive headache.

My JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium receives weekly water changes every Saturday (Water changes used to take place on Sunday but my work schedule changed). But I can't just mix up a bucket of Saltwater and throw it right in. Due to the small volume in the system (28 gallons minus the space taken by the Live Rock, Live Sand, some of which I managed to recapture which the use of the chambers in my Aqua Ultraviolter 25 watt Sterilizer and Precision Marine Fluidized Bed Reactor) I have to properly prepare my Saltwater and get as closely to the temperature, salinity and pH in an attempt to minimize as much stress as possible for the inhabitants. I do so by incorporating a few devices listed below:

-Two 5 gallon Buckets. One bucket to mix my Saltwater in and one bucket to syphon just the right amount of water out of my 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium when performing my water changes.
-One 200 watt Marineland Stealth Visi-Therm Heater. Great for quickly raising the temperature of 5 gallons of water to 76.00 Degrees Fahrenheit which is were I prefer to keep my 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium water temperature at.
-One Pondmaster Mag 7 water pump. Placed with the bucket and plenty of power to spare when mixing the Salt into the RO/DI Freshwater. Definitely beats mixing Saltwater by hand.
-One Coralife thermometer. Allows me to monitor the temperature of the water so I know when it matches my 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium.
-An RO/DI Filtration System. An absolute must in my book when keeping a Marine Aquarium.
-A TDS Meter. A Measurement device used to ensure that Total Dissolved Solvement or TDS is as close to 000 PPM as possible.
-Salt Mix. I personally used Instant Ocean since I started in the hobby but just this past week I switched to Kent Marine. I'm interested to see if their clams stand up.
Personal Observation: I the past few weeks of conducting my water changes I have noticed that there is no place to actually remove water from that will not alter the water level within the Main Display of the 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium and should I choose to remove water from the Rear Chambers I would have to power off the entire Aquarium as to prevent the Pumps and Equipment from running dry and possibley damaging them.


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Photograph - My generic 75 gpd. RO/DI Filtration System. This monopolizes my bathroom and causes my wife to yell at my while I'm Filtering Tap Water.

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Photograph - Aquatec CDP 8800 Water Presure Booster. Most of us don't have the required water pressure within our home to operate an RO/DI unit without one of these. This one increases water pressure from 40 PSI to 120 PSI (water pressure is required to push water through the RO Membrane).

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Photograph - Hannah Instruments TDS Meter. I use this each time I Filter a bucket of RO/DI water to ensure that I am getting the purest water possible and to red flag when either the Deionization Resin, Carbon Block, Sediment Block or Reverse Osmosis Membrane require replacing (when the TDS reading rises above 000 PPM that is a red flag).

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Photograph - Color Changing Deionization Resin. This is on of the first items I look to replace when my TDS reading is not 000 PPM. The color changes from Black to Brown indicating that the lifespan of the chemical has been reached.

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Photograph - Kent Marine Salt Mix. I just switched to this Salt Mix since Kent Marine is making some pretty strong statements concerning quality we will see how it holds up.

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Photograph - The final process of my water change. My trusty 5 gallon bucket, Pondmaster Mag 7 Water Pump for mixing, Marineland Visi-Therm Stealth Heater and Coralife Thermometer for knowing when my bucket of water's temperature is the same as the Aquarium's

[Jasonanatal]

Video of My JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium.

Hello everyone, this is my first video of my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium **** Saturday, November 01, 2007. It nothing great but I'm sure I will be putting something together in the weeks to come. Enjoy!

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[lastduke]

what did you use to glue your live rock?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11298443#post11298443 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by lastduke
what did you use to glue your live rock?

Lastduke, I used regular Marineland Putty that is use to frag Corals and what not. Nothing special at all.

[Jasonanatal]

Signs of Progress Which Tells Me I'm Doing Something Right.

We all spend hours and hours if not days in front of our Reef Aquariums looking for just the slightest signs of success. This could mean a spot of Coraline Algae on an area of Live Rock or even the growth of your favorite SPS Coral. Either way we get that fuzzy warm feeling inside and a sense of accomplishment in a hobby where attention to detail can never be understated if success if your goal. I've been keeping Reef Aquariums for about 2 years and in what I consider my best Reef Aquarium yet I managed to see a sign of success. Which I feel great because in my two years of maintaining a Reef Aquarium I have never accomplished this or at least been able to view it happen and bringing into consideration the size of my Reef Aquarium in relation to the difficulty make me say "look hunny all that time and money paid off".

My Electric Bue Legged Hermit Crab decided that it was time for some new clothes. I saw some of the legs laying at the bottom of the Sandbed and immediately searched for the little guy in a panic. After locating him hanging underneath my little drop-off my worries were over and then came the wow I've never sustained an environment where this could happen. I consider this a milestone in my Reef Aquarium which make me very happy!


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Photograph - First signs of death for my Electric Blue Hermit Crab and I start to panic.

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Photograph - More signs of death and no Eletric Blue Hermit Crab in sight.

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Photograph - Time to accept the fact that I may never have my little Electric Blue Hermit Crab anymore. My Halloween Hermit Crab is going to be lonely.

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Photograph - Found the little guy hanging out with the rest of the gang showing off his new clothes.

[reefman13]

What do you now have in the tank in terms of stocking? Any new FTS?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11303544#post11303544 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by reefman13
What do you now have in the tank in terms of stocking? Any new FTS?

Fishman13, currently I have 2 Nassarius Snails, 5 Margarita Snails, 1 Halloween Hermit Crab, 1 Electric Blue Hermit Crab, 1 Starry Blenny, 1 Gold Stripped Maroon Clownfish, 1 Percula Clownfish, 1 Harlequin Shrimp, 2 Cleaner Shrimp and 1 Crocea Clam.

[Jasonanatal]

Santa Made An Early Delivery featuring My New Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer.

Well everyone knows that it's not fair to everyone else within your family to purchase anything right before Christmas but I was really never one to concern myself with something like that especially when it comes to my 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium. With help of my credit card, Marine Depot and FedEx my new Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer was delivered early by Santa.

No everyone knows that with a limited water volume as in the case of my Nano Reef Aquarium it very difficult to maintain prestine water quality without the use of some fancy gadgetry... that is the case unless your a fan of daily to bi-daily water changes which I'm not! So I searched the Internet and Polled the Forums in search of a great Protein Skimmer for my setup. Now me selection was extremely limited since I had factors effecting what I could and could not purchase. These factors included:

-Size of the Protein Skimmer, which affected where I could place the Protein Skimmer on the rear of my Nano Reef Aquarium.
-Performance/Efficiency of the Protein Skimmer, which affected what type of bioload my Nano Reef Aquarium could sustain and what type of Corals and Livestock I could house.
-Price of the Protein Skimmer, well lets face it I don't want to be left withouth any Christmas shopping money. My wife would murder me!

Finally the decision was made to place an order with Marine Depot for the Tunze Nano DOC Protein Skimmer. Now many people that I questioned did not have any personal experience with this Protein Skimmer and where relying on the reputation of Tunze as the basis of their recommendation. Well I went along and said hell their Tunze if their bigger equipment works wonders then what do I have to loose, other then $12.00 in return shipping should it not work out they way I hoped. The equipment arrived a short time after and it was amazing to see the construction of this equipment. It was so simple that I started to question whether I would get the results that I wanted. After placing the base into the Rear Center Chamber of my 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium, which just fit with a little elbow grease and firm love.

Well after a few days of monitoring and documentation I can say hands down this is the most efficient and absolutely silent running Protein Skimmer I have ever used. Their are no micro-bubbles produced as a byproduct of the Foam Fractionization process and the sludge that this thing pulls out is comparitive to mud. Also the collection cup requires no twisting or unlatching to remove it. Simply grab and lift and it slides out with no problem. Best of all you don't have to turn off the Tunze Nano DOC Protein Skimmer 9002 when emptying and cleaning the collection cup. The Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer received the seal of approval from me hands down!

Personal Observation: Unfortunately the Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer fits very snuggly within the Rear Center Chamber of my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI Reef Aquarium. However, the collection cup cannot be mounted properly withithout removing the Integrated Hood of the Nano Reef Aquarium entirely, unlatching the Integrated Hood and resting it in a position where it crosses the top edge of the top of the Nano Reef Aquarium Glass or Using a Dremil tool to modify the Read of the Integrated Hood to allow for the collection cup to sit properly on the Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer body. Also note that the skimmer requires that the collection cup sit properly on the body without any break in the seal or the Protein Skimmer will not function as all!


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Video - This video was shot just a couple of hours after the installation of the Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer. Please excuse the fact that the video is sideways.

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Photograph - Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer. A small package with big results.

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Photograph - Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer in operation Day #2.

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Photograph - Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer in operation Day #3.

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Photograph - Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer in operation Day #4.

[Jasonanatal]

My Most Prized and Only Derasa Clam.

Here is my 6 month old Derasa Clam. It has grown substatially while in my posession and has relocated 3 times in the 6 month period. It's first home was a 90 gallon SPS Reef Aquarium that was tore down do to associated maintenance expenses being too high. The second home was a 10 gallon Aqurium with 300 watt of Metal Halide lighting which was a halfway home for my most recent setup and it's final destination. During the time in its second home a 1 inch Bleech spot formed on the Mantel which is most likely due to too much light and a very immature Aquarium setup. It's new home and final destination... at least for the time being is my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium which has been up and running for 7 weeks now. It is very happy and since being housed in its new home has recovered from it's Bleeched Spot. The Derasa clam is roughly 3 inches in Width, has an amazing Mantel extension and has some significant weight when out of water I'm estimating 6 lbs to 7 lbs roughly. It is fed Marine Snow once a week on Mondays and a mixture of Cyclopeeze and Mysis Shrimp once a week Wednesdays as well. Funny thing is my Gold Stripped Maroon Clownfish has decided to host within it and honestly it doesn't seem to mind. Go figure!


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Photograph - My 6 month old Derasa Clam. My most beautiful Clam specimen.

[4everwet]

Was the skimmer that came with it insufficient?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11338176#post11338176 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by 4everwet
Was the skimmer that came with it insufficient?

4everwet, in my personal opion the Protein Skimmer that was included with the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI Aquarium was not sufficient for the type of Nano Reef Aquarium that I have for a goal. After a two weeks of use it barely produced even the slightest darkened color water by product. If your going for a Fish Only Aquarium or even a Soft Coral Aquarium you can probably get away with leaving the stock Protein Skimmer on. But with my goal of housing SPS and LPS Corals that was a chance that I didn't feel like taking.

[hifoo]

Really think the rock work is very nice. Great tank.

[Devtech]

very nice tank man, im actually in the process of starting up my 34gal tank, hopefully all goes well for you! how do u like the 14k bulb? i think on my tank it looks too blue.

[pbukow]

Nice so far, rocks are awesome. How do you like the flow? did you supplement it for your SPS or plan to? What is the gph of the stock pump btw

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11339468#post11339468 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Devtech
very nice tank man, im actually in the process of starting up my 34gal tank, hopefully all goes well for you! how do u like the 14k bulb? i think on my tank it looks too blue.

Devtech, thank you very much for the compliments an my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium. I actually prefer the 14,000k Metale Halide Bulb that is included with the system. I have went back and forth from switching the Metal Halide Bulbs from 20,000k which was extremely blue and 10,000k which my wife refered to my Nano Reef Aquarium as a yellow crayon, So 14,000k is best but I'm thinking that I might uprage to higher wattage since the color spectrum is right were it should be in my personal opinion but I would rather have a bit higher intensity. Maybe I might remove the Integrated Hood altogether and purchase to Current Usa Sunpods at 150 watt Metal Halide with 14,000k Bulbs a piece.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11339405#post11339405 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by hifoo
Really think the rock work is very nice. Great tank.

Hifoo, thank you very much for the compliments on my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11339907#post11339907 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pbukow
Nice so far, rocks are awesome. How do you like the flow? did you supplement it for your SPS or plan to? What is the gph of the stock pump btw

Pbukow, I currently don't use any supplemental flow within the Display Area of the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium. The systems come stock with two seperate Return Spouts powered by JBJ Accela 1000 Power Heads rated at 266 gph connected to a JBJ Pulse Duo Wavemaker which actually creates enough flow for the times being. I'm sure that later on I can upgrade the pumps if necessary to Tunze Master Recirculation Pump 1073.030 which has an adjustble flow from 300 gph to 1,000 gph. But we'll see how the flow looks when the Nano Reef Aquarium becomes heavily inhabited.

[Devtech]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11339996#post11339996 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jasonanatal
Devtech, thank you very much for the compliments an my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium. I actually prefer the 14,000k Metale Halide Bulb that is included with the system. I have went back and forth from switching the Metal Halide Bulbs from 20,000k which was extremely blue and 10,000k which my wife refered to my Nano Reef Aquarium as a yellow crayon, So 14,000k is best but I'm thinking that I might uprage to higher wattage since the color spectrum is right were it should be in my personal opinion but I would rather have a bit higher intensity. Maybe I might remove the Integrated Hood altogether and purchase to Current Usa Sunpods at 150 watt Metal Halide with 14,000k Bulbs a piece.

yea the 14k bulb is very nice maybe im just paranoid since my tank doesnt have any water nor rock, maybe itll clear up once the bulb is broken in.

my tank set up came with one of the Current Usa Sunpods but it was an integrated feature so it came with a nice hanging arm. check out my build thread ull see a picture of it.

[4everwet]

I'm going to order one of these tanks but I would like to figure out a way to incorporate a sump? Obviously you could pump out of the nano into the sump and then back to the nano, but what if the pump from the nano down to the sump fails, then you have a flood. Is the back glass tempered?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11345419#post11345419 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by 4everwet
I'm going to order one of these tanks but I would like to figure out a way to incorporate a sump? Obviously you could pump out of the nano into the sump and then back to the nano, but what if the pump from the nano down to the sump fails, then you have a flood. Is the back glass tempered?

4everwet, don't quote me on it but I'm sure that the Rear Chamber of the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI Aquarium is tempered glass and incorporating an overflow would seem to costly as the area in the back is not large enough for most overflows that I have seen on the market. I'm not really sure this aquarium was designed with incporating an external sump of any kind. Well at least not with a significant risk factor of flooding. Just my personal opinion.

[mmessing]

Just got my tank and stand today. Did you glue the dowels that come with the stand? I'm worried about it loosening up over time if I don't with just those tightening pins.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11381181#post11381181 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mmessing
Just got my tank and stand today. Did you glue the dowels that come with the stand? I'm worried about it loosening up over time if I don't with just those tightening pins.

Mmessing, I actually didn't glue anything on the stand. I just used the equipment that came with the stand. I'm not sure that it is gone to be subjected to enough movement to loosen the bolts over time but just make sure you follow the directions since it is common amongst people who purchased this stand to have to build it more then once to get it together. LOL

[jdokos]

Hi,

I just ordered my tank today. Should be here next week. nanotuners PC upgrade. Getting excited.

Have not ordered a chiller yet, but pretty sure I will have to living in Atlanta. Any problems with the JBJ 1/15 chiller? Any problems with any of your equipment, besides the skimmer? I am leaning toward an AquaC nano. I had the Pro on my 75 3 years ago and loved it, no tuning needed.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11382487#post11382487 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jdokos
Hi,

I just ordered my tank today. Should be here next week. nanotuners PC upgrade. Getting excited.

Have not ordered a chiller yet, but pretty sure I will have to living in Atlanta. Any problems with the JBJ 1/15 chiller? Any problems with any of your equipment, besides the skimmer? I am leaning toward an AquaC nano. I had the Pro on my 75 3 years ago and loved it, no tuning needed.

I have never had any issues with the JBJ Artica Titanium 1/15 Horsepower Chiller. Even though it is rated for 45 gallons of water I had it operating on 125 gallons without any issues. It's a great piece of equipment.

[racksteris]

Kool set-up u have..

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11394621#post11394621 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by racksteris
Kool set-up u have..

Racksteris, thank you for the compliments on my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium.

[scottydo]

Well, this is certainly the most content I have seen in a build thread - your volcabulary is impressive - and very nice looking tank too. :D

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11400155#post11400155 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by scottydo
Well, this is certainly the most content I have seen in a build thread - your volcabulary is impressive - and very nice looking tank too. :D

Scottydo, thank you for the compliments on my JBJ Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium. It is greatly appreciated!

[yzquadracer]

I was wondering what substrates you are using in the filter box? is there room back there for a small light and some chaeto for a small fuge? awesome looking tank too!

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11404648#post11404648 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by yzquadracer
I was wondering what substrates you are using in the filter box? is there room back there for a small light and some chaeto for a small fuge? awesome looking tank too!

Yzquadracer, I'm not currently using any type of substrates within the Rear Chamber of the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium. I utilize the Rear Chambers solely to house equipment such as Pumps, Protein Skimmer, Thermometer Sensors, Automatic RO/DI Freshwater Top-Off System. However, these pumps do connect to a 25 watt Aqua Ultraviolet Sterilizer and a Precision Marine Fluidized Bed Reactor containing Fauna Marin Ultra-Carb L (Ultra-Carb L is an acitvated carbon specifically made for permanent and long-term use, which is changed on a monthly basis).

[Jasonanatal]

Time for a Little Do-It-Yourself Modifications: Making Some Space

Due to my recent addition of the Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer which has been one of the most beneficial upgrades to my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium. However, in the process of solving one problem another problem managed to show itself. How about that for Murphy's Law? Even though the Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer main body was able to just barely squeeze into the Center Baffle of the Rear Chamber of the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium the collection cup was too large and occupied a substantial amount of real estate that caused me to have to disconnect the stock Integrated Hood to accomodate for the Collections Cup's space requirements.


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Photograph - The Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer Collection Cup occupying just a little more space then I had hoped for.

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Photograph - The stock Integrated Hood of the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium disconnected from the latches and hanging about 0.5 inch over the front of the Aquarium edge allowing light to spill out. Not the prettiest site especially with someone who has Obsessive Compulsive Disorder such as myself.

Now a couple of choices were available as possible resolutions for this issue. First solution would be to remove the stock Integrated Hood and purchase a pendant, hanging or bracket mounted Metal Halide Lighting System to replace the Integrated Hood. This option was indeed to most expensive and would wast a perfectly functioning Reflector, Electronic Ballast, and Moonlights. So I opted out of choosing this option. Second solution would be to get alittle creative and break out some tools without loosing an eye or finger in the process and reminding my wife that she cannot drive without a license and that the hospital is just a cab ride away! Plus this would save me money so that I could spend it on another form of equipment for my hobby. So I choose option two.

Here was the gameplan, I was going to use my Cordless Titanium Dremel tool in order to accurrately create an opening in the rear of the Integrated Hood so that it can be connected back to the latches while allowing suffiicient space for the Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer Collection Cup to sit properly. I measure approximately 4 inches in Width x 0.75 inch in Depth in order to accomplish the end product. I made sure our son was out of the room and yes I wore safety goggles even though I didn't photograph them and went to work.


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Photograph - The Cordless Titanium Dremel tool that will help me save some money and maybe lose a finger.

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Photograph - The Integrated Hood disconnected entirely from the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI Reef Aquarium.

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Photograph - My work in progress no I just have to smooth the edges and clean up the mess before my wife yells at me that were having company over.

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Photograph - The surgery is complete and it doesn't look half as bad as I thought and here the kicker I still have all 9 I mean 10 fingers.

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Photograph - Now that looks just right! My Integrated Hood back on the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium with smooth edges. Now what can I buy with $250.00?

[Jasonanatal]

Electricity, Saltwater & Living Creatures Not a Good Combination.

My wife is such a wonderful woman who wants to make our very first Christmas together as special as it can be so she decided to give me a stocking stuffer from Santa Clause a bit early. I'm glad she pays attention when I bore her to death about the Marine Aquarium Hobby. It shows how much she loves me! Okay back on track, she remember that I had mentioned something about a Titanium Grounding Probe and decided to pick one up for me.


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Photograph - My stocking stuffer, the Rid Volt Titanium Grounding Probe.

This is definitely an area that I can see makes enough of a point through common sense. Unfortunately I don't own any devices that can measure the electricl current in water if any at all before I setup the probe in comparison to after using the probe. In theory it makes perfect sense and what does it cost me? Not a penny so I just connected it to a grounded outlet as instructed and submersed the probe into the Aquarium Saltwater within the Far Left Baffle of the Rear Chamber on my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium.

[scottydo]

Does any light spill out the back after the mod?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11417610#post11417610 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by scottydo
Does any light spill out the back after the mod?

Scotydo, actually it is almost impossible to see any light reflecting out of the modified area since the Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer Collection Cup closed the gap that I created. Also the opening of the internal Metal Halide Lighting Reflector is almost alligned with the edge of the aquarium so even if the Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer Collection Cup was not present only reflected light of the surface of the saltwater would pass through.

[scottydo]

Nice choice on the skimmer, too bad it takes up the whole chamber. I am planning on using that chamber for Chaeto. Are you planning on any type of refuge?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11417705#post11417705 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by scottydo
Nice choice on the skimmer, too bad it takes up the whole chamber. I am planning on using that chamber for Chaeto. Are you planning on any type of refuge?

Scottydo, currently I have not planned on the addition of a Refugium but in the future if it is something that I will consider it will most likely be in the form of a Hang-On-Tank purchased from a manufacturer or some type of Acrylic Do-It-Yourself.

[Jasonanatal]

Something's Fishy with My Deresa Clam

Well I have all my thing packed for work and I'm just about to walk out the door and through the corner of my eye I see something unspeakable. My most priced possession and only Deresa Clam has an area of Pinched Mantel. Of all the things in the world why my Deresa Clam! Well out to work I go and hopefully in the morning I will see my Deresa Clam good as new. I'm come home the next morning and normally my Deresa Clam still has bout 0.25 Inch of the mantel extended during the Moonlight Photo-Period and brief time during the morning where both the Metal Halide Photo-Period and Moonlight Photo-Period are not in progress. But yet the same area that was experiencing the Pinched Mantel issue. With the Metal Halide Photo-Period about to kick in a few hours I decide to get some rest and come back to investigate.


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Photograph - My Deresa Clam displaying signs of Pinch Mantel.

Now the Metal Halide Lighting is on and the Deresa Clam should have the entire Mantel Extended but unfortunately it is still displaying sign of Pinch Mantel. So I do a little looking around and what do I see causing the problem... an Aptasia Anemone! Now in the past this particular coral had an Aptasia Anemone growing on the side of it shell which was removed by using a Tweezers. This particular Aptasia Anemone was growing within the crevis of the already formed shell and the new layer that was growing. Precisely located underneath the normal Mantel extension area. The same method of using a tweezer to remove the Aptasia was performed and within an hour the Deresa Clam was fully extending its Mantel as normal. Thank goodness!


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Photograph - My Deresa Clam feeling all better an hour after the removal of the Aptasia Anemone.

[martinphillip03]

About how deep is your sandbed? For clams, about how much do they need. Would you be able to move your clam if need be>

Marty

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11424670#post11424670 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by martinphillip03
About how deep is your sandbed? For clams, about how much do they need. Would you be able to move your clam if need be>

Marty

Martinphillip03, My Sand Bed is approximately 1.75 Inches in total depth. To be quite honest the total depth of your Sand Bed is not entirely relevant to you maintaining a Clam. I have had Clams in the past that buried themselves down into a 6 Inch Sand Bed until only their Mantel was exposed on the surface and I have had other the same Clam as well as other types of Clams placed on Rocks within the middle of my Aquarium not even near sand. This particular Clam doesn't like to stay faced in one position so he has not mounted his fot permanantly to their surface of the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium. I'm sure this is due to the highly randomized flow that I have in my Aquarium. In the past I had very constant flow and those Clams within a day or two found the most optimal position and mounted their foot. The only way to move them properly was to take a raze blade and slize the foot as close as possible to where it is connected. I hope this information helps you.

[jdpierce21]

Very nice setup.

[jdokos]

Tank is looking great. I just got mine. Stand built and tank sitting empty on top. I will fill with fresh ro/di tomorrow and run it for a day or so before I add salt, etc.

I am thinking about the Tunze 9002 as well. Is there no other option other than the middle chamber? Did you get rid of the middle chamber 'cage' thing? Can you please describe your rear compartment layout?

Thanks,

[ke6guj]

Nice looking tank.

How are you doing your plumbing to the chiller and stuff. Additional pumps or just using the original pumps?

[Jasonanatal]

A More Detailed Look at Weekly Water Changes.

Hello everyone, I just thought I would go into a bit more detail on the processes that are included in the weekly water changes for my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium. As I have stated in previous post, the world of Nano Reef Aquariums is not forgiving in making honest mistakes or miscalculations which in the most minuscule amount can have devestating effects on the specimens your care for. This in turn means that I must pay careful attention to parameters of the newly mixed Saltwater as oppossed to the Saltwater already within the Nano Reef Aquarium.

Reverse Osmosis/Deionization or RO/DI Filtration

Well everything has to start somewhere and our first task is to ensure that nothing but the purist water possible can be used to in addition to a quality salt mixture. In order to do this I incorporate a Reverse Osmosis?Deionization or RO/DI Filtration System to purify the tap water coming from my bathroom faucet. Now some people might not now exactly what an RO/DI Filtration System is and how it works so here is a detailed explination. Water coming from you faucet has been chemically treated in order to bring it to any acceptable level for human consumption. Chemicals contained within the water can be anything from Flouride or Phosphates and here a kicker Arsenic. Well to be short about it their are many chemicals that vary from location to location that we do not want in our Aquariums. An RO/DI unit such as mine passes tap water at high pressures through Prefilters developed to chemically remove impurities (Carbon Prefilter) larger Solids (Sediment Prefilters and eventually extremely small solids (Reverse Osmosis Membrane) and finally removing the last amount of impurities both described as a chemical and mechanical filtration method (Deionization Canister) and into your bucket. Resulting in Freshwater that is reffered to as pure or scientifically have the least amount of Total Dissolved Solvents or TDS. Waste water is a byproduct of the filtration at a ratio of 1 gallon of purified water to an average of 4 gallons to 5 gallons of waste water which is expelled from the system at the Reverse Osmosis Membrane.

Notation: All Reverse Osmosis/Deionization Filtration Systems have a Reverse Osmosis Membrane labeled with a Gallons Per Day rating on them. This does not mean that you can leave your unit on for 24 hours and produce for example 75 gallons of Purified Freshwater on a system rate for 75 gallons per day. This means that your unit can process 75 gallons of water in that day which include both purified water in combination with waste water.


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Photograph - A standard Reverse Osmosis /Deonization Filtration System with Carbon and Sediment Prefilters rated at 75 gallons per day.

In order to confirm that level of Total Dissolved Solvents of the purified water a hand held TDS Meter or Inline TDS Meter is required. This device works by measuring the electrical conductivity of the purified water by passing electrical current from one prong and receiving/measuring it at the other prong. The closer the reading is to 000 the more pure that water. This device can also ensure that your Reverse Osmosis/Deionization Filtration System is functioning properly.

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Photograph - Hannah TDS Meter measuring the purity of the water.

Notation: Please ensure that your TDS Meter prongs are submerged in the water you are measuring the purity of. The photograph above was take for viewing purposes only. Also it is impossible to get the TDS Reading of saltwater so don't be alarmed if you place the TDS Meter in saltwater and the reading goes off the chart.

Mixing Synthetic Sea Salt for the Nano Reef Aquarium

Now this section is not meant to start a debate on what manufacturer of Synthetic Sea Salt will provide the optimal results for a Nano Reef Aquarium. Since I started in the Reef Keeping Hobby I was an avid Instant Ocean preffered hobbyist. But recently I have switched to Kent Marine Synthetic Sea Salt and I am quite pleased with the results so far. I measure my Kent Marine Synthetic Sea Salt at approximately 2.5 cups for 5 gallons of Freshwater which results in a Salinity Grade of 1.026 Salinity Grade or 35 Parts Per Thousand. I personally found standing at the bucket with a stick manually mixing the salt to be quite time cosuming. So I moved to a more aumated method incoporating a Mag-7 Water Pump to do the mixing for me. I also use a 200 watt Marineland Visi-therm Stealth Heater to match my Nano Reef Aquarium Water of 76 Degrees Fahrenheit and a Coralife Digital Thermometer to see when the temperature is an exact match.


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Photograph - Kent Marine Synthetic Sea Salt Mix. The bag include a sealing mechanism like a Ziplock which is worth the high price itself. the seal it creates is airtight which ensure that your Synthetic Sea Salt Mix will not get clumpy from absorbing excessive moisture.

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Photograph - My Pyrex measuring cup with Metric measurement for easy European measurements. Definitely comes in handy with European chemical dosing instructions.

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Photograph - Beginning of mixing process.

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Photograph - 10 minuts into the mixing process.

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Photograph - 25 minutes into the mixing process and the Saltwater is ready for the water change.

Notation: The time allowed for the Synthetic Sea Salt to completely mix with the RO/DI Freshwater is a personal preference and will vary based on what manufactuer's Synthetic Sea Salt you use as well as the Gallons Per Hour ratiing of the Water Pump used to mix it together. It normally take me about 30 minutes for water temperature and salinity grade to reflect the water parameters of the Saltwater contained withint he Nano Reef Aquarium.

Removing and Replacing Nano Reef Aquarium Water

Now this method is personal preference but to keep it short and sweet I incporaate a Python Syphon to remove Saltwater from the Nano Reef Aquarium and use to also add the newly mixed water so that I don't injure my back.


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Photograph - The Python Syphon one of the most useful items ever developed for the Aquarium.

[Jasonanatal]

New SPS Coral Frag Addition

On Saturday, December 15, 2007 I purchased a Coral Frag of Orange with White Polyp Montipora Capricornis from NaCl-H20 of the Manhattan Reefs Forum. It was dripped acclimated over a period of 2 hours and allowed 1 week before being photographed. It is honestly one of the most beautiful specimens I have seen.


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Photograph - Orange with White Polyp Montipora Capricornis from NaCl-H20 of the Manhattan Reefs Forum.

Coral Family: Acroporidae
Coral Genus: Monitpora
Common Name: Montipora Capricornis
Common Morphologies: Plating
Origin: Pacific Ocean
Acquired: Saturday, December 15, 2007
Lighting Requirements: Moderate to high. Metal Halide Lighting is suggested, but these Corals are tolerant of a wide range of lighting conditions and have been known to grow successfully under Very High Output Lighting or on occassion Power Compact Flourescent Lighting.
Flow Requirements: Moderate to high flow.
Availability: High.
Growth: Fast.
Difficulty: Moderate.

[martinphillip03]

Nice, informative, well thought out post

Marty

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11448876#post11448876 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by martinphillip03
Nice, informative, well thought out post

Marty

Martinphillip03, thank you very much for the compliment. It is very much appreciated.

[pbukow]

WOW, right on with all the information and detail in your posts. Love the Monti Cap, it is definately one of my favorite type of encrusting stonies. Looking good so far and Happy Holidays

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11450864#post11450864 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by pbukow
WOW, right on with all the information and detail in your posts. Love the Monti Cap, it is definately one of my favorite type of encrusting stonies. Looking good so far and Happy Holidays

Pbukow, thank you very much for the compliment. It is very much appreciated. Happy Holidays to you to.

[sgschwartz]

Thanks for all the informative posts on your jbj 28g hqi system. Does the tunze skimmer interfere with the waterflow out of the nano cube? It looks like the skimmer blocks the overflow.

Thanks in advance
Steve

[Lavish62]

I have followed your set up, and it looks great. Thank you for all the information, it has been very informative.

I have a 12 gallon jbj with the Nanotuners 70 watt MH, and dual 18 watt actinik mod. It works great although I have an algae problem. The glass is constantly growing green alge, so I am looking into a fix. I was thinking of a calcium reactor and a uv sterilizer. What is your thought, and how do you like yours?

Is your Precion Marine calcium reactor an Effluent Chamber?

How is your UV Sterilizer working, is it to much? I was thinking of a 5 watt sterilizer.

Thannk you for your help,
Adam

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11456719#post11456719 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sgschwartz
Thanks for all the informative posts on your jbj 28g hqi system. Does the tunze skimmer interfere with the waterflow out of the nano cube? It looks like the skimmer blocks the overflow.

Thanks in advance
Steve

Sgschwarz, thank you for the compliments on my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium thread. The Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer does not interfere with the water flow. Their is a small 1/8 Inch opening that cannot be seen that allow the water to flow through nomrally. This has not resulted in me having to incoporate a method to throttle down both return pumps from the Nano Reef Aquarium.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11457191#post11457191 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Lavish62
I have followed your set up, and it looks great. Thank you for all the information, it has been very informative.

I have a 12 gallon jbj with the Nanotuners 70 watt MH, and dual 18 watt actinik mod. It works great although I have an algae problem. The glass is constantly growing green alge, so I am looking into a fix. I was thinking of a calcium reactor and a uv sterilizer. What is your thought, and how do you like yours?

Is your Precion Marine calcium reactor an Effluent Chamber?

How is your UV Sterilizer working, is it to much? I was thinking of a 5 watt sterilizer.

Thannk you for your help,
Adam

Lavish62, thank you very much for the compliments. I actually am not running a Calcium Reactor on my system. The Precision Marine Fuidlized Bed Reactor is an acrylic chamber filled with Marin Fauna Carb-L media whichis powered by a Power Head installed within the Far Left Baffle of the Rear Chambers on my Nano Reef Aquarium. As for my Ultraviolet Sterilizr I'm using a 25 watt Aqua Ultraviolet Sterilizer that is also powered by a Power Head installed within the Far Left Baffle of the Rear Chambers on my Nano Reef Aquarium. I'm nearing or exceeding over 1 watt of Ultraviolet exposure per gallon of water. Needless to say this dissemates any free floating algae spores, bacteria both good and bad literally anything that goes floating into the chamber. No I have my own personal theories on this which I shall explain later on within the thread but Ultraviolet Sterilizer can indeed assist in keeping algae down.

No to address your algae issue. I personally would not recommend incoporating a Calcium Reactor within your setup. Since it will not assist at this point in removing unwanted nuisance algae. Algae usually starts to rear it's head which their are increased amounts of nutrients and particular chemicals that is feeds of present in the water column. Why don't you answer these questions for me and we can go from this new point.

1. Are you utilizing RO/DI Freshwater to use for your Synthetic Sea Salt mixtures?
2. What schedule are you following for your water changes?
3. What photo-period are you exposing your Nano Aquarium to?
4. What feeding schedules and amounts are you following?
5. What chemicals are you dosing?
6. Are you using any methods to reduce phosphates and are you testing for phosphates?
7. What type of nuisance algae is growing within your aquarium? Exmaple: Hair Algae.
8. What does you clean up crew consist of?

[Lavish62]

Thank you for the quick return. I was interested in the calcium reactor for my SPS. The sterilizer for the algae. Really the alge isn't a huge problem, just green algae on the glass. I also though t it help clear the water up as well.

1. I am using RO/DI water for mixing and top off.
2. I change 3/4 of a gallon once a week
3. I run the lighting from 12-9pm.
4.I feed the fish once a day either Spectrum thera pellets, cylopes, or mysis shrimp. About a 1/3 of a cube.
5.I use:
Kent Marine Phytoplex 2 ml
Kent Marine Calcium buffer part A+B 2.5 ml
Salifert all in one 2.5 ml
6. I do not check for phosphates at this time.
7.The alge is just on the glass and really isn't a huge problem.
8. My clean up crew is doing a great job controling the aqua scape. Maybe I need a few morre snails.

[Lavish62]

Are you using the Precision Marine Reverse Flow Substrate Reactor 13.5 Inch Tall? From Marine depot?

[Jasonanatal]

A Sad Day In My World of Reefkeeping.

I'm extremely dedicated in the maintenance required to have a thriving Nano Reef Aquarium and it is definitely heartbreaking to come across an issue directly related to a common task in the Reek Keeping hobby. I normally don't have to clean my glass of Algae but I do so just to remove even the finest film that may adhere to the Internal Pane. I use a Mag-Float Small which is rated for use on Glass Aquariums up to 30 gallons with a maximum pane thickness of 3/16 Inch. Now at the time of my cleaning my Photoperiod had ended and the damage that was created was not noticable until the next morning. When the lights came on I could see multiple abrasive marking on the Internal Pane of the Aquarium Glass.


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Photograph - Abrasive markings left behind after the use of my Mag-Float Algae Cleaner.

After a minor breakdown of sorts I reviewed some forum searches and found that scratching Nano Aquarium Glass is more common then you would think and not isolated only the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI Aquariums. But nothing was described to be near the level of damage that I experienced. In turn I contacted Transworld Aquatic Enterprises Inc. and advised them of the situation. I explained that the possibility for a grain or multiple grains of substrate being caught between the Internal Mag-Float and the glass could not have caused the abrasive marking since the pattern clearly depicts the bottom of the Mag-Float and that I never keep my Mag-Floats within my Aquarium. The Mag-Float is also removed after use and before use I make sure that no foreign objects exist that could possibly cause something like this. After a supervisor reviewed the photographs Transworld Aquatic Enterprises Inc. advised that they are sending me a replacement Aquarium. Which is both a blessing and a curse. It is scheduled to arrive on January 07, 2008 and I will set it up shortly after.

[ke6guj]

wow, that sucks that it happened. Thats crazy that the mag-float could even scratch the glass. My mag floats barely even cut through the algea, you'd think it'd be impossible to scratch the glass.

Glad to see that Transworld is taking care of you.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11476891#post11476891 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ke6guj
wow, that sucks that it happened. Thats crazy that the mag-float could even scratch the glass. My mag floats barely even cut through the algea, you'd think it'd be impossible to scratch the glass.

Glad to see that Transworld is taking care of you.

Ke6guj, my sentiments exactly. I couldn't believe my eyes!

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11459126#post11459126 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Lavish62
Thank you for the quick return. I was interested in the calcium reactor for my SPS. The sterilizer for the algae. Really the alge isn't a huge problem, just green algae on the glass. I also though t it help clear the water up as well.

1. I am using RO/DI water for mixing and top off.
2. I change 3/4 of a gallon once a week
3. I run the lighting from 12-9pm.
4.I feed the fish once a day either Spectrum thera pellets, cylopes, or mysis shrimp. About a 1/3 of a cube.
5.I use:
Kent Marine Phytoplex 2 ml
Kent Marine Calcium buffer part A+B 2.5 ml
Salifert all in one 2.5 ml
6. I do not check for phosphates at this time.
7.The alge is just on the glass and really isn't a huge problem.
8. My clean up crew is doing a great job controling the aqua scape. Maybe I need a few morre snails.

Lavish62, I would personally reduce your photo-period and increase your snails. Everything else seems normal. That should reduce the amount of Algae on the glass.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11459150#post11459150 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Lavish62
Are you using the Precision Marine Reverse Flow Substrate Reactor 13.5 Inch Tall? From Marine depot?

Lavish62, that is the unit the I am using. I'm planning on purchasing 2 more at least.

[Chorethorious]

Jason, I have to say you write some very informative entries in this thread. Also, I'm sorry to read about your recent problems with the magnet. The upside is that you were able to get everything handled and taken care of. Obviously the transition will be a slight pain, but nothing compared to a company that wouldn't work with you. So, its a semi win/win.

Thanks for all the info you've provided and I'm looking forward to seeing new additions!

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11478357#post11478357 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Chorethorious
Jason, I have to say you write some very informative entries in this thread. Also, I'm sorry to read about your recent problems with the magnet. The upside is that you were able to get everything handled and taken care of. Obviously the transition will be a slight pain, but nothing compared to a company that wouldn't work with you. So, its a semi win/win.

Thanks for all the info you've provided and I'm looking forward to seeing new additions!

Choretheorious, thank you very much for the compliments on my thread. I do aim to be as highly informative and detailed in my post so that I can keep information from being misinterpreted. I am happy as well that Transworld Aquatic Enterprises was willing to work with me to resolve the issue at hand. Also at first I thought that I lost 2 months of progessive and had an large task at relocating everything from one Aquarium to another but I now view it as an oppotunity to improve on my setup and document more information in further detail.

[mksalt]

Excellent thread….

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11479168#post11479168 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mksalt
Excellent thread….

Mksalt, thank you very much for the complimens on my thread. It is very much appreciated.

[sammy33]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11340033#post11340033 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jasonanatal
Pbukow, I currently don't use any supplemental flow within the Display Area of the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium. I'm sure that later on I can upgrade the pumps if necessary to Tunze Master Recirculation Pump 1073.030 which has an adjustble flow from 300 gph to 1,000 gph.

Will the Tunze 1073 fit this tank? That would be most excellent news!

Great thread btw. :D

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11501674#post11501674 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sammy33
Will the Tunze 1073 fit this tank? That would be most excellent news!

Great thread btw. :D

Sammy33, thank you for the compliments on my thread. It is very much appreciated. Now as for the Tunze Master Recircuation Pump 1073.030 their website shows the dimensions as (4.0 x 3.5 x 2.95) but does not specify which is Height, Width, and Depth. I an not home right now to take actual measurements but if my memory serves me correctly it would be a tight fit if any. I would recommend contacting Tunze Customer Service +1 (512) 833-7546 or E-mail: tunze@sbcglobal.net in order to get the exact measurements for this pump. Also the documentation does not specify whether these pumps can be operated on a Wavemaker which is another concern you may want to bring up. The JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI comes with the JBJ Ocean Pulse Duo Wavemaker which can be set to switch between the two pumps in intervals as low as 10 seconds. But the last thing you want to do is break two Water Pumps each costing about $140.00 plus. If they do fit it would be a great upgrade and would complete any necessary circulation for this type of aquarium in my personal opinion.

[sammy33]

I measured the pump Section - 2 3/8 x 3 1/2
:confused:

The largest pump I have found that fits the 28g NCHQI is the Rio HF6. I have these running on a short interval on my ReefKeeper2. The Ocean Pulse was causing an issue with my ATO on power ups - both pumps would come on until you reset the timing to zero and back! This was causing the back area water level to drop and trigger my ATO to dump in more water than needed. The RK2 solved this and allows me to set a longer switching interval between the pumps.

I think I will order a pair of the Tunze's and see if they fit the 28g NCHQI. If they don't I can use them on my other setup. :)

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11502203#post11502203 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sammy33
I measured the pump Section - 2 3/8 x 3 1/2
:confused:

The largest pump I have found that fits the 28g NCHQI is the Rio HF6. I have these running on a short interval on my ReefKeeper2. The Ocean Pulse was causing an issue with my ATO on power ups - both pumps would come on until you reset the timing to zero and back! This was causing the back area water level to drop and trigger my ATO to dump in more water than needed. The RK2 solved this and allows me to set a longer switching interval between the pumps.

I think I will order a pair of the Tunze's and see if they fit the 28g NCHQI. If they don't I can use them on my other setup. :)

I have the same issue when restoring power such as after a water change. But I just unplug the ATO during the water change and plus it after I have a chance to set the Ocean Pulse Duo Wavemaker from Constant to 10 second intervals. I hope they the pumps fit.

[i2go]

Excellent job...Very clean, it's exactly how i want my new nano. I have a couple questions..
1. what did you use to attach that monti cap to your LR?
2. Did you use anything to join the LR together? As in like building the aquascape(glue, clay, etc.)
Sorry about those scratches, you were just about to stock it : (

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11502423#post11502423 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by i2go
Excellent job...Very clean, it's exactly how i want my new nano. I have a couple questions..
1. what did you use to attach that monti cap to your LR?
2. Did you use anything to join the LR together? As in like building the aquascape(glue, clay, etc.)
Sorry about those scratches, you were just about to stock it : (

i2go, thank you very much for the compliments. It is very much appreciated. I used standard Marineland Bonding Putty to contruct the structures within my JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI SPS Reef Aquarium. As far as the Montipora Capricornis I used pegs from the Boston Aquarium SPS Frag kit and Glue to Bond the frag to the peg. I had the benefit of the Rock structures having many holes and gaps that I'm using to my advantage.

[sk8rreefgeek]

damn, sorry about the scratches. talk about taking the wind out of your sails. on a lighter note, I bought my girlfriend a 24 dx this christmas, and she mentioned getting a mag float cleaner. ill make sure she doesn't, sooo you may have saved her tank!

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11504677#post11504677 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sk8rreefgeek
damn, sorry about the scratches. talk about taking the wind out of your sails. on a lighter note, I bought my girlfriend a 24 dx this christmas, and she mentioned getting a mag float cleaner. ill make sure she doesn't, sooo you may have saved her tank!

Sk8rreefgeek, well in a couple of days I should have my replacement which I'm crossing my fingers does not get damaged in transit. But I'm glad that my misfortune has been able to warn you of possible things to come. Let me know when you get everything setup. Thank you for reading my thread.

[jdokos]

So did the maker's of the Magfloat say that this has happened before? Is it specific to the JBJ glass? What will you use instead of a magfloat?

FYI - my replacement tank should be here tomorrow. My original arrived chipped.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11505056#post11505056 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jdokos
So did the maker's of the Magfloat say that this has happened before? Is it specific to the JBJ glass? What will you use instead of a magfloat?

FYI - my replacement tank should be here tomorrow. My original arrived chipped.

To be quite honest the problem is not inherent to just the JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI Aquarium. I have done some research on the Internet and various Nano Reef Aquarium forums and discovered the same issue with Red Sea Max, Current USA Aquapod and Finnix Aquariums. I'm gathering that it's just the power of the magnet in relation to the thickness of the glass that would cause this problem. I personally am going to go with a hight end Algae Magnet Cleaner that is safe for Acrylic use to ensure that I don't have a repeat episode of scratching and eventually loose my mind. :-) I'm leaning toward Algae Free or the Magnavore but haven't really made a complete decision.

[Reefmack]

That is indeed a bummer on the glass being scratched. What brand of mag cleaner was it? I've not seen anything like that on on my RSM tank using a Mag-Float made for glass. The fact that Transworld Aquatic Enterprises Inc. (which I think is the same as JBJ?) is sending a new tank almost sound like they're admitting they may have had a bad batch of glass.

[Jasonanatal]

New LPS Coral Frag Addition.

On Saturday, December 29, 2007 I purchased a Coral Frag of Acanthastrea Lordhowensis from NaCl-H20 of the Manhattan Reefs Forum. It was dripped acclimated over a period of 2 hours and allowed 1 week before being photographed. It is my first every LPS Coral from Australia and I have been providing it with extra attention and some tender loving care since it was the smallest piece left from the fragging of the colony.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20SPS%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelXTPhotographs013.jpg
Photograph - Completed mounting the Coral Specimen: Acanthastrea Lordhowensis to a Boston AquaFarms Reef Disc. Photograph taken Saturday December 22, 2007.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20SPS%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelXTPhotographs025.jpg
Photograph - Coral Specimen: Acanthastrea Lordhowensis after a little over one week in my Nano Reef Aquarium.
Photograph - Completed mounting the Coral Specimen: Acanthastrea Lordhowensis to a Boston AquaFarms Reef Disc. Photograph taken Saturday December 22, 2007.

Coral Family: Mussidea
Coral Genus: Acanthastrea
Common Name: Acanthastrea Lordhowensis
Common Morphologies: Encrusting
Origin: Pacific Ocean
Acquired: Saturday, December 22, 2007
Lighting Requirements: Moderate to high. Metal Halide Lighting is suggested. These are Shallow Reef Corals so their tolerance to light will vary.
Flow Requirements: Moderate flow. Australian Acans do best under medium flow. Medium flow is considered flow that will not disturb the coral or cause the flesh to peel off.
Availability: Low.
Growth: Growth rate increases when feeding, light and flow requirements are met. If you allow this coral to be exclusively photosynthetic then growth will be slower.
Difficulty: Moderate.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11518525#post11518525 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Reefmack
That is indeed a bummer on the glass being scratched. What brand of mag cleaner was it? I've not seen anything like that on on my RSM tank using a Mag-Float made for glass. The fact that Transworld Aquatic Enterprises Inc. (which I think is the same as JBJ?) is sending a new tank almost sound like they're admitting they may have had a bad batch of glass.

Reefmack, I cannot say that they are indeed advising that they had a batch of Aquarium Glass but I am grateful that they are sending me a replacement which is something that they definitely did not have to do since the it was a standard Mag-Float that caused the damage. But I have heard of this happening to other manufacturers of Nano Aquariums so I would have to say that it may not be the glass itself but rather the power of the Magnet Cleaner to the thickness of the glass.

[Reefmack]

Thanks Jasonanatal. I know you said searching indicated it wasn't just JBJ but other tanks as well. Maybe they all get a bad batch at times? I guess we'll never know for sure. I have put a small single scratch or two in my RSM, but that was from picking up a piece of substrate getting too close to the bottom - that can happen even with the acrylic scrapers. Your "scratch pictures" really did indicate something other than picking up a piece of substrate or a small snail - I'd never seen that degree of scratching before. It's a hassle, but at least you're getting a replacement - that's good customer satisfaction!

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11518728#post11518728 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Reefmack
Thanks Jasonanatal. I know you said searching indicated it wasn't just JBJ but other tanks as well. Maybe they all get a bad batch at times? I guess we'll never know for sure. I have put a small single scratch or two in my RSM, but that was from picking up a piece of substrate getting too close to the bottom - that can happen even with the acrylic scrapers. Your "scratch pictures" really did indicate something other than picking up a piece of substrate or a small snail - I'd never seen that degree of scratching before. It's a hassle, but at least you're getting a replacement - that's good customer satisfaction!

Reefmack, I couldn't agree with you more. :-)

[Chorethorious]

So any word on the replacement? Also, what are you going to do with the tank you've got setup? I'm assuming you're not required to send that tank back. With the scratches, maybe a QT tank or a type of fuge.

[Jasonanatal]

Out with the Old In with In with the New: Elos & LaMotte Test Kits.

In my quest to achieve a striving Nano Reef Aquarium my philosophy mainly revolves around among the belief that you get back what you put into it. Now there is much debate on the accuracy of more expensive Liquid Test Kits in comparison to the less expensive and more accessible brands and this post does not provide any type of scientific information to back my particular opinion on why I choose these companies/test kits over their less expensive competitors. Both companies caught my eye since do to their use in very large and captivating Aquariums of other members of various online communities as well as the companies guidelines as to the preperation, storage and eventually sale of these quality items. Both Elos and LaMotte take pride and care in extensively documentating the shelf life and batch numbers for each test kit as my previous test kit Aquarium Pharmeceuticals Incoporated did none of that. And if a company can take the time to document even the most miniscul item then they definitely have my attention. (My wife being Italian and subecting my to the quality foods, drinks and culture of Italians had nothing to do with me selecting the Elos Liquid Test Kits).


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20SPS%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelXTPhotographs00-4.jpg
Photograph - My new Elos Expert Line Liquid Test Kit for Phosphate (PO4) and pH. Photograph taken Friday, January 04, 2008.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20SPS%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelXTPhotographs00-5.jpg
Photograph - My new LaMotte Liquid Test Kits for Alkalinity (dKH) and Calcium (CA). Photograph taken Friday, January 04, 2008.

[martinphillip03]

LaMotte Test Kits are the way to go.

Marty

[karlyhui]

Hi Jasonanatal

Thanks for the great thread especially for beginners into Reef.
I pick up a lot of good info.

Keep us to up to date.

I will bookmark this.

[nanO352]

Love the tank.How long have you had it running for now?

[jdokos]

Hi Jason,

Quick question - I am setting up my chiller this weekend. Same as yours the JBJ 1/15. I plan to put it on a MJ 1200. I couldn't find gph recommendations in the product doc. Do you think this will work okay? Are you running off of the stock pump?

Thanks,

[Jasonanatal]

Starting All Over from Scratch

Hello evyerone, well it has been quite some time since I have made any updates to my thread and I'm hoping that everyone will benefit from my experience. I also have great news that most of my documentation will be video since I have just purchase a new Digital Hard Drive based Sony Camcorder. Stay tuned I should have something up this weekend.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11561629#post11561629 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by karlyhui
Hi Jasonanatal

Thanks for the great thread especially for beginners into Reef.
I pick up a lot of good info.

Keep us to up to date.

I will bookmark this.

Karlyhui, you are most welcome and thank you for the compliments. I took a bit of vacation but am glad to say that things are back in swing here and I will be posting regularly.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11561778#post11561778 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by nanO352
Love the tank.How long have you had it running for now?

Nano352, thank you for the compliments. My JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube HQI has been running for 4 months now.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11573626#post11573626 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jdokos
Hi Jason,

Quick question - I am setting up my chiller this weekend. Same as yours the JBJ 1/15. I plan to put it on a MJ 1200. I couldn't find gph recommendations in the product doc. Do you think this will work okay? Are you running off of the stock pump?

Thanks,

Jkodos, I apologize greatly for not having replied to your question since my little vacation from the forum. The Maxi-Jet 1200 is rated for 295 gph which is what I had on my setup to accomodate for the long travel from the top of the Aquarium to the floor where my Chiller was positioned. The gph rating of the JBJ Artica Titanium Chiller is 110 gph to 160 gph. In the world of Chillers the slower the Powerheads gph rating the more contact time the water will be processed within the chiller which will equal Higher Efficiency and Less Stress Load on the Chiller. If you have already set this up you may notice that your Chiller powers on quite often and you may be cleaning the Dust Screen on a weekly basis. I hope this helps. If you have more questions please let me know if I can be of assistance.

[jdokos]

Jasonanatal,

Thanks for the reply. I went ahead witht he MJ1200 for the chiller. It does loose almost all its flow by the time the water returns to the tank, but it is cooling just fine.

Based on what you state I may try a MJ900, that I currently use for mixing my water.

Did you decide on what algae magnet you are going to go with? I contacted JBJ and they stated that yours was the only one where they have see the scratching from a magfloat and that they could not reproduce in house. I am currently using the magfloat for acrylic. It is a struggle to remove all the algae from the glass with this. I would like to go back to using the magfloat for glass, but am nervous based on what you reported.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11935095#post11935095 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jdokos
Jasonanatal,

Thanks for the reply. I went ahead witht he MJ1200 for the chiller. It does loose almost all its flow by the time the water returns to the tank, but it is cooling just fine.

Based on what you state I may try a MJ900, that I currently use for mixing my water.

Did you decide on what algae magnet you are going to go with? I contacted JBJ and they stated that yours was the only one where they have see the scratching from a magfloat and that they could not reproduce in house. I am currently using the magfloat for acrylic. It is a struggle to remove all the algae from the glass with this. I would like to go back to using the magfloat for glass, but am nervous based on what you reported.

Jkodos, I have not yet come to a decision that I have found sufficient. I have contacted Algae Free and stated that I could use an Acrylic Algae Magnet but they have not recommended a particular size. Also Magnavore has yet to get back in contact with me. I should be making a decision shortly. I will definitely let everyone know. I'm thinking of using something Acrylic Safe but one for a larger aquarium to compensate since you seem to be having issues with getting algae off the glass.

[mksalt]

Jason,

I have one of these. They work great.

http://www.nimblenano.com/

[Chorethorious]

Jason, does the "starting all over from scratch" comment mean you've torn down your tank?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11935853#post11935853 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mksalt
Jason,

I have one of these. They work great.

http://www.nimblenano.com/

Mksalt, I will definitely look into this. Thank you for the information

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11935883#post11935883 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Chorethorious
Jason, does the "starting all over from scratch" comment mean you've torn down your tank?

Chorethorious, as much as I would honestly like to say no it does mean that the Aquarium has been completely torn down to start fresh. I didn't really have a choice.

[Chorethorious]

Well best of luck with round 2. I'm sure things will be a little smoother this time around.

[eaglesrx]

wow, you're tearing down your tank? What happened? This thread so far has been very informative!

[InLimbo87]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11944200#post11944200 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jasonanatal
Chorethorious, as much as I would honestly like to say no it does mean that the Aquarium has been completely torn down to start fresh. I didn't really have a choice.

Did you tear it down because of the scratches? What happened to the replacement tank? Couldn't you have just moved the inhabitants into the new replacement tank and used a less abrasive algae cleaner?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11946256#post11946256 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by eaglesrx
wow, you're tearing down your tank? What happened? This thread so far has been very informative!

Eaglesrx, The aquarium is being torn down this weekend due to having received my replacement Aquarium. This is being done since my current Aquarium has the scratches on it.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11946281#post11946281 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by InLimbo87
Did you tear it down because of the scratches? What happened to the replacement tank? Couldn't you have just moved the inhabitants into the new replacement tank and used a less abrasive algae cleaner?

Inlimbo87, that is actually what I'm doing since I have received my replacement Aquarium. I just haven't had much time to do so until now.

[InLimbo87]

Oooo good deal ! :D

[the tiler]

What did you end up buying for a glass cleaner for the new tank?

Jason

[Jasonanatal]

I'm Back in Business



I'm Back in Business

Hello everyone, this is going to be a very short post but with more to come this evening. I have decided that my 28 gallon JBJ Nano Cube HQU Reef Aquarium will be put back into full effect with no expense spared. So here is a teaser photographs for your enjoyment. I hope everyone like.



http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20Quarantine%20Aquarium/IMG_0134.jpg
http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20Quarantine%20Aquarium/IMG_0135.jpg
Photograph - 28 gallon JBJ Nano Cube HQI Reef Aquarium Teaser.

[Jasonanatal]

Lighting System Redesign

Nano Aquariums are just absolutely great and as being the new fade in the world of Reef Keeping their are a few design flaws that I feel are apart of any new product. My 28 gallon JBJ Nano Cube HQI was the first Nano Aquarium to my knowledge to introduce Metal Halide Lighting as a stock component in their package giving Reef Aquarist the ability to maintain High Lighting Corals right out of the box. However, some of the drawbacks to this all-in-one design include increased Aquarium water temperature due to the decreased ability to normally evaporate water and the creation of what I refer to as
the "dead zone". The "dead zone is an area created in the upper 1/4 region of the Aquarium in which even high lighting Corals will not survive due to the lighting intensity being too high.

I decided to incorporate a redesign in my Aquarium to provide the most suitable environment for my inhabitants. I decided that I should completely remove the stock lid/integrated lighting system and go with a Pendent Style Reflector. This will create an open design that would allow normal evaporation to occur which results in natural reduction of heat of the Aquariumw water.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20Quarantine%20Aquarium/29GallonJBJNanoCubeHQIQuarantine-1.jpg http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20Quarantine%20Aquarium/29GallonJBJNanoCubeHQIQuarantineAqu.jpg
Photograph - Google Sketchup Design of Aquarium Lighting.


For the choice of the reflector I decided to go with the Lumenarc III Stealth Mini Double Ended Reflector which has a 14.5 Inch length x 14.5 Inch depth footprint which provides more then adequate lighting. It is able to house up a 150 watt, 250 watt and 400 watt Double Ended HQI Bulb all by just adjusting the mounting brackets within the reflector. The reflector is currently suspended 11.5 inches above the surface of the Aquarium water by Yo-Yo Hangers which provide me the ability to adjust the vertical height of the reflector by utilizing its pulley system.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20Quarantine%20Aquarium/IMG_0142.jpg
http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20Quarantine%20Aquarium/IMG_0143.jpg
Photograph - Lumenarc III Stealth Mini Double Ended HQI Pendent Style Reflector.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20Quarantine%20Aquarium/IMG_0144.jpg
http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20Quarantine%20Aquarium/IMG_0145.jpg
http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20Quarantine%20Aquarium/IMG_0146.jpg
Photograph - Yo-Yo Hanger Pulley System.

[Jasonanatal]

Lighting System Redesign Continue...

I have heard great things about Reeflux Double Ended HQI Bulbs so I decided to give them a try since many people have reported amazing growth with these bulbs. In the Lumenarc III Stealth Mini Double Ended HQI Reflector is a single 250 watt Reeflux 12,000K Double Ended HQI Bulb which put out such a beauitulf white/blue intensity that I have been searching for. So while were at it I thought that this would be not time to skimp on the Ballast. I choose the Coralvue Electronic Dimmable Ballast which is a revolutionary piece of equipment in my mind. With this device I can actually manually drive down the intensity of the Metal Halide Bulb to 35% of the original 250 watt intensity using a turn dial nob located on the ballast (the ballast has been snuggly secured in an accessible area of the Aquarium Stand for this reason). This is a great feature that is usefull when acclimating new Corals or reducing the heating effect of Metal Halide Lighting on those hot summer days. This new system is very promising and I cannot wait to get some Corals & Clams going soon.


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Photograph - Coralvue 250 watt Electronic Dimmable Ballast.

[Jasonanatal]

Chiller Upgrade

Originally I started out with a JBJ 1/15 hp Nano Chiller which seemed to be being overworked. The chiller was constantly on and the Air Filter was constantly clogged. The worst part was that the Aquarium water temperature had a very wide range of fluctuation which is not suitable for an environment that I would design to be as stable as possible. So I have decided to upgrade Chillers to a Pacific Coast Imports CL-280 1/10 hp Chiller. The control module of this chiller is a Digital LCD Display and maintains my Aquarium temperature at 79 degress Fahrenheit. Their is also an integrated Electrical Socket to control a heater (I am not personally using this feature in my setup).


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Photograph - Pacific Coast Imports CL-280 1/10 hp Chiller.

[eaglesrx]

Good to see you back in the game!!

Wow, love that lumenarc reflector! Putting that thing over a nanocube is going to be crazy!!

Which pump do you have running for that chiller? The chiller looks very nice!!

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12655201#post12655201 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by eaglesrx
Good to see you back in the game!!

Wow, love that lumenarc reflector! Putting that thing over a nanocube is going to be crazy!!

Which pump do you have running for that chiller? The chiller looks very nice!!

Eaglesrx, thank you very much for the compliments and it is definitely good to be back. I currently have the trusty Maxi-Jet 1200 Power Head moving water from the Aquarium and to the Pacific Coast Imports CL-280 Chiller and back to the Aquarium. Is is rated at 295gph if I remember correctly.

[Jasonanatal]

Automatic Freshwater Top Off System Redesign

I currently employed the use of a do-it-yourself Automatic Freshwater Top Off System that utilized a standard Float Switch with a Snail Gaurd, a Freshwater Resevior (2.5 gallon All Glass Aquarium) and a Tom's Aqualifter Pneumatic Water Pump rated at 3 gph. This solution worked fine but left gaps in certain aspects of the protection against water pumps running dry and over topping.

To address some of the gaps I turned to the Tunze Osmolator 3155 Automatic Freshwater Top Off System. This system incorporates an electronic time controller and current limiter for the pump connected whcih results in a higher operational safety. This unit protects the metering pump against running dry and reports an empty freshwater resevior. The precise water level is ensured by a non-wearing optical sensor and a transistor switch without any moving parts. This sensor is insensitive to soiling, light or magnetic fields. Its “automatic eye” recognises the water level precisely, even small waves or level variations cannot irritate the unit. This is a definite improvement over situations where snail or wave can cause cause a Float Switch to accidently dose Freshwater which can adversly effect saliniaty levels.

An independent safety sensor with a separate power supply circuit and relay control ensures reliable overflow protection. Finally all functions are clearly displayed by LEDs on the main control panel and safety messages are also indicated by acoustic signals. This is one of the more pricey units but definitely worth every penny in my opinion for the increased accuracy and incorporated protection features.


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Photograph - Tunze Osmolator 3155 Automatic Freshwater Top Off System.

[Jasonanatal]

Controller & Automation Design

With a new job comes more responsibility and also increased hours spent at work rather then being home with your arm in the Aquarium. So I wanted to bring a new level of automation and control in my Reef Aquarium. I turned to the Digital Aquatics ReefKeeper 2. An amazing piece of equipment that after using it I honestly didn't know what I was doing without one. I managed to replace 4 bulky power strips with one Digital Aquatics ReefKeeper 2 (8 Channel Stock Unit) and one Expansion Module. This device not only enhances the level of control that you have over your Aquarium and Aquarium Equipment but also performs Data Logging and allow your to remotely view your Aquarium via the Internet.

The Digital Aquatics ReefKeeper 2 refers electrical sockets that it can control and display the staus from the main display as channels. Here is how I set my Digital ReefKeeper 2 for my Aquarium.

Jasonanatal's Digital Aquatics ReefKeeper 2 Settings

- Channel 1 (Tunze Osmolator 9002): This channel is set to always on for a constant supply of power to the Tunze Osmolator 9002 Automatic Freshwater Top Off System.
- Channel 2 & Channel 3 (Pump One & Pump Two): These channels are set to wavemaker mode. These two channels switch on and off for a duration of 2 minutes each.
- Channel 4 (Metal Halide Lighting on Expansion Module): This channel is set to turn on at 2:00pm and turn off at 10:00pm with a safety feature to turn off if the Aquarium water temperature reaches 81.5 degrees Fahreneheit.
- Channel 5 (Tunze Nano DOC 9002 Protein Skimmer): This channel is set to "Protein Skimmer" and is on until I enter standby mode to which turns the channel off. After standby mode has completed the channel waits an additional 5 minutes (time I choose and entered manually) before turning back on.
- Channel 6 (Marineland Visi-Therm Stealth 100 watt Heater): This channel is set to turn off should the Aquarium water temperature reach 78.5 degrees Fahreneheit.
- Channel 7 (Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Ultraviolet Sterilizer): This channel is set to turn on between the hours of 12:00am and 11:00pm. with a safety feature to turn off if the Aquarium water temperature reaches 81.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Channel 8 (Pacific Coast Imports 1/10 hp Chiller): This channel is set to turn on at 78.5 degrees Fahrenheit and turn off at 78.0 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Standby Mode is set to run for 30 minutes.

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Photograph - Digital Aquatics ReefKeeper 2.

[Eel-byte]

You'll like the RK2. I've had one on my 58g for the past 2 years with now issues. I plan on getting one for my 28g HQI soon.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12684046#post12684046 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Eel-byte
You'll like the RK2. I've had one on my 58g for the past 2 years with now issues. I plan on getting one for my 28g HQI soon.

Eel-byte, I already love this device. I'm contemplating the ReefKeeper Elite for myself after Christmas.

[Eel-byte]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12684134#post12684134 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jasonanatal
Eel-byte, I already love this device. I'm contemplating the ReefKeeper Elite for myself after Christmas.
Reefkeeper Elite?!?!? I guess I need to spend more time on the board, lol. Sweet looking setup. I've found my fathers days present ;)

[Jay-sun]

This is a great thread. Very informative. Wish I had the patience to document my set up's and ideas on a step by step basis. Very cool. Interested to see how the new lighting works out.
Keep up the good work.
Jason

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12698918#post12698918 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jay-sun
This is a great thread. Very informative. Wish I had the patience to document my set up's and ideas on a step by step basis. Very cool. Interested to see how the new lighting works out.
Keep up the good work.
Jason

Jay-sun, thank you for the compliments. It is very much appreciated. I will keep everyone posted.

[BigSalt]

Hey there- you've got a very nice aquarium and a nice family! that's the aquarium settup that I drool about. Gotta say though I spotted a potential problem with it- the same one I did on my JBJ 24- you put the sand in first, then the rocks. The rocks are sitting on the easily shifted sand, and could possibly result in a rockslide. This configuration can also lead to anoxic spots in the sand directly under the rocks, creating bacteria that produces hydrogen sulfide- deadly to a reef- this is what happened to my JBJ 24 before it went reef. Sad storey.

Besides alll that though- that aquarium's a beut. Good for you!

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12700805#post12700805 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by BigSalt
Hey there- you've got a very nice aquarium and a nice family! that's the aquarium settup that I drool about. Gotta say though I spotted a potential problem with it- the same one I did on my JBJ 24- you put the sand in first, then the rocks. The rocks are sitting on the easily shifted sand, and could possibly result in a rockslide. This configuration can also lead to anoxic spots in the sand directly under the rocks, creating bacteria that produces hydrogen sulfide- deadly to a reef- this is what happened to my JBJ 24 before it went reef. Sad storey.

Besides alll that though- that aquarium's a beut. Good for you!

Big Salt, that you for the compliments. They are very much appreciated but I actually forgot to document that the bottom of the sand is layered with Lighting Diffuser (Egg Crate) to keep rocks from cracking the glass in the bottom and when my rock shipment arrives (the rock inside the photographs was removed) it will be reinforced by PVC beams. ;-)

[Jasonanatal]

I almost forgot as far are the anoxic spots I try to reduce that by manually stirring the sand every two weeks and I will be adding many sand sifting critters (example: Nassarius Snails, Cucumbers, etc.).

[Reef Ruler]

The tank looked great! too bad you had to tear it down. All those gadgets should make this the ultimate reef tank :D

Question though, I may have missed this, but why didnt you use the rock from the first tank?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12701675#post12701675 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Reef Ruler
The tank looked great! too bad you had to tear it down. All those gadgets should make this the ultimate reef tank :D

Question though, I may have missed this, but why didnt you use the rock from the first tank?

Reef Ruler, well actually I have all those cool gadgets running the only think I sold was the rock which is the reason I'm getting new rock but just as your see the Aquarium is how it is. I apologize for the confusion.

[Jasonanatal]

Livestock Addition: Tiger Tail Cucumber "Holothuria Hilla"

Care Level: Easy
Reef Compatible: Yes
Diet: Detrivore
Range: Indo-Pacific to Red Sea
Family: Holothuriidae
Water Conditions: 74-80° F; sg 1.023-1.025; pH 8.1-8.4; dKH 8-12

I picked up this beautiful specimen as an addition to my cleanup crew and preventative maintenance against Anoxic Spots (a buildup of Hydrogen Sulfide) within the subtrate as well as the removal of detritus in a small area. He is extremely beautiful and at least 10 inches in length.


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Photograph - Tiger Tail Cucumber "Holothuria Hilla".


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWhzIvVO1rA
Movie - YouTube Video of my Tiger Tail Cucumber "Holothuria Hilla".

[Jasonanatal]

Why Buy One When you Can Get Two for Twice The Price!

Well first off to all the Father's out their Happy Father's Day! As this is my first Father's Day my wife wanted to do something special for me. Now I have a few hardware projects that I have planned down the road but I didn't have enough controllable outlets. So my wife decided that she would purchase a second Digital Aquatics Reefkeeper 2 for me. So me being the wonderful husband/father that I am I didn't deny the gift and began the setup of the new gadget.


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[englishreefer]

Have to say never seen such a kitted out nano before, you have some serious disposable income. So when is the new rock due, be sure to update with a fts for us to admire the aquascape.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12789964#post12789964 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by englishreefer
Have to say never seen such a kitted out nano before, you have some serious disposable income. So when is the new rock due, be sure to update with a fts for us to admire the aquascape.

Englishreefer, thank you for the compliments. I am actually going to about the Rocks and Aquascaping Later on this evening.

[Jasonanatal]

Marco Rocks Cherry Picked Delivery

Since I decided to sell my initial Marco Rocks I called Marc once again and asked him to Cherry Pick a particular setup of rocks for me. After some back and fourth E-mail and telephone calls Marc and I agreed on some very beautiful pieces of Fiji, Tonga and Marshall Island and my shipment was sent off. My shipment arrived about 1 week ago and has been placed in a Rubbermaid Tub with a 1,200 gph Powerhead, Heater and Saltwater and has been curing since. I'm hoping that within the next few weeks this rock will be ready for aquascaping.


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Photograph - Marco Rock Cherry Picked Order Curing in a Rubbermaid Tube.

[Jasonanatal]

Livestock Addition: Sea Hare "Aplysia Dactylomela"

Care Level: Expert Only
Temprament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, sg 1.023-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4, dKH 8-12
Max. Size: 1'
Color Form: Green, Brown
Diet: Herbivore
Origin: Indo-Pacific
Family: Aplysidae

This animal was purchased to control my Hair Algae issue since I don't currently have a sufficient clean up crew (two Trochus Snails). I am not adding additional Snails or Hermit Crabs because I do not want to make aquascaping the Marco Rocks more difficult in having to sift them out of the sand. This also prevents me trapping or crushing these animals underneath the foundation of the structure that I will be creating.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9ElkrvHGOg
Video - Sea Hair Grazing on Hair Algae in my Aquarium.

[NanoReefWanabe]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12793936#post12793936 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jasonanatal
My marriage is perfect! My job is great! But why are my tank parameters all out of whack???

LOL you answered you own question there...LOL

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12794008#post12794008 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by NanoReefWanabe
LOL you answered you own question there...LOL

LOL

[Jasonanatal]

Hardware Addition: EcoTech Marine Vortech MP40W 2nd Generation

The standard JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube comes with two stock 295 gph pumps which can be used simultaneously or in a on/off wavemaker mode using the JBJ Ocean Pulse Duo Wavemaker. This is great for the beginning hobbyist but in my personal strive to create and SPS dominated Reef Aquarium I realized that I needed something better. The answer... Ecotech Marine's Vortech MP40W 2nd Generation Pump. This pump is truly an amazing piece of hardware with numerous benefits, some of which I listed below.

- Low velocity variable flow which actually creates an undertow on the sand bed of the Aquarium.
- Controllable speed from 200 gph to 3000 gph which allows custom settings of flow to accomodate any Aquarium.
- Wireless capabilities which allow synchronization or Master/Slave control of other Vortech MP40W Pumps.
- No transmission of Heat/Electrical Current into the water column.
- Minimal electrical consumption for operation of the pump.
- Optional Battery Backup to ensure the well being of your Aquarium inhabitants in a power outage.


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Photograph - EcoTech Marine Vortech MP40W 2nd Generation Pump.

[Jasonanatal]

Aquascaping: Marco Rocks Cherry Picked Fiji & Tonga Mix

Well as always I choose Marco Rocks to be the supplier for my aquascaping needs. After some conversation and swapping photographs of various pieces I confirmed my delivery and within two days beautiful Marco Rocks at my door! The rocks were placed into a Rubbermaid Tub and allowed to cure over the next 6 weeks. Ammonia, Nitrite and Nitrate levels were monitored on weekly basis and confirmed that the Marco Rocks were fully cured. I then carefully began my artwork within the Aquarium. I wanted to create a tiered level aquascape which would allow area between the tiers to have the fish swim through and hide during the day. This design will also allow me to place Colonies/Frags of Coral within the Aquarium to provide adequate light to each specimen. Each piece of work was carefully manipulated within the Aquarium to create a locking wedge so that no puddy was used to bind the rockwork together and allow stability to not be compromised.


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Photograph - Marco Rocks Cherry Picked Fiji & Tonga.

[Jay-sun]

Gotta love all the gadgets. Sweet!!!

What setting you running the Vortech on?

I like what I see man. Keep up the good work.

Jason

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12855595#post12855595 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jay-sun
Gotta love all the gadgets. Sweet!!!

What setting you running the Vortech on?

I like what I see man. Keep up the good work.

Jason

Jay-sun, thank you for the compliments as always it is very much appreciated. The EcoTech Marine Vortech MP40W 2nd Generation Pump is currently running on Reef-Crest Mode. I haven't had the chance to sit down and make waves. As for gadgets their are definitely more to come *cough... Deltec cough...*

[mksalt]

How did the sea hare do?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12856574#post12856574 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mksalt
How did the sea hare do?

Mksalt, that Sea Hare did great he mowed through all the Hair Algea in about 3 days. I'm in the process of putting somthing in place to provide him and a few other Algea Eater a sustainable food source.

[mksalt]

I got to get one. Did you get yours at a LFS?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12857070#post12857070 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mksalt
I got to get one. Did you get yours at a LFS?

Mksalt, I got one at the local fish store for around $40.00 but I would have preferred to purchase one from another Reefkeeper as they are so efficient at clearing Hair Algea that they run a high chance at starving to death if proper supplemantation of food is not provided. I should start a Sea Hair Rental Service.

[mksalt]

You got a pic of that slug?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12876459#post12876459 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mksalt
You got a pic of that slug?

Mksalt, here you go.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20Quarantine%20Aquarium/IMG_0236.jpg

[mksalt]

That's a good lookin slug!

Do you see him out while the lights are on?

[cmfowden5150]

Wow I wish I would have found this thread months ago. Just a quick question or two for you.
1. Did you decide not to use the Precision Marine Reverse Flow Substrate Reactor when you started over and if so what are your plans this time around?
2. And the same question on the UV?
Thanks

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12877395#post12877395 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by cmfowden5150
Wow I wish I would have found this thread months ago. Just a quick question or two for you.
1. Did you decide not to use the Precision Marine Reverse Flow Substrate Reactor when you started over and if so what are your plans this time around?
2. And the same question on the UV?
Thanks

Cmfowden5150, I have addressed your questions below. I hope that helps. Also I will show you what I have done for new setup in the coming post. :-)

Precision Marine Reverse Flow Reactor

The Precision Marine Reverse Flow Reactor is a great piece of equipment but I personally think has some flaws that could be addressed. In my Aquarium I don't have a sump to place the reactor in so I really largely on the exterior space surroungint the Aquarium to house my equipment. Unfortunately the Precision Marine Reverse Flow Reactor didn't suite this particular configuration very much. Unless your extremely strong you have to spend a ridiculous amount of time tighting the lid to keep water from leaking from the unit. Sure it may be a little trickle which is fine for a sump but was absolutely unacceptable in my setup. Also I found changing the media to be a hassle since the sponges from what I examined could not be replaced with new sponges. Also disconnecting the unit from the Aquarium was a bit of a hassle wich could have been corrected by using unsightly unions at the tubing between the Aquarium and the Precision Marine Reverse Flow Reactor.

Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer.

The Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer is still being used and quiet honestly I have no problems with the unit. It runs flawlessly... bottom line! Also changing the Ultraviolet Bulb is a snap.

[cmfowden5150]

Jasonanatal-Also I will show you what I have done for new setup in the coming post. :-)


Looking forward to that.
Thanks

[OceansWonders]

I hate to be the tang police but your powder blue should be in at least a 75 gallon tank, 100 gallon preferred.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12879252#post12879252 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by OceansWonders
I hate to be the tang police but your powder blue should be in at least a 75 gallon tank, 100 gallon preferred.

OceansWonders, no need to apologize but I'm currently aware of their tank requirements but my little guy is a Sumatra Powder Blue Tang and is extremely healthy. He also get his long swim exercise by swimming against the EcoTech Marine Vortech MP40W's stream during the morning before the lights come on. He has been with me for over a month and has shown no signs of stress. Once I see signs of stress then I have an excuse for the misses to purchase a 90 gallon Ocean Tech Series Aquarium.

[Bradly88]

why do you have a tang in there? tank looks nice!

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12880470#post12880470 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Bradly88
why do you have a tang in there? tank looks nice!

Bradly88, thank you for the compliments. The Tang was purchased by me and placed in my Aquarium under my own descretion. He has been in their for about a month with no issues.

[i2go]

excellent job. I thought the first setup was awesome, but after your reconstruction of the tank after the scratches...outstanding

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12881735#post12881735 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by i2go
excellent job. I thought the first setup was awesome, but after your reconstruction of the tank after the scratches...outstanding

i2go, thank you very much for the compliments. There is much more to come. :-)

[Xavier613]

beautiful tank. love the rockwork

[BADGUS]

Poor PBT,nice setup though.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12882421#post12882421 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Xavier613
beautiful tank. love the rockwork

Xavier613, thank you very much for the compliments.

[mksalt]

Tell the BPT that living in a 28 G cube for now beats the hell out of being tuna bait for some guys fishing outing.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12883287#post12883287 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mksalt
Tell the BPT that living in a 28 G cube for now beats the hell out of being tuna bait for some guys fishing outing.

Mksalt, thank you for the support in my defense. I know that a Powder Blue Tang should be in a larger Aquarium but with some observations I have made using the Vortech he gets more then his share of swimming. I'll post shortly about it.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12882516#post12882516 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by BADGUS
Poor PBT,nice setup though.

Badgus, thank you for the compliments as well as the constructive critism. Both are equally welcome.

[cmfowden5150]

Can we please leave the man alone about the PBT and get back to what he actually started (a well thought out and detailed explination of his tank build) Attack the posters that have the 100g tank but kill them due to poor water conditions etc... If you plan on responding to this post please don't sidetrack this thread by posting it. Send me a pm and I will gladly reply.

[Sooners]

How do you get the water from the tank to the chiller and back up? Did you drill a hole (ie., some type of overflow), is it siphoned out or what? (I assume the chiller is below the tank.)

[martinphillip03]

How do you like your EcoTech Vortech so far?

Marty




<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12855332#post12855332 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jasonanatal
Hardware Addition: EcoTech Marine Vortech MP40W 2nd Generation

The standard JBJ 28 gallon Nano Cube comes with two stock 295 gph pumps which can be used simultaneously or in a on/off wavemaker mode using the JBJ Ocean Pulse Duo Wavemaker. This is great for the beginning hobbyist but in my personal strive to create and SPS dominated Reef Aquarium I realized that I needed something better. The answer... Ecotech Marine's Vortech MP40W 2nd Generation Pump. This pump is truly an amazing piece of hardware with numerous benefits, some of which I listed below.

- Low velocity variable flow which actually creates an undertow on the sand bed of the Aquarium.
- Controllable speed from 200 gph to 3000 gph which allows custom settings of flow to accomodate any Aquarium.
- Wireless capabilities which allow synchronization or Master/Slave control of other Vortech MP40W Pumps.
- No transmission of Heat/Electrical Current into the water column.
- Minimal electrical consumption for operation of the pump.
- Optional Battery Backup to ensure the well being of your Aquarium inhabitants in a power outage.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20Quarantine%20Aquarium/IMG_0299.jpg
http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20Quarantine%20Aquarium/IMG_0298.jpg
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http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/28%20gallon%20JBJ%20Nano%20Cube%20HQI%20Quarantine%20Aquarium/IMG_0288.jpg
Photograph - EcoTech Marine Vortech MP40W 2nd Generation Pump.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12885239#post12885239 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Sooners
How do you get the water from the tank to the chiller and back up? Did you drill a hole (ie., some type of overflow), is it siphoned out or what? (I assume the chiller is below the tank.)

Sooners, The chiller is being feed from a Maxi-jet 1200 Powerhead from within the left hand side rear chamber of the Aquarium. The Maxi-jet 1200 Powerhead pulls water out of the Aquarium and pushes it through the Pacific Coast Imports Chiller and back up into the Aquarium.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12885282#post12885282 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by martinphillip03
How do you like your EcoTech Vortech so far?

Marty

Martinphilip03, the EcoTech Marine Vortech MP40W 2nd Generation Pump is simply amazing. I'm grateful that they made a great improvement to the pump by adding a foam protective sleeve to cover the wetside to ensure that little inhabitants such as Nudibranchs for example don't become frappe! This pump just creates such amazing flow.

[Jasonanatal]

Filtration Equipment Addition: Deltec FR509 Fluidized Media Reactor



After careful consideration of what design and manufacturer I wanted for Fluidized Media Reactors I have chosen Deltec. The Deltec FR509 Fluidized Media Reactor was designed to house Rowaphos but can be used for any media including Carbon, Sand, etc. To accomodate this reactor I constucted a reinforced shelf near my Aquarium that can hold weights in excess of 80 lbs. The reactor is currently plumbed to the Aquarium using standard vinyl tubing connected to a Maxi-Jet 1200 Powerheard. However, the feed pressure is not poweful enough to agitate the Fauna Marine Ultra Carb L (Long Lasting Activated Carbon) within the chamber. As a result I will be removing the Maxi-Jet 1200 Powerhead rated at 295 gph and replacing it with an Eheim 1260 Hobby Pump rated at 635gph. This should supply more then enough pressure to agitate the media and will be placed externally to minimize heat and eletrical voltage transfer to the Aquarium water.





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Photograph - Deltec FR509 Fludiized Media Reactor filled with Fauna Marine Ultra Carb L.

[mksalt]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12886453#post12886453 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jasonanatal
Martinphilip03, the EcoTech Marine Vortech MP40W 2nd Generation Pump is simply amazing. This pump just creates such amazing flow.


I would love to see a video of that flow. Any way to represent it?

That’s a lot of cash for that pump.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12887247#post12887247 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mksalt
I would love to see a video of that flow. Any way to represent it?

That’s a lot of cash for that pump.

Mksalt, I can take a video tomorrow during the lights on phase so you can see.

[Jasonanatal]

Inhabitants: Sumatra Powder Blue Tang



Maximum Length: 9.1 in.
Care Level: Expert Only!
Family: Acanthuridae
Reef Compatibility: Good
Minimum Aquarium Size: 200 gal.
Range: Indian Ocean
Diet: Herbivore- herbivore preparations, macro algae
Water Conditions: 74-80° F; sg 1.020-1.025; pH 8.1-8.4



Well many people are going to saythat Powder Blue Tangs should not be housed in a 28 gallon Aquarium. I personally agree, under normal circumstances. I have owned Tangs before in larger Aquariums and I had noticed that every morning my Tang would actually be swimming against the current generated by an EcoTech Marine Vortech MP40 Pump. I came to the conclusion that this would simulate more long distance swimming rather then swimming edge to edge in a 200 gallon Aquarium. So I decided to experiment with my Aquarium. Only 28 gallon's in size but when swimming against a continuous flow of water from a EcoTech Marine Pump size of the Aquarium is not matter! Now this is in no way me advocating the purchase of a Vortech Pump and placing a Tang in a 10 gallon Aquarium. Their are many other aspects that require careful attention to detail such as Water Quality, Food, etc. thay must be taken under consideration! If their were any signs of stress or any other life threatening signs I would immediately transport the Tang to someone who could either give it a proper home or back to the Pet Store Credit or No Credit. I have included a video below to show my Powder Blue Tang swimming against my Vortech, although he gets thrown off a bit due to the Reef-Crest Mode.





http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7W33ihjCb8

Video - Sumatra Powder Blue Tang swimming against an EcoTech Marine Vortech MP40W 2nd Generation Pump.

[mksalt]

He’s like a long distance swimmer.

If the tang police find out about you feeding this guy steroids, your really in trouble.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12887415#post12887415 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mksalt
He’s like a long distance swimmer.

If the tang police find out about you feeding this guy steroids, your really in trouble.

Mksalt, all natural Macro Algae. LOL

[Jasonanatal]

Filtration: Plumbing My RO/DI Filtration Unit



I have alot of company in my home at any given time and one of the biggest complaints other then everyone saying that I play with my Aquarium too much is that I leave the tubes from my RO/DI Filtration Unit that stretches from the Bathroom through the Foyer and into the living room near the Aquarium on the floor and into my bucket. This not only present a tripping hazard but should someone accidently nock my tubring out then I have a flood. So I decided to make the best of it. I relocated my entire RO/DI to the wall next to my Aquarium and ran both incoming and outgoing water tubes on above the floor board. The tubing is secured using standard 1/4 Inch Cable Guide and I cut the corners with 90 degree elbows. No more tripping and spills here.





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Photograph - RO/DI Filtration Unit Plumbing from Living to Bathroom.

[Sooners]

Interesting. I had no idea a Maxi Jet 1200 would have enough "umph" to push the water down to the floor and back to the tank, much less have enough flow to properly run through the chiller...learn something everyday.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12888294#post12888294 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Sooners
Interesting. I had no idea a Maxi Jet 1200 would have enough "umph" to push the water down to the floor and back to the tank, much less have enough flow to properly run through the chiller...learn something everyday.

Sooners, it definitely has enough power to do the job efficiently. I haven't experienced a problem as of yet.

[Sooners]

Just curious -- what is the minimum flow required by the chiller? Since it was a 1/10th horsepower (as I recall from an earlier post), it probably isn't much, is it?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12888317#post12888317 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Sooners
Just curious -- what is the minimum flow required by the chiller? Since it was a 1/10th horsepower (as I recall from an earlier post), it probably isn't much, is it?

Sooners, I don't remember to minimum gph but it's not that much as you stated.

[reefman13]

I have to tell you I like what you have done, and this tank has come quite far in terms of equipment, but things are getting a little crazy...a tang in a 28g tank that should be in no smaller than a 175g tank...thats over a hundred gallon difference. These tangs really do need a minimum of a 48" tank, even though you have that vortec, it still isn't enough.

Jason, these fish live in groups of 5-10 guarding/patrolling over 1 square mile of water...having him in that size tank is not right...you might think he is fine, and don't get me wrong a beautiful active fish with a lot of character, but it just needs more room...

The tank is coming along nicely though, aquascape looks pretty cool, and you have a pretty tricked out system...I can't wait to see it in a year or two when the acros and montis are touching the top of the water;)

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12889719#post12889719 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by reefman13
I have to tell you I like what you have done, and this tank has come quite far in terms of equipment, but things are getting a little crazy...a tang in a 28g tank that should be in no smaller than a 175g tank...thats over a hundred gallon difference. These tangs really do need a minimum of a 48" tank, even though you have that vortec, it still isn't enough.

Jason, these fish live in groups of 5-10 guarding/patrolling over 1 square mile of water...having him in that size tank is not right...you might think he is fine, and don't get me wrong a beautiful active fish with a lot of character, but it just needs more room...

The tank is coming along nicely though, aquascape looks pretty cool, and you have a pretty tricked out system...I can't wait to see it in a year or two when the acros and montis are touching the top of the water;)

Reefman13, thank you for the compliments on the Aquarium. As for the Powder Blue Tang. I am completely aware of their natural behaviors in the wild but unfortunately he came from a very small 10 gallon Aquarium in a local fish store and decided that for the time being it would be better off in my Aquarium then theirs, since it already had an extended stay of over a month in their system. When I have the necessary funds and have finished deciding wheather I will be moving or not then he will get an appropriate home.

[englishreefer]

I think you should by a small cabnit or side board to put next to your tank to get your RO and reactor out of sight, starting to get abit messy.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12897468#post12897468 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by englishreefer
I think you should by a small cabnit or side board to put next to your tank to get your RO and reactor out of sight, starting to get abit messy.

Englishreefer, thank you for the advice but I personally like to see my reactor equipment working and I like things to be easily accessible. Plus when I sit at my computer I love looking at my Aquarium but it is something that I wouldn't be able to do with a small cabinet their.

[Jasonanatal]

Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer Breaks

My Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer has been in operation on various Aquariums that I have maintained for over a year now and during my weekly checks I discovered that the bulb had finally burned out. So I decided to remove the bulb from the unit and I accidently dropped the bulb back into the Quartz Sleeve of the unit. This drop was no more then 1 to 2 inches in height and it was enough to crack the Quartz Sleeve and render my Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer useless until replacement parts are delivered from Aqua Ultraviolet. Lesson learned: in the future remove the Ultraviolet Bulb completely from the unit before attempting to disconnect from the 4-Pin Connector.

Aqua Ultraviolet actually has provided me with some of the best Customer Service I have had in a long time. Their website states that if you send an E-mail you will get a response back within the next 24 hours. I sent my E-mail on Sunday at around 8:00pm and got my answer on Monday at around 3:00pm. They discounted the replacement parts that are required to get my unit up and running again! The Aqua Ultraviolet 25 watt Sterilizer should be back in operation in a week or two.

[Jasonanatal]

Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter Purchase

It's payday once again and I have decided to pull the trigger on an awesome piece of equipment from Deltec. The Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter is a device that was developed between Deltec and David Saxby that would create an efficiant method of filtering Nitrate from your aquarium water other then the measn of water changes. I just purchased mine from D&D The Aquarium Solution located in Pennsylvania and I'm hoping to have it delivered this weekend. That means I'm off to the liquor store now.

[martinphillip03]

Its amazing the amount of technology your adding to the tank. I am learning alot

Marty

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12969051#post12969051 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by martinphillip03
Its amazing the amount of technology your adding to the tank. I am learning alot

Marty

Martinphilliip03, thank you very much. I'm glad I could be of assistance in helping you learn something in our complicated hobby.

[dartmti]

Nice tank!

I'm just wondering how it went with the maroon clown. How did he/she behave in that size tank? Did it seem happy? Why did you get rid of it?
Many people have told me 40 gallons minimum with maroons.

Thanks

Matt

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12977904#post12977904 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dartmti
Nice tank!

I'm just wondering how it went with the maroon clown. How did he/she behave in that size tank? Did it seem happy? Why did you get rid of it?
Many people have told me 40 gallons minimum with maroons.

Thanks

Matt

Darmti, the Gold Stripped Maroon Clownfish was beautiful in my aquarium and never had any issues with other inhabitants of my aquarium. I actually sold her to a local reefkeeper in my area because I was interested in finding a pair of Picasso Clownfish which I have not yet found.

[dartmti]

Oh, good. Thanks!
I forgot to ask... How long was it in there?

Matt

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12979934#post12979934 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by dartmti
Oh, good. Thanks!
I forgot to ask... How long was it in there?

Matt

Dartmti, the Gold Stripped Maroon Clownfish was in a 90 gallon for about 5 months prior to being in my Aquarium for around 6 months.

[Jasonanatal]

Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter: Setup & Seeding

After a long day of server issues at work it great to be able to come home to my brand new toy, the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter. This was ordered from D&D The Aquarium Solution USA in Pennsylvania and delivered via FedEx the next business day. Much better then waiting 3 to 5 business days from Marine Depot on the West Coast. The function behind this device is to allow an area where Nitrate "NO4" can be converted to Nitrogren Gas "N2". Normally the average Aquarium Hobbyist will remove Nitrate "N2" from their aquarium through large scheduled water changes or maintaining aquatic planting. The Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter provides a large surface area where millions of bacteria can colonize and through a reductive process whereby oxygen from the nitrate molecules are utilized by anaerobic bacteria along with a carbon based food "Alchohol" can convert Nitrate "N04" into Nitrogen Gas "N2".

The Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter can be run in three different modes: Manual, Semi-Automatic and Fully Automatic. But since I currently own only the equipment for the Manual Mode for the time being. Since this is a natural bioligical process their is a period of seeding that must occur the Anaerobic Bacteria Colony must be grown. Water is taken from the aquarium and placed within the filter with just the recirculation pump turned on. Their is no additional water flow to or from the aquarium for this seeding period for the next 3 days. Also the Carbon based food (A mixture of 3 parts RO/DI Water and 1 part Vodka) must be provided 4mL twice a day through an injector port and syringe that is provided with the unit. Deltec does manufactur their own food but because their is alchohol contained within it it is not currently imported into the United States due to the extreme amount of paperwork and licensing that is required to import it legally. Unfortunately As the seeding process progresses I will keep everyone updated.


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Photograph - Deltec PF509 Nitrate Filter.

[martinphillip03]

Of course you couldn't use Smirnoff . Absolute is perfect vodka for this tank.

Marty

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12981946#post12981946 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by martinphillip03
Of course you couldn't use Smirnoff . Absolute is perfect vodka for this tank.

Marty

Martinphillip03, should we say Absolute Nano?

[martinphillip03]

Its the perfect name for your tank! Jasonanatal's JBJ 28 gallon Absolute Nano. Can you give any hints on the next piece of equipment your getting?



Marty


<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12981984#post12981984 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jasonanatal
Martinphillip03, should we say Absolute Nano?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12982726#post12982726 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by martinphillip03
Its the perfect name for your tank! Jasonanatal's JBJ 28 gallon Absolute Nano. Can you give any hints on the next piece of equipment your getting?



Marty

Martinphillip03, lets not spoil the suprize... cough Deltec cough.

[Reeferon]

wow

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12983830#post12983830 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Reeferon
wow

Reeferon, couldn't have said it better myself. :-)

[Endy0430]

Jason cool looking setup ...you have all the toys....question did you sell your other chiller?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12984269#post12984269 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Endy0430
Jason cool looking setup ...you have all the toys....question did you sell your other chiller?

Endy0430, thank you for the compliments. I actually did sell my other chiller a while ago. It was working to hard to cool the aquarium so I needed something stronger.

[eaglesrx]

Hmmm, I bet you're getting the mce600!!! Or maybe the ecocooler??? crazy!

Hey, which chiller did you used to have that it was running all of the time?

Keep us updated!

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12984409#post12984409 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by eaglesrx
Hmmm, I bet you're getting the mce600!!! Or maybe the ecocooler??? crazy!

Hey, which chiller did you used to have that it was running all of the time?

Keep us updated!

Eaglesrx, I was actually looking into the Eco-Cooler but it works on a method of natural evaporation to keep the water temperature down and it's not really recommended if you don't have a way of removing the excess moisture from the room in where it is installed (I live in an apartment). However, I did have my eye on one of the Deltec Protein Skimmers but that will be taking a back seat since my Tunze Nano DOC 9002 has been perfoming pretty well. I had a JBJ Artica 1/15 hp which works in most cases for some people but my landlord usually believes that he is having a competition with hell in keeping the building hot during the winter and summer it not really any better. So with those variables in play the JBJ Artica 1/15 hp was just not working for my situation.

[ZOKU]

Amazing looking nano. I'm subscribing. :)

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12984822#post12984822 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ZOKU
Amazing looking nano. I'm subscribing. :)

Zoku, thank you very much for the compliments and for subscribing.

[Jasonanatal]

Equipment: Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter: Setup & Seeding for Manual Mode

The Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter seeding process has a learning curve that starts out the same for everyone but is definitely a learning process once the beginning stage has been completed. The water placed in the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter has come directly from the aquarium to speed up the initial seeding process. The Tom's Aqualifter Pump that I have pulling water from the aquarium into the Delte NFP509 Nitrate Filter has been turned off after the initial flow testing was completed. The reason for this is that Anaerobic Bacteria that are responsible for converting the Nitrate into Nitrogen Gas exist in area of low oxygen. Preventing any saltwater from entering the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter causes the level of oxygen in the water to drop to levels allowing the Anaerobic Bacteria to colonize inside. It is also required that you feed the Anaerobic Bacteria a carbon based food. Deltec sells a Nitrate Fluid that is used for this purpose however it is not imported into the United States due to it having Alchohol. So in order to get around this minor problem I am creating my own Nitrate Food using a mixture of Vokda 1 ml and RO/DI Water 3ml which is feed in the morning (7:00am) and evening (7:00pm). This is how the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter remained for 3 days.

Yesterday evening was day 4 of the seeding process. This is when the Tom's Aqualifter Pump was turned on and allowed water from the aquarium to enter the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter and flow back into the aquarium at a very slow drip rate. Currently I have the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter to cycle through water at the rate of 1 drop of saltwater every 3 seconds. The saltwater coming from the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter was tested for the level of Nitrate leaving coming from it. Currently of have a Nitrate level of 10 PPM coming from the reactor which shows the Anaerobic Bacteria present within the have not reached a level able to fully remove the Nitrate from the water. I will test in 3 days to determine the Nitrate level coming from the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter.

The Deltec NFP509 flow rate and Nitrate Food is completely dependant on each aquarium setup. This is where the guesswork comes in. Also please remember that I am operating the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter in Manual Mode for the time being.

[eaglesrx]

love all of your toys on your nanocube!! Keep up the good work. If I had some more money to spend, I'd love all of your equipment on my tank!!

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13017254#post13017254 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by eaglesrx
love all of your toys on your nanocube!! Keep up the good work. If I had some more money to spend, I'd love all of your equipment on my tank!!

Eaglesrx, thank you for the compliments. Just wait theirs more to come.

[NemusMaximus]

wow. the equipment is unbelievable! Nice tank!

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13018134#post13018134 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by NemusMaximus
wow. the equipment is unbelievable! Nice tank!

Nemusmaximus, thank you very much for the compliments.

[Tangwich]

Nice tank and thread...I don't know if anyone else has mentioned this but it suits fittingly well Jason that in your avatar, your son's shirt and socks are "Powder Blue" :D

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13020388#post13020388 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Tangwich
Nice tank and thread...I don't know if anyone else has mentioned this but it suits fittingly well Jason that in your avatar, your son's shirt and socks are "Powder Blue" :D

Tangwich, thank you very much for the compliments. I actually didn't even notice that myself. I guess it was meant to be.

[kar93]

Jason, great tank and thread. It looks to have been planned out very well and carefully. I'm looking to do something like this myself and it's definitely inspirational. Perhaps an upcoming nTOTM. ;)

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13021518#post13021518 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kar93
Jason, great tank and thread. It looks to have been planned out very well and carefully. I'm looking to do something like this myself and it's definitely inspirational. Perhaps an upcoming nTOTM. ;)

Kar93, thank you very much for the compliments. However, I'm not anywhere near Tank of the Month status. I definitely have a long way to go and much more equipment to purchase.

[Jasonanatal]

Equipment: Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter: Setup & Seeding for Manual Mode

Today is Day 4 Part 2 of the seeding process for the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter. Currently I have a Nitrate level of 5 PPM coming from the reactor which shows the Anaerobic Bacteria present within the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter are growing at what I can consider a substantial rate but still have not reached a level able to fully remove the Nitrate from the water. I will test in 1 day to determine the Nitrate level coming from the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter. The Nitrate levels coming from the outflow of saltwater of the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter must reach 0 PPM before I can move on to the next step in the seeding process, which is to increase the overall turnover rate of the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter from 1 drop of water every 3 seconds to 1 drop of water every two seconds. Here is where the learning curve and fine tuning of the device start to come into play. As the water level is increased, which must be done in very slow increments the food source must also increase, let the trial and error begin!

This is honestly an amazing device. Considering that the seeding period is almost creating the process of maturing an aquarium on a much smaller level. But having a device that can drop Nitrate levels from 10 PPM to 5 PPM in a 24 hour period with no water changes is just astonishing. So far the Deltec NFP509 Nitrate Filter is proving that it is worth every penny!

[Jasonanatal]

Livestock: Disaster Strikes and I'm Not Sure Why!



Well I just came back from a walk with the family and went to start my weekly water change only to find out that all of my fish are dead! I have lost my Starry Blenny, Dragonface Pipefish and Dwarf Flame Angel all to to what is currently unknown to me at this time. The thing that is a little puzzling to me is that my Tiger Tail Cucumber, Sea Hare, 10x Zebra Hermet Crabs, 2 Electric Blue Hermit Crabs, 1 Halloween Hermit Crab and 2 Trochus Snails are all alive. My two colonies of SPS Coral are showing signs of stress and I'm not perfectly sure as to what is causing the problem. So I'm in the middle of the water change and will let everyone know what I find.

[martinphillip03]

Wow, Sorry to here what happened. Hope you discover the problem.

Marty

[kar93]

Sorry to hear that, Hope you get things sorted.

[Somrschool]

SO sorry for you! Hope you get to the bottom of it all soon!

[Jasonanatal]

Livestock: Possible Cause to Livestock Wipeout Marine Velvet

Well after testing water paramters which have been lsited below. I have come to the conclusion of a possible disease that would be responsible for claiming the lives of my livestock. Base on reading multiple documents on the Marine Velvet Disease and comparing their symptoms detailed within the document listed below, with the symptons being displayed by my livestock I would definitely lean toward this being the casue.

Water Parameter Testing
Salinity: 1.026 SG "Tested with Refractometer"
Ammonia: 0.0 PPM "Tested with Elos Test Kit"
Nitrite: 0.0 PPM "Tested with Elos Test Kit"
Nitrate: 0.0 PPM "Tested with Elos Test Kit"
pH: 8.3 "Tested with Elos Test Kit"
Magnesium: 1350 PPM "Tested with Salifert Test Kit"
Calcium: 460 PPM "Tested with LaMotte Test Kit"
Alkalinity: 12.7 dKH Test with LaMotte Test Kit"

Symptoms
The symptoms of marine velvet usually involve the skin and lungs. Mild infections will usually only infect the gills and the fish may show minimal symptoms. As the infestation becomes more severe, the gills will become inflamed, bleed, and the lung tissue will begin to die. The fish will show signs of irritation and distress, with rapid breathing and lethargy. As the inflammation increases, the fish will lose its ability to transport oxygen across the gill membranes resulting in a fish that shows symptoms of suffocation, and if treatment is not initiated, death will often result.

The skin is the site of attachment for the organism and in severe infections, small gold-colored spots will cover the skin, which can progress to create a "velvet" appearance which gives the disease its name. By the time the gold-colored velvet appears, however, the gills may be so infected that treatment is usually too late. Many fish die from this disease without ever showing any visible skin changes. It may be possible to visualize early forms of the infection on the skin by using indirect illumination. This works best on dark fish and can be done by shining a flashlight on the dorsal surface of a fish in a darkened room. Viewing infected fish against a dark background may also be helpful.

[FiSHy sAy HeY]

Your tank looks good.

Sorry for the fish loss

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13035155#post13035155 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by FiSHy sAy HeY
Your tank looks good.

Sorry for the fish loss

Fishy Say Hey, thank you for the compliments.

[martinphillip03]

Jason, When will you be able to add fish again?

Marty

[ukguy]

How do you think it got into your tank? Added any livestock recently?

does it incubate, or is it carried by fish only? Considering you do your own water etc, I'm just wondering how it got into the system?

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13035384#post13035384 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by martinphillip03
Jason, When will you be able to add fish again?

Marty

Martinphillip03, once my Ultraviolet Sterilizer has been repaired and if running for a while I will be able to add fish shortly after that. I'm giving an estimated timeframe from around 1 month to 2 months before I consider it remotely safe to add livestock.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13035608#post13035608 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ukguy
How do you think it got into your tank? Added any livestock recently?

does it incubate, or is it carried by fish only? Considering you do your own water etc, I'm just wondering how it got into the system?

Ukguy, according to the documentation it can be commonly contract from wild caught livestock and it extremely contagious. I'm not sure which fish brought it in but combined with my Ultraviolet Sterilizer breaking then it's a good chance that my gaurd was down.

[ukguy]

Jason,

I was wondering if it was introduced in coral frags, or coral frag water that you'd been adding?

incase we were buying frags from the same sellers in the RC For Sale forum.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13037371#post13037371 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by ukguy
Jason,

I was wondering if it was introduced in coral frags, or coral frag water that you'd been adding?

incase we were buying frags from the same sellers in the RC For Sale forum.

Ukguy, it is a possibility but haven't added anything recently so I cannot say for sure.

[Jay-sun]

Wow man. I havent checked in on your thread for a few weeks. Just got done catching up. Sorry to hear about the loss of fish. Discouraging to say the least. Hopefully you get it all figured out and get some new ones in there soon.
Love all the gadgets you keep on adding. Pretty sick. Ive seen 150-200 gallon tanks with less gadgetry. Im a gadget freak too though so I know where youre coming from.

Keep up with the good work.

Jason

[Mikes_aquatics]

sooo, how much wattage and how much money have you spent on this entire project??

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13065832#post13065832 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jay-sun
Wow man. I havent checked in on your thread for a few weeks. Just got done catching up. Sorry to hear about the loss of fish. Discouraging to say the least. Hopefully you get it all figured out and get some new ones in there soon.
Love all the gadgets you keep on adding. Pretty sick. Ive seen 150-200 gallon tanks with less gadgetry. Im a gadget freak too though so I know where youre coming from.

Keep up with the good work.

Jason

Jay-sun, thank you for the compliments. I'm getting things up and going again just working out a few kinks.

[Jasonanatal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=13066007#post13066007 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Mikes_aquatics
sooo, how much wattage and how much money have you spent on this entire project??

Mikes_aquatics, well were looking at about $3,500 in gadgets and $700 in livestock.