My tank after 5 weeks!

[MrHarvard]

Here is my tank after 5 weeks of set up. Please excuse my camera and my photographer skillz. Take it easy with the comments im a rookie.

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p168/KatieShepherd/SSPX0107-1.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p168/KatieShepherd/SSPX0090.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p168/KatieShepherd/SSPX0091.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p168/KatieShepherd/SSPX0092.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p168/KatieShepherd/SSPX0100.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p168/KatieShepherd/SSPX0098-1.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p168/KatieShepherd/SSPX0094-1.jpg

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p168/KatieShepherd/SSPX0097-1.jpg



http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p168/KatieShepherd/SSPX0094-1.jpg



http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p168/KatieShepherd/SSPX0102-1.jpg

[reefnetworth]

you should wait 6-9 months before adding any corals!
your parameters need to be stable for that duration in order to build the proper bacteria field. :rolleyes:

[stpauli914]

Your tank is looking really good. Congrats on it coming along nicely.

I would however caution that your tang is not a great choice for such a small cube.


Keep up the good work and trade the tang for a differnet fish.

Aaron

[MrHarvard]

Nitrite 0, Amonia 0, Nitrate 0, PH 8.2...........Yup I think these levels just may work! Thanks for your .02! With alot of luck and some praying MY corals may just live.

[MrHarvard]

No way man that tang is my excuse to buy my next tank.lol I will have his new home ready for him before he ever has a chance to out grow this one. Also All my fish are my pets I would never trade thm away. I have a damsil that everyone tells me to get rid of but he has already grown on me. Thank you for your nice comments!

[sinful]

Nice, dont think I have ever seen my tank with 0 Nitrates.

[jbax]

after your tank cycles you can add many diff things. your corals will live,lol. don't go buying a mandarin fish anytime soon though.

[MrHarvard]

Yah I know its gonna be awhile before he needs a bigger. tank. He is really small as you can see in picture 2. He is the smallest one that I have seen in person. But before anyone else mentions the tang I know he will need a bigger home!

[iFisch]

My $.02.

Your adding corals waaaay to fast. I would let the system mature furthermore, but once one has instilled in his brain that I'm going to do what I want, regardless, its hard to say much. So I kept it brief.

I have two 2" colony of zoa's, a xenia frag and one SPS frag. But I have about 1 years experience doing this in the past.

And we started at the same time. I remember you asking LOTS on both the TB/Orlando boards just last month.




Best of luck to you.

[HOSSER]

wow the encouragement in this club never ceases to amaze me. MrHarvard I bet NONE of those people bought something they shouldnt have or, had a fish they wanted to grow out , or rush something in one way or another. Instead of beatng a dead horse they could say how nice the frags are you have or god forbid actually take an intrest in your tank. Lord knows if it was their post they would expect a compliment.
Everything looks nice, as you already know the tang will out grow the tank but if you have an upgrade in the future perfect! Heck even if you dont there is plenty of people on here willing to buy one. Even if it is a little rushed or has more in it than most of us would have at this point I cant honestly say that it WONT work, this hobby is built on people trying new things and breaking rules.
"rules" is a funny word in a hobby isnt it? Just be responsible, if those corals were not wild taken which it doesnt look like many if any were than if they die you have learned something and the reefs in the ocean havent lost a thing. Im sure I will get flamed for saying that but anyone who does is a hypocrite, because I bet 100% of the people on this forum have killed something.
More pics please , maybe a detailed list of what you have.

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15117329#post15117329 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by HOSSER
wow the encouragement in this club never ceases to amaze me. MrHarvard I bet NONE of those people bought something they shouldnt have or, had a fish they wanted to grow out , or rush something in one way or another. Instead of beatng a dead horse they could say how nice the frags are you have or god forbid actually take an intrest in your tank. Lord knows if it was their post they would expect a compliment.
Everything looks nice, as you already know the tang will out grow the tank but if you have an upgrade in the future perfect! Heck even if you dont there is plenty of people on here willing to buy one. Even if it is a little rushed or has more in it than most of us would have at this point I cant honestly say that it WONT work, this hobby is built on people trying new things and breaking rules.
"rules" is a funny word in a hobby isnt it? Just be responsible, if those corals were not wild taken which it doesnt look like many if any were than if they die you have learned something and the reefs in the ocean havent lost a thing. Im sure I will get flamed for saying that but anyone who does is a hypocrite, because I bet 100% of the people on this forum have killed something.
More pics please , maybe a detailed list of what you have.


No, but then we could have another "OMG my tanks dead" thread on our hands... and it will all come back to "I told you so" remarks. You should know how often this stuff happens...

[HOSSER]

iFish you just proved exactly what I said, what good have any of you done by saying he overloaded it or the fish will get to big and go trade it in. Its in the tank , why not tell him to keep an eye on his params even closer now or ask if he is testing for certain things without sounding like a smart ellic teenager. And "I told you so's" are about as immature or worse.

[evil.konceptz]

Why don't all of you nay-sayers keep your .02 cents, and buy better attitudes? I love how everyone has to have their anal moments cuz someone new did something different, GET OVER IT. This hobby wouldn't exist if people weren't willing to take risks. BTW nice tank MrHarvard, all of your stuff won't die just because you didn't wait, you may just have to do a bit more maintenance to keep your params in check. You people need something better to do than make new people feel unwelcome, go ahead and flame me, I don't care cuz you're not better than I am so you have no effect on me, GET OvER YOURSELVES and learn how to be more friendly and informative, and less negative. Didn't your parent's ever tell you if you didn't have anything nice to say, to shut your face?

[jbax]

yeah, i guess all my corals and fish are zombies. after my tank went through it cycle i was buying corals every weekend. and they are multipling like critters from space. my 5 head frogspawn now has 12 heads and my torch went from 4 to 11 heads. and the other night my elegance coral was yelling "BRAINS, BRAINS, BRAINS" while chasing my spotted blennie. i was scared. if this happens to you mrharvard don't be brave just RUN and save yourself.

[joel00782]

i added fish and coral the same week i filled my 72g bowfront
and yesturday i added two more if your levels are ok your good to goim not waiting 6 or 8 moth with a empty tank with just hermit and snails and a fish MAN I WANT CORALLLLLLL

[MrHarvard]

Thank God there are some positive people on here!!! I know that I rushed somethings "but" EVERYONE i talked to all said if your water levels are good then I would be ok to add livestock. When I originally got on this site it was to learn and meet people who shared the same intrests. I had no idea just how many people followed this site locally. I have had to lie twice about who I was when visiting 2 of my LFS in fear that I would be looked down upon or even denied a sale. (If you think im lieing ask Sinful!!!!) I spend several hours a day looking at and testing my tank so if it extra care it needs then its extra care it will get. I posted this hopeing someone would say wow that tank is looking good or give me tips on placement that would better suit my corals. If all my zoos being open and my frogspawn already growing like crazy and the SPS that sinful gave me on my first week is already branching out, or not to mention ALL my fish already eat out of my hand (I wash my hands very well before this dont worry MIKE...LOL) is a sign of a unhealthy toxic tank then I cant wait to see how everything reacts when I do get it right. Thank you to the people who stood up for me and who had nice things to say!

[SSpiro]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15117002#post15117002 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sinful
Nice, dont think I have ever seen my tank with 0 Nitrates.

Nor I.. 3 tanks, 2 years... never had below 10 or so. :(

[MrHarvard]

After all I have read about nitrates and new tanks I couldnt believe it either. I ran the test twice and sinful was there to see the results. I checked it about 4 days ago....I have a multilevel filtration system going on becasuse I havent found a tunz 9002 cheap enough yet. I have a AIO system so I have a air powered skimmer in the first chamber along with a carbon filter, live rock ruble and filter floss in the second, and cheto in the third along w more filter floss. I couldnt decide which route to go so I used them all....lol

[Acolin]

looks great, lots of color, make sure you change 30-60% of the water each week, at least for the first several months,

does the filter floss come before the cheato, or after it?

[jbax]

as long as the corals and fish are happy. keep doing what your doing. you already know dory needs a new home and you said it's coming soon.

[MrHarvard]

It comes before twice?

[MrHarvard]

Im doing a 50% change today if I can make it over to Sinful's to have him brew me up some H20...

[Pacific Reefs]

Honestly who waited 6-9 months to add corals? The truth absolutely no one unless they had a fish only system. Sounds like your rock is cured and everything is in check. I've had 0 nitrates in many of my reefs. I think the 6-9 month rule is for anemones though.

Welcome to the hobby and I am sure you have already learned a lot from your research. After 6 years I am still learning. It's good to see new people get into the hobby...especially since you see so many people selling off their systems etc.

Anyway the tank looks great and can't wait to see the corals and coralline algae grow all over.

[MrHarvard]

Thank you for your kind words I got all my rock cured from established tanks and transported it quickley in a bucket of water. I did have a small cycle but it was small and quick! I read alot on reef keeping and I learn something new everyday.

[MrHarvard]

Hosser here is a list of what I have so far:

1-Blue hippo tang (tiny)
1-damsil
2-true percs
1-cleaner shrimp
20+crabs (1 med. Halloween hes my favorite)
5-spiney stars (tiny)
7-snails (1 lettuce)
7-zoas (aromor of god,bam bams, eagle eyes, yellows, greens, pinks,orange,brown)
4-sps (birdsnest, purple monti,green monti, green digi)
1-Green candy cane
1-frogspawn (1 head)
1-hammer (2 heads)
2-rics (3 heads geen, 3 heads orange)
1-plate (pinkish orange)
6-sponges (yellow,orange,brown,red,white,black)
6-mushrooms (red,green,purple)
2-xenia
1-yellow finger gorgonian
1-bristle worm

I think thats about it......

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15117384#post15117384 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by HOSSER
iFish you just proved exactly what I said, what good have any of you done by saying he overloaded it or the fish will get to big and go trade it in. Its in the tank , why not tell him to keep an eye on his params even closer now or ask if he is testing for certain things without sounding like a smart ellic teenager. And "I told you so's" are about as immature or worse.


Then the problem usually grows bigger and bigger, and by the time someone can figure out the problem, it's too late.

I'm just posting from experience. If he chooses to "overload" his system, by all means go for it. It's ultimately his money. But I learned the hard way, by following in his footsteps my first time, and before you know it, I had a "my tanks dieing" threads going, even though it appeared things were doing ok, while some pieces were shriveling up and melting.


This message board isn't 100% about positive assertions. And don't expect it. I was just stating my opinion. If he chooses to ignore it, fine. Additionally, I do like all the positive attitudes here, but when you see someone moving a bit too fast, wouldn't you want to help them and tell them to slow down?

For instance if you were in the car with your friend, and he was excessively speeding. Wouldn't you say something? I would...

[Camryn1]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15119059#post15119059 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by iFisch
But I learned the hard way, by following in his footsteps my first time, and before you know it, I had a "my tanks dieing" threads going, even though it appeared things were doing ok, while some pieces were shriveling up and melting.


I'm the opposite... I listened to all the good advice you all gave, sifted through it to choose a path that respected the conflicting opinions and both my first attempt at a reef tank and now this second one in my new home has been a huge success.

It's made me realize the value of following good advice.

The number one solid bit of advice I was given and it just plain made sense from ANY project I've ever undertaken...

"Only bad things happen quickly in a Reef Tank"

No offense Mr. Harvard, but it's been 5 weeks... glad things are going so well, but it's also only been 5 weeks. There's still plenty of time for the advice to prove itself correct and a long time before your one example could be used as evidence that the advice is need of an adjustment.

I'm looking forward to your future photos and threads on here where it's either proven right OR wrong...

[MrHarvard]

I am not overloading my tank! like I stated before my water levels are perfect and I test them EVERY day so if anything changes I will catch it then and there. In addition just because you failed doesnt mean I will. You could have gotten live rock that wasnt cured properly or corals that werent dipped and infected your tank there could be a thousand other variables that could have caused you misfortune. I am by no means a pro at this but I have followed the one thing that everyone lives by water parimeters. If I have a spike I will so a water change and combat it but as of now I dont feel tht just because it didnt work for some people that it wont work for me! I mean honestly my levels are perfect my livestock is extremely happy thats what im going for right.

[MrHarvard]

I think my cycle is over and I dont see having another one unless I stir up my sand bed. Im doing 30-50% water changes every 5 days and testing daily. I have gotten all my corals from people and places I trust! I already have Lots of money invested in this tank and I dont want to lose any of it. the only thing I feel like I should have waited on were the sps i think they will be fine though.

[MrHarvard]

Im still waiting on mflamb's lambs comments. He must be thinking long and hard about this one...lol

[sinful]

Who cares? Seriously. There are so many people on here it would be impossible to get the same exact advice from every single person. Which is why its such a great hobby. Personally I don't see anything different in what he is doing as to what people do when upgrading tanks. I upgraded from my 14 bicube roughly the same time he started. I ran my new tank for two days before doing the move over. Should I have given all my corals away and wait six months before adding them? No, because just like most I used the same stuff from my smaller tank and had zero cycle.

When your first starting out like mrharvard and asking questions and getting tons of pms from long time vets telling you its ok, of course your going to take that over the negative. As for going to fast, maybe he is maybe he isn't. If his params are in check, he has researched his coral purchases and knows how to care for them, what can be kept with what...etc. Give em a break, trust me when I say I can almost garauntee you he is researching this hobby more so than probably anyone here while starting out.

I could post a picture of my car and the first thing your going to say is man you need some new tires, but if I honestly feel I can get another couple thousand miles out of them I'm going to run em another couple thousand miles. If I get a flat or something who really is going to suffer and learn from the experience? Prolly a stupid analogy, but dang I need some new tires. Ha

[Acolin]

except the Tang, which will outgrow the tank, I don't think you have too much fish.

Realize of course that it takes several months for an aquarium system to mature. This maturity is not simply measured by crude chemical levels. Even the Ga Aquarium took two years to mature and they constantly measure their levels electronically!

[sinful]

I should also mention that, in my opinion of course, the next purchase by mrharvard should without a doubt be a ro/di and a bucket of salt. Not that I mind making u water, but if something does happen and an emergency waterchange needs to happen, you better have the avail water to do it immediately and then another and another...etc. No way you'll be able to save your corals without having the water avail right then.

[triggerfish1976]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15117002#post15117002 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sinful
Nice, dont think I have ever seen my tank with 0 Nitrates.

Almost every tank will have 0 nitrates after the first cycle because of the large bacteria bloom that generally occurs around 4-6 weeks after initial setup (what do you know its been 5 weeks). Judging by the slight cloudiness of MrHarvard's water I am guessing he is going through this right now.
A true tank cycle actually takes abour 6-8 months thus the comment by reefnetworth about not adding corals until 6 months or so. This tank has yet to see the microalgae bloom which generally happens after the initial bacterial bloom. The over abundance of bacteria dies off because it has consumed all of the nutrients from the original cycle and has nothing else to eat thus causing an increase in nutrients in the tank. The extra nutrients is consumed by the algae thus causing the bloom. You may also run into the dreaded Cyanobacteria or red slime algae at this time as well.
All of these can cause problems for corals as algae can and will overtake coral tissue.
I am not saying that you will lose your corals or fish but its likely especially the SPS & LPS. You can increase your chances by making sure you're exporting more waste than you importing. This done with efficient skimming, mechanical filtration, and water changes.
I see you have a non-photosynthetic gorgonian in there that requires regular feedings of phytoplankton which will add a large amount of nutrients to the tank. They are beautiful corals but keeping them will make it much more difficult for the other corals in the tank. That little regal tang also needs numerous feedings throughout the day if you want it to survive which will also add more bioload to the tank.
Good luck with the tank and I strongly suggest you do some additional research because success in this hobby is judged in years not weeks.
:D

[MrHarvard]

The cloudyness in the water is from the food I feed my tang. I turn all my powerheads and pump off when I do so inorder for the food to remain in the tank to be eaten. As for the algae bloom I have already been through it (Sinful helped me take care of it) I sucked all the top layer of sand out and treated as well. I feed all my fish twice a day as I have the tang and a small perc i want to grow. as for the gorgonion it is doing very well it is covered with the little white feather like flowers it has. I havent had any signs of RSA yet and hope I do not find any. Like I said I am skimming and doing 30-50% water changes every 5 days. As hard as it is for some of you to believe all is well at the moment. Dont worry as soon as my tank crashes I will post it so everyone can take there stab and let the "I told you so" begin. I will continue to update my progress and hope you all will be wishing me luck not ill will. As far as the research goes I do tons of it daily like sinful said. We have been friends for almost 20yrs and he can tell you that when I get into something I really get into it. And that RODI unit remark ill just bring everything to you and let you put it in your tank..lol

[sinful]

Well said. .....always learning

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15119433#post15119433 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by triggerfish1976
Almost every tank will have 0 nitrates after the first cycle because of the large bacteria bloom that generally occurs around 4-6 weeks after initial setup (what do you know its been 5 weeks). Judging by the slight cloudiness of MrHarvard's water I am guessing he is going through this right now.
A true tank cycle actually takes abour 6-8 months thus the comment by reefnetworth about not adding corals until 6 months or so. This tank has yet to see the microalgae bloom which generally happens after the initial bacterial bloom. The over abundance of bacteria dies off because it has consumed all of the nutrients from the original cycle and has nothing else to eat thus causing an increase in nutrients in the tank. The extra nutrients is consumed by the algae thus causing the bloom. You may also run into the dreaded Cyanobacteria or red slime algae at this time as well.
All of these can cause problems for corals as algae can and will overtake coral tissue.
I am not saying that you will lose your corals or fish but its likely especially the SPS & LPS. You can increase your chances by making sure you're exporting more waste than you importing. This done with efficient skimming, mechanical filtration, and water changes.
I see you have a non-photosynthetic gorgonian in there that requires regular feedings of phytoplankton which will add a large amount of nutrients to the tank. They are beautiful corals but keeping them will make it much more difficult for the other corals in the tank. That little regal tang also needs numerous feedings throughout the day if you want it to survive which will also add more bioload to the tank.
Good luck with the tank and I strongly suggest you do some additional research because success in this hobby is judged in years not weeks.
:D

[sinful]

Ro/di= smartest purchase I've ever made in this hobby

[Acolin]

that and a bucket, MrHarvard should have a garbage can of mixed, aerated sltwater standing by for late night water changes, when things go bad, you may want to make 30-60% water changes daily until the system recovers, so it helps to have the saltwater already pre-mixed and available, good luck, seems like you are learning a lot

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15119151#post15119151 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Camryn1
I listened to all the good advice you all gave, sifted through it to choose a path that respected the conflicting opinions and both my first attempt at a reef tank and now this second one in my new home has been a huge success.

It's made me realize the value of following good advice.



That's what I do now. I do not, and refuse not, to rush my tank this time. It's not going anywhere. And the longer I wait, the better corals,chalices,acans and SPS I can put in there. I am looking forward to the future, not this month.

[MrHarvard]

Well this has been a very productive post....lol....I guess I should have know better than to think I was going to get all "great looking tank" comments!

[rrcg50]

Tank looks good. I especially like the clown(wink,wink). Keep up the good work and doing your research it will make this hobby that much more enjoyable.
Ps
One of the best purchases I ever made was my ro/di

[MrHarvard]

Thanks rrcg I love the baby clown I got from ya hes growing like crazy! I should be down that way around the 4th of July ill give ya a ring, maybe we can get some fishing in.....

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15119991#post15119991 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
Well this has been a very productive post....lol....I guess I should have know better than to think I was going to get all "great looking tank" comments!

If it was 5 months, and not 5 weeks, I think things would have been a little different. Some of us, have seen this happen numerous times. A 5-week old tank looking fantastic, and boom, something outbreaks and everything dies.

Some are impressed by your ability to spend money and not fully research how to setup and operate a proper and complete reef. Everyone is still learning. No one is ever done learning in this hobby.

This hobby takes time, patience, money and a little luck.

Rushing things isn't going to make anything better.

[MrHarvard]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15120031#post15120031 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by iFisch
If it was 5 months, and not 5 weeks, I think things would have been a little different. Some of us, have seen this happen numerous times. A 5-week old tank looking fantastic, and boom, something outbreaks and everything dies.

Some are impressed by your ability to spend money and not fully research how to setup and operate a proper and complete reef. Everyone is still learning. No one is ever done learning in this hobby.

This hobby takes time, patience, money and a little luck.

Rushing things isn't going to make anything better.

[triggerfish1976]

Were those SPS browned out when you put them in the tank?

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15120042#post15120042 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard



mmmm....yeah?

[MrHarvard]

Not sure what you mean by not knowing how to setup and operate a proper and complete reef. Are you refering to how fast I set it up or something else? Also once again just because it happened to YOU doesn't mean it will happen to ME! I will change my water every 3 hours if need be.

[MrHarvard]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15120049#post15120049 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by triggerfish1976
Were those SPS browned out when you put them in the tank?

Yes sir?

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15120084#post15120084 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
I will change my water every 3 hours if need be.


Because if you knew how to maintain and run a proper reef, you wouldn't need to be doing this. That's my point.

You can only "band-aid" or "temporarily" fix things for so long, before your reef starts to crumble. If you don't do it right, your tank won't ever properly ready to host corals and fish.


I am not saying you practice bad husbandry, but a LOT of research should have been done before even buying a tank, let alone rock, sand, water etc. As you can see, I'm very active here. I love reading, replying, asking questions and giving advice.

It seems to me, you bought the setup, assembled it, and then started asking questions. Questions, IMO, should be asked first, find out what exactly you want to do coral and fish wise, and very slowly start with a cycle. Just leave it running for a good 3 weeks, before checking/adding anything.

I have the advantage of being in this hobby for a year. I know from experience, generally, when the usual outbreaks occur, and how to deal with them. I know when my cycle is complete, and I know it takes time to "build a 'reef' immunity system". So slowly, adding one fish here, a coral there.



You seemed to dump the ocean into your tank, just short of 5 weeks. It's just not what I'd do, personally. But it's your tank, your money and your time.


PS. Why do you think reefs are so beautiful and full of diversity? Because it happens over night?

[triggerfish1976]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15120084#post15120084 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
Not sure what you mean by not knowing how to setup and operate a proper and complete reef. Are you refering to how fast I set it up or something else? Also once again just because it happened to YOU doesn't mean it will happen to ME! I will change my water every 3 hours if need be.

Changing too much water can actually lead to more problems. A major key to successfully keeping a reef tank is stability. If you're required to change 50% or more in order to keep your nutrient levels low enough than you either have a poor filtration system including skimmer, the biological filtration is being overwhelmed by the amount of nutrients being imported into the tank, or its a new tank (sorry not trying to pile on just offering up my advice.)
Generally, water changes are meant to replace trace elements being consumed or exhausted by the overall ecosystem in the tank and shouldn't be relied upon to keep nutrient levels at bay because you can and more than likely will experience a large swing in one of a million different parameters that can easily be effected during a water change.
If you're going to continue to do large, frequent water changes than getting your own RO/DI unit and mixing your own salt is a must. Buying pre-made saltwater and performing large water changes is like playing Russian Roulette because you never know how clean the water you're buying is and if they are keeping consistent salinity or even using the same salts from batch to batch.
If you don't have the funds to get a RO/DI than at least buy RO/DI water and mix the salt yourself so you can make sure the temp. and salinity are the same from batch the batch. Ask to see the stores RO/DI unit and look at the TDS reading. If it's reading zero than you should be ok.

[sinful]

Hydroponics.

Those brown looking sps digi frags did go to him brown, by me. They are actually a very dark green polyp. Reason they are brownish I think is bc I grew a piece(maybe .25 of an inch) that someone was going to throw away in my biocube with pc lighting. That .25" piece grew to about 4" with many many branches in a years time. I know I know. I should have let the guy throw it in the garbage, how cruel of me to put it under pc lighting. I did eventually upgrade to mh and the polyps started turning a very dark green. Broken it many times cleaning tank but it grows like a weed

[MrHarvard]

I get most of my water from my LFS and I test it before i ever add it to my tank. Im not going to defend myself or what I have chosen to do. I know I opened the door by posting my tank pics but I have had enough. I have meet several people on this site that I have either bought from or traded with. That I will just pm from now on. I am not going to post or reply to any threads until my tank as at lest 6 months old. Im sick of defending my decisions. Thanks for all the positive feedback! Cheers

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15120383#post15120383 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
I get most of my water from my LFS and I test it before i ever add it to my tank. Im not going to defend myself or what I have chosen to do. I know I opened the door by posting my tank pics but I have had enough. I have meet several people on this site that I have either bought from or traded with. That I will just pm from now on. I am not going to post or reply to any threads until my tank as at lest 6 months old. Im sick of defending my decisions. Thanks for all the positive feedback! Cheers

What's the TDS reading from the LFS you get the water from?

Going to close up like a clam (no pun intended) because you "expected" everyone to say good things? :rolleyes:

Can't take a little advice and slow down? Criticism is a good thing. It helps correct the things you've done bad or are missing. It's the only way to improve and make things better...

There's no need to defend your decisions. We know why you did it.



Please don't take any of this "personal" or to "heart". We want you to continue searching, researching and learning. Otherwise your going to sit with a tank with a possible time bomb.

[triggerfish1976]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15120383#post15120383 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
I get most of my water from my LFS and I test it before i ever add it to my tank. Im not going to defend myself or what I have chosen to do. I know I opened the door by posting my tank pics but I have had enough. I have meet several people on this site that I have either bought from or traded with. That I will just pm from now on. I am not going to post or reply to any threads until my tank as at lest 6 months old. Im sick of defending my decisions. Thanks for all the positive feedback! Cheers

What brand test kits so you use? I ask because if the best ones like Salifert, Elos, and Lamotte will not give you accurate enough PO4 readings and one of biggest problems hobbyists have down the road is PO4 build up from not sifting their sand beds and doing water changes with water that hasn't been filtered properly.
I am not saying that the water you're buying is bad but you should make sure it's ok by having someone run it through a Hannah meter or test the fresh with a TDS. New saltwater should have zero Phosphates.

[jbax]

hey mrharvard the world is gonna end tomorrow.

[sinful]

"No pun intended"but you have been in the hobby yourself a very short time and advice saying to slow down isn't advice.

Not succeeding on your previous tanks has nothing to do with him and you should wait until you DO have success growing corals before you offer your advice. Waiting 6 months before you add a coral doesn't mean you know what your doing and definitely doesn't mean your going to have a healthy reef.






<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15120415#post15120415 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by iFisch
What's the TDS reading from the LFS you get the water from?

Going to close up like a clam (no pun intended) because you "expected" everyone to say good things? :rolleyes:

Can't take a little advice and slow down? Criticism is a good thing. It helps correct the things you've done bad or are missing. It's the only way to improve and make things better...

There's no need to defend your decisions. We know why you did it.



Please don't take any of this "personal" or to "heart". We want you to continue searching, researching and learning. Otherwise your going to sit with a tank with a possible time bomb.

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15120945#post15120945 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sinful
"No pun intended"but you have been in the hobby yourself a very short time and advice saying to slow down isn't advice.

Not succeeding on your previous tanks has nothing to do with him and you should wait until you DO have success growing corals before you offer your advice. Waiting 6 months before you add a coral doesn't mean you know what your doing and definitely doesn't mean your going to have a healthy reef.


I had a tank in the running for 2006 nano tanks of the month (obviously under a different name, because this one I registered last month). I know what I'm doing, trust me. I have a proven track record. I'm not trying to sound like some smart-a s s.

[Acolin]

guys, I know that all this advice is well intentioned, but don't forget, it is a 20 gallon system, I hope MrHarvard keeps us posted, good and bad

[sinful]

Ok whatever, couldn't care less about your "proven track record" with your ntotm in 2006 under a different name with 1.5yrs in hobby which you most certainly had to edit when u created your account. Its 2009. Either way, I could train a parrot to tell new members to slow down....it explains nothing

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15120968#post15120968 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by iFisch
I had a tank in the running for 2006 nano tanks of the month (obviously under a different name, because this one I registered last month). I know what I'm doing, trust me. I have a proven track record. I'm not trying to sound like some smart-a s s.

[stpauli914]

Well, I thought my initial comment was positive, but I'll stay out of this thread now and think twice about commenting I guess.

Aaron

[joel00782]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15116840#post15116840 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by reefnetworth
you should wait 6-9 months before adding any corals!
your parameters need to be stable for that duration in order to build the proper bacteria field. :rolleyes:

WOWWWWWW:eek2:

you are incredible :lolspin: :blown: :fun2: :frog:

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15121085#post15121085 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by joel00782
WOWWWWWW:eek2:

you are incredible :lolspin: :blown: :fun2: :frog:


But to also think, MrHarvard has probably about 20 pieces, plus a handful of fish in 5 weeks. Well, technically, less, unless he added them during the cycle. So we're looking at ALL that coral/fish in as little as 3 weeks.


What do you think about that?

[joel00782]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15121152#post15121152 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by iFisch
But to also think, MrHarvard has probably about 20 pieces, plus a handful of fish in 5 weeks. Well, technically, less, unless he added them during the cycle. So we're looking at ALL that coral/fish in as little as 3 weeks.


What do you think about that?

I think that i did the same thing when i set up my 72g bowfront
and i have

4 cromy
coral beauty
pair clown
pearly jaw fish
yellow gobby
40 snails
20 hermit
3 cap (1 orange montipora)
two green digi
yellow gorgonia
orange polyps
green polyps
yellow pallys
GSP
mixed mushrooms
2 heads Trumpet
feather duster
green pallys
couple rock anem.

and everyhting is nice and my levels always been in 0 and my calcium in 500 and i have still haven't to add anything in
what do you think about that ? ;)

[AG84]

"what do you think about that"

I think your calcium is a bit on the high side. :lol: sorry I had to.

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15121280#post15121280 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by joel00782

what do you think about that ? ;)

I had no intentions on being "sarcastic" as it seems you did. I was simply asking YOU, what you thought about what MrHarvard is practicing.



That's all. :rollface:

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15121313#post15121313 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by AG84
"what do you think about that"

I think your calcium is a bit on the high side. :lol: sorry I had to.


Depends on his salt. Oceanic is notorious for having high Ca. I also have high Ca/dkH problems with my current batch of Tropic Marine Pro.


Everything else is fine, parameter wise.

[joel00782]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15121358#post15121358 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by iFisch
I had no intentions on being "sarcastic" as it seems you did. I was simply asking YOU, what you thought about what MrHarvard is practicing.



That's all. :rollface:

its cool man imjust saying lol no Offense tho im not looking for problems in here lmao im just saying what i did and what i have

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15121313#post15121313 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by AG84
"what do you think about that"

I think your calcium is a bit on the high side. :lol: sorry I had to.

my calcium runs thru 450 to 500 depends on water changes :) no
Offense neather :)

[MrHarvard]

Ok....I have tons of experience in cultivating under water plants if you know what I mean. When I was a bit younger and before I decided that life style wasnt for me I grew Hydroponic plants bigger than most people christmas trees. I am very familiar with water parameters and what light spectrum things need in order to grow. Im pretty sure if I can grow "the dank" I can handle a few small corals. I really dont care what anyone thinks about me or the way I put my tank together. I posted this for a select few people that I have gotten things from and for the people who wanted to see my progress. I never asked for anyones opinion on what they thought I should have done just wanted to show off what I had so far. If you did what I did and your tank failed, well im sorry but that doesnt mean mine will. I can name a hand full of people on this site that did exactly the same thing I did and with success. Yes I had 1 fish and some zoas during the cycle.

[iFisch]

Talking about illegal things is against board rules.

I would edit it immediately before a MOD see's it, closes it, and could potentially ban you.

[sinful]

illegal what?

[joel00782]

i didn't see nothing illegal in there

i dont think editing it would be much of a help when you have it quoted in you reply lol

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15121482#post15121482 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
Ok....I have tons of experience in cultivating under water plants if you know what I mean. When I was a bit younger and before I decided that life style wasnt for me I grew Hydroponic plants bigger than most people christmas trees.


The only vegetable that grows as big as a Christmas tree.


I think you know what he means.. Chaining life styles.. I have a small side job and very small tomato farm that I sell to local grocery stores, and one restaurant.

I can post pics for those interested. :)

[MrHarvard]

Wht are u talking about? I didnt say anything about drugs im not sure what your problem is but dont try and get me banned. Hydroponics just means plants grown in water. I used to be a farmer and I grew all kinds of exotics none of which were illegal in all 50 states....The dank is a nickname I gave a few of them...slow down with the accusations!!

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15121583#post15121583 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by joel00782
i dont think editing it would be much of a help when you have it quoted in you reply lol


I did. I think we all have a good idea by what he meant. Maybe I'm wrong, but let me know what vegetable grows taller than corn (7-8 feet).

[sinful]

Give it a rest man, nobody wants your advice or input. Let us know in a couple yrs when you add your next coral

[preculafreak06]

Oh my God. Did I stumble into a kindergarten class?
Jees people, let MrHarvard have his new toy, if he breaks it he breaks it, if he keeps it all shiny and new , then it's that much better.
All I have seen is people bash this guy because he didn't do it this way or that way. Who cares? It's his lesson to learn, and not yours to teach, or should I say preach. I do give props that some of you are trying to help, and give advice that we all know would have helped us when we started. But some of you need to just chill out.
Just let it rest for once. I can hear the Mods fixing to storm in here any second because of the bickering.
Just my two cents. Bash away on me, because I could care less.
MrHarvard just keep us posted on your tanks progress, both good and bad.

[MrHarvard]

Vegetables? who said anything about vetables I said plants banannas, bird of paradise, sago palms all grow taller than 7-8 feet and by lifestyle change I meant I no longer wanted to be a farmer..Man you must really have it out for me jeez....FYI my wife is a lawyer and I am well within my rights on this site so you stick to reading posts and let the people who run this site do there job.....

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15121610#post15121610 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
Wht are u talking about? I didnt say anything about drugs im not sure what your problem is but dont try and get me banned. Hydroponics just means plants grown in water. I used to be a farmer and I grew all kinds of exotics none of which were illegal in all 50 states....The dank is a nickname I gave a few of them...slow down with the accusations!!


If I offended you, I am sorry.

To ME, it came off like you were trying to post some experience, and you clearly gave off indication of illegal activity.


Again, I will man up and apologize.

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15121663#post15121663 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
Vegetables? who said anything about vetables I said plants banannas, bird of paradise, sago palms all grow taller than 7-8 feet and by lifestyle change I meant I no longer wanted to be a farmer..Man you must really have it out for me jeez....FYI my wife is a lawyer and I am well within my rights on this site so you stick to reading posts and let the people who run this site do there job.....


You would need a HUGE system to support banana's. Sago's grow VERY slowly, inches per year. The only ones I've seen that tall are the ones that were originally planted on house property 20 years ago.


Again, I was receiving indications of illegal activity. I sincerely apologize.

[MrHarvard]

Please just voice your opinion on this thread anymore. I know that you can and have every right to but I am asking you please don't. I appreciate all your advice and I know that all research supports it but I am going to do what I want in the end. I am sorry if I offended you and wasted your day making you respond back and forth with me on my tank. Im sorry about that. I have never nor will ever grown drugs or been affiliated with anyone who has. Thank you for your thoughts and God Bless YOU!

[MrHarvard]

Im sorry I meant to say please dont voice your opinion anymore......Im just so upset about being accused of growing drugs that my brain just isnt working right. Once again sorry if I offended you.

[sinful]

you need to pick up that steal of a deal 25g setup or I'm gonna jump on it.

[preculafreak06]

One of you two need to, or I will. No wait, I'm selling it huh? :lol:

[MrHarvard]

Go ahead homie......Its cool. YOu gonna head over there tonight if so I want to go with you let me know.

[MrHarvard]

Can I come by soon shane?

[AG84]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15121482#post15121482 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
Ok....I have tons of experience in cultivating under water plants if you know what I mean. When I was a bit younger and before I decided that life style wasnt for me I grew Hydroponic plants bigger than most people christmas trees. I am very familiar with water parameters and what light spectrum things need in order to grow. Im pretty sure if I can grow "the dank" I can handle a few small corals.


Wow. i really dont bash anyone but dang dude. your just asking for it here arent you? I remember someone not to long ago put himself out there just as your doing and he found himself in alot of trouble.

Good luck and We arent retarded we know what you mean when you make those comments, im sure the mods will too.

Just saying becareful of what you put out on the net about yourself.

[jbax]

yeah ifisch you live in orlando. make a trip to epcot and get on the living with the land ride. you will see mickey mouse growing some good stuff with hydroponics.:rollface:

[plyle02]

MrHarvard,
I am in WH too, if I can assist you with your new tank in the future, just let me know...

[MrHarvard]

Look for everyone who is concerened with me getting into trouble I HAVE NOTHING TO HIDE!!!!!! Like I said before my wife is a lawyer and I know my legal rights and I have said nothing that is against any of the term or agreement in posting on this site. Trust me if I was currently growing or using drugs I wouldn't post it on the internet! I was simply stateing that I am familiar with hydroponics and plant growth. Thanks for the willingness to lend a hand I heard alittle about you from chris in Tampa he said you picked up a few things from him..Ill pm you one day next week and if you have time you can come over and check my tank out. I guess while you are here Ill walk you through my house and let you check my closests for any plants I may have growing...lol. No but really I wont make anymore OT statements Ill just stick to reef talk. If I offended anyone I opologize.

[sinful]

You should really remove that tang from such a small tank

[MrHarvard]

Lets just leave it alone Matt..These people have way to much free time. I am truely sorry I ever opened my mouth and I promise it wont happen again. If everyone can forgive me and lets move forward that would be great!! So how bout those Rays!!

[eric@tampa]

Great looking tank by the way, even though I'm not "experinced" as some people here I think your doing very good in such a short time...keep it up!!!!
ps:lets focus on the positive here instead of bashing, Eric

[iFisch]

MrHarvard, I have sent you a PM. Please, when you get a chance to read it, please do.


You may share what I said in the PM here, or via PM's to other people that are close to you.

[triggerfish1976]

I wasn't going to respond to the drug innuendo post but you did specifically say that "if I can grow the dank".
Urban dictionary says:
the dank 3 up, 2 down love it hate it

meaning the absolute tastiest; the best; of the highest quality - when applied to marijuana, a.k.k. the cannabis plant

I am not a lawyer so I won't say if that is actual admission but it sounds pretty close to me.

Mr. Harvard: You're just coming along and posting this at a bad time. People in this hobby are really trying to become more responsible towards there tank inhabitants so you're going to get a decent amount of negative feedback.

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15122620#post15122620 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by triggerfish1976
I wasn't going to respond to the drug innuendo post but you did specifically say that "if I can grow the dank".
Urban dictionary says:
the dank 3 up, 2 down love it hate it

meaning the absolute tastiest; the best; of the highest quality - when applied to marijuana, a.k.k. the cannabis plant

I am not a lawyer so I won't say if that is actual admission but it sounds pretty close to me.

Mr. Harvard: You're just coming along and posting this at a bad time. People in this hobby are really trying to become more responsible towards there tank inhabitants so you're going to get a decent amount of negative feedback.


I sent MrHarvard a PM about my accusations. That I am sincerely sorry for. I gave him a little feedback about me, and my condition, so hopefully we can clear things up.


Because it's not in my DNA to be obnoxious, careless and disrespectful. Additionally, I have extreme mood swings from time to time.

If you sift through a few of my posts, I am always respectful to the OP and posters. However, for some reason, when I read what I read, I just lost it. It is not immaturity, more-or-less has to do with the serotonin in my brain which ca, and usually doe,s effect my behavior when I am not getting enough serotonin to control my moods. (And yes I am on some of the strongest anti-depressants known to man)



MrHarvard is welcome to share what I wrote, or summarize it for those who care.

TBRCC members, I also sincerely apologize for my behavior/tone. I don't want to be a nuisance around here. I want to feel welcomed if I ever come down there for some corals.

[xxseawolf]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15122696#post15122696 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by iFisch
I sent MrHarvard a PM about my accusations. That I am sincerely sorry for. I gave him a little feedback about me, and my condition, so hopefully we can clear things up.


Because it's not in my DNA to be obnoxious, careless and disrespectful. Additionally, I have extreme mood swings from time to time.

If you sift through a few of my posts, I am always respectful to the OP and posters. However, for some reason, when I read what I read, I just lost it. It is not immaturity, more-or-less has to do with the serotonin in my brain which ca, and usually doe,s effect my behavior when I am not getting enough serotonin to control my moods. (And yes I am on some of the strongest anti-depressants known to man)



MrHarvard is welcome to share what I wrote, or summarize it for those who care.

TBRCC members, I also sincerely apologize for my behavior/tone. I don't want to be a nuisance around here. I want to feel welcomed if I ever come down there for some corals. well put. can we let this one go before it really gets out of hand. thanks.

todd

[rrcg50]

lets just leave all this behind us and concerntrate on whats important. in a poor economy we have a new member of our society. i personaly met him and was very pleased i was able too. i know we all love this hobby and we are very passionate about our critters. that being said we will all have our successes and failures. the thing that we hope for is it does not wipe our tanks out. i know when i lost my first fish it made me want to throw in the towel. i am very glad i did not because i have met a bunch of cool people.
just want to say thank you all for the support that you have shown me and the support we may offer to mrharvard.

[SSpiro]

Wow.

[mattliu]

laz ? is that you ?

dank tank. fire coral.

it's easy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzJ2NKp23WU

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15122963#post15122963 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by SSpiro
Wow.

It's being worked out. Well, at least my comments. See above. I'm just awaiting MrHarvard's reply, if he chooses to do so.

[SSpiro]

It's all good.

[tpbay reefer]

I'm not an expert but the tank looks very good to me. I wish mine looks as good as his does right now. Unfortunately, my cycle is just ending after 8 weeks


Remember, everyone told Einstein that he was wrong with his energy equation. Everyone told the Wright Brothers that they would never fly. What I am saying is that just because it did not work for others does not mean that it will not work at all

[MrHarvard]

I think its time we put this thread to rest. ifisch were cool man sorry if I offended you. Sorry to everyone else about the growing comment..........Lifes a garden dig it!

[joel00782]

man this thread has goten more hit's OMG MrHarvard your tank looks awsome keep the good job

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15123251#post15123251 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
I think its time we put this thread to rest. ifisch were cool man sorry if I offended you.


I'm glad we could work it out, like mature adults.

In fact, it was the other way around. I apologized if "I" offended you, or anyone else here for that matter.


My temper/tone/behavior, whatever you want to call it, was totally, 100% uncalled for.

That's why I specifically PM'd you, and then apologized to the community.

[mhurley]

:wavehand:

[sivert55]

Love the yellow gorgonia

[MrHarvard]

Wow....I posted this thread hopeing to get a few positive comments and ended up with this....lol...I just wanted to say thanks to all the people who took the time to look at my tank and give my feedback. I will post more pics either good or bad and let everyone know how its coming along. Thanks again!!

[rrcg50]

i think it might look a little better with a acan on the sand bed or even better yet a acan and a plate coral.;)

[MrHarvard]

Yeah I want a long tinacle plate ya got one...Ill take whatever brain sinful doesnt get from ya as well what you want for it?

[fote03]

lmao!!! Nice tank i like ur selection of coral and fish. There a million ways to reef, find what works for u and go with it. There is no one way!

[drunkymunky]

so far your tank is looking good. i wish you luck. i didn't start off slow nor did i take off like a speeding train like you but what ever floats your boat lol. keep posting and updating with pics. next time put in caps when ppl first open thread NO BASHING, OR BAD OPINIONS ALLOWED lol.

oh and i will add

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15121482#post15121482 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
Ok....I have tons of experience in cultivating under water plants if you know what I mean. When I was a bit younger and before I decided that life style wasnt for me I grew Hydroponic plants bigger than most people christmas trees. I am very familiar with water parameters and what light spectrum things need in order to grow. Im pretty sure if I can grow "the dank" I can handle a few small corals.

i got the same feeling everyone else did. there was no way i thought wow he grew veggies.:rollface:

[MrHarvard]

Im sorry I wasnt clear when I posted that. I used to grow exotic plants (nothing illegal). mostly palms, bird of Paradise, bannans and such. One of my buddies used to call my red bananas "the dank". I just wanted to clear that up! I would hate for the mod to think otherwise and cancel my post or even worse ban me. Like I have said several times I am well within my rights and the terms of agreement in this thread. Next time I will explain more clearly. Sorry again for the confusion. Lets just stick to talking about what we are all here for reefing...

[iFisch]

Anthony, I would contact a MOD and have him close this thread and delete it. So we can entirely forget about this, since its has gotten out of hand, and can do so in the future. I would feel better if this just was closed and deleted so we can move on.

If you want to share pictures or start a diary, do so in the "nano forums" or www nano-reef dot com [RC doesn't like others sharing similar websites I guess....]

Then, if want to to tell "nay-sayers" need not apply, then you can do so, if you only want to hear positive things about your tank.



This is purely my opinion. It's up to you what to do. You can hit the little "report to moderator" button on any post in this thread.

[Acolin]

I know think it is out of hand, I like to see the progress of his system...

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15127458#post15127458 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Acolin
I know think it is out of hand, I like to see the progress of his system...

I have advised him to do so in the appropriate section or website (www.nano-reef dot com)

[MrHarvard]

Sorry ifisch but I feel like this is the perfect place to post this thread. I know tons of people in the TBRC and I like hearing what they have to say. I use several other sites as well but this one gets alot of action. I have apologized over and over again for my comments and I feel that there is no need to delete this post. If anyone doesnt like this thread then they dont have to reply to it.

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15127590#post15127590 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
Sorry ifisch but I feel like this is the perfect place to post this thread. I know tons of people in the TBRC and I like hearing what they have to say. I use several other sites as well but this one gets alot of action. I have apologized over and over again for my comments and I feel that there is no need to delete this post. If anyone doesnt like this thread then they dont have to reply to it.

Then I would have them close this, and then restart your thread here. Some of the information in here is unnecessary. I would save your pictures/description, and just do a repost. But if you don't mind other reading "that stuff" you know what I'm talking about, and possibly getting flack for it, I would have a Mod delete this, so yo have a fresh start.


JMO.

[MrHarvard]

Ok ill keep tht in mind...Im gonna leave it and if I catch flack then oh well. So back to my tank did anyone read my post on my filter system and have any ideas on what may work better or if mine is ok?

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15127664#post15127664 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
Ok ill keep tht in mind...Im gonna leave it and if I catch flack then oh well. So back to my tank did anyone read my post on my filter system and have any ideas on what may work better or if mine is ok?

What was your original question?

[joel00782]

iFisch Oceanic 14 w/ 4x18w Current Nova Extreme 72w T5HO
maby you should go to this section http://reefcentral.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=75 since were not allowed to go there no more my brother inlaw poster his breeder and the mod told him to stop righting in NANO REEF'S ...But we ain't like that here we consider every member like a freind and more than welcome to post in TBRC no matter what type of tank they have MrHarvard keep it coming i want to see your progress and every body's progress

[Acolin]

don't be changing any portion of your nitrogen filter during the first 3-6 months, that means the live rock too, the brute force water change method works great on nano tanks

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15127697#post15127697 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by joel00782
iFisch Oceanic 14 w/ 4x18w Current Nova Extreme 72w T5HO
maby you should go to this section http://reefcentral.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=75 since were not allowed to go there no more my brother inlaw poster his breeder and the mod told him to stop righting in NANO REEF'S ...But we ain't like that here we consider every member like a freind and more than welcome to post in TBRC no matter what type of tank they have MrHarvard keep it coming i want to see your progress and every body's progress

I do go there...

I'm not saying to only post here, I'm saying get a thread together in the right section so others around the U.S./world can view it.

[joel00782]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15127981#post15127981 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by iFisch
I do go there...

I'm not saying to only post here, I'm saying get a thread together in the right section so others around the U.S./world can view it.

+1 on that but it's up to him maby he want's to stay local

[MrHarvard]

I think ill stick with posting it here dont want anymore negetive feedback. I got enough from this local post cant imagine a World Wide post....

[joel00782]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15130018#post15130018 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
I think ill stick with posting it here dont want anymore negetive feedback. I got enough from this local post cant imagine a World Wide post....

LMAO :lmao: just keep us up todate with you progress im realy intrested to see how it come's up cuz i did what your doing and it worked fine keep the good job

[MrHarvard]

Will do man. Checked my water again today after a 50% water change yesterday all way good. I honestly dont think im going to have any problems but if I do ill post that as well. Thanks for your interest Joel. Let me know if you wanna sell your desk top tank...

[boring]

this thread is still going,

i think the tank looks great, wish mine was looking that good, i do agree you need to slow down a little, not to say if i had the money i would be stocking my tank that fast to, i wish you the best of luck in beating the odds, i sure have not done that good on my first tank thats only 4 months old, now if i may say if theres one thing i can recommend it would be slow down on the water changes if and when you can, the tank is not going to establish a good microfilter if your doing that much of a water change all the time

would love to come see the tank some time maybe trade some frags, and feel free to stop by if your ever in lakeland to see my tanks

[MrHarvard]

Thank for the positive comment and the advice. How long should I wait between water changes if my levels are good? Your welcome to come by whenever your in town just hit me up just make sure you bring me some frags im itching for something to add to my tank....lol

[boring]

i would try and cut it back to 10-20% a week, but you dont want to do it all at once, so maybe 40 next week 30 after that and so on, goal would be 10% a week with levels as close to 0 a possible, or maybe 20% every 2 week to cut down on time spent working on tank

[joel00782]

since i setup my 72g bowfront i did one water change couple days ago but that was after 2 moth's of the tank being up and runing thats my way .. I had a 29g biocube i had it for like four or five month's no water change and im not thinking of doing one for the 72g in a couple more month's.My coral is growing my levels are in 0 and my purple i growing all over the place oh my calcium its on 450 to 500 and i have not dose anything and dont have a calcium reacter but thats just me not looking for oppinion i dont want to go thru the same thing you went thru bro and im realy sorry for all that drama

[boring]

wow how do you manage that?? is the tank under stocked?? what are your levels when you do a water change?? do you use a skimmer on the biocube?? if so which one im looking for one for my 24 gal??

[iFisch]

It depends on what your water/salt tests at after being mixed.

Then check like the 4th day, 7th day and 10th day.


If your tests are the same, or close from the 6th day, and 10th day, then you can easily wait every 14 days to do a WC.


I am testing my "theory" as we speak. I was doing weekly WC's, but then I thought....well if my parameters are still close on the 7th day, why am I wasting water/salt to replenish very little.

I top off my tank every 3rd day with 1.024 salinity water to keep the trace elements in the tank. With two days RODI and one day salt, I don't see a swing in salinity. Or if I do, it's like .1 or .2 points. (ie I mix my salt at 1.026. If it's reading 1.025 and my parameters closely resemble freshly mixed water, I'm keeping the water in there.)

[boring]

yea i understand 2-4 weeks apart as long as parameters are in check but 4-5 months with no water change is a little much. would be interested in learning how to do this.

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15131004#post15131004 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by boring
as parameters are in check but 4-5 months with no water change is a little much. would be interested in learning how to do this.

I think it was a typo. You can't possibly go half a year without a WC.

[sivert55]

sure you can

[evil.konceptz]

i know plenty of ppl who havent changed water in many months or even years in one case, they just dose and top off with fresh water

[sivert55]

i went 11 months on a 12g nano with no WC. My softies, LPS and Montis all were very happy.

Harvard, the tank looks great and I'm glad to see your enthusiasm for the hobby. I like the specimens you've picked. keep the the good work and keep the posts coming. I'm interested to see your progress.

[MrHarvard]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15130859#post15130859 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by boring
wow how do you manage that?? is the tank under stocked?? what are your levels when you do a water change?? do you use a skimmer on the biocube?? if so which one im looking for one for my 24 gal??

The Tunz 9002 is about the only skimmer you can use on an AOI cube if your looking for pump driven? I have a small air driven skimmer I run on mine and it does fine. Sometimes small cubes work better without a skimmer. The 9002 is around $180.00 but seems to work really well. If you make it over to FAOIS John had one on his display cube.

[JeRmZ]

let the flame war begin ...

I haven't done a water change in my 29gallon tall in over a year!!

Here is the most recent pic I have of my tank. Since this pic I've done some trimming of the zoo's and shrooms, got rid of the coral sitting toward the back of the tank in the middle but other than that everything is the same.

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m141/jermz79/zz%20miscelanious%20pics/CIMG0323.jpg

and yes I said over a year with no water change. Tank looks pretty healthy to me! I don't have a heavy bio load, for the longest time I only had a Royal Gramma in the tank but recently added a Perc. Clown so it's just the two fish.
I run the penguin power filter with live rock, and two MJ 1200's for flow. I recently added in a sub current skimming filter for a little extra flow (and to skim the surface of my water)

[MrHarvard]

Holly shroomz!!!! Now I see why you were tring to give them away. I have a friend with a 12g cube who probably went over a year without a WC and his tank was beautiful!

[JeRmZ]

hahahahahaha yeah the shrooms are pests man! I couldn't even see my rock work anymore!!!

I've trimmed a lot since that picture but it's unbelievable how friggin fast they multiply. The whole back glass is covered in them, the left side (if looking at the tank) is covered in them and they started creeping onto the front glass. That's when I decided enough is enough and literally started scraping them off and giving them away.

[triggerfish1976]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15131776#post15131776 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JeRmZ
let the flame war begin ...

I haven't done a water change in my 29gallon tall in over a year!!

Here is the most recent pic I have of my tank. Since this pic I've done some trimming of the zoo's and shrooms, got rid of the coral sitting toward the back of the tank in the middle but other than that everything is the same.

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m141/jermz79/zz%20miscelanious%20pics/CIMG0323.jpg

and yes I said over a year with no water change. Tank looks pretty healthy to me! I don't have a heavy bio load, for the longest time I only had a Royal Gramma in the tank but recently added a Perc. Clown so it's just the two fish.
I run the penguin power filter with live rock, and two MJ 1200's for flow. I recently added in a sub current skimming filter for a little extra flow (and to skim the surface of my water)

Do you know why your tank is succeeding without the water changes?

[JeRmZ]

I honestly couldn't tell ya triggerfish1976!!

All I know is that I top off when needed and feed my two fish on a pretty regular schedule (every other day). I don't dose anything and I don't mess with anything. I hardly ever stick my hands in the tank.

[triggerfish1976]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15131902#post15131902 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JeRmZ
I honestly couldn't tell ya triggerfish1976!!


Thanks, you just summed up this entire thread.

[MrHarvard]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15131919#post15131919 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by triggerfish1976
Thanks, you just summed up this entire thread.

What exactly does that mean?

[JeRmZ]

yeah what exactly does that mean??

[MrHarvard]

Instead of tring to make fun of us or acting like your better than me, maybe you could give me advice on water changes. The comment you wrote on algae bloom and water levels was very informative and explained several things to me. You have tons of experience and I would love to hear any feed back you have to offer. I posted a thread on filtration that maybe you could read over and give me some advice on it?

[AG84]

no offence to you, the way i read into it, several people give you great advise and all you say is thanks but im going to do it my way anyway. That makes it hard for other people to want to give you advise. I could be wrong but thats just the way I see it.

[triggerfish1976]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15131936#post15131936 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MrHarvard
What exactly does that mean?

This thread and specifically that post proves that hobbyists are going to just do what they want and don't bother researching what it takes to properly care for the animals in there tanks, mainly relying on luck. Then they come on RC trying to get kudos from everyone else that actually put the time, research and effort into having beautiful tanks and then get upset when these people give them constructive criticism.
I understand MRHARVARD's excitement about throwing in corals and fish just a few weeks after initial setup. I have been there and know that the initial wait is the hardest part of this hobby but to assume success only after 5 weeks and expecting praise is a little premature. Like Jermz has shown, people can have moderate success with corals with a little luck so maybe your tank will do fine but my concern is all of the other newbies that come on here see your tanks and just assume they can do the same thing.
As far as jermz's tank goes, the reason why your sorties (mushrooms and zoas) are growing so well is because these corals do not rely on many of the trace elements that are replentished through water changes. These corals also tend to thrive in nutrient rich tanks so nutrient export is not as important as it would be in if you were keeping an SPS dominated tank. How long have you had your LPS corals?

[MrHarvard]

I got alot of advice from different people everyone had different answers so I siffted through them and chose what I thought was right for me. (Or what I wanted to hear). I listen to all advice that I get and am very thankful for it!! I had several people tell me they did exactly what I have done and everything went very well for them. The sad thing is most of these people pmed me instead of replying to posts. I think its because they didnt want to catch hell for it or have people look down on them. My water levels are exactly where they should be and all my livestock is happy. There is no one way to reef and I am open for all suggestions. If because I dont use all the advice I get and may not agree with some doesnt mean that im not listening. If people dont want to give me advice then thats ok too, but PLEASE dont think that im not grateful for it!!

[MrHarvard]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15132233#post15132233 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by triggerfish1976
This thread and specifically that post proves that hobbyists are going to just do what they want and don't bother researching what it takes to properly care for the animals in there tanks, mainly relying on luck. Then they come on RC trying to get kudos from everyone else that actually put the time, research and effort into having beautiful tanks and then get upset when these people give them constructive criticism.
I understand MRHARVARD's excitement about throwing in corals and fish just a few weeks after initial setup. I have been there and know that the initial wait is the hardest part of this hobby but to assume success only after 5 weeks and expecting praise is a little premature. Like Jermz has shown, people can have moderate success with corals with a little luck so maybe your tank will do fine but my concern is all of the other newbies that come on here see your tanks and just assume they can do the same thing.
As far as jermz's tank goes, the reason why your sorties (mushrooms and zoas) are growing so well is because these corals do not rely on many of the trace elements that are replentished through water changes. These corals also tend to thrive in nutrient rich tanks so nutrient export is not as important as it would be in if you were keeping an SPS dominated tank. How long have you had your LPS corals?

I understand your point! I may have very well been lucky with my tank and not done things right in certain peoples eyes. I dont want people new to this to think they can just go to a LFS buy everything and put it in a tank and it will all just be fine. I did quite a bit of research before I got started. I got my live rock and sand from a tank that had been established for over 5 years. I got my water from the LFS as well and tested it before I added it. I really didnt think I would have much of a cycle at all because I thought I was just taking one reef from a tank and putting it into another. I honestly dont fully understand everything yet but im tring to learn. If people come on here and see what I have done and it doesnt work for them I apologize. I should have waited to post until my tank had matured more and for that I made a big mistake.. Thanks for your time.

[Acolin]

With so much livestock in a NEWLY established small system, I absolutely would not back off the large water changes. Why make water changes smaller when the intent of large ones is to keep toxin levels perfectly low? See the myth about small water changes here:

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2009-04/newbie/index.php

Reefers go a long time without water changes when 1) the tank is MATURE, 2) they have not added a new inhabitant of any significant size, 3) the bioload is low, and 4) the system is larger.

Keep doing what you are doing Harvard, don’t forget iFisch said his nano crashed.

[JeRmZ]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15132233#post15132233 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by triggerfish1976
This thread and specifically that post proves that hobbyists are going to just do what they want and don't bother researching what it takes to properly care for the animals in there tanks, mainly relying on luck. Then they come on RC trying to get kudos from everyone else that actually put the time, research and effort into having beautiful tanks and then get upset when these people give them constructive criticism.
I understand MRHARVARD's excitement about throwing in corals and fish just a few weeks after initial setup. I have been there and know that the initial wait is the hardest part of this hobby but to assume success only after 5 weeks and expecting praise is a little premature. Like Jermz has shown, people can have moderate success with corals with a little luck so maybe your tank will do fine but my concern is all of the other newbies that come on here see your tanks and just assume they can do the same thing.
As far as jermz's tank goes, the reason why your sorties (mushrooms and zoas) are growing so well is because these corals do not rely on many of the trace elements that are replentished through water changes. These corals also tend to thrive in nutrient rich tanks so nutrient export is not as important as it would be in if you were keeping an SPS dominated tank. How long have you had your LPS corals?

Those LPS I have in my tank have been there since the beginning my friend. I don't know if I would look at my tank and call it moderate success and luck. If I could dig up pics from when I first placed the corals in my tank you would agree that it was high success and a lot of work. The candy canes and frog spawn started from one head, the shrooms came from one rock that had 5 shrooms on it. The zoo's all came from one little frag with maybe 10-15 polyps. The only thing I've ever lost in my tank was an open brain (due to irritation from a clown fish) and a 6 line wrasse that decided to go carpet surfing.

To each his own IMO.

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15132370#post15132370 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Acolin
don�t forget iFisch said his nano crashed.

I am not sure if you are trying to discredit my advice, because I had a tank crash. And I learned from it, and I'm passing along what happened to mine, what I learned from it, etc. I do so, because I don't want to see others fail. I try and be optimistic.


I don't get your comment.

[boring]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15132370#post15132370 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Acolin
With so much livestock in a NEWLY established small system, I absolutely would not back off the large water changes. Why make water changes smaller when the intent of large ones is to keep toxin levels perfectly low? See the myth about small water changes here:

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2009-04/newbie/index.php

Reefers go a long time without water changes when 1) the tank is MATURE, 2) they have not added a new inhabitant of any significant size, 3) the bioload is low, and 4) the system is larger.

Keep doing what you are doing Harvard, don’t forget iFisch said his nano crashed.

yea i got to read that today before i saw this post and started thinking about my post, but i did say back of slowly as to prevent a crash, but if anything backing off water changes is a good way to save some money

[eric@tampa]

I think what was being said was ifisch's nano crashed possibly because of small water changes,jmo I could be wrong.Hard to say because it was not me posting the reply,maybe the poster could clear that up. Eric

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15138544#post15138544 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by eric@tampa
I think what was being said was ifisch's nano crashed possibly because of small water changes,jmo I could be wrong.Hard to say because it was not me posting the reply,maybe the poster could clear that up. Eric

My tank "crashed" because of a few reasons.

#1, I was 16 at the time. I'm 22 now. I am a little more responsible, knowledgeable and dedicated to the hobby, and have a better understanding on how certain things work and why they do what they do.

#2, It did not crash due to WC's. It was due to a few things. I went on vacation, came back, 2 fish dead. Two weeks later, another fish died and one coral died.

I was frustrated, pis sed off and sad. I rushed everything, against all advice. If you read threads, blogs, reef builds etc. of successful reef keepers of larger tanks, you always see things done with patience, time, money, moderation, attention to detail, willingness to learn and stay educated on what they're putting in their tank, etc. etc.

I returned, determined, to take it one baby step at a time. Slowly add corals, fish, inverts, etc. Doing whatever it takes to keep and be successful at "NANO" reef keeping.

This time, I am not cutting any corners or trying to expedite any processes. I am willing to listen to all advice, creditable or not. I am open to new and different theory's, explanations, etc. My mind is totally free and open to hear, and read what it takes to be truly successful at this hobby.

[boring]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15139652#post15139652 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by iFisch
My tank "crashed" because of a few reasons.

#1, I was 16 at the time. I'm 22 now. I am a little more responsible, knowledgeable and dedicated to the hobby, and have a better understanding on how certain things work and why they do what they do.

#2, It did not crash due to WC's. It was due to a few things. I went on vacation, came back, 2 fish dead. Two weeks later, another fish died and one coral died.

I was frustrated, pis sed off and sad. I rushed everything, against all advice. If you read threads, blogs, reef builds etc. of successful reef keepers of larger tanks, you always see things done with patience, time, money, moderation, attention to detail, willingness to learn and stay educated on what they're putting in their tank, etc. etc.

I returned, determined, to take it one baby step at a time. Slowly add corals, fish, inverts, etc. Doing whatever it takes to keep and be successful at "NANO" reef keeping.

This time, I am not cutting any corners or trying to expedite any processes. I am willing to listen to all advice, creditable or not. I am open to new and different theory's, explanations, etc. My mind is totally free and open to hear, and read what it takes to be truly successful at this hobby.

+1 well said

[tgcreef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15139652#post15139652 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by iFisch

#1, I was 16 at the time. I'm 22 now. I am a little more responsible, knowledgeable and dedicated to the hobby, and have a better understanding on how certain things work and why they do what they do.


Why does your hobby experience say 1.5 years then?

[mattliu]

fig newtons and einstein bagels to your scientific approach of trial and error. everyday we debunk more and more folklore about kosher reefkeeping. ever since the advent of vodka, we've been cycling tanks quicker than a hang over. we even have two moorish idols that are members of the TBRC. Dr. Bruce Carlson can't even keep them alive. who knows, maybe they are the hardy hawaiian strain that used to eat trash dumped from cruise liners. if your ammonia or nitrite levels get out of hand, just dose some vodka. don't be to concerned about your nitrate levels. corals and their zooxanthellae eat it for breakfast,lunch,and dinner. only downside is unwanted algae growth, so just keep that skimmer running to blow off orthophosphate into the stratoshpere, run some iron based phosphate remover, or drip kalkwasser to precipitate the po4 out of solution. finally, stir your sand bed to let those munchie hungry corals have a bite of the organic forms of phosphate. since phosphate, along with carbon and nitrogen, can be considered a growth rate limiting factor, your nuisance algae growth will come to a grinding halt. in time, coralline algae will cover your rock, kicking microalgae to the curb and then you'll just have to worry about accidental introduction of meaner macroalgae. it's pretty simple, really.

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15139891#post15139891 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by tgcreef
Why does your hobby experience say 1.5 years then?


Because I had my 29g for about a year. Plus current experience.

[MrHarvard]

I added another ric.....Tank still doing well!!!...lol

[sinful]

Didn't you say you had a tank for ntotm? Under a different name? How much exp did he have?


<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15141130#post15141130 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by iFisch
Because I had my 29g for about a year. Plus current experience.

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15141199#post15141199 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sinful
Didn't you say you had a tank for ntotm? Under a different name? How much exp did he have?


It was up there.. wasn't voted totm but I had a huge thread on it. I had a "complete" 29g in about 5 months. Completely stacked and loaded. If I had decided to do things in moderation, and once piece at a time, it would have easily taken me over a year to attain the same "tank".


I have about 1.5 years experience hobby, from now, and then. What's so hard to get? :confused:

[sinful]

What name was it under? I'd like to check it out

[MrHarvard]

Must be a slow day at AG....lol

[iFisch]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15141515#post15141515 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sinful
What name was it under? I'd like to check it out

If I remembered it, I wouldn't be using another username...

[mflamb]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15143390#post15143390 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by iFisch
If I remembered it, I wouldn't be using another username... cough...cough...

[Jay03GT]

this thread continues to amaze.

[sinful]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15144064#post15144064 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Jay03GT
this thread continues to amaze.


haha no kidding

[Coral C's]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15143514#post15143514 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mflamb
cough...cough...

Hey Mike,

Did you catch that cough from the collecting thread?

:D

[Jay03GT]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15144101#post15144101 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sinful
haha no kidding

:rollface:

[Jay03GT]

look guys, no disrespect intended. You can throw a mushroom in a blender on puree, dump it into a tank and have a bunch of 'shrooms. Some zoas are collected from the worst possible areas, sewage outflows and such. Just because someone shows a tank with a few zoas and shrooms, has one fish he feeds every few days, and says he hasn't done a water change in a year, doesn't mean it's a succesful reef tank. If that is what you are striving for then by all means go for it.

But if you want to keep LPS and SPS the game and its rules change drastically. Proper water parameters, low nitrate, phosphate, stable alk and CA, all these things are necessary. Trying to pretend otherwise is folly. You can do what you want, but trying to claim success after a few weeks or months?

[sinful]

and the ball keepsa rollin....

[boring]

wow cant believe things still going. so MrHarvard what are your long terms plains for the tank

[sinful]

pretty sure this thread quit having an actual point a long time ago.

[jbax]

bottom line. harved's tank is in its baby stages and he wanted to show the people of tbrc and his friends how his tank is doing. we just need to let him do his thing, as we did. and if he has ?'s that he needs answers to. we will be glad to give him our thoughts and ideas. whats done is done. the fish and corals are already in his tank and he seems like he is staying on top of the situation. lets just sit back and watch the tank grow and wish harvard the best. here's my aquarium a few months after i started it.
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c174/mtange1/CopyofSANY0979.jpg

[MrHarvard]

Nice looking tank jbax!!! wish I had went alittle bigger....Wont be long!!! This is like myspace for reefers....lol....Reefspace maybe....just an idea..lmao

[sinful]

I got a bigger tank for you, free too. 75g. One catch....you gotta come get it, and the cichlids go with it.

[MrHarvard]

Will you drill it for me? Can I take the cichlids to the lunker hole?

[sinful]

Drill yes. Lunker hole no

[MrHarvard]

had to ask....lol...Anyone want any monster cichlids?

[joel00782]

MrHarvard YGPM

[MrHarvard]

I am accepting any and all donations anyone would like to give to a begginer in this hobby. I have a few great spots for some frags. PM me if you would like to donate. Im sure you can write it off on your taxex...lol

[Acolin]

umm, no, you can't write it off your taxes unless you provide receipts as an organized charity; like taxes, the devil of reef keeping is in the details!

[MrHarvard]

LOL....I had to try....I am looking to buy small frags if anyone has any cheapies for sale..

[MrHarvard]

I just drilled my new 25g tank and im working on changing my 250w MH & PC combo into A 250w & T5 combo. I think im going to set it up after all. (I may need that spot on your couch after all Sinful!...lol)

[joel00782]

i posted on your light thread bro:)

[sinful]

yup, successful tank drill #2! Anyone know where harvard can buy a bulkhead locally? or is it something you need to order online?

[evil.konceptz]

Try a plumbing supply shop or any of the LFS, make sure you get the right schedule bulkhead or it wont fit black is schedule 40 grey is schedule 80. If you used a Glass-Holes.com saw, use a schedule 40 Bulkhead. But the LFS or a plumbing supply place should have them or even a pool store might. Home Depot and Lowes DO NOT carry them in stock, why is beyond me.

[preculafreak06]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15150488#post15150488 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by evil.konceptz
Try a plumbing supply shop or any of the LFS, make sure you get the right schedule bulkhead or it wont fit black is schedule 40 grey is schedule 80. If you used a Glass-Holes.com saw, use a schedule 40 Bulkhead. But the LFS or a plumbing supply place should have them or even a pool store might. Home Depot and Lowes DO NOT carry them in stock, why is beyond me.

Grey PVC comes in both schedule 40 and 80.

[evil.konceptz]

but the bulkheads are grey schedule 80 and shaped like a hex nut and not round on the flush side, i havent seen a grey schedule 40, in the bulkheads i know the pipe comes in both grey black and white

[jbax]

i think faois has bulkheads

[sinful]

pretty sure that tank is up for grabs for very cheap if anyone wants it. Nothing wrong with it as I can see. he is wanting to go in an aio direction because of time contraints and piecing everything together (bulkhead, skimmer, sump, return...etc) I drilled it last night and painted back wall black.

[drunkymunky]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15152939#post15152939 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by sinful
pretty sure that tank is up for grabs for very cheap if anyone wants it. Nothing wrong with it as I can see. he is wanting to go in an aio direction because of time contraints and piecing everything together (bulkhead, skimmer, sump, return...etc) I drilled it last night and painted back wall black.

Which tank. Sorry got lost lol. How big and $$??

[MrHarvard]

25gal tall with tank and stand...drilled...back painted black. No leaks or scratches.

[drunkymunky]

and the price??

[AG84]

dang i was working on buying that from him. where was it drilled, i was going to use it as a fuge but i guess not depending on where it was drilled.

[MrHarvard]

It was drilled at the top in the center......Let me know?

[sinful]

Was drilled center top. Could always seal the bh

[sinful]

and counting...

[MrHarvard]

Yea wait till I post the picks of my next tank thats now under construction...LOL

[sinful]

nahhh, I can't wait til you post a picture of the livestock in your next tank thats now under construction.

[Acolin]

time for six week update pic and chemical levels...

[MrHarvard]

I added another small ric but thats about it on the livestock. So no new pics yet. The chemical levels are pretty much the same. My nitrates did increase so I did a 30% water change tonight (thanks to sinful). Thats all I got for yah.....(Sorry to all the people that expected me to crash by now...lol)

[boring]

well you have to keep in mind that most coral is not going to add a lot of bio load on the system so on the front i would not worry to much just watch how much you feed them, and as long as your not adding anything else you should be fine if you keep on top of the levels and do the water changes. and just a heads up when my system almost crashed it was in a matter of hours i turned the lights off at around 10pm or so and by 3am the fish were almost seethru white and gasping for air, i saw this and took then out so there was no loss in life but the fish spent the next week at the LFS, and the corals had to stress it out none died tho. just a heads up, and my levels never got that far out ammonia was 0 nitrites 0.1, nitrate under 30, as always best of luck,


harvard and sinful are either of you going to the TBRC meeting on the 13??

[MrHarvard]

I have to work maybe next time!! What caused your tank to almost crash?

[boring]

over feeding the coral, noob mistake!! started reading about my sun coral and didn't know what i was doing

[MrHarvard]

Well I hope mine doesnt decide to crash in a few hours...Im at work 60 hours a week and I wouldn't catch it unless it happens at night or on one of my days off. I do need suggestions on what I should be feeding my corals. I have listed them earlier in the thread if anyone has the time to look and help me out. I check the internet but everyones opinions were so different. What do you guys feed?

[AG84]

rods food

[MrHarvard]

Thats what I am using now...Good Stuff!!

[Acolin]

looky here:

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1647553

[boring]

brightwell and rod's

[sinful]

new pics levels?

[m&m1318]

lol :lol2:its been four months for me & i have no problems nothing died on me, yet & i keep getting good growth. You know what they say, whatever works for you is good keep it, because no one does everything the same:lmao:

[SamandRichies55]

Guess I caught this forum a little late, but I love your zoos MrHarvard. Props for continuing 5wks plus success! Good luck!

[sinful]

thread is about a year old, just seeing if he still comes here and how tank is doing

[jtrasap]

thread is about a year old, just seeing if he still comes here and how tank is doing

Looks like sometime last year his SPS started going south:http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?p=16016136#post16016136


and the last time he was on RC he was battling cyano:http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1772822


:thumbsup:

[MrHarvard]

Tanks still up and running...I did lose most of my sps frags I cant lie.....Still have small amounts of cyano....But all in all still going strong...Zoas have grown like crazy as well as my other lps....I need some work still but I hopeing sinful will have my water ready for me this week for my bday present???? Been like 6 months since water change...Yikes i know what a slacker....Will post some new pics soon if anyone still cares....

[sinful]

What will mine be?

[boring]

sorry to hear about your SPS they are the hardest to keep. would love to see some updated pics when you have the time.

[MrHarvard]

I will post them soon. Im working on the cyano problem as we speak and looking for a new light. Looking back at these pics my tank looks completely different now. I have done alot with my scapeing and moved things around. I have been slacking off for the past 6 months with work and all but its time to get back on it! How is your tank doing boring? Pics?

[Acolin]

the big issue back then was too much livestock too soon, waiting for water changes is not the solution, why can't you quickly (overnight) mix up your own? Red algae usually means too much food and too much light...

[boring]

my tank has been doing great. taking it slow. have plans to upgrade my filter system soon. i need to get some pics up.will try and get something up today. also thinking about starting a 29. not sure whats going to happen there yet.

[MrHarvard]

the big issue back then was too much livestock too soon, waiting for water changes is not the solution, why can't you quickly (overnight) mix up your own? Red algae usually means too much food and too much light...

Im not waiting on a water change on purpose....I dont have any RODI water on hand. My buddy Sinful is workin on that for me now. My red algae problem is a result of poor top off water and lighting needing to be changed. As far as the to much livestock to soon that a matter of opinion. I do agree that adding the sps so soon was a huge mistake. I got alittle out of control at first...LOL...just got excited....

[BR12349]

I love the comments of the people that "haven't had a problem and waited 4 monthes to add corals." If you are excited to add stuff and watching your levels then more power to you. TBRC wonder why membership is dropping? Maybe B/c everytime you log on there is a forum like this on there. Read some of the other forums in TN or AL and they are full of posts of people helping people not critizing.