72 Gallon Bowfront - New Tank

[jtinoco]

I thought I'd just start a new thread on the new tank I got so that the title actually matches what the thread is about.

Here are the details.
72 gallon bow front
Fluval-405 Canister filter
Nova Extreme Pro T5HO 6X54w
Koralia 4 - powerhead

1 Clown Fish. (looks to me like its a false percula)
2 Chromis
1 Lawnmower Blenny
1 Dragon Goby, Pistol goby, Banded Goby.... whatever you wanna call it.

About 60lbs of live rock. (will be adding more as time passes)
All the coral so far came from Jay's tank and was in my pico. :) I fragged the GSP and the zoas.

So far I have:
Zoas (not sure on the name)
Toadstool leather
Small Kenya Tree
Green Star Polyps

Will be adding more coral as tank matures. I don't want to overload it to quick.

The awesome thing with this tank is that I kept all the water the previous owner had. I was afraid of a mini cycle, but none of the parameters have spiked at all. Ammonia 0. Nitrites 0, Nitrates 10 ppm, Phosphate 0. I've been testing it every day since it was setup and nothing has changed. :fun2:

Here are the before and after pics. The cloudy ones are from the day it was set up. Pics were taken with my phone so they aren't the greatest. Seems like I misplaced my camera. Once I find it, I'll post better pics.

[mistaflicksta]

looks sweet! you still need a skimmer though.

[jtinoco]

looks sweet! you still need a skimmer though.

Yeah. I haven't gotten the skimmer yet since I'm trying to find out if I may be able to drill the tank. If I can't I'll get a HOB. If I can drill then I'll get one I can fit in the sump.

I'd go for a HOB overflow but I just don't rust them. I know most work good and flawlessly but I just don't trust them so much.

[puffin04]

Is there any room under the stand to place a refuge there?

Steffen Sparks

[jtinoco]

Is there any room under the stand to place a refuge there?

Steffen Sparks

Yeah. There's plenty of room. It's completely empty.

I may be able to fit a 30 gallon tank down there. Maybe even a 40 but not a breeder 40.

[psuedopimp]

you will want more flow for sure! i have two K4's in my 50. i didn't like the low flow so i went online and got the sureflow kit that they use on maxijet. this kit came with two props a med flow and high flow. it only cost 15 bucks so i thought i would try it. they work great with awesome flow. the only down side is sometimes i think the power flickers or something cause one will go backwards sometimes. but for 15 bucks awesome flow!

and i will be redoing my aquascape and should have some rock to get rid of.....one of these days.

[jtinoco]

you will want more flow for sure! i have two K4's in my 50. i didn't like the low flow so i went online and got the sureflow kit that they use on maxijet. this kit came with two props a med flow and high flow. it only cost 15 bucks so i thought i would try it. they work great with awesome flow. the only down side is sometimes i think the power flickers or something cause one will go backwards sometimes. but for 15 bucks awesome flow!

and i will be redoing my aquascape and should have some rock to get rid of.....one of these days.

I'll see if I can post a video. I thought my fow was good but now I'm doubting it. I have the fluval at full blast as well since it has a flow control valve.

[jmait769]

Looks great!! :) You got a good deal especially with the light. I have the old 4 bulb version, not the pro, and it has been a very good light. May want to see how old the bulbs are if you can. What have you got in the fluval as far as media goes?

Jay

[jtinoco]

Looks great!! :) You got a good deal especially with the light. I have the old 4 bulb version, not the pro, and it has been a very good light. May want to see how old the bulbs are if you can. What have you got in the fluval as far as media goes?

Jay

The guy that sold me the tanks said the bulbs werent even a month old. I stopped by The Coral Reef yesterday. Apparently Daniel knows the guy that sold me the tank. He said he changed the bulbs out on that fixture himself no more than a month ago. :)

As for the fluval. It's running half the container on carbon and the other half on bio pellets. Not too crazy on the bio pellets. As soon as I get a skimmer those pellets are going.

[mistaflicksta]

I use bio pellets in my canister but I clean it out every week, it works ok for me because I overfeed and the bio pellets hel prefilter the water before it reaches the carbon, well thats what I use them for.

[jtinoco]

I just don't want the pellets becoming nitrate factories in the future.

[jmait769]

That is great on the bulbs then! That helps knowing that Daniel was involved in the tanks equipment and maintenance! :thumbsup: I’m thinking of using the pellets once the tank matures a little further. What types of pellets are you guys using? Never used them so just curious.

Jay

[jtinoco]

I believe these are the ones in mine.

[jmait769]

I just don't want the pellets becoming nitrate factories in the future.Ok no I was thinking more of this type:

http://c1.f3images.com/IMD/250/XB1115/XB1115_1.jpg

With those fluval ceramic rings I would be worried about the nitrate factory also. I think the fear is that the canister becomes a detritus trap. Check your parameters often and get that skimmer! I have a Remora (HOB) you can use if you like until you figure out which one you will get. You will need a MJ1200 to run it.


Jay

[mistaflicksta]

I run the original Eheim SUBSTRAT Pro Biological Filtration Media and have just recently started to mix in BRS Bio Pellets in the canister. I havent noticed a major change in nitrate since I put it in. I used to have 20ppm and they dropped to 10ppm and have not moved since. I will be ordering a reactor next month and some GFO and ill see how that works out for me.

[pnavarro170]

i would have spray painted the back really quick before setting up but i know you had everything waiting. good deal good start.

[deehz]

.... I will be ordering a reactor next month and some GFO and ill see how that works out for me.

Erik--Have you seen the Zeovit system? Its basically the same concept as the reactor w/ gfo and carbon. The difference is that the media in the reactor somehow harbors all the beneficial bacteria. In time, it will lower your PO4 and NO3 levels naturally and the bacteria becomes a planktonic food source for your corals. People swear by this system. Its a little pricey up front, but from I have been told, the bacteria cultures and stuff that you purchase for this system lasts pretty long. Then again, everything in this hobby can be expensive.

During xmas break, I am going to finally run a real sump for my tank. I am also going to purchase this system as well. Check out the thread that I started: Zeovit.

http://www.marinedepot.com/AquaMaxx_ZEO_Reactor_Korallen_Zucht_ZEOvit_Starter_Kit_Modular_Inline_Specialty_Filters-AquaMaxx-UJ31113-FIFRISMF-vi.html

[mistaflicksta]

any updates?

[jtinoco]

any updates?

I haven't had much time lately to add anything else to the tank. Everythig seems to be doing good. The zoas and the toadstool have opened up nicely.

I fjnally found my camera. I'll post pics in a few.

[jtinoco]

Here are a few pics.

Actinics only
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/SN152641.jpg


Both Daylights and Actinics
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/SN152651.jpg


Some shots of the coral in actinics and some with just daylights.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/SN152640.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/SN152638.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/SN152643.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/SN152642.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/SN152631.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/SN152629.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/SN152628.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/SN152627.jpg

[jtinoco]

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/SN152646.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/SN152645.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/SN152644.jpg

[jtinoco]

Not that many updates. Been super busy at work and whelping a litter of pups.

Anyway, I added a blue hippo tang (better watch out for the tang police). I also added a huge green hairy mushroom, a small purple mushroom, and a small frag of zoas that I got from Steffen.

Also, Justin (pseudopimp) donated a frag of his branching hammer, some orange Monti cap frags, and a frag of bird's nest. I've been a bit afraid of sps but I thought what the heck. These were added last week and have been doing great. I'll post up pics as soon as I can.

Fluval has been sold and I found out the back of my tank isn't tempered. Want to drill soon. :)

[psuedopimp]

i hope that birdsnest colors up better for you than it does for me! SPS are only scary when you first start. i mean i can keep them alive so everyone should be able to.

[puffin04]

Drill time!!!!! :)

Steffen Sparks

[mistaflicksta]

Have you drilled it yet? what about a skimmer, do you have one yet?

[jtinoco]

Have you drilled it yet? what about a skimmer, do you have one yet?

Haven't drilled yet, but will eventually. lol

I've been super busy. Here are some pics of what's been keeping me super busy.

Sire
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Achilles%20%20Zima%20Pups/Achilles.jpg

Dam
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Achilles%20%20Zima%20Pups/Zima.jpg


1 Day Old

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Achilles%20%20Zima%20Pups/Day%201/SN152683.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Achilles%20%20Zima%20Pups/Day%201/SN152684.jpg

[jtinoco]

Here are some pics of the tank.

I haven't drilled it yet but will eventually. lol

I have been using a loaner skimmer from Jay. It's an AquaC Remora powered by a MJ1200.

Been battling green algae. Not sure what the problem is yet. I am feeding every 2-3 days. I did tests on my water source and everything is at zero (ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, and phosphate). I may need to use a TDS meter tho.

I tested the tank and ammonia, nitrites, and phosphate is at zero. Nitrates are less than 10ppm. I think the phosphate is showing up as zero because the algae is consuming it right away. So it may be a false test.

I am now considering dosing either vodka or sugar. Not sure on it yet. Kinda scared. lol

Here are some pics I took today.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/SN152743.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/SN152742.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/SN152739.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/SN152737.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/SN152734.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/SN152733.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/SN152730.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/SN152727.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/SN152725.jpg

[jtinoco]

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/SN152722.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/SN152721.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/SN152720.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/SN152718.jpg

[mistaflicksta]

wow you really got an algea problem. You should get a heavy duty clean up crew.

[jtinoco]

It was actually a bit worse. The tang has teamed up with the blenny. She trims the longer algae and th blenny finishes it off. They're not fast enough yet. I had only three hermits till this past Wednesday. I added 5 more. They dont seem to be fast enough either. I don't wanna add snails because I think they'll get killed by the hermits.

Maybe I should add a sea hare or more hermits.

[mistaflicksta]

dude, go to Salty Fin and buy some Turbos snails, They have them there for $1.50 each. They help out alot with hair algae. As long as the hermits have plenty of empty shells to try on and something to eat, they will leave your snails alone. I am a firm believer in a large and diverse Clean up crew. Hermits will stop eating algae if they find meaty food ie when you feed the fish. Snails feed strictly on algae.

[jtinoco]

Cool. I don't think I have enough empty shells. Do you know where I can get some?

Also, the nitrates and phosphate must be coming from somewhere. They're probably going to spike once the turbos finish off the algae, no?

[mistaflicksta]

any LFS has empty shells or you can even go to Hobby lobby and they sell a variety of shells for arts and craft.

As far as the Algae comming back, i might or it might not. your tank is still establishing itself and you will see stuff that makes the DT look ugly start going away slowly.

Lets say you get rid of all of the algae and you see it starts coming back, then you start taking steps to figure out what is causing the bloom, but remember make only one change @ a time or else you will not know what works and what doesnt.

Saltwater keeping is a constant Chess game. Just keep up what you are doing and don't get discourage. It usualy works itself out.

[jtinoco]

Had to dig up this thread. Lol. Hadn't updated in a while.

Steffen came over to drill my tank yesterday afternoon. He did an awesome job. Hans came over as well so I had the opportunity to leet him.

Can't wait to set everything back up.

Here are some pics. I will keep adding pics as the set up continues.

Right before taking the rank down for drilling.
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/26a412e9.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/1da252c2.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/0a794ada.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/7ff38aa8.jpg

Did the sump myself. As you can see I went a little silicone happy.
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/d14b982b.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/b2f532a7.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/5f4091a4.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/ff8cea25.jpg



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[jtinoco]

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/bc6cf92f.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/11964deb.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/6211bc29.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/bfd2f39f.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/f2c290dc.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/878d58b5.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/c29037f9.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/252d5c1b.jpg



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[jtinoco]

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/e5c8ae8d.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/0d2e907d.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/ca826f83.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/f004ba01.jpg



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[jmait769]

Hey looks great!! :thumbsup: Hans has the supervisor look going keeping Steffen straight! Having the tank drilled is definitely the way to go. Keep the pics coming as you progress!

Jay

[psuedopimp]

surprised the drilling went as good as it did with the XX on the table. hopefully that was after the drilling was over.

[jtinoco]

surprised the drilling went as good as it did with the XX on the table. hopefully that was after the drilling was over.

Steffen wasn't allowed to drink till after the drilling was done. Ha ha! Couldn't risk it! Jk

Here is the tank painted now.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/5df72d3d.jpg


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[stvguerrero]

Nice job guys Damn I missed it got out work late got alot to catch up after 6 months out.

[jtinoco]

Here is tank up and running now.


http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/573d2ed7.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/ccb5198f.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/ae3eb8a6.jpg

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[puffin04]

How are you liking the overflow? Any problems? Or leaks? Or suggestions? Thanks

Steffen Sparks

[deehz]

Jesus--looks great! Can't believe you have it up and running already. You haven't seen any diatom cycles or spike in NH3? Now all you need to do is glue a frag of green star polyps to the overflow glass and watch it grow!!

[puffin04]

Yeah that is the only thing that i can see Hans. It would have been better if the glass was black. But i figured over time the coraline algae will cover it and you will never see it. Thanks.

Steffen Sparks

[jtinoco]

How are you liking the overflow? Any problems? Or leaks? Or suggestions? Thanks

Steffen Sparks

Been working good. Was a bit noisy (gurgling) and every few seconds bubbles would push out at the sump where the hoses drain. I adjusted the drain lines to sit right over the water and the noise stop. The gurgling at the overflow stopped by turning down the return pump just a bit. Since then it's been good. :)

Jesus--looks great! Can't believe you have it up and running already. You haven't seen any diatom cycles or spike in NH3? Now all you need to do is glue a frag of green star polyps to the overflow glass and watch it grow!!

So far no diatom outbreaks. Nitrates haven't spiked either. They went up to a bit less than 10 ppm yesterday I increased the vodka to 5 ml for yesterday and this morning they were at 0. So far everything is good. I did lose my peppermint shrimp and my fire shrimp tho. The powerhead won the battle while they were in the container.

[jtinoco]

Does anyone need to prune their chaeto any time soon? If so, let me know and I may be able to buy it from y'all. :)

[psuedopimp]

if you are going to be in cruces let me know. stop buy and i will hook you up. although you can prob get it in el paso too.

[jtinoco]

if you are going to be in cruces let me know. stop buy and i will hook you up. although you can prob get it in el paso too.

Probably won't be in cruces for another two weeks. I'll get with you if I can go sooner. Thanks.

[deehz]

Are you going to the meeting? I can bring some if you want. I also got a peppermint I need to sell. I can throw in the Chaeto with purchase. LMK.

[chuy marquez]

I have some, I'm on the Westside by Canutillo. Let me know.

[jtinoco]

Sorry I didn't get back to you guys on the chaeto. I almost died of flu this week lol.

Thanks for the offers I think I'm going to go with Hans offer since I can use another peppermint for the aiptasia.

Here are some updated pics of the tank.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/4f50c3d1.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/e6f59668.jpg




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[jtinoco]

Update pics. All comments welcome.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/f884e1bc.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/a86a8f1b.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/53885985.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/492270d1.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/2b63eb35.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/76850f26.jpg



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[jtinoco]

Frogspawn from Hans. At first I thought I only wanted a frag of it. But I'm glad I took the whole thing. Looks awesome when it's all open.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Drilling/7bb84579.jpg



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[deehz]

Jesus--looks real good! Looks right at home brotha :)

[pnavarro170]

coming along great.

[stvguerrero]

Looking way better now i've been doing a good job, I still need help with sugar dosing from from you..

[jtinoco]

Looking way better now i've been doing a good job, I still need help with sugar dosing from from you..

Just let me know. I'd suggest going with vodka instead tho. Now that I switched over I noticed it works a lot better.

[stvguerrero]

Yhea for sure what bottle of vodka should I get? Let me know when you have time so what's the diffrence you saw between both?

[jtinoco]

Looking way better now i've been doing a good job, I still need help with sugar dosing from from you..

Yhea for sure what bottle of vodka should I get? Let me know when you have time so what's the diffrence you saw between both?

I found a bottle at Costco for 10 bucks and it's like a 1.75 liter bottle so it's pretty big.

As for the difference, mainly coral coloration and the mini bacteria blooms. Water was clear for the most part but sometimes it was a bit cloudy even tho the dose amount was the same. I think it was just that the sugar was not dissolving completely and evenly.

[jtinoco]

This is the one.



http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/2bde5629.jpg

[jtinoco]

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[deehz]

Jesus--Considering Steff and yourself just drilled the tank a couple of weeks ago, system looks good bro.

[jtinoco]

Cant get it to embed correctly on the previous post.

here we go. Much better!

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[jtinoco]

Wanted to update. Everything is doing great.

Question for you all. I'm new to the sump/refugium setup. There is a lot of detritus building up down there in the fuge section. Do you all siphon any if it out ever?


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[jmait769]

I siphon at each water change. Still does not get it all however. I'm to lazy to drain it completely! :( Tank is looking great!

Jay

[deehz]

Put some CUC down there. They should put a dent on it. If not, put a filter sock to catch the pig particles.

[puffin04]

CUC = Clean Up Crew for the slow people! :)

Steffen Sparks

[pnavarro170]

im like why would u put a cucumber down there. haha JK JK

[puffin04]

im like why would u put a cucumber down there. haha JK JK

Because Pedro everyone knows when you put cucumbers in my refuge system they come out as pickles! Love the Mrs. Wages! :)

Steffen Sparks

[jtinoco]

I ended up getting rid of the trigger. The wife wanted some shrimp and a clam and the trigger wasn't going to let us do that. The trigger went to an all aggressive tank.

Here is the newest addition...

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/f595c7f1.jpg


Purple Crocea from Jimmy's after a two and a half hour drip aclimation. Loving it. It's about 3.5 inches across.

[jtinoco]

Here's an update. I had done a thread a while back on Linckia starfish. This is the first time I go against what I was told.

I think Hans suggested I wait for my tank to mature a bit more. Well I couldn't help myself and bought a blue linckia. It's about 5 inches across. Here are the pics after a 3 hour drip acclimation. I tried as best as I could to not expose it to the air.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/1ca4c319.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/9b88a64e.jpg

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[jtinoco]

The star has been in the tank for a week now. However, for the last three days it hasn't moved. It's just sitting on the sand. I resisted touching it till today. It still feels firm buy doesn't really move. It seems to just move it's arms here and there but doesnt move from location. The clean up crew hasn't touched it which makes me think it's not dead yet.

I'll keep updating the thread as time passes.

Last time I go against someones recommendations.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[pnavarro170]

i tried one also against better judgment, once i have a really established tank i might try another one. but it needs to be REALLY established.

[puffin04]

Usually the arms start falling apart on them when they go and the acclimation error will not show up tell like a month into have him in the tank. If i remember right it was a 6 hour acclimation but i think three will do as long as you match the temp and pH to the tank.

The funny thing is they are extremely cheap and extremely hard to take care of. Since the last time i did research on them they did not know exactly what they eat but some type of film that grows on the rocks and sand. Good luck and keep us updated. Thanks

Steffen Sparks

[deehz]

Keep a REAL close eye on it Jesus. No one really knows what their food requirements are which is weird. Some Lynks have been kept in captivity for years. While others die right away. I kept mine for over a year until i think it got in scrap with a bristle worm. Well, that did it and it was fish food. They die rather fast.

P is right, they need a very well established system. Did i just say that?:blown:

[jtinoco]

Sad to report that the star didn't make it. It started getting a white haze on it and still hadn't moved. Weird thing is that it never "melted" like most of the websites said it would nor did it lose any arms. CUC didn't touch it either. Neither the hermits nor my Sally lightfoots. Weird!

It stunk really bad when I took it out of the tank. The sand under it was turning black and its stomach was protruding out. Good thing I got it out before it polluted the tank even more.
Whew!!


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[jtinoco]

I thought be battle with the hair algae was over but I guess not. Since the tank was drilled I've been getting the hair algae again. I have pruned it by hand but continues to grow. BTW I think it's briopsis. The chaeto I got from Hans has quadrupled in size since I got it but doesnt seem to be beating the algae at the nutrients. I am still dosing vodka and have raised the dose. Seems the briopsis is immune to it now. Lol.

What I have noticed is that the algae is only growing on the rock I previously had and there is none on the rock I added that came from Jay.

I am considering pulling out all the infected rock and just killing it out in the sun and then reintroduce it slowly back in the main tank.

Any thoughts on this?


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[jmait769]

What I have noticed is that the algae is only growing on the rock I previously had and there is none on the rock I added that came from Jay.

I am considering pulling out all the infected rock and just killing it out in the sun and then reintroduce it slowly back in the main tank.

Any thoughts on this?


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkThat other rock could have a lot of phosphates in it? Not sure. Was that rock always in the tank?

Jay

[jtinoco]

That other rock could have a lot of phosphates in it? Not sure. Was that rock always in the tank?

Jay

Yes. That's the rock the tank came with. Before the drilling the algae had disappeared after dosing the vodka. Now it's back and not receding at all.

Think killing it off would help?


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[deehz]

Sad to report that the star didn't make it. It started getting a white haze on it and still hadn't moved. Weird thing is that it never "melted" like most of the websites said it would nor did it lose any arms. CUC didn't touch it either. Neither the hermits nor my Sally lightfoots. Weird!

It stunk really bad when I took it out of the tank. The sand under it was turning black and its stomach was protruding out. Good thing I got it out before it polluted the tank even more.
Whew!!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
They wont let go of their arms when they die. The best way to check if they are is if they start "spewing" their guts out. That is a best way of knowing the star fish is doing ok or not. I would wait a little longer to introduce one brotha. And you are right, man are they putrid when they die. Dang, that smell is f'in horrible!

What I have noticed is that the algae is only growing on the rock I previously had and there is none on the rock I added that came from Jay.

I am considering pulling out all the infected rock and just killing it out in the sun and then reintroduce it slowly back in the main tank.

Any thoughts on this?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
As you know, when live rock is covered with hair algae/algae, there are nutrients that are "locked/absorbed" by the rock itself. So it may take a long while before that is absorbed by the bacteria. So cooking out in the sun in a black container (remember, must be pitch black with constant water changes) might be the way to go. However, this should be the very last option since there are many available to you.

I think any system that are introducing a bacterial source via food (vodka biopellets) eventually will balance out. What I mean is the vodka that is being introduced into the system to promote a food source for the bacteria will eventually be ineffective (remember, vodka in the ocean is not natural). Why? The bacteria that absorbs the food source via the vodka to combat NO3/PO4 will eventually stop absorbing nutrients (NO3/PO4)--it has reached a balance. Just like a skimmer that no longer produces skimmate, the system has balanced and this happened to my system. This happens very naturally in nature as well as in closed systems where a balance has been reached regardless of how much more food source is introduced.

Since you are handy, try an ATS--algae turf scrubber. its very inexpensive and are very effective at combating algae as well as absorbing nutrients in your system. The big plus about an ATS is that it is natural!!! Algae of all type are found in the oceans including reefs and are symbiotic to a reef. Its just when we see hair algae in our systems, we go into destruction mode. Plus, you don't have to unplug or get rid of your skimmer.

My next system is going to be skimmerless and will have 2 ATS systems working non-stop. Here is some reading on ATS and you could type it in on google with tons of information on it. Either way, "cooking" your rock now should be the very last resort. Good luck and happy hunting brotha. If you have any questions, you know how to reach me! :)

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1977420

http://www.reefsanctuary.com/forums/general-reef-aquarium-discussion/35294-mega-powerful-nitrate-phosphate-remover-replaces-skimmer-refugium-everything.html?highlight=algae+turf+scrubber

[jmait769]

Wondering what your water parameters are testing at? I’m sorry, you may have stated this before, what is the water source for top off?

Jay

[jtinoco]

Wondering what your water parameters are testing at? I&rsquo;m sorry, you may have stated this before, what is the water source for top off?

Jay

I tested yesterday since the other tank is cycling already. Ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, and phosphate are all at zero. This may be cuz of the vodka

I top off with water from the water mills. I don't have a TDS meter which I should get but I do test the water for ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, and phosphate. If it has any detectable amounts I won't use it in the tank.

[jtinoco]

They wont let go of their arms when they die. The best way to check if they are is if they start "spewing" their guts out. That is a best way of knowing the star fish is doing ok or not. I would wait a little longer to introduce one brotha. And you are right, man are they putrid when they die. Dang, that smell is f'in horrible!


As you know, when live rock is covered with hair algae/algae, there are nutrients that are "locked/absorbed" by the rock itself. So it may take a long while before that is absorbed by the bacteria. So cooking out in the sun in a black container (remember, must be pitch black with constant water changes) might be the way to go. However, this should be the very last option since there are many available to you.

I think any system that are introducing a bacterial source via food (vodka biopellets) eventually will balance out. What I mean is the vodka that is being introduced into the system to promote a food source for the bacteria will eventually be ineffective (remember, vodka in the ocean is not natural). Why? The bacteria that absorbs the food source via the vodka to combat NO3/PO4 will eventually stop absorbing nutrients (NO3/PO4)--it has reached a balance. Just like a skimmer that no longer produces skimmate, the system has balanced and this happened to my system. This happens very naturally in nature as well as in closed systems where a balance has been reached regardless of how much more food source is introduced.

Since you are handy, try an ATS--algae turf scrubber. its very inexpensive and are very effective at combating algae as well as absorbing nutrients in your system. The big plus about an ATS is that it is natural!!! Algae of all type are found in the oceans including reefs and are symbiotic to a reef. Its just when we see hair algae in our systems, we go into destruction mode. Plus, you don't have to unplug or get rid of your skimmer.

My next system is going to be skimmerless and will have 2 ATS systems working non-stop. Here is some reading on ATS and you could type it in on google with tons of information on it. Either way, "cooking" your rock now should be the very last resort. Good luck and happy hunting brotha. If you have any questions, you know how to reach me! :)

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1977420

http://www.reefsanctuary.com/forums/general-reef-aquarium-discussion/35294-mega-powerful-nitrate-phosphate-remover-replaces-skimmer-refugium-everything.html?highlight=algae+turf+scrubber

I've read into the ATS and they look cool. Just don't think I have enough space for it.

About cooking the rock I don't mind much since it's only a few rocks that grow the algae. Those would be the only ones being cooked.


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[jmait769]

I’d cook them then if there are only a few. Watch the tank while they are cooking and if you have a reoccurrence you know it something further in the tank.

Jay

[mistaflicksta]

I tested yesterday since the other tank is cycling already.


What is this I hear? You are cyclling another tank and there is no build thread?

[pnavarro170]

Plus 1 ^^^^^^^

[jtinoco]

What is this I hear? You are cyclling another tank and there is no build thread?

Careful Erik! You might bite your tongue. Lol. :D

[jtinoco]

Here is an update on the tank. I got tired of the algae and just scrubbed the crap out of it again with a wire brush. My theory is that if I can kill off most of the algae, the chaeto will be able to start taking in most of the phosphate before the algae starts to grow again. We'll see how it goes.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/060a91b7.jpg

[jtinoco]

<iframe width="853" height="510" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/R5TT8kdKsPs?hd=1" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[jtinoco]

Update.

Had an issue on Sunday. Woke up to find a puddle of water near the tank. Checked everything and I found that the tank was leaking. It was actually a pretty good leak. One drop every one to two seconds. Ugh!!!

Took the tank down and resealed the whole bottom. Fish were all placed in the sump and all coral went into the 29 gallon since it was done cycling. Rock and the rest of the water went into my 55 gallon drum. While adjusting the legs on the light to temporarily place it on the 29 gallon, I broke one of the legs. Yes I know. I'm luckiest guy alive. Lol.

I let the silicon cure until today. I tested it earlier and it seems to hold water with no leaks now. Since the tank was down decided to make myself a hang kit for the lights.

10 ft of #12 jack chain holds 29 lbs. $6.88

S- hooks $0.97

1/8" Quick links hold 220 lbs $2.97

2 3/16" X 3" screw hooks $2.47

Total of $13.29 everything from Wal-Mart. Could've probably been cheaper at a hardware store but I'm too lazy to drive to one. Lol

Here are some pics.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/8d4759e6.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/7cd3aad0.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/c76c0f82.jpg


Drilled 3/16" holes into the fixture for the S-hooks.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/46ad68c9.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/bcf09e8b.jpg

VOILA!!!
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/2752f052.jpg




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[mistaflicksta]

Damn dude, when it rains, it pours! well at least the hanging kit looks good

[jtinoco]

I set the tank back up yesterday with all the rock. The water was super cloudy because the sand was a bit dirty. I tested this morning and there's no mini cycle. Everything is at zero! Ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. Weird!! I thought I'd get a spike of some sort.


Ideas? I suspect it's the vodka doing it's thing. :strange:



Yesterday afternoon!
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/486280c0.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/ec0b2ae6.jpg

[mistaflicksta]

Wait a couple of days, and keep testing. sometimes it might take a day or so and a mini cylcle might kick off.

[Chaka]

Bacteria Bloom?......

[jtinoco]

Bacteria Bloom?......

No bacteria bloom. I have been testing everyday since I set it up again. Nitrites went up a bit but dropped by the next day. Everything has been at zero since. I added back the coral and clam on Wednesday.

Here's a pic as of today. Just tool it right now. You can see the dead coralline on the back glass and overflow box.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/18099b85.jpg




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[pnavarro170]

Tank looks good still, hopefully no more messing with it so it can settle in and do its thing.

[jtinoco]

Tank looks good still, hopefully no more messing with it so it can settle in and do its thing.

Yeah hopefully. I hate seeing it start to settle and to see the coralline take off and everything start growing and then have to take it down cuz of some problem. UGH!! frustrating!!

Hopefully nothing goes wrong anymore.

[pnavarro170]

i was always trying to get coralline to grow but on the rock, i think we focus too much on coralline and we just need let the tank to do its thing. are you still dosing vodka ?? or is it that you cant stop dosing once you start.

[jtinoco]

Yeah still dosing vodka. I can probably wean it off slowly but I like dosing. Maybe later I'll try weaning it. :)

[jmait769]

Looking great!! Good job on the light fixture and glad to see you got the tank back in working order so well!! :thumbsup: Give it time and the coralline will return as you are doing it right by concentrating on your parameters.

Jay

[jtinoco]

Just some updated pics.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/b7709488.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/85bbcdcb.jpg


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[mistaflicksta]

looking flawless Jesus! great job. Can you post pics of your sump?

[jtinoco]

Thanks Eric. Here are some of the sump. Couldn't get a good angle.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/577edc5a.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/ab9c183c.jpg



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[mistaflicksta]

nice! i Like how simple it looks. great job Jesus!

[jtinoco]

Well. I've lost a couple of fish now. First my mandarin which was fat and looked happy. Now my lawnmower blenny which was fatter!

The blenny was just missing his eyes and mouth. Well I was reading on the sally lightfoot crabs and found a post from someone that saw when one jumped on a blenny and cut it's eyes out.

I think my sallys are the culprit because fish seem to die over night.

One is over 3 inches across and the other around 2 1/2 inches.

I would put them in the sump but they'll probably start eating up my pods.

Ugh!!!



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[jtinoco]

Just a video I did a month back. All done on my iPhone! Gotta love Apple products. Make sure to watch in 720p. Looks a lot better. :beer:

<EMBED src=http://www.youtube.com/v/g5PbSR4s08w?version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0 width=640 height=390 type=application/x-shockwave-flash allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always"></EMBED>

[pnavarro170]

did you do the intro and music from the iphone ??? bada$$. how do i do that on my android ??

[mistaflicksta]

Looking sweet Jesus! After watching your vid I tried to record my tank with my lady's android and it cant process the LEDs properly. So I did it with my Envy and it worked but it is very low quality. Good job man.

[jtinoco]

did you do the intro and music from the iphone ??? bada$$. how do i do that on my android ??

All done on the phone. No computer at all. Video was shot with the phone. Graphics and music on there as well. Uploaded to YouTube from the phone too.

Wanna make and edit your own vids?... There's an app for that. Lol.

There's an app called iMovie. Let's you crop and add fades and graphics to the video. Also let's you add any music you want. Its pretty cool.

Not sure how you'd do it on a droid.


"If you don't have an iPhone, you don't have an iPhone."

In a world that doesn't, well Droid doesn't either!! Lol

Looking sweet Jesus! After watching your vid I tried to record my tank with my lady's android and it cant process the LEDs properly. So I did it with my Envy and it worked but it is very low quality. Good job man.

You need to get an iPhone bro!

[deehz]

did you do the intro and music from the iphone ??? bada$$. how do i do that on my android ??
Its an ANDROID!!! duhh! LOL!! Apple rocks. I'm still unlocking this phones potential. And now they are busting out with a 4G by Xmas with more bells and whistles and a bigger screen (allegedly), SWEET!!!

[deehz]

All done on the phone. No computer at all. Video was shot with the phone. Graphics and music on there as well. Uploaded to YouTube from the phone too.

Wanna make and edit your own vids?... There's an app for that. Lol.

There's an app called iMovie. Let's you crop and add fades and graphics to the video. Also let's you add any music you want. Its pretty cool.

Not sure how you'd do it on a droid.


"If you don't have an iPhone, you don't have an iPhone."

In a world that doesn't, well Droid doesn't either!! Lol



You need to get an iPhone bro!
A M E N!!! Imagine what you can do with an iMac or Powerbook with your phone Jesus? You need an iMac. B A D @ S S!!

Oh yeah, system looks good bro!!! :thumbsup:

[jtinoco]

Just a few full tank shots I took today. I lost a few fish but tank is still going strong. :D

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/d4171858.jpg

Played with the camera settings on my phone a bit on this one. http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/7ee5a28f.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/3a06a368.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/84c907bb.jpg




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[mistaflicksta]

I like how you keep the koralias clean. What kind of frags are those on the sand?

Looking good Jesus.

[jtinoco]

I gave the Koralias a vinegar bath right before the pic. Lol. I clean them out almost monthly if I don't the build up of the gunk slows down the flow quite a bit.

I don't know exactly what the frags are I'm holding them for Steve. There an acanthus and a ricordia and some zoas. I'm bad with the names tho.

Here's a pic.
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/54bdba82.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/adb5bd9d.jpg

[jtinoco]

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/67d7d2a7.jpg

[jtinoco]

Anyone know what this is? I'm pretty sure it's a worm just not sure what kind. I noticed it on the underside of a rock when I picked it up. It receded very slowly into a hole when I touched it. It's greenish with yellow and it looked like it had some kind of webbing on it. Kinda weird

(circled in red)
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/2ae07e92.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/8c5b7bbc.jpg

[mistaflicksta]

looks like body of a spaghetti worm

[jtinoco]

looks like body of a spaghetti worm

Yeah. I just looked them up. They're either spaghetti worms or hair worms. Ugly looking things either way. Lol

[Katar1975]

It is a spaghetti worm, very beneficial for sand beds and cleaning up detritus. The frag you gave me looks exactly like this pic? It had the spaghetti worm on it and it already moved into my DSB. I was going to purchase some from pacific farms but I guess I got lucky, hehe.

[jtinoco]

I thought I had pulled that one out. I might have missed it. I didn't want to give you something that may be bad since I didn't know what it was. I guess there was more than one In there. Lol.

I just looked over the tank and I have quite a bit of them on my sand and on tiny holes on most of the rock. Pretty cool!

[Katar1975]

If you ever decide to get rid of them let me know, I will be more than glad to take them off your plate. Those suckers are expensive from Indo Pacific Farms.

[jtinoco]

They don't bother me I just hadn't noticed them till yesterday and today. I'll try and catch some for you. I'll let you know if I succeed.


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[jtinoco]

I was going thru some pics on my computer. I noticed I never posted these. These were taken around May or June.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4158.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4162.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4209.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4262.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4285.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4322.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4323.jpg

[jtinoco]

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4330.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4367.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4394.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4397.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4399.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4407.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/_MG_4417.jpg
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/IMG_4170.jpg

[jtinoco]

Well as you all already know. I took the tank down about two months ago. During this time I've been using my sump as a frag tank. I was able to keep a couple of my corals. I also convinced my buddy to sell me back some of the corals I had sold and my hippo tang. I kept all of my equipment and it's time to set the tank back up.

The original stand is no longer usable. Has severe water damage so I decided to build a stand over the new years weekend. Here are some pics. I started on Saturday the 31st. Today it was stained and door installed. I will add the poly coat tomorrow. I will post more pics once the tank is on it.

This is my first time ever at building any kind of furniture as you can probably tell.


Frame out of 2X4's and a 2X10 for the front radius(curve)

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/f30747ca.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/02a6bead.jpg



Wrapped with 1/4 inch oak plywood.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/70d3da94.jpg


Stained red chestnut.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/8acf1c1d.jpg


Black glass door from old tank.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/ac5757b5.jpg

[stvguerrero]

hey Jesus its coming out sweet , let me know if you need any help im just around the corner

[jtinoco]

And...... We're back!!!! :D

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/a899e1f3.jpg

[stvguerrero]

two thumbs up!

[psuedopimp]

cool....let me know if you need anything....

[stanger50lx92]

I remember those days of looking at a tank with freshly mixed salt water and looking at bare live rock for hours. I remember looking at my first aptasia and being so happy cause I had life in my tank lol. Of course I didn't know what aptasia was!
Tank looks sweet!!!

[jtinoco]

Thanks for the comments! I couldn't stay out of the hobby for long. Hopefully the tank settles quickly. Thanks for the offer Justin. I'll keep in touch.

I had a friend start curing my rock in a 55 gallon drum with powerheads and a heater about a month ago. Because of this I dont think I'll have that bad of a cycle. I used all the water the rock was in and only mixed in about 15 gallons more. We'll see how the cycle goes.

[Rafa67]

Hey man glad you are back I still have some kenia tree its been splitting :) so when your tank is ready i'll be more than happy to give you some!!!

[jtinoco]

Went through the shortest cycle ever. Almost makes me think something is wrong.

Two days after setup (friday the 6th) parameters were:

Ammonia spiked only to 0.25 ppm
Nitrites 0.50 ppm
Nitrates 5.0 ppm

I tested today and I couldn't believe it. I tested three times with same results.

Ammonia 0
Nitrites 0
Nitrates 10.0 ppm.

If nitrates start increasing, I will start with the vodka again as I had before.

I forgot to mention that I will add some coral in and maybe my hippo tang today and see how it goes.

Wish me luck!

[jtinoco]

Looks like everything is doing good. Added the hippo tang and two yesterday. Got a small flare up of cyano today. Nothing huge but expected due to the tank being new. Will keep an eye on it. Nitrates went up so started dosing vodka. Hopefully they drop and cyano disappears as well.

So far so good. :)

[jtinoco]

A couple pics from yesterday.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/6b743b8d.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/bf419d9b.jpg

[Chaka]

looking good!

[jtinoco]

Well I decided to modify my Nova Extreme Pro lights and add some moonlights.

I wasn't able to get a good shot with my phone of them on but they do give off a nice white glow. Really like the look of it.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/LED%20Mod/73d5eccf.jpg



I just taped them to the reflector near the back of the light. Electrical tape should hold.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/LED%20Mod/644e9f5b.jpg


Put one on each side, soldered wires together and used an AC/DC transformer. Hid all wiring on back of reflector. And drilled a hole near the other electrical cords for the transformer wire out.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/LED%20Mod/d336496f.jpg


http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/LED%20Mod/52fe658d.jpg

[psuedopimp]

looks good. is that too much light for a moon light?

[jtinoco]

I thought the same thing at first Justin. I don't think it's that bright tho. Heres the best shot I could get with my phone.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/LED%20Mod/7bf84793.jpg

[jtinoco]

Yesterday morning.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/74d249dc.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/1b9c2ec0.jpg

[jtinoco]

This is what Happens when you're bored at home and find you have "useless" stuff lying around.

I noticed my pH had been low (7.4 during day and 7.2 at night even tho the light in the fuge comes on at night). My alkalinity was at 6dKH. Calcium was at 320 and up to 380 ppm after a water change of 10 gal. I figured I am going to add sps eventually so might as well get the calcium up, pH, and alkalinity. I started dripping lime (mrs wages :D) this past Monday. As you can see in the pics below I started with a plastic bottle. The bottle is less than a gallon and I found mysel having to refill it twice a day because of how fast I loss water to evaporation. What a pain! So I switched over to a 2.5 gallon tank. I set it at a slight angle so I keep most of the solution dripping once it's running low. I built a little stand out of the scrap wood I had left from the stand build. The tank sits higher than the sump and it drips by siphon and a valve. I tested the water this morning before the lights came on and pH was at 8.0. I tested once I was home from work and it's at 8.2. alkalinity is at 9 dKH and calcium at 420 ppm. I'm believe I might have saturated the solution a bit much so I diluted it a bit. I will keep an eye on everything.

Then I found some 36 inch T8 bulbs and some ballasts. I wired everything and put the on the ceiling of the inside of the tank. I'm not sure if they may be too high to keep the chaeto alive but I'll keep an eye. If I notice any effects on growth I'll add some reflectors. I might have some lying around somewhere too. Ha ha!

That's about all the updates.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/3350e083.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/eb2cc92d.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/2c720c5f.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/e032eb77.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/58755066.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/4cc6439f.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/86c81933.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/e17d30d7.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/a10819a9.jpg

[psuedopimp]

looks good. i would definately watch that hand clamp holding your frag rack. it has a metal pin that will rust on you.

[jtinoco]

You're right. I hadnt even noticed it was under water.

[pnavarro170]

looks good, but im curious of why there is a lip at the top of the new stand. where you cant see the sand line ?

[jtinoco]

The lip is supposed cover the plastic frame the tank has. However being the newbie at carpentry that I am, it covers a tiny bit higher than the plastic frame. Plus the flow at the front of the tank is a bit stronger and has pushed some of the sand back so it's a bit shallower up front.

Second purpose to covering the frame was in case I build a canopy later. That way both top and bottom frames would be covered.

[stvguerrero]

for a newbie you still did a heck of a good job,

[jtinoco]

Thanks Steve.

[iadubber]

Looking good. Do you have future plans to re-home the hippo?

[jtinoco]

Looking good. Do you have future plans to re-home the hippo?

Yeah. Once he gets a bit larger he's going back to the LFS and being traded for a smaller one. Then the same once that one gets big.

[pnavarro170]

The lip is supposed cover the plastic frame the tank has. However being the newbie at carpentry that I am, it covers a tiny bit higher than the plastic frame. Plus the flow at the front of the tank is a bit stronger and has pushed some of the sand back so it's a bit shallower up front.

Second purpose to covering the frame was in case I build a canopy later. That way both top and bottom frames would be covered.

Ah makes sense.

[jtinoco]

Wasn't convinced with the glass door on the stand so I built a wooden one. I curved it just like the stand. Instead of hinges I used some roller cathes. One on each corner. That's way I can pull the whole door off to access the bottom.

I think it looks a bit better. What do you all think?

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/b5f1cf2b.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/83e14b6d.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/28cb4022.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/41c1f910.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/85da8cb7.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/bowfront%20stand%20build/47be7061.jpg

[jtinoco]

Tank Phases

I thought I'd put up some pics of my tank and the phases it's gone thru since it went up and after the multiple break downs due to several issues.

Here goes.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Phases/1efad879.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Phases/80a10092.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Phases/0a3f8eaa.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Phases/895229ae.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Phases/9e0c64ae.jpg

[igazoo25]

Looks good, cant wait to see more life in it again

Ivan

[igazoo25]

The woodworking skills on that door are very nice. I like it better than the glass.

[jtinoco]

The woodworking skills on that door are very nice. I like it better than the glass.

Thanks! But no woodworking skills here. I'm a newbie carpenter.

[mistaflicksta]

I didnt read the text at the top of your pix and I was thinking it was a small canopy you were building. LOL! If Ivan would not of mentioned it I would of still thought it was a canopy!LOL!

good work Jesus

[jtinoco]

I got some new bulbs in thanks to Steffen. Went with some ATI AquaBlue Specials, some Blue Plus, and a Purple Plus.

Here's the same picture as above as before and an after shot. Huge difference.

BEFORE
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/Tank%20Phases/9e0c64ae.jpg

Bulb on far right was a Fiji Purple. Way faded as you can tell.
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/57c5879b.jpg


AFTER

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/8dea5806.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/f424f1fe.jpg

[pnavarro170]

That is a big difference, looks way better. how old were the other bulbs ??

[TimGentry]

Just took the time to finally go thru your whole build thread. for someone who says he doesn't have much in the way of carpentry sills you did a great job with the stand! I took the easy way out and had Steffen redo my stand. Anyway, looks like things are coming along nicely for you with this tank now after all you been thru with it.

[jtinoco]

That is a big difference, looks way better. how old were the other bulbs ??

Yeah. Huge difference. The bulbs were about 16 months old. They were the crappy Current USA brand except for the Fiji Purple bulb.

Just took the time to finally go thru your whole build thread. for someone who says he doesn't have much in the way of carpentry sills you did a great job with the stand! I took the easy way out and had Steffen redo my stand. Anyway, looks like things are coming along nicely for you with this tank now after all you been thru with it.

Thanks Tim! And hopefully I won't have to mess with the tank anymore so it can do it's thing.

[pnavarro170]

Dang, yeah i mean that might have been contributing to your algae growth also. i think t5's are suppose to be changed like 8-12 months depending on use. Looks sweet.

[jtinoco]

It's 12 - 18 months I think on T5 and yeah depending on use.

[pnavarro170]

well even running them 8-10 hrs a day i wouldnt go over 12 months without a swap. We need a member with a par meter. lol

[jtinoco]

Yeah. 12 months was the plan. Took me a while because I kept researching and reading on the best combination possible. This time around it will be only 12 months or switch to LED.

[pnavarro170]

need the un fragged pic on here.

[jtinoco]

Frags mounted and rack removed.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/601d8a0b.jpg

[benjabba]

Looks really good.

[lsaucedo]

Looks really good.

I second that....looks good...I have to agree taking out the frag rack opens it up a lot more.

[jtinoco]

Double post.

[jtinoco]

Looks really good.

I second that....looks good...I have to agree taking out the frag rack opens it up a lot more.

Thanks guys. I appreciate the love. :D

[psuedopimp]

the tank is definatly coming along. glad to see you finally removed that clamp. rust scares me!

do you have a side view?

[jtinoco]

Thanks Justin. Turns out those clamps are the cheap kind. The pin was plastic. Go figure. Probably got them at harbor freight. Lol. I don't really remember.

[strayvoltage]

Looks much better with the frag rack gone, not that it looked bad with it in.
:wave:

[jtinoco]

Looks much better with the frag rack gone, not that it looked bad with it in.
:wave:

Thanks John. Never really noticed how much of difference it made till I saw the before and after pics.

[strayvoltage]

Most welcome I am sure. Sometimes we just don't see things until they are gone or see a b4 and after pic. I notice a lot of people have frag racks in the main display tank and in my opinion it distracts from the look of the tank.
:wave:

[psuedopimp]

<----this guy is taking frag rack out as we speak......


dude i guess mine were higher class Kmart specials mine had metal pins :lol:

[jtinoco]

A few more shots including side shots for Justin.


http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/fee6f7da.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/dbf84516.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/d2609dad.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/f88c6bfd.jpg

[psuedopimp]

i really like the long side shots for some reason. how are you liking your K4's? i have two in my 50 and they seem to do okay, but just not quite enough.

[jtinoco]

It's actually one K4 and two K2. Flow is alright. It slows down quite a bit when they get dirty tho.

[jtinoco]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYwUV7C11L8&feature=youtube_gdata_player


Watch in 720p.

[pnavarro170]

subscribed.

[pnavarro170]

we need some updates por favor.

[jtinoco]

Here's the update: Nothing has changed. And I mean nothing! Neither good nor bad. Which brings me to my issue.

All my coral has little to no growth. Hmmmm not sure what can be stunting the growth any ideas, anyone?

Salinity. 1.024
pH 8.2
dKH 10
Ammonia 0
Nitrites 0
Nitrates 0
Phosphate 0
Calcium 420


I do top off with kalk. And I seem to be getting what looks like diatoms growing on the back and front glass. It may even be dynoflagelates not quite sure.

I don't have a TDS meter but I test my top off water before adding kalk and unless everything is at zero I won't use it.

[pnavarro170]

whats your photo period ? and magnesium at ?

[jtinoco]

Lights are on for a total of 10 hours a day. Actinics come on an hour before daylights and go off an hour after.

I don't have a mag test. Dang should've thought of that.

[puffin04]

whats your photo period ? and magnesium at ?

plus one! :)

Steffen Sparks

[pnavarro170]

Jesus i got a brand new mag test kit if you want to buy it, or let us know if you have checked that out. mag should be replenished with water changes but i find that its usually low after a while pretty quickly. Are you still doing the vodka thing ?

[jtinoco]

Haven't had a chance to do anything for the tank. Been busy with another project. Tank is looking fine. I slowed the kalk dosing and gradually stopped it. Weird that coralline took off shortly after that.

Tank as of last week.
http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/My%20Reef%20Tanks/49fb5b63.jpg

[pnavarro170]

JESUS !!! good to see ya and that everything is looking great !!!!

[jtinoco]

Thanks Pedro. Here one more shot. This one was with the DSLR

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/_MG_5451.jpg

[pnavarro170]

try some different setting with the dslr and i usually edit them to add more saturation and contrast to make thing pop a bit better. but yeah im no expert cuz i use the auto setting.

[915MANG]

I like the tower of rocks on the right, Skills on the door! Nice

[jtinoco]

try some different setting with the dslr and i usually edit them to add more saturation and contrast to make thing pop a bit better. but yeah im no expert cuz i use the auto setting.

Looks like photobucket downconverted it or something I just saw the original file and the quality is way better. Weird

I like the tower of rocks on the right, Skills on the door! Nice

Thanks bro.

[jtinoco]

I took my tank down sometime late last year and either sold or donated almost everything I had.

I know I gave a frag of green Monti cap and a frag of red digi to Erik hoping they would grow out and I could get a piece back once I restarted my tank. I think Erik fragged the cap at one point and gave a frag to someone. Well, Erik is gone. Lol. Did anyone end up with either of the two or a piece of them? I'm interested in buying a frag of them if anyone kept them alive. I really liked the color of them when I had them, bright green color cap and bright red digi.

[pnavarro170]

i would send him a pm, my guess is that the sps is gone because i also gave him a few pieces. most of them didnt make the next move/teardown. not hard to find pieces so hopefully you have the same luck.

[jtinoco]

After battling aiptasia for a while now. Tried kalk paste, joes juice, zapper, hot water, nothing.

Got this little guy last Friday. He's been doing good so far exploring everything. Haven't seen him go at aiptasia or coral yet. We'll see how he does.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/0C4D3C94-FF3A-418C-8529-6BFC9DEEC711-1251-0000000B6D148DE9.jpg

[pnavarro170]

eric had good success with one of those, but it has to be the right type, i know there are 2 or 3 that look very similar. keep us posted.

[jtinoco]

I guess I will update my thread since Pedro decided to harrass me about it. Lol

Nothing to update really. Aiptasia doesn't seem to be spreading anymore; however, I have not seen the filefish go at it at all. Maybe he has I just have not witnessed it.

I overfed a few days lastweek and got green hair algae growing. So now I slowed the feeding and it seems to be receding.

Thats about it.

[mindytoy]

Looks great man how do u like the bowfront I'm picking up a 170 marine ready one this weekend I heard the bow distorts the look?

[jtinoco]

It takes a little while to get used to it. But I really like it.

[pnavarro170]

How bout a new FTS to end the year. since your last one was around a year ago.

[jtinoco]

Ummmmm. Last FTS was on June 14th.. 4 and half months ago. Nowhere near a year ago. LOL. Just sayin'

I'll add another by today or tomorrow.

[pnavarro170]

facts are one thing, what it feels like is another. lol

[jtinoco]

Update.

Looks like the filefish finally came thru. I can only see about 2 or 3 aiptasia he has not eaten. He pretty much cleaned up the tank. So far he has not gone for any corals. Hopefully he won't any time soon either.

[jtinoco]

Yes yes. A bit dirty. Haven't had much time to clean it up a bit.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/F166B1E8-141F-4280-AE50-3D30675BBFC5-25452-0000013B776AFA5E.jpg

[pnavarro170]

haha you werent kidding looks exactly the same besides needing more glass cleaning (if thats the look you go for that is) but looks good.

[jtinoco]

Got a couple fish and shrimp from Saltwater heaven today.

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/C31A73E0-1764-42DA-BF81-88C33D5277C1-5931-0000010AE7E98084.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/99A23B71-6AE5-4752-8D95-4A264375F3FE-5931-0000010AEAEE251A.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/9CFF5378-94FA-4225-8640-C614D1636A49-5931-0000010AEDA1522E.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/5B215C89-336D-4EAF-BF5E-8A4B5871324D-5931-0000010AF09ADF0E.jpg

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/D64A37C1-EC8C-4387-8567-7EC1F44B1A18-5931-0000010AF382C7A8.jpg

[jtinoco]

FTS

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/7513AC0F-1514-47A7-BCF9-B771E6809EB0-5931-0000010AF609FDB9.jpg

[rpjaws74]

looks good kid!!

[jtinoco]

Did a good cleaning on the tank just for fun today. Scraped all coralline off the back glass and on the outside of the overflow. Gave vinegar baths to all pumps and power heads.

And pretty much trimmed off the Kenya tree. I'm starting to hate that dang coral. It just wont die!!

http://i1038.photobucket.com/albums/a469/al_teroff_urhead/8F25E0CC-AC3B-4A53-9CBC-9A487FD63903-912-00000014071F93E6.jpg