View Full Version : Ghstrider's Custom 150g SPS/Angelfish Tank Build
ghstrider
07/07/2010, 10:53 AM
Fiiiiiiiinally, I can post that I've actually started my build (well technically) since I put my deposit on my new tank a few weeks ago. It will be a 60x24x24 custom tank by Felix at ReefSavvy. I checked out some places and left Felix's for last and was VERY impressed with his craftsmanship. I will post some equipment ideas and stocking list ideas in a bit. I plan on making this an SPS Dominated tank with most of my current livestock and the addition of an angel or two and maybe a special tang or a feeding idol... lets see!
Stocking List
Heres my current stocking list that will go into the 150:
Majestic Angel
Regal Angel
Multibarred Angel
Hippo Tang
Leopard Wrasse
pair of OC clowns
Longnose Hawkfish
Swissguard Basslet
Wheeler Goby
Lyretail Anthia
Wishlist to add to 150:
Moorish Idols (only if feeding at store)
either a Scribbled, Conspic, or Emperor Angel
Achilles Tang
3 Lyretail Anthias
Lighting
I was wondering if I can do 2x250 watt halides with some t5 supplementals. I have seen people do 2 halides in a 5' tank but have also seen people do 3 halides. I thought 250watt would be the perfect bulb with all the combinations available but am wondering if 2 bulbs will work and if so which reflector would be best to spead out the light.
Disclaimer: I have never used halides only pc's and t5's... So halides are a bit chinese to me so Im not even sure if dual end or single end....etc.
Please chime in and gimme some ideas!!!!
FLOW
I picked up a new Tunze Nano Wavebox along with some like new 6105s (2x) and a 7096 controller. That should be all I need for flow.
Pump/Overflow
I have no idea what return pump to use but my overflow is rated up to 1500 gph but Im trying to determine whats the most flow I can use and still have a refugium as part of my sump. I know slow flow is best but I need to find a middle ground.
Temp Control/Monitoring
I have an ACjr with probes but no DC8 (for now) and also acquired a 1/5 HP chiller which may be small for my setup BUT my ambient temp in my home is between 70-77 degrees so I think it may work to keep the tank at 80-81 degrees. I have to purchase a GOOD heater for those 3 cold night in Miami (lol) but havent given it thought yet.
Heres a few pics I snapped...
My current setup 72 bowfront (w/ ACjr I plan to use on new setup)
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/6ed3f4c3.jpg
Some of the equipment Ive amassed... (minus the Tunze 6105s and controller)
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/7ef2a2e7.jpg
Geo 618 Cal Reactor w/ accessories
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/34c182a9.jpg
Chiller, Tunze Wavebox, and pinpoint pH monitor
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/53e3005a.jpg
sslak
07/07/2010, 11:06 AM
Here's the most important difference between double ended and single ended bulbs:
Single ended (mogul socket) bulbs come with a UV sheild on the bulb glass itself.
Double ended (HQI) bulbs require UV glass to protect your tank from extreme sunburn, so you will need a pendant or other reflector that can hold a piece of glass.
Don't forget the UV shield!
ghstrider
07/07/2010, 11:44 AM
My main concern for lighting is which setup will spread the most light so I can use 2 MHs in my 5' tank. Ive heard Lumenbrites but havent looked into it. Thoughts?? Also keep in mind I want to keep this setup simple stupid kinda the way I have my current setup.
ghstrider
07/08/2010, 04:43 PM
Heres a pic ReefSavvy just sent me of the tank in progress..
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/21064b7e.jpg
Im freakin psyched!!!!
ghstrider
07/08/2010, 04:44 PM
Eurobracing is incomplete in picture... So dont freak out! LoL
ghstrider
07/18/2010, 11:45 AM
Tank should be here within the week... Guys chime in with some lighting and pump ideas!! Im in the middle of the planning stages still
ghstrider
08/01/2010, 10:51 AM
Tank is here!!!! It looks amazing and now on to the stand build. My neighbor is amazing with woodwork and has agreed to build the stand/canopy so i'll post pics along the way!
Also, Ive sold the Ca Reactor to save space and going with a Bubble Magus Doser 3 part. The BM Doser has been ordered and should arrive next week.
As for livestock, my original crew posted above remains the same and I found a small Moorish feeding on frozen at the store so I grabbed him and put him in my buddy's large frag tank where hes nipping on all the LR right outta the bag. It will serve as his QT to get him eating and fat before my tank is operational later this year.
ghstrider
08/01/2010, 11:02 AM
Heres a shot of the back (covered in black vinyl)
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/92d2860d.jpg
Long shot
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/ae503c0f.jpg
Custom 3" deep glass-holes overflow w/ built in return (long slit on bottom section)
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/73166e5c.jpg
Top down of overflow (tank is even braced on bottom edge)
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/19e74672.jpg
Thanks for looking!!!! And I promise some good build pics to come!
mullinsd2
08/01/2010, 11:12 AM
looks really nice
ghstrider
09/08/2010, 06:28 PM
Update coming soon.... Stand is in design phase and still looking for lighting (may go LED) and return pump (may go w/ Reeflo Snapper).
Oh, and unfortunately the Moorish stopped eating after a week of doing well in my buddies tank. RIP
ghstrider
11/12/2010, 12:57 PM
Well, many updates to discuss... I grabbed a 5.5" Scribbled Angel from Divers Den last month and he's in QT with some recent additions... A Chrysurus Angel 3" and a Venustus Angel 3". All new additions are doing great in the 55g setup and are eating everything.
I purchased a Reeflo Snapper NIB for $110 here on RC so return wise im set.
Ive decided to do the AI sol blue LED setup so thats pending.
Heres some to scale CAD drafts of what the stand will look like...
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/5e929b73.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/28c324df.jpg
Will post some pics of the progress today
ghstrider
11/13/2010, 02:47 PM
Heres the stand in progress. The frame is good ol home depot pine while the skin is all cherry wood.
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/e1621dc8.jpg
ghstrider
11/13/2010, 02:52 PM
Figured i'd post a video of my 55g QT with my newest angels
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/9206b625.mp4
ghstrider
11/23/2010, 01:22 PM
The stand is about 70% done so another 2-3 weeks there. I also ordered the AquaIlluminations Sol Blue LEDs for the setup. Should have them sometime next week! Hoping my Scribbled pulls thru with his popeye. Lets see...
ghstrider
11/24/2010, 08:10 PM
I ordered the AI sol blue setup yesterday and got a phone call that they came in today and shipped out right away. Premium Aquatics came thru big time and they price matched and BEAT a great price from a competitor.
Picked up the remainder of the Cherry wood for the doors and accent trim on the stand, marine silicone to seal inside of stand, and cherry stain for the stand today. I think we are right on schedule for mid December on the setup.
Some bad news... the Scribbled didn't make it. Sux.
zmckenzie
11/24/2010, 08:25 PM
Love the cherry. If I wasn't trying to build my stand as cheap as possible I would prob use cherry as well.
Have you made any decision on the lighting yet? I am working on my new build as we speak and will be using lumen brights with single ended bulbs. I will have 2 over my 4 foot tank. If you use lumen bright I think you will have to have 3. Lumen brights focus light more then your typical spyder reflector. This is good because they are meant to be mount higher then a stander MH which means less heat going into your water. No matter what reflector you go with I would say stick with single ended bulb. As of right now there are a lot more bulb choices for single ended then double ended.
ghstrider
11/24/2010, 10:18 PM
Im going to use AquaIllumination LEDs. I ordered a 3 module setup and it already shipped out.
lotusstar
11/24/2010, 10:22 PM
Can't wait to see this put together. I love SPS and angels. Awesome list. Best of luck!
zmckenzie
11/24/2010, 10:24 PM
Im going to use AquaIllumination LEDs. I ordered a 3 module setup and it already shipped out.
Awesome I must have missed that in your thread. I would love the Aquaillumination LEDS just can't afford them.
ghstrider
11/28/2010, 01:51 PM
Heres some pics of the stand with some of the moulding. The doors are next...
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/a917710a.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/5ec42c0a.jpg
Theres a strip of molding that goes all the way around the base (inside of the standout corner molding) that hasnt been put on yet. You can see it laying in the stand.
ghstrider
11/29/2010, 05:11 PM
some more photos... more of the molding added and the canopy put together temorarily for measurements. The opening in the canopy is "L" shaped and will open to about a 45 degree so I can access the lights w/o taking the canopy off. Also the front canopy panel will open w/o the top piece for feeding purposes.
Im psyched!!!
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/6d9ac169.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/870bfea3.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/a8edd42b.jpg
ghstrider
12/03/2010, 12:48 AM
Look what the UPS guy dropped off today...
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/7d3fe44f.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/b12f93aa.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/9a5f7679.jpg
AwkwardParrot
12/03/2010, 05:44 AM
Oooooooooo, looks like a VERY clean build! Subscribed!
Jhockey
12/03/2010, 05:49 AM
Is it me or am I the only one who thinks you'll be way overstocked especially with too many Angelfish?
BADGUS
12/03/2010, 06:23 AM
Nice build,and what's in that Black DSM?Had to ask,life-long DSM owner.
john rochon
12/03/2010, 06:32 AM
awsome build,! Might wanna rethink that fish list though. way to many fish,big fish, cruzing fish etc. 150g pretty small for those fish.:cool:
shaggss
12/03/2010, 08:01 AM
Looks like your off to a good start. I know its an exciting time, but remember patience is the best line of defense when it comes to setting up a tank.
LED's are the way of the future and the technology is moving fast. Good choice! For my next tank, I will definitely be looking at LEDs.
The tank looks great. And from what I have heard the GH overflows work really well. Good luck!
Stand is looking good too.
Enjoy your time setting this up........
cheers :beer:
ghstrider
12/03/2010, 08:44 AM
Thanks for the compliments... I'll update you guys every step of the way and post as many pics as possible.
The tank should be up and running within the month!
MJinMN
12/03/2010, 09:34 AM
How big of a sump / fuge are you planning? What do you keep in your refugium?
ghstrider
12/03/2010, 05:14 PM
im thinking of a 24"x22" sump with 3 sections. intake/skimmer section, fuge w/ LR and sand section, and return section w/ external reeflo pump. This would take up one entire side of my stand and fit right in the door. This way I can have plenty of spare room in the stand.
ghstrider
12/30/2010, 04:13 PM
Stand/canopy should be in my home next week!!! We are currently sanding and prepping it for stain. Here are some current pics...
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/5e263dc5.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/21d93bec.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/e015ae63.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/81ae97f0.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/1b335939.jpg
To say my neighbor is pretty good at carpentry is an understatement!
usefulidiot213
12/30/2010, 04:39 PM
Looking good :celeb1:
ghstrider
01/12/2011, 06:25 PM
Well, the stand has been sanded and stained its cherry color and is awaiting the final clear coat this week. Heres a pic of the stained stand w/ the doors removed...
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/ae7b097d.jpg
And I also picked up my sump today from Manny at Aquarama. This thing is BAD! Its made of 3/8" thick acrylic and its heavy duty. Thanks Manny and JGoal for the ideas..
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/e8f1d7f7.jpg
The skimmer/entry section is top left then it flows to the front long fuge then into right rear return. The bulkhead is already installed for my reeflo snapper pump. Manny also made a 12x12x16h ato tank that will sit next to the sump and be connected with a tunze osmolator.
ghstrider
01/12/2011, 06:37 PM
As far as livestock goes....
Ive chosen to go only angelfish in this new tank and already have a 4" True Personifer from Divers Den in QT. I expect to get a similarly sized Taiwanese Blueline Angel as well. I plan on selling all my current livestock from my current tank and starting new (thats part of the fun as well). From there Im not sure what else I will get but most likely it will be 4-6 pygmy angels. I plan on adding them in 2s to avoid aggression and I also acquired an acclimation box. I plan on putting all my fish thru QT and medicating to eliminate the possibility bringing in diseases. Heres a video of my personifer in my QT feeding.
<embed width="600" height="361" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullscreen="true" allowNetworking="all" wmode="transparent" src="http://static.photobucket.com/player.swf" flashvars="file=http%3A%2F%2Fvid1030.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fy364%2Fgarcia751%2F36687e94.mp4">
ghstrider
01/22/2011, 05:35 PM
Heres a few pics of my newest addition!!!! Currently in QT with my Personifer.
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/2c6a3ae0.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/e8e2503e.jpg
And heres a video of the pair in QT an hour after introduction...
<a href="http://s1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/?action=view¤t=629d9b23.mp4" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/629d9b23.mp4" border="0" alt="Photobucket Pictures, Images and Photos" /></a>
ghstrider
01/22/2011, 05:36 PM
Double post
ghstrider
01/22/2011, 07:51 PM
heres the video
<embed width="600" height="361" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullscreen="true" allowNetworking="all" wmode="transparent" src="http://static.photobucket.com/player.swf" flashvars="file=http%3A%2F%2Fvid1030.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fy364%2Fgarcia751%2F629d9b23.mp4">
ghstrider
01/25/2011, 11:13 PM
I decided on adding a 57 watt AquaUV to the system as well... I have a UV on my current tank and have always been happy with water clarity and the lack of disease in my setup. I know theres been a huge debate back and forth about it but I think the benefits outweigh any potential downside. Anyone else have experience with this or a similar unit?
ghstrider
01/27/2011, 06:17 PM
Well the blueline had flukes and didnt make it. Had to treat the tank now to keep my Personifer safe. This hobby sure does suck sometimes...
ghstrider
01/30/2011, 11:58 PM
A big thanks to Jorge for hanging with me all day and helping me put together this setup. I would have finished plumbing if not for an issue with the bulkhead leaking. I did get alot done and thanks to Jorge and Marvin im on the right track. Thanks guys!
I'll post pics of the setup when its a bit more further along... I will post a pic of the AI LEDs custom mounted to my canopy from my iphone...
Heres with only the center light installed....
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/9410d166.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/5816a890.jpg
Then all three are in (sorry for the finger in the pic)
ScubaPrawn
01/31/2011, 12:08 AM
Looking good. I like the QT video--thanks for sharing!
ghstrider
01/31/2011, 10:50 PM
I spent the morning with my buddy running around town buying all kinds of odds and ends to complete the plumbing and to my surprise it all worked out! I found all the pieces I needed and when I plumbed it I got no leaks! (leak test was done without water pressure just water sitting in the pipes)
After several hours of plumbing, cutting, glueing, sawing, etc... I came up with this
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/c5abeca6.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/8fee5888.jpg
Then we did rallied the guys to carry the tank to the house from my neighbors garage to place it on its final resting place. Heres a picture of the back plumbing of the tank and a front view. *Note that the doors are not on the stand as they tend to get in the way during the build.
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/7c388cc3.jpg
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/adb5871d.jpg
Hopefully tomorrow the tank will have a freshwater run in the a.m. and then I will start getting the rockwork and sand ready and call for the water delivery around lunch time. The afternoon and evening plans will consist of getting the electrical done for all the parts (apex, powerheads, lighting).
More updates and pics tomorrow...
:dance:
ghstrider
02/08/2011, 10:48 PM
After much deliberation and speaking to people with much more knowledge and experience in this than I, I decided to add my qt'd fish to the main display. The Personifer and the Multicolor are in and exploring their new surroundings. Im SOOOOOOO EXCITED!!!!
All the electronics are pretty much installed (ATO, Wavebox, powerheads, doser, UV, TLF reactor, Heater) with exception of the Apex controller which I sent back to neptune and am receiving a new unit this week after a malfunction. Once thats up and running again then its only missing the one AI module that will arrive sometime end of this week beginning of next.
Im near completion and its starting to feel real.... I lost a few colonies of beautiful sps so i'll be frag hunting soon but right now my priorities are finishing the setup and making sure my fish do well in their new habitat.
ghstrider
02/08/2011, 11:03 PM
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Rytek
02/08/2011, 11:26 PM
That looks great. Really like it. The AI's are my top pic as well. Hope you got the controller with them. Or can a third party controller run the thunderstorms, rain and such as well?
As someone who uses QT for my fish as well why was it someone told you to put them in your display anyway? We all have our methods and I am just courios is all.
Love. The. Tank.
frankpayne32
02/09/2011, 07:21 AM
Is it me or am I the only one who thinks you'll be way overstocked especially with too many Angelfish?
Should be fine with proper filtration. Great build by the way! Angel's are great fish.
ghstrider
02/13/2011, 08:20 PM
That looks great. Really like it. The AI's are my top pic as well. Hope you got the controller with them. Or can a third party controller run the thunderstorms, rain and such as well?
As someone who uses QT for my fish as well why was it someone told you to put them in your display anyway? We all have our methods and I am just courios is all.
Love. The. Tank.
I use the Apex (even though I dont currently have it..being swapped out) and it does all types of weather conditions and is highly programmable.
I spoke with a well known collector here in Miami who has run a fallow system for over 2 months and qt'd his fish and still seen ich down the line. Im going to qt all my fish to ensure they are disease free, feeding, and healthy upon entering my DT.
A brief update:
The SWC Mini S Skimmer w/ Askoll pump came in on Thursday but it seems im the first to try it out including even SWC and doesnt work (just overflows into the cup non stop) I tried to troubleshoot with reeffiltration and no go. I guess I was the guinea pig for SWC to see if the Askoll pump would work on that cone... sux. But Luke from reeffiltration is awesome and shipping me out an SWC 230 cone on Monday at no additional cost to me (I just hope it fits). This skimmer is even better and has been out a few months now so im not the tester on this one.
One of the AI modules was defective and I sent it back and got it back in the same week so thats in and all lights are operational.
The last piece of the puzzle was the apex and it was sent back 10 days ago and Neptune sent me a new unit but it seems the unit was either lost by UPS or Neptune never gave it to UPS. We will see tomorrow where my controller is... I did bring it to Neptune's attention on Tuesday that the tracking # was not valid and they totally disregarded it and now im stuck. Very dissapointed in Neptune's service (except Eugene... he's the only one there thats tried to help).
Sooooooo.... Once my skimmer and controller are in then I can put the stand doors on and call this setup complete.
Livestock:
Im looking for another fish to accompany the Mitratus in QT so I can introduce 2 fish together into the display at the same time (to prevent any possible aggression). The next fish will be another stunner so stand by!!
Heres a video of the DT from today... Sorry for the poor lighting conditions but it was an iphone video.
<embed width="600" height="361" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullscreen="true" allowNetworking="all" wmode="transparent" src="http://static.photobucket.com/player.swf" flashvars="file=http%3A%2F%2Fvid1030.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fy364%2Fgarcia751%2F40fb234d.mp4">
And heres the Mitratus in QT just cruising around after his mysis meal...
<embed width="600" height="361" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullscreen="true" allowNetworking="all" wmode="transparent" src="http://static.photobucket.com/player.swf" flashvars="file=http%3A%2F%2Fvid1030.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fy364%2Fgarcia751%2Fb550a083.mp4">
ghstrider
02/18/2011, 02:03 AM
My controller finally arrived on Tuesday and I now have it completely programmed with my setup. Im happy to have it up and running again but just wish Neptune had gotten it here as promised last week. Moving forward...
My SWC 230 Cone arrived today and its a beast! Thanks Luke!! Im breaking it in as I type so a detailed report to follow soon. Besides some organization, a quick door install, and maybe some fans, this build is pretty much in the bag!!
Now onto livestock,
My Personifer and Multicolor are doing fantastic in the DT. Theyre eating like monsters and swimming together as if paired. My Mitratus is in QT and eats mysis, live blackworms, and frozen brine extremely well but not much else. He is responding well to a full level of Cupramine and Prazipro. Another week and hes ready for the DT. I plan on starting to train all my fish on Rogger's Food (green one) next week as I know its super healthy and it will make life easier on me.
Ive got to make room in the QT for mid next week as I plan on having something come in next week thats VERY special!!!
STAY TUNED!!!!!
ghstrider
02/18/2011, 02:06 AM
A pic of the guts... Skimmer is in and the controller is in its corner. I love my stand!
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/f0d76acc.jpg
And here a quick video I took before work on my iphone. Ignore the coloration its not realistic on this phone
<a href="http://s1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/?action=view¤t=4a0b6f02.mp4" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/4a0b6f02.mp4" border="0" alt="Photobucket Pictures, Images and Photos" /></a>
ghstrider
02/27/2011, 08:46 PM
I QT'd the Mitratus for two and a half weeks including almost 2 weeks of cupramine and a week of prazipro. He almost died a few days ago after my wife forgot to turn on the pumps after feeding but came right back. Hes now on his 3rd day in the display and aggression is nearly gone. All three fish are chowing Roggers Food right from the clip and love it (the green one). Heres a video during their meal...
<embed width="600" height="361" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullscreen="true" allowNetworking="all" wmode="transparent" src="http://static.photobucket.com/player.swf" flashvars="file=http%3A%2F%2Fvid1030.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fy364%2Fgarcia751%2F86a1e875.mp4">
Heres a nice sand sifter I found this past week.
<a href="http://s1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/?action=view&current=b7c72cd0.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/b7c72cd0.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>
Ive also learned how to log onto my Apex thru my iphone so that i can program my system remotely even while on the road.
<a href="http://s1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/?action=view&current=92d724b4.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/92d724b4.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>
ghstrider
03/09/2011, 12:30 AM
I got in some gorgeous fish direct from a Hawaiian supplier and im verrrry impressed!!! These angels were eating leftover mysis that was in the tank from a prior feeding within minutes after being dumped in the QT! They're in there with a multibarred angel im trying to bring up to speed and is being a bit finicky... I hope he makes it.
Heres a video and i placed eggcrate to separate the 2 angels. The CXI Emperor is on the left and the CXI Griffis and Multibar is on the right.
<a href="http://s1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/?action=view¤t=30b959c8.mp4" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/30b959c8.mp4" border="0" alt="Photobucket Pictures, Images and Photos" /></a>
Cody Ray
03/09/2011, 02:12 AM
Awesome woodwork! Only thing I would change is location, your house to mine ;)
Rotknee
03/09/2011, 03:01 AM
This is a bad arse build! I just dropped some cash on a simular tank and I'm looking forward to getting it up and running. Looking at your log temps me to try an angels or two.
Like you I want to mount my Ai light is a hanging canopy. What kind of brackets are you using to mount your light to the wood?
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/9410d166.jpg
When you see your neighbor given em' his favorite beverage and let him know it is from some guy that I don't even know but he said your work is "tha bomb"!:beer:
Thanks in advance for identifying the Ai mounting bracket.
ghstrider
03/09/2011, 05:52 AM
Awesome woodwork! Only thing I would change is location, your house to mine ;)
Thanks Cody!!!
ghstrider
03/09/2011, 04:41 PM
Algae id please and how to remove it ideas!
http://i1030.photobucket.com/albums/y364/garcia751/b26a203e.jpg
ToddG.
03/09/2011, 05:40 PM
Looks like dinoflangites do a search on them
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2006-11/rhf/index.php
tqpolo
03/09/2011, 07:03 PM
How do you deal with your angels nipping?
ghstrider
03/09/2011, 07:16 PM
Thanks!
ghstrider
03/11/2011, 11:19 PM
How do you deal with your angels nipping?
They arent nippers... I keep them well fed and i love my fish more than my corals. Also, angels tend to pick on unhealthy corals so if youd like to keep angels and corals together then make sure the corals are in good shape (avoid meaty, fleshy LPS) and you should be good.
Good luck!!!
pmrossetti
03/12/2011, 12:00 AM
Beautiful!!!!
I know you mentioned this earlier, but I just wanted to make sure. The 2 drain holes in the overflow are 3" holes???
What size is the return hole, please??
I think I want to do my tank that way. How much water does a 3" hole handle when in the wall rather than the tank bottom?? thanks so much and the lights look gorgeous. Waiting for more pics. cheers!! :)
ghstrider
03/12/2011, 12:56 AM
Im currently erradicating the dinos i have so pics are coming... the overflow drains are 1" (i believe) so the holes are a bit bigger maybe 1.5". Im running a reeflo snapper but i have no idea the exact gph flow rate going thru. I would guess in the 500 gph range since i tee off the return for my uv and tlf reactor.
teacherthomas
03/19/2011, 09:52 AM
It's a custom 3" deep glass-holes overflow w/ built in return (long slit on bottom section) The rate is 1500GPH. It has 2 X 1.5" bulkheads 9Just like the standard Glass-holes overflow for 1500) the only difference is the added 1" return section in the bottom and the higher price (for custom) :)
ghstrider
03/20/2011, 12:03 AM
I had 3 gorgeous angels in QT (orange tail emperor, griffis, and a multibarred). Unfortunately, 3 days prior to moving to my DT im coming home from work and get a frantic call from my wife that all 3 angels are dying! I ran home and i transferred the emperor and multibar but the griff was a goner. Hoping the emp and multibar make it...
Tomorrow ill run some tests in my QT to see what happened.
pnavarro170
08/11/2011, 07:57 AM
any updates ???
Curious George
08/11/2011, 09:30 AM
Left me in suspense too....
Gotta know what happened and how the tank is doing.
ghstrider
08/16/2011, 09:58 AM
well yeah many updates to report...
I had a near wipeout of my tank when I put that emperor in my DT in his weakened state. He got ich soon after and spread it to all in the tank. I lost everyone and started over. I ran the tank fallow for several weeks but ich was still present. The tank now consists of the following:
Showsize Moorish Idol
Tinkeri Butterfly (new addition)
Medium Black Tang
Regal Angel
Multicolor Angel
Magnificent foxface
Flame wrasse
Possum wrasse
neon goby
Some new additions that are being picked on a bit:
a pair of Potters Angels
Potters wrasse
I really like the mix of fish I have now and hope they all get along together. (my multicolor angel is a jerk and picks on any pygmys I try to add)
Corals have done poorly and I believe its a mix between high nitrates and not enough PAR out of my AI leds. I conducted a 90% WC and will be lowering the lights a few inches to increase PAR. May add a denitrator and more pumps in the future.
Video to come...
ghstrider
08/16/2011, 10:01 AM
<iframe width="560" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/hkAJ4Xi8YWQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
AquamanE
08/16/2011, 11:47 AM
(avoid meaty, fleshy LPS) and you should be good
Good work Eddy. My Majestic Angel also loves zoos!!
Eel Freak
08/16/2011, 01:14 PM
Read through the whole build!
Looks like you've had some rough spots in the beginning (who hasn't though), but the tank is looking good now!
How long have you had the Idol? And what does it eat for you?
EDIT: I forgot to ask, are your AI LEDs the blue or white edition?
ghstrider
08/16/2011, 04:00 PM
Read through the whole build!
Looks like you've had some rough spots in the beginning (who hasn't though), but the tank is looking good now!
How long have you had the Idol? And what does it eat for you?
EDIT: I forgot to ask, are your AI LEDs the blue or white edition?
Thanks man,
It has been a ROUGH ride but im hoping for some clear skies from here on out. The Idol was a return by another LFS customer who was complaining he was coral munching. I snapped him right up and slowly converted him from eating live clams/mussels to Roggers food and now he eats everything frozen and flakes too.
The lights are AI sol blues...
ghstrider
08/16/2011, 04:03 PM
check out this quick video...
<iframe width="560" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/3hSp19CgoPo" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
BigFeesh
08/16/2011, 04:13 PM
looks like your in need of an upgrade!
ghstrider
08/16/2011, 04:50 PM
nah, i think im good... the only aggression I really get is that lil darn multicolor angel. hes a PITA
Eel Freak
08/16/2011, 04:56 PM
Thanks man,
It has been a ROUGH ride but im hoping for some clear skies from here on out. The Idol was a return by another LFS customer who was complaining he was coral munching. I snapped him right up and slowly converted him from eating live clams/mussels to Roggers food and now he eats everything frozen and flakes too.
The lights are AI sol blues...
That's exactly how I acquired mine.
Saw the video, the Idol looks really good. I'm also very envious of the Black Tang... Looking good so far!
BigFeesh
08/16/2011, 04:59 PM
not refferring to aggression but the moorish looks HUGE in the tank. the moorish is beautiful though. All your fish are amazing!
ghstrider
08/16/2011, 05:53 PM
Thanks guys... Im hoping these guys all gel together for the long term as im really liking the look. As for the Idol, he seems happy and spends his day foraging like an angelfish. I thought he may be too big at first but i really think hes happy. Hes like a big puppydog.
ENTMogul
08/16/2011, 07:34 PM
Looking good Eddy :)
ghstrider
03/04/2016, 05:33 AM
Well I have returned.
Life has changed in a million ways but I always kept the tank and major components (dry for 3 years but I kept it). To my surprise almost everything was working perfectly so far. I am in the process of re-setting up the tank and making improvements on the build now on the second time around.
I seeked help with the re-plumb of the system and created a small manifold to run GFO and/or carbon, changed the layout of the UV and chiller plumbing, and also went with an internal dc controllable return pump (saving space, heat, and noise). The Tunzes are replaced by a Gyre 150 and I kept 2 of the Tunze 6105s in case I may need them. The AI sol blue lights remain along with the apex system with the new fusion update.
Pics to follow.... To say Im excited to be back is an understatement.
Eddy
ghstrider
03/04/2016, 05:39 AM
Here are some pics of what I started with last month..... Dry tank with a bunch of junk sitting in it pretty much...
http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsnmukq0xe.jpeg (http://s1156.photobucket.com/user/ghstrider/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsnmukq0xe.jpeg.html)
http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsxkecrscu.jpeg (http://s1156.photobucket.com/user/ghstrider/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsxkecrscu.jpeg.html)
http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsfrlncl2w.jpeg (http://s1156.photobucket.com/user/ghstrider/media/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpsfrlncl2w.jpeg.html)
ghstrider
03/04/2016, 05:45 AM
cleaned up sump and plumbing a bit including outlets for the gfo etc...
http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/04514CED-25AE-49EB-821C-FE0DEBEB775D_zpsgxdjcu7d.png (http://s1156.photobucket.com/user/ghstrider/media/Mobile%20Uploads/04514CED-25AE-49EB-821C-FE0DEBEB775D_zpsgxdjcu7d.png.html)
ghstrider
04/14/2016, 10:58 PM
Well shes up n running... Seeded the tank with dr tims bacteria and all the rockwork is in place.
http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/800038EC-E02B-4F13-BD84-7D1B9F98AEC3_zpszlxsndvv.jpg (http://s1156.photobucket.com/user/ghstrider/media/Mobile%20Uploads/800038EC-E02B-4F13-BD84-7D1B9F98AEC3_zpszlxsndvv.jpg.html)
http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/CF06FC20-FA2F-43C8-8621-0A71DB39081F_zpszgkrgfny.jpg (http://s1156.photobucket.com/user/ghstrider/media/Mobile%20Uploads/CF06FC20-FA2F-43C8-8621-0A71DB39081F_zpszgkrgfny.jpg.html)
Hope to have some livestock soon...
ghstrider
04/19/2016, 11:55 AM
http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/th_64DD2B5C-DA60-4557-9B42-C290753EF3F9_zpsnd9yk8m9.mp4 (http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/64DD2B5C-DA60-4557-9B42-C290753EF3F9_zpsnd9yk8m9.mp4)
my new zebra eel....
Click to watch.
ghstrider
04/28/2016, 06:01 AM
http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/th_F6011DC1-03B9-4D36-A24F-488ED0DF4E02_zps6fxzpzw7.jpg (http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/F6011DC1-03B9-4D36-A24F-488ED0DF4E02_zps6fxzpzw7.mp4)
More equipment installed including the doser. Now ph is leveling out and tank is doing well. Also seeded the tank with pods and they are all over now.
ezerasurfr
04/28/2016, 06:39 AM
Nice job getting it back up and running. I'm in the process of returning from a hiatus as well and it almost seems more difficult than the last time. Have you considered a refugium to maintain levels and nutrients?
ghstrider
04/28/2016, 08:51 PM
Yes i have... Need a decent light to attach and thats it. The rubble and cheato i can grab anytime. Should be up within the month
ghstrider
08/18/2016, 11:50 AM
Well alot has happened since my last update.. First off I had an ich outbreak and all i have left from the original fish is one tough little leopard wrasse. I ran the tank fallow for 11 weeks and set up a qt out of a used 29 biocube. Now the display has a few fish in it and the qt has a few others being treated now.
My current list includes:
Quoyi Parrotfish
Leopard wrasse
Naoko wrasse
Goldflake angelfish juvie
Rhomboid wrasse submale
And in qt:
Mustard tang small
Majestic angel sm adult
The tank seems to be doing well now and ive got a few small corals in it and am dosing A/B as well to keep the water chemistry right. Nitrates are almost 0 and phosphates were close to 0 also.
Pics and video to come...
ghstrider
08/18/2016, 01:04 PM
http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/60C51B9F-76AA-4A70-9461-0196E3CE1775_zpsfohcqlhw.jpg (http://s1156.photobucket.com/user/ghstrider/media/Mobile%20Uploads/60C51B9F-76AA-4A70-9461-0196E3CE1775_zpsfohcqlhw.jpg.html)
http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/00285116-DA1C-4891-B6E2-64498C8C2CC4_zpsoatmrpmm.jpg (http://s1156.photobucket.com/user/ghstrider/media/Mobile%20Uploads/00285116-DA1C-4891-B6E2-64498C8C2CC4_zpsoatmrpmm.jpg.html)
http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/D7C8A671-6A87-4316-A1D0-AFD7502DA716_zpsh53awhtp.jpg (http://s1156.photobucket.com/user/ghstrider/media/Mobile%20Uploads/D7C8A671-6A87-4316-A1D0-AFD7502DA716_zpsh53awhtp.jpg.html)
ghstrider
08/18/2016, 01:22 PM
http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/th_A2AD470C-A027-42F8-AEF0-92CA28153F03_zps98axr780.jpg (http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/A2AD470C-A027-42F8-AEF0-92CA28153F03_zps98axr780.mp4)
ghstrider
08/19/2016, 06:54 PM
Some water parameters today...
Nitrates: 0
Phos: 0.03
Calcium: 400
Alk: 10.4
Salinity: 1.022
Temp: 78-81
Ph: 8.0 steady
RoryM
08/20/2016, 07:33 PM
Ups and downs of owning a saltwater tank
ghstrider
08/25/2016, 09:10 PM
Check out todays video update with my Mustard tang and Majestic angel out of QT and in the main tank.
ghstrider
08/25/2016, 09:10 PM
http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/th_98208C39-66B3-4729-B4F0-08D89C4439D6_zpszeevio8y.jpg (http://i1156.photobucket.com/albums/p566/ghstrider/Mobile%20Uploads/98208C39-66B3-4729-B4F0-08D89C4439D6_zpszeevio8y.mp4)
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