BB 120xl

[TXChewy]

So after much drama and hesitation I elected to set up my 120xl that had been in storage for months.

The Storage Story - Skip to pictures to avoid sharing in my Heartache

My wife and I were over due to close on our first place - a loft downtown and I was pushing my luck asking the guy to hold this tank any longer. So, with the go ahead from the realtor I drove to San Antonio to buy the tank. When we returned late Saturday night we found 2 cars parked illegally in the load/unload 15min zone in front of our building. After an hour and a few beers we decided to try and unload in the middle of a one way street blocking all traffic. Before we could get ready to pull the tank out of the bed Houston's finest showed up and threatened to write me a ticket. I pointed out the 2 cars and the officer found multiple unpaid parking tickets. So the cars were towed off within 30min. We thanked the officer pulled in to our legal spot and started unloading. We managed to get the tank into the loft but when we came for the stand 2 very upset people were waiting. Turns out they were my new neighbors from across the hall - no not down the hall directly across from our soon to be home. Many verbal threats were made and there was suspicions of my neighbor retrieving a hand gun. We unloaded the stand and got out of dodge when the guy made motions to retrieve the gun from behind his back.

The next day when I meet the realtor at the building to explain what happened, he informed me that person was illegally squatting and should be out soon. We then found out that he spent the better part of the evening trying to break in to my unit to bust the aquarium. Since the doors at the lofts are made of metal he was only able to snap off the door handle and dent in the door. Only after a lock smith was able to come fix the door did I get my stuff out. Needless to say we did not buy in that building and the aquarium was stuck in storage for months.

Special thanks to Sly Fox for helping me move my tank out of that building.

[TXChewy]

Factory 120xl with sump, skimmer and pumps.
Planet II in new 2009 anthracite color - Running 2xFiji Purple and 2xGiesemann Actinic+
Aluminum light brackets made by local welding shop
Custom "Clown Prison" made by Sapphire Aquatics
24in GLO light for "clown prison"
PVC insert for BB by Sapphire Aquatics
Drip Tray by Sapphire Aquatics
Jumper Stopper - Mesh zip tied to window screen framing
2 MP40w with Battery Backups (due to hurricanes)
Mix of different live rock some of which is man made

[TXChewy]

Adhesive Black Vinyl on Base

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/zse8t8j7LsQZ-mDiY3bWPg?authkey=BmMQmSKCLAc&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SV126cYx5BI/AAAAAAAAABY/HdwLdWURFSA/s400/Black%20Bottom.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Did not cover or mask the black silicone

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/gWkV2OAq69Z5r-qxITvOPw?authkey=BmMQmSKCLAc&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SV129Pi8tpI/AAAAAAAAABk/8ofWdkFX2bM/s400/Black%20Bottom%202.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Dog looking on

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/EjO22qGS9CGU3ulJVUhC_A?authkey=BmMQmSKCLAc&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SV12_4Q6EGI/AAAAAAAAABs/8was6--l-do/s400/Dog%20Likes.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Drip Tray made by Sapphire Aquatics

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/PmbMTlBQ0mOFwrRTAnhI0A?authkey=BmMQmSKCLAc&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SV13Jp1EtYI/AAAAAAAAACM/4VvyR7HYAqk/s400/Drip%20Tray.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

On Stand

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/gesewU6XX5Dd30IfnQuQMA?authkey=BmMQmSKCLAc&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SV13EVZdgNI/AAAAAAAAAB8/mRY5dRvd9ws/s400/On%20Stand.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

First Inhabitant

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/A46NoIItIjCX5KjGKs_XUA?authkey=BmMQmSKCLAc&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SV13HI5wVAI/AAAAAAAAACE/eqMUQMr6bS8/s400/First%20One%20In.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Some of the goods and the PVC Bottom in place cut by Sapphire Aquatics

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/vXZPrGp5iNsXy14YXHFEJw?authkey=BmMQmSKCLAc&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SV13LieyvrI/AAAAAAAAACU/2nzu1gNfHLg/s400/The%20Goods.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

RO water going in

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/1yPdNsFc4IT0O-U5xMYxXg?authkey=BmMQmSKCLAc&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SV13ODtyiZI/AAAAAAAAACc/YlnH4rBSksE/s400/Water%20In.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Slow process

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/wlbebx_EZLTrwpVr9BCX4w?authkey=BmMQmSKCLAc&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SV13Qr4gBpI/AAAAAAAAACk/tgupFcIXzs4/s400/Water%20In%202.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Clown Prison made by Sapphire Aquatics

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/pIdW7shG6iVny_frQWGkzQ?authkey=BmMQmSKCLAc&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SV13Sy3YSII/AAAAAAAAACs/OuhQ4xRJVkA/s400/Clown%20Prison.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Planet II arrived X-Mas Eve thanks ELOS USA Team

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/yOo6-L5-X1fSz0KyA5bmNw?authkey=BmMQmSKCLAc&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SV13WDhlnJI/AAAAAAAAAC0/CRl6sDlxF3Y/s400/Light.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Close Up of Anthracite Color

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/XQMpDcCotOZa1F1QDhdKPg?authkey=BmMQmSKCLAc&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SV13ZXK7B1I/AAAAAAAAAC8/PMe-lXi3d8o/s400/Light%20Ccloseup.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Lights All Working

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/W-c44bpV1f28JyRy_GB1gQ?authkey=BmMQmSKCLAc&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SV13a-GPd-I/AAAAAAAAADE/5NUXfayrjhQ/s400/Light%20Works.JPG" /></a>

All for now - Enjoy

[KRASHPD]

Nice Progress so far. I like the Planet II fixture. I went with a powermodule but I hope I don't regret not going with MH's after I'm done.

That drama with moving into the building is ridiculous. At least since they were squatters, the probably don't have the money to pay their parking tickets and get their vehicles back so they will be sold at auction. Serve's them right.

[alanscott]

Very nice set up. So what is the clown prison??

[boozeman]

Off to a rocky start after all that drama.... but in the end everything is looking good so far !

[TXChewy]

Thanks for the encouragement everyone

AlanScott - The "clown prison" is what I lovingly call the thing I had Sapphire make up for me to hold 3 sets of clowns. It sits below the tank and is tied into the system much like a sump. I will post pics soon after the 50 snails take care of the first bloom.

I ran the tank for 2 weeks with pure RO/DI to try and kill off anything on the liverock.

I then ran SW for 6 weeks as I awaited the arrival of the Planet II

Once the light was hung and I did the 3rd SW water change I moved over some fish and coral from one of the nanos.

At the rate these snails are going I should have some pics to share next week.

Thanks Again

[cparka23]

Congratulations on the promising (belated) start! Good to hear that you got out of downtown H-town w/o any more commotion. :)

Cool idea for the PVC bottom. I didn't think of Sapphire Aquatics when I was setting up my BB Mini. Just might have to look into getting one from them.

I'm sure the pics will help clear things up, but why do you want to put 3 clown pairs separate from the display?

[TXChewy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14065172#post14065172 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by cparka23
I'm sure the pics will help clear things up, but why do you want to put 3 clown pairs separate from the display?

Well I have three nano's all of which has/had clown pairs. I am a huge fan of clowns and would love to try my hand at raising fry.

Clown List as of 3 days ago:

Snowflake Occ Pair - In 120xl
Snowflake paired with B&W Occ. - Clown Prison
B Grade Picasso Pair - Clown Prison
A Grade Picass Pair - Nano
B&W Occ Pair - Clown Prison

After my female B Grade tried to escape from the prison the male is now paired with a female Solomon Island True Perc in one of the nano's.

My Snowflake with the B&W Occ. was dead in the clay pot yesterday. He had no signs of abuse from the larger B&W so I am unsure what happened. I will either pair one with the B&W or give her to a friend who has a single male. So long as he lets me collect any eggs that are laid. She is currently alone in the Prison.

I know there must be a better name than "Clown Prison" but with the CNC machining on the side walls it looked like prison cells.

[cparka23]

Yeah, I would have trouble calling it "clown prison," too. LoL. :D

Sent an off-topic PM. Hope that's okay.

[Nuuze]

Congrats TXChewy!

Interesting clown prison. :)

[TXChewy]

Thanks Nuuze

When it comes to Elos Tanks yours is one to aspire to

[LCN]

I like the name "clown prison".

[TXChewy]

Just T5's On

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/c1YtI6E8AEtioiSNVFyfuw?authkey=PVU1ZLtWp3Q&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SWari9enCzI/AAAAAAAAAEg/QcGWe185SjU/s400/IMG_3757.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

All Lights On - Love the green rock

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/QUDTnx49s_aO-XO9g-R8Lg?authkey=PVU1ZLtWp3Q&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SWarVNq_8UI/AAAAAAAAAEA/Zhq1wMwdyt8/s400/IMG_3765.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

The "CLOWN PRISON" now with added security (jumper stoper)

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/c5T0g9_WwLPRV6OJKG6xvg?authkey=PVU1ZLtWp3Q&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SWardXuGgvI/AAAAAAAAAEE/VcPaOzSUBUc/s400/IMG_3764.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Winter Wonderland

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/U67yJ3ApK_nc-ALtL3t9VA?authkey=PVU1ZLtWp3Q&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SWarujKDEGI/AAAAAAAAAEo/MCIOjRD1wJU/s400/IMG_3746.JPG" /></a>

[KRASHPD]

Looks great Tx. I like the picaso's. Must feel great to have it up and running finally.

[Nuuze]

Coming together nicely, TXChewy! Love the clowns! :)

[sly fox]

hey mate
glad to see it in action, whered you pck up that rock on the right, looks pretty interesting...

im going to get saphire to do my acrylic for my new build too, the clown prison is a very cool idea and they did a good job on it...

look forward to the progress
:)

[TXChewy]

Slyfox - rock on right side came from Fish Gallery months ago

Nuuze - Thanks Again, but its like what Ron Jeremy hears all the time "I get my skills by watching you[Nuuze]"

KRASHPD - Thanks but the clowns above are snowflakes my picasso's are in the nano.

[TXChewy]

Planet II Question (lets see if the "man" will chime in)

Do the fans only run when the T-5's are on?

I was running a split light cycle but the 250's were flickering tonight so T-5's now run with the MH's. The fixture was hot as ...:rolleyes:

[sly fox]

hey chewy, does anyone breed nigripes over here?

any new pics :)

[elosusa]

yes t5's are connected to the fan. So when you run them you should have the t5's running if you have the MH's running or the t5 running alone but not the mh only. While it is ok, it will get hotter.

[TXChewy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14162145#post14162145 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by elosusa
yes t5's are connected to the fan. So when you run them you should have the t5's running if you have the MH's running or the t5 running alone but not the mh only. While it is ok, it will get hotter.

Cool (pun? yup!)

I knew "the man" would chime in eventually. You avoided another phone call. LOL

Thanks Jesse

[TXChewy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14162061#post14162061 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sly fox
hey chewy, does anyone breed nigripes over here?

any new pics :)

I have been looking for those clowns and as far as I know there are no breeders on RC or any other website for that matter. There was a pair for sale on RC which was also the same clowns on MOFIB. Diffrent prices and diffrent usernames. Seemed kind of fishy (I am on a roll),

PICS? I took some cause you asked and only one came out worth posting - I hope.

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/VC-IoFc3kF_7k9LoX-sDfw?authkey=PVU1ZLtWp3Q&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SXAfiQ87irI/AAAAAAAAAG8/kswOq7KBbKA/s400/IMG_3805.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Say hello to "Darkness" or "Charlie Murphy!"

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/hj-oWjL487wZc5olUBnFGw?authkey=PVU1ZLtWp3Q&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SXAhbbb8cWI/AAAAAAAAAHc/IUKPQEqM3y8/s400/IMG_3785.JPG" /></a>

[sly fox]

haha, cool... that clown is quite a character

your pvc bottom looks surprisingly algae free for a young tank, I much prefer the grey bottom to the white, looks nice

how are the guys down below, I guess a fishes home is his castle, and every good castle needs a dungeon :)

[TXChewy]

Question

Will nori turn the water green and cloudy?

I bought some nori (8x4 sheets) and have used one sheet of the stuff in a week. It seems to me that it tears to easy and most drifts away. Can this stuff - if left unchecked - turn tank water into green water?

I have put an additional filter sock on the tank in hopes it will start to clear out.

Nori - was for the tang by the way.

Any help would be great.

Thanks

[spectrascott]

I have never had the water change colors from it but I also only use a small square on the sheet. I cut them into 3x3 squares and put them in my nori holder.

Tank looks great by the way!

[TXChewy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14212502#post14212502 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by spectrascott
I have never had the water change colors from it but I also only use a small square on the sheet. I cut them into 3x3 squares and put them in my nori holder.

Tank looks great by the way!

Thanks Spectra I will use less next time

Does anyone know what this "bloom" could be from? Only thing new is the use of nori. Now the tank looks like a swamp.

[sly fox]

soak some in some water in a bowl and see what happens.. also test the water after for phosphates maybe... is it going green as you put the sheet in, ie colouring? if the waters turning green but not from some kind of colouring sounds like it may be adding additional nutrients to the system what are your params like?

[TXChewy]

Best advice I have so far is it is a single celled algae that feeds on light. So the tank is now covered with a sheet and will stay in the dark untill Monday night. Lets hope this takes care of it.

Since the tank is mainly fish it "should" be ok - I hope.

[sly fox]

yeah thats what i was thinking, but it would need nutrients other than light to grow so its sometimes a sign a params a bit off

[TXChewy]

Clowdy Green Algae was hardly effected by a lack of light so a very kind local reefer let me borrow his 25w UV

After one day of running it as well as a 40gallon water change the tank is back on its way

Local reefers feel it is lack of bio-diversity in my tank due to it being BB and I cooked all the live rock. They have recomended I try Prodibio to get it going in the right direction. Need some input

Thanks

[steelersfan]

IMO, your tank was still cycling. That is why you were getting the algae breakout. On my current 90 gallon tank, I use a 25W Aqua UV with great success.
As far as Prodibio, I have been using it for over 6 months now. IMO, it works great. If you decide to go with Prodibio, you need to purchase Biodigest and Bioptim. These two work well together. For the first dose, you will use a larger amount. After that, the dosage drops considerably. I dose my tank every two weeks. If you decide to use Prodibio, let me know, and I can give you the dosage that was given to me by Scott @ Aquarium Specialty.

[TXChewy]

Steelersfan,

Do you have to use the Reefbooster as well, something about keeping the other two (Biodigest and Bioptim) in check?

I think I will be giving Scott @ A.S. a call very soon. I was tempted not to since I now have an all clear in the tank. But, some bio-diversity wont hurt - I hope.

[sly fox]

the prodibio is just the bac if i remember right, it needs the other carbon source to progogate

[steelersfan]

TXChewy,

The Bioptim is what keeps the Biodigest (bacteria) in check. That is why it works best when used together. At the beginning, you start with a higher dose of Biodigest, but after that, the dosage drops significantly. After the first dosage, you would add one vial of Biodigest and one vial of Bioptim for your size tank, every two weeks. When adding the Biodigest, you must make sure that you are not running a UV for at least 72 hours.

As far as Reef Booster, it is used after your nitrates and phosphates are at a low or undetectable levels. I would not add Reef Booster until your have your parameters under control. It is a nutrient!!! When adding Reef Booster, you need to turn off your skimmer for around 6 hours. The dosage is 1 ampule per 100 gallons.

I really like this product. I wish I would have started using it long ago. Let me know if you have any other questions.

[TXChewy]

steelersfan

On your and some local reefers sugestion I am ordering these 2 products:
1 x Prodibio BIO Digest 30 Pack
1 x Prodibio Bioptim 30 Pack

I will let you know how it goes. If I understand I will use two of them at first then I will go down to one?

Thanks Everyone

[steelersfan]

Perfect. I followed the instructions that Scott (Aquarium Specialty) gave me. Based on his instructions, you need to add 1 vial of BioDigest per every 15 gallons for the first time and 1 vial of Bioptim for the first time. Based on your size tank, it would translate to 8 vials of BioDigest and 1 vial of Bioptim for the first time. I know that it seems like a lot for the first time, but he was adamant about the dosage. After the first time, you would add one vial of each, every 2 weeks.

When you get the Prodibio, be careful with cracking the vials. It's easy to cut your fingers with the glass vials. Let me know how it works out, or if you have any questions.

[TXChewy]

Calling all Tang experts

So Darkness (My Black Tang) looks a bit different these days. In the picture a page back you can see that his fins are full and form a straight line. They now look serrated. Don’t know if this is caused by his diet, tank mates or maybe age. Please share you thoughts.

Thanks in advance.

[TXChewy]

Very bad picture but you can get the idea.

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/zgNl_l2YjHpEPqnXLqRBdA?authkey=PVU1ZLtWp3Q&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SZpyN_K6VEI/AAAAAAAAALI/73I9xrFdQ8Y/s400/IMG_3859.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Wow it has been some time since I update so for that I am calling for a vote.

Which one of the clams do you think looks the best? That will be the one I keep - if the wife agrees that is.

As always I take poor quality poictures - Sorry.

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ONfDfNR0bfpTxUwyLtfuUA?authkey=Gv1sRgCPTO2trLrM2qPQ&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SeQP-4UW8YI/AAAAAAAAAL8/f9MmuW_p6Uw/s800/IMG_3876.JPG" /></a>

[steelersfan]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14821123#post14821123 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TXChewy
Wow it has been some time since I update so for that I am calling for a vote.

Which one of the clams do you think looks the best? That will be the one I keep - if the wife agrees that is.

As always I take poor quality poictures - Sorry.

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ONfDfNR0bfpTxUwyLtfuUA?authkey=Gv1sRgCPTO2trLrM2qPQ&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/SeQP-4UW8YI/AAAAAAAAAL8/f9MmuW_p6Uw/s800/IMG_3876.JPG" /></a>

My vote goes for the green (far left)

[sly fox]

looks like they shipped well, which is awesome :) great clams :)

[serval]

My vote goes for the one with the most reticulations, the one at the next to last position, on the right side.

[TXChewy]

Wow 6 months since I have chimed in.

Update:

I am plumbing the 120xl and a 90g AGE tank (36x24x24) into one sump.

Sump was made by Sapphire Aquatics and is 48x24x16

Just finished my stand/computer desk, it spans 14 feet. 9 feet for aquariums and 5 feet of desk. The stand is 46 inches tall.

I have 60g of SW mixing to start the cycle on the AGE tank. It will hold 2 carpets, some SPS, LPS and my Latz Pair. It also has 140 lbs of sand to make the carpets happy.

With any luck I will move the ELOS onto the new stand just in time for Thanksgiving.

I plan to run the entire system on a Reflow Dart pump. Plumbing begins this week.

Pictures to follow.

[TXChewy]

Pictures to follow.

Finally got those pics - my bad.

[TXChewy]

Some Frags and the Fish in the ELOS

[TXChewy]

Full Tank Shot

[TXChewy]

Now the 90g AGE

[TXChewy]

More Coral 90g AGE

[TXChewy]

Fish 90g AGE

[TXChewy]

ELOS Corals

[stunreefer]

Looks awesome!

ELOS and AGE, eh? Best of both worlds ;)

[TXChewy]

Yea, I decided to see for myself which tank is better, ELOS or AGE.

[steelersfan]

Looks great. Is the male Flame Wrasse in an open top?

[TXChewy]

Looks great. Is the male Flame Wrasse in an open top?

I had a welding shop construct aluminum frames that have netting stretched across it. I will try and get a picture of the frames tonight.

I will say that the Flame Wrasse has been without the top for a few days by accident and he did not jump. I think once they get aware of there environment they are less likely to spook and jump. That being said, I make sure to always put the top back on.

Better Safe

[stunreefer]

Yea, I decided to see for myself which tank is better, ELOS or AGE.
I've had both and they both have their pluses and minuses... the minuses on both ends are negligible IMHO ;)

[TXChewy]

Pictures of the Jump Stoper and One of the stand with both tanks

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/u8IMAMMzAr5bi9u7n691AQ?authkey=Gv1sRgCPTO2trLrM2qPQ&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/S6mKu6jLIeI/AAAAAAAAAi4/EU9rNY3NRFE/s400/IMG_4039.JPG" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/8RoRe19k94iYN0AcdrC8mw?authkey=Gv1sRgCPTO2trLrM2qPQ&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/S6mK1AHGhkI/AAAAAAAAAi8/l-vezMzNyHs/s400/IMG_4040.JPG" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/pf60_0Nd9qJLcmpKyukb-Q?authkey=Gv1sRgCPTO2trLrM2qPQ&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/S6mK5bvyNmI/AAAAAAAAAjE/aukSU6FNcrw/s400/IMG_4041.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Night Shots with LED light bar

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/XMEF61PtlQ-mKx7Qyp46mA?authkey=Gv1sRgCPTO2trLrM2qPQ&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/S6BsdPuE3BI/AAAAAAAAAhs/iYsBznI1VLM/s400/IMG_4010.JPG" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/ZOJDUmcSIHEDq8frDt9r_w?authkey=Gv1sRgCPTO2trLrM2qPQ&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/S6BsUq3_jVI/AAAAAAAAAhg/14IIpgAmpM8/s400/IMG_4021.JPG" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/_n2XEh2SCvmmLuZmd1bZdA?authkey=Gv1sRgCPTO2trLrM2qPQ&feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/S6BsXHmzdGI/AAAAAAAAAhk/NGxAcLBVM7U/s400/IMG_4019.JPG" /></a>

[amore169]

Very nice build, also I like ur fish selection.

[TXChewy]

Very nice build, also I like ur fish selection.

Thank You, I had some anthias (tiger tuka and fat head) but they all died. I was told they were hard to keep but I had to try. Lesson learned the expensive way. :sad2::mad2::sad2:

[TXChewy]

I just finished using the new Inland DFS Frag Saw on my chalice. I cut 5 frags and will work on pictures if they make it.

Thanks for looking

[TXChewy]

If anyone is running a Vertex Alpha Cone Skimmer - Please chime in.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
This has been the worst skimmer to get dialed in. With that said I have to assume I am doing something wrong.

Please help out if you know the answer:

1 - What water depth are you running your Alpha 250?

2 - What red tube are you running with the pump (smaller one or the larger)?

3 - What position is your ventrui in, wide open, half way, nearly closed? I am unsure the tech name for the tube that you turn to adjust the amount of exit water flow.

4 - How often do you pull the pump and clean it?


My Problems:

1 - When I think the skimmer is adjusted to the correct level (begin to get foam in the neck) I always wake to find water on the floor.

2 - I can only turn the venturi tube a inch before water begins to exit the elbow that the air line attaches to.


My skimmer set up:

Skimmer is on a stand at a water depth of 8 inches. Stand is 4 inches tall. Total water depth of sump 12 inches.

I have switched the red tube to the smaller one that came with the pump. The reason for this is I was unable to get any nog with the stock red tube.

Total water volume around 250 gallons.

Any help would be great.

Thank You

[TXChewy]

Pictures of sump and skimmer

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/n0BbM2RAjhcTRlZl_UUtv9zC4sWKjfRhe7hWBiuZhcs?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/S8abwD3-8ZI/AAAAAAAAAl8/hmJDX_CnWbM/s400/IMG_4081.JPG" /></a>

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/3JNi7uoGBK2hJn9BIRp17NzC4sWKjfRhe7hWBiuZhcs?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/S8aZ-UoPzbI/AAAAAAAAAlg/zCn-LgNjOog/s400/IMG_4078.JPG" /></a>

[TXChewy]

Advice Needed / Wanted

Calcium Reactor - what brand?

or

Dose BRS?

Cheers :spin1:

[zachslow]

Use 2 part. I wish I have never spent years using a calcium reactor and kalk. Seriously, 2 part is so easy.

[TXChewy]

Well I went the pricey route today and ordered a Geo Ca Reactor. After talking with a LFS I am wondering if I went the right direction.

A few months ago I traded some frags for some SPS. Sadly all of them RTN.

I asked the trader what he thought the reason was and this is what I found:

His KH - 10-12
My KH - 6-7

I began dosing and soon many of my SPS RTN and many browned out after KH went to 8.5.

Back to the LFS - he keeps his SPS tank at 6-7 KH because it is what natural SW levels are at. He recomended I get rid of all GFO (I use Rowa Phos) and give the tank 3 months to color up.

Very confused on what route to go.

If anyone has suggestions please post.

I am about to redo the plumbing for the new Dart Gold and attempt to hook up the RK Elite that I have had sitting since I purchased it last year. :worried:

New pictures to come soon.

[TXChewy]

Reactor was delivered today

Now what to do?

Any suggestions would be great. :beer:

[sly fox]

mate which LFS is this?

any idea what your phosphate level is and nitrates? I suspect your browning out might be answered there...

[TXChewy]

zachslow - thank you for posting

slyfox - the LFS was all about fish. here are the results from Aquarium Water Testing. I have since done a water change


Water Test Summary 6/18/2010
Ammonia (NH3-4) ........................ High.........................................0.160
Nitrite (NO2)................................Good ........................................0.004
Nitrate (NO3)...............................Good ............................................0.9
Phosphate (PO4) ..........................Good .........................................0.20
Silica (SiO2-3) ............................High..............................................0.8
Potassium (K) ..............................Good ...........................................390
Calcium (Ca)................................ High............................................460
Boron (B) ...................................Good.............................................4.8
Molybdenum (Mo)........................ High..............................................0.2
Strontium (Sr) ............................Low...................................................
Magnesium (Mg) ..........................Good ..........................................1125
Iodine (I¯)..................................Good ...........................................0.08
Alkalinity (meq/L).........................Good .......................................... 3.70

[sly fox]

Actually that phosphate level is high at 0.2..did you mean 0.02? if its 0.2 i wouldnt remove the gfo tbh and usual phospahte tests arent that reliable generally

Your ammonia level is a concern...if it gets to 2 you should consider removing your fish as they may snuff it... why do you think your ammonias so high? is something dead and rotting? A 0.2 phos will inhibit calcification, and that much ammonia would give your corals problems

[sly fox]

hows this working out? was the ammonia from the rtning?

[TXChewy]

It appears that was the case

I have just started adding new sps and all looks good, but time will tell

[TXChewy]

New Fish

Is this guy reef safe :eek1::hammer::D

<table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/GwtEp89rqkVfYDB-k0BzadzC4sWKjfRhe7hWBiuZhcs?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/THCzY1PBT5I/AAAAAAAAApU/h0S0abSB_HM/s800/977740142_dsc_2154%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/uofhgrad08/DropBox?authkey=Gv1sRgCPTO2trLrM2qPQ&feat=embedwebsite">Drop Box</a></td></tr></table>

[Gotcha!]

Nice teeth, I bet you hand feed her/him :D

[TXChewy]

Nice teeth, I bet you hand feed her/him :D

Yup but the bad thing is he likes to floss with my fingers :eek1:

[DDRR]

What are the dimensions on the drip tray?

[TXChewy]

What are the dimensions on the drip tray?

It was cut to fit the inside of the stand.

I no longer have the stand or drip try after building the current stand.

Sorry

[skh]

Chewy - any updates on your tank?

[TXChewy]

Updates:

I think I may have my Ca Reactor dialed in, it only took a couple months. :furious:

I lost lots of sps durring the dial in period. In fact I was tempted to throw in the towel and sell it all. Luckly, my wifes dragon eels tank has kept me going. Due to the reactor the eels have some extra coral to knock over. :mixed:

Here are some pictures a fellow reefer took about a month ago. I hope you enjoy them

Darkness is still going strong
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/TaNqgVlseEI/AAAAAAAAA5g/HIiZplki0jI/s400/DSC_0308.JPG

Aussie War Coral
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/TaNqnmSgzNI/AAAAAAAAA5o/7CFrkUJMpLg/s400/DSC_0321.JPG

Clown Condo
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_0rIFxD6KSu4/TaNqwEvvKCI/AAAAAAAAA5s/lebiD9yFpfM/s400/DSC_0333.JPG


All for now. I will try and post a few more pictures of the other tanks later.

Cheers
:beer:

[skh]

I'm sorry to hear about the hard times with the CA reactor. But the war coral and clown condo in those pictures still look very healthy and colorful.

[TXChewy]

Here is a video a fellow reefer shot with his DSLR.

The DSA 185g Eel Tank
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFeHBaxhhYk

[skh]

Here is a video a fellow reefer shot with his DSLR.

The DSA 185g Eel Tank
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFeHBaxhhYk

Wow, what an awesome video! :thumbsup: Those dragon morays are stunning. You should get some more close-up video of them hanging out. Is everything still doing well in the tank?

[TXChewy]

Wow, what an awesome video! :thumbsup: Those dragon morays are stunning. You should get some more close-up video of them hanging out. Is everything still doing well in the tank?

Thanks for the kind words.

The tanks are still running and slowly growing. Our local club has had a recent push for photos to be submited for TOTM contests. I will post pictures of all 3 aquariums soon.

Cheers

[TXChewy]

Full Tank Shots

<table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/4eUj-8Walmfzv8R0PdpSoQ?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-fxPxe8I427s/Tkm-yhmy88I/AAAAAAAABGY/eYI-RlzpjPc/s400/DSC_7827.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/uofhgrad08/TANKS?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite">TANKS</a></td></tr></table>

<table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/n1aA8tuED5wQ-296wvwJcA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-LceysQpOPfo/Tkm-j6NzjXI/AAAAAAAABGU/h0p-CRnXZ_M/s400/DSC_7821.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/uofhgrad08/TANKS?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite">TANKS</a></td></tr></table>

<table style="width:auto;"><tr><td><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/_1QHuJnuJjCGfBZaA4nDlA?feat=embedwebsite"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ExXkTo0H6-8/Tkm-aB-nwXI/AAAAAAAABGQ/tJuSr1FAutQ/s400/DSC_7775.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td style="font-family:arial,sans-serif; font-size:11px; text-align:right">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/uofhgrad08/TANKS?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite">TANKS</a></td></tr></table>

[Reeferguy34]

Nice set up

[TXChewy]

Nice set up

Thanks

Sadly, I have decided to sell the Elos in favor of a frag tank.

I will be selling the following:
-120xl
-elos sump
-Aluminum frame welded with netting (jumper stoper)
-PVC insert for BB look
-Planet II fixture

There is no stand, no return pump, no skimmer

Price $2000.00 :crazy1:

[rosco1234]

Tried to send you a pM but can't until I have 10 posts.

I am very interested. I live in Friendswood but work over @ I-10/Hwy 6 so I cover most of the city in a typical day. May I come see the tank/light when it's convenient?

Rgds
Steve
832-541-0660

[Fliger]

Good luck to you. Crazy good deal for someone. You should consider an Elos 70 for a frag tank. :lol:

[TXChewy]

Steve

Edit out your number I will call you tomorrow

Cheers

[TXChewy]

Good luck to you. Crazy good deal for someone. You should consider an Elos 70 for a frag tank. :lol:

I guess I will need to buy some other Elos tank or this thread will have to die.

Can't hang out with elos members only crew anymore :(

That's the hobby. Always changing.

Cheers

[08TRDOFFROAD]

Just read this thread! Those Elso tanks are sweet, but crazy expensive! It's too bad you decided to sell!

Talk about some crazy potential neighbors in the beginning! Definitely glad you didn't end up buying the place!