Plenum Help-Should it stay or go?

[ONEWAY]

Hi everyone, I have a 120 gallon sps tank running with the berlin system and a plenum. It has been up and running for about four years, full sps about 2 1/2 years. I currently dose prdabio and it's been doing well bet I think I am being hurt by my plenum. I havent been able to drop my nitrates down to what they should be 0. After a slight laps in missing a few doses I noticed a few of my sps starting to rtn so I did the standard water parameter tests to find my nitrates jumped up high so high I am imbarresed at what they went to at just about 100 all other peramiters are good. But I have no hair or red slime alega. I cant seem to be able to get it down. So should I bite the bullet and pull the plenum out.

Thanks,
Anthony


http://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr14/amcindric/029.jpg

http://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr14/amcindric/031.jpg

http://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr14/amcindric/080.jpg

http://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr14/amcindric/008.jpg

http://i465.photobucket.com/albums/rr14/amcindric/012.jpg

[Big E]

From the pics that doesn't look like a plenum. It's looks like a 2-3"course sand bed which would cause a nitrate problem if not vacumed on a regular basis.

Your colors look fine.........I wouldn't even worry regardless of your readings. Maybe check to see it that kit is accurate. Even if the kit is accurate, don't chase readings the tank looks great.

[E.intheC]

that's a really nice looking tank. Looks like you live real close as well :thumbsup:

As for your question, here is a link about plenums that's pretty helpful. IMO, it's pretty one sided (pro DSB versus Barebottom), but it helps with the basics.

http://www.wetwebmedia.com/deepsandbeds.htm

[Logzor]

Are you growing macro algae for nutrient export?