View Full Version : SkullV's "Dual Nano" Build Thread and Journal - Photo/Video Intensive
SkullV
03/18/2011, 04:37 PM
Finally decided to start a build thread since I made some progress today.
The build includes:
2 x 24g Nanocubes Drilled/Plumbed
Custom 20L Sump
Custom Built Stand
Nova Extreme Pro 6x18w T5HO for Reef
12 Cool White LED Par38 Bulb for Display Fuge
Bubble Magus NAC6 Skimmer
Rio1700 UL Return Pump
Vortech MP10 in Reef
Koralia Nano 425 in Display Fuge
Reefkeeper Controller
The display reef will look exactly like my current 24g NanoCube but I will be adding either 1-2 Swissguard Basslets. The display fuge will be full of Macro and Mangroves and will house a group of Red Spot Cardinal fish from Divers Den and possibly a pair of Bangaii Cardinals. Each of the tanks will have identical plumbing but the reef tank will drain into sump chamber 1 through a filter sock while the display fuge will drain into sump chamber 2 with no sock to make sure the micro fauna get through.
Here is the good part:
This was the original design:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/Screenshot2011-03-03at114226PM.png
Then I took this:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/P1010022.jpg
and turned it into this:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/P1010005.jpg
and finally into this:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0004.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0026.jpg
Today I had RunningReefing come over and drill the first of the 2 Nanocubes. The second one will be drilled next weekend after I finish plumbing this one and get everything transferred into it.
The overflow works great and keeps the water level exactly where I want it:
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Here is a photo of the overflow runningreefing made as well as the return. The return will have a 3/4" flare coming out of it:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG00291.jpg
Finally for today I got the T fitting and 90* fitting plumbed into the back of the bulkheads. Man is it a tight fit!:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG00281.jpg
preef40
03/18/2011, 05:03 PM
Looking good will be following along:)
SkullV
03/19/2011, 06:01 PM
Just ordered the MP10ES and I'm going to run to home depot tomorrow to get the rest of the supplies for the drain side plumbing.
ange062
03/19/2011, 08:15 PM
Just ordered the MP10ES and I'm going to run to home depot tomorrow to get the rest of the supplies for the drain side plumbing.
I just ordered mine too, very stoked. Can't wait to see the progress on your setup, looks awesome so far!
SkullV
03/20/2011, 01:24 PM
Update:
Went to home depot today and picked up some 1" spa flex for the return plumbing. I hate working with the stuff because it retains it's curvature from the roll, but it is finally starting to straighten out. I installed it pretty taught but it should loosen up and give some slack over the next couple days.
I installed a ball valve in the return plumbing so I can shut it off when I change filter socks. I wet tested the system to check for leaks (NO LEAKS :)!!). Unfortunately the overflow is pretty loud (see video), but this one will be under a full glass top. I will have to figure out something to quiet down the overflow that is going on the fuge since it will be open top.
Video:
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Pics:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0031.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0032.jpg
Pdubss
03/21/2011, 07:45 PM
Looks good. Tom drilled my 12 nanocube and it was pretty loud at first. I have had some success with quieting it down by drilling out the cap on the fitting that comes out of the overflow and inserting some airline and then pulling it in and out until you find the spot where it is quiet. Also I would recommend 1/2 lockline for the other tank if you have a choice, I have 3/4 and no matter what nozzle I put on they are so big that they really cut down on the flow.
JasonBJones
03/21/2011, 08:06 PM
Also I would recommend 1/2 lockline for the other tank if you have a choice, I have 3/4 and no matter what nozzle I put on they are so big that they really cut down on the flow.
They are not cutting down the flow. You will have the same amount of flow, actually maybe more if the 1/2" is limiting the flow, using the 3/4." However, you will lose velocity as the same amount of flow is escaping from a larger area and is therefore more dispersed. I wouldn't worry about it as most of your flow should come from in tank circulation and not from your return pump.
SkullV
03/21/2011, 08:16 PM
Looks good. Tom drilled my 12 nanocube and it was pretty loud at first. I have had some success with quieting it down by drilling out the cap on the fitting that comes out of the overflow and inserting some airline and then pulling it in and out until you find the spot where it is quiet. Also I would recommend 1/2 lockline for the other tank if you have a choice, I have 3/4 and no matter what nozzle I put on they are so big that they really cut down on the flow.
They are not cutting down the flow. You will have the same amount of flow, actually maybe more if the 1/2" is limiting the flow, using the 3/4." However, you will lose velocity as the same amount of flow is escaping from a larger area and is therefore more dispersed. I wouldn't worry about it as most of your flow should come from in tank circulation and not from your return pump.
Yep, the MP10 will be just fine I think. For the other tank it is going to be a display fuge so the flow is going to be low anyway. it's going to get about 30% from the return pump and then a Koralia 425.
Pdubss
03/21/2011, 09:12 PM
Velocity is a much better word. I meant to say with the 3/4 you loose a lot of velocity. At one time I had only softies in my 12 gallon drilled nano and a 550 gallon per hour pump and with the large nozzle it was barely anything. If you are planning additional powerheads/vortech you'll be fine.
duncantse
03/21/2011, 09:36 PM
Interesting build!
SkullV
03/21/2011, 10:01 PM
Interesting build!
Thanks, I'm starting to slightly regret the height of the "Box" just because of the open space on the front panel. I think I'm going to make some sort of acrylic box to go up there so I can mount my Reefkeeper and MP10 driver and keep them dry.
SkullV
03/22/2011, 12:41 PM
Got the display reef's return plumbing finished today. As long as I can get a new heater by this weekend everything from my current nanocube will get moved over. It's going to be a couple weeks before I can get the refugium cube drilled but once that is done it will only be a day before it is filled.
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0046.jpg
SkullV
03/22/2011, 09:46 PM
Just picked up this fine individual to be the last member of the Display Reef:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/SwissguardBasslet.png
JasonBJones
03/22/2011, 10:02 PM
Looking great and that guy is very nice
SkullV
03/22/2011, 11:12 PM
Started filling this bad boy up. I only have a 50gpd RODI and my water pressure sucks so I have gotten like 5 gallons since 6pm. I usually make water overnight so tomorrow morning I should have a nice overflowing bucket of RODI.
Each time I add fresh water I add salt as well to make sure no freshwater bacteria/algae begin to populate the tank. It also happens to be a good clean container to mix up 20ish gallons of salt water in. I will be using the 22ish gallons of water that is in my current tank so this water is really just to fill the sump and skimmer.
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SkullV
03/24/2011, 08:49 AM
Well I have enough fresh saltwater made up to fill the tank and sump. Considering tossing the new sand into the DT today with a piece of live rock just to let things settle and start seeding the sand.
Everything from my current tank will be moved over Saturday.
SkullV
03/24/2011, 01:16 PM
Finally some real progress on this thing!
The display reef is fully operation even tough it is only 3/4 full. I am leaving the rest of the space for the rock from my current tank as well as water for my current tank. I have the skimmer running as well as a filter sock to help remove all the dust from the sand but the water clarity additive that came with the arag alive seems to have done wonders. Less than an hour and it's already 85% clear.
The display reef has fresh Arag Alive sand in it and a chunk of live rock from the old tank. Everything else will be getting moved over between Friday/Saturday.
Video:
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SkullV
03/24/2011, 10:30 PM
Display Reef side is fully operational! Going to get everything moved over tomorrow/Saturday and get started on the fuge!!
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SkullV
03/26/2011, 07:43 PM
Got everything moved over, cleared up, and running right. All of the corals are pretty upset right now but are starting to open back up. Somehow in the move the impeller on my skimmer broke so I ordered a new one. Should be here Monday. As long as someone comes to get the sand out of my old NanoCube by tomorrow I should have it drilled and plumbed by next Wednesday. The the Display Fuge fun begins.
I also got in a Swissguard Basslet from Divers Den today that made itself right at home.
Here's the important part HD Video!!:
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and the new fish:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Fish%20and%20Inverts/Jester/IMAG00941.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Fish%20and%20Inverts/Jester/IMAG0095.jpg
SkullV
03/27/2011, 12:03 PM
All the sand is gone from the other NanoCube so the fuge build can finally get started!
ange062
03/27/2011, 01:59 PM
Are those ORA black ice snowflakes???? I so want a pair of those!
Tank is looking really sweet by the way, looking forward to seeing the full system running.
SkullV
03/27/2011, 03:47 PM
Are those ORA black ice snowflakes???? I so want a pair of those!
Tank is looking really sweet by the way, looking forward to seeing the full system running.
Thanks! They are ORA Snowflakes not the black ice. I actually do not like much black on clowns otherwise I would have gone with Snowcassos from Doni.
Just added a fuge light and some Macro to the sump mostly just for pods to grow since there will be a full macro Display fuge in the system
Also hooked up my ATO, It is hooked up to a MJ1200 in a 5g bucket of RODI.
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG00981.jpg
aday2remmbr
03/27/2011, 03:53 PM
great idea for the tanks man! its going to look great!
SkullV
03/27/2011, 09:41 PM
Just finished cleaning out the second NanoCube and ordered my Mangroves. Hopefully I can get Tom out to drill it on Wednesday and then I will be ready to go!
SkullV
03/28/2011, 09:06 AM
Confirmed, the second cube will be drilled and plumbed into the system on Wednesday. It's just going to run with sand for a couple more weeks though. My rock is sitting fallow from a case of Ich.
SkullV
03/29/2011, 09:53 PM
I'm getting really excited! Tom is coming tomorrow afternoon to drill the second tank. I already have enough RODI made up to fill it. It will be completely plumbed into and running with the full system tomorrow.
I also got some new SPS in the display reef, but those pics will have to wait til tomorrow when the lights turn on.
SkullV
03/30/2011, 05:49 PM
Got everything plumbed and running!! Even got my new skimmer impeller today so the tank has a functional skimmer. Here are a few teaser photos. I'll make a video when everything clears up, and then another one once the second tank isn't so....empty. Don't worry about the filter floss in the overflow box. Figured it would help clear things up a little faster.
FTS:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0106.jpg
Spray Bar Return in Display Fuge. Eventually I'll pull it out and paint it black with some Krylon Fusion:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0107.jpg
12 LED (3w CREE 6500K) Par 38 Bulb (60* Optics) from Reefledlights.com
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0108.jpg
Sump with the second drain. The Fuge drains into chamber 2 and does not have a filter sock:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0105.jpg
SkullV
03/30/2011, 07:30 PM
Here's the video now that everything cleared up. Saturday I'm going to do some aquascaping and hopefully pick up the tank's future inhabitants. I forgot how amazing it was to have a skimmer, the water quality is just so much better.
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slumpysix
03/31/2011, 07:28 PM
Very nice. hows that rio for the return?
msudawgs56
03/31/2011, 07:43 PM
Cool Setup!
SkullV
03/31/2011, 10:34 PM
Very nice. hows that rio for the return?
Rio 1700 is working great! Make sure you get the UL listed version (they are not all UL listed). The non-UL listed ones have had issues but this is my second UL listed one and it is working out perfectly.
With the flow going about 75% to the reef and 25% to the fuge through a spray bar I couldn't ask for a better return pump.
Cool Setup!
Thanks! I can't wait to go pick up my seahorses Saturday.
hebygb
04/01/2011, 12:59 PM
Have you considered having the top tank drain into the lower tank (via gravity) and then that tank draining into the sump? You would only have to flip the sump around. That way you are not pumping to both tanks and you could do away with those two 90* angles in the drain as pictured... Perhaps using 45s.
The mangroves would benefit directly from the nutrients from the upper DT and the lower DT would serve as a fuge for the entire system.
dogstar74
04/01/2011, 01:38 PM
Spray Bar Return in Display Fuge. Eventually I'll pull it out and paint it black with some Krylon Fusion:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0107.jpg
:eek2:NO! I don't like the overflow filled with floss. That's just asking for an overflow! The Overflow needs to be unrestricted.
SkullV
04/01/2011, 07:06 PM
Have you considered having the top tank drain into the lower tank (via gravity) and then that tank draining into the sump? You would only have to flip the sump around. That way you are not pumping to both tanks and you could do away with those two 90* angles in the drain as pictured... Perhaps using 45s.
The mangroves would benefit directly from the nutrients from the upper DT and the lower DT would serve as a fuge for the entire system.
I did it this way for 2 reasons. The first is I HATE microbubbles and with a gravity drain they are inevitable. The second is that this way the mangroves do get 100% of the nutrients from the system. It is all shared water. Also as a side note, anytime I dose I can add it to the lower tank which means it must pass through both tanks before hitting the skimmer.
:eek2:NO! I don't like the overflow filled with floss. That's just asking for an overflow! The Overflow needs to be unrestricted.
OK! No worries, that floss is already gone. It was just there to catch debris from the sand for the first couple hours. I'm pretty sure it's gone if you watch the video.
SkullV
04/01/2011, 09:01 PM
Since all my remaining liverock from my FOWLR system has another 2 weeks of sitting fallow I went out and bought some dry rock today to do some temporary aquascaping in the Display Fuge which by tomorrow will be housing a pair of Captive Bred H. Erectus seahorses. I also bought a finger leather and got some pom pom xenia donated. I made sure to add some branched pieces for the seahorses to latch on to.
The scape was supposed to be temporary but I am actually starting to like it. My mangroves will be here tomorrow as well.
Here are some photos, what do you think?
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/IMAG0115.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/IMAG0116.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/IMAG0117.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/IMAG0118.jpg
SkullV
04/02/2011, 04:11 PM
Just arrived home with a Captive Bred pair of H. Erectus Seahorses:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/IMAG0119.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/IMAG0122.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/IMAG0124.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/IMAG0123.jpg
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SkullV
04/04/2011, 07:06 PM
Seahorse Update:
They are eating frozen like CHAMPS but I still haven't gotten to eat from their "feeding dish" yet. Peka said it may take a couple days. They do follow around the turkey baster like it's their job though.
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/P1010038.jpg
Also got my Mangroves in today so I "planted" them. I have them tied to hardwood dowels with gardening tie. It is stretchy so they can grow without being constricted. Turned out pretty good I think:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/P1010034.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/P1010033.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/P1010035.jpg
Also the newest Display Reef FTS. I have added a Forest Fire Digi, a Bonsai, a Tricolor Acro, and also a Purple Death Paly (Zoa) for a Zoa Growout Contest. Somehow I even happened to catch all 4 fish and the shrimp in this shot:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/FTS/IMAG0141.jpg
And finally a full system FTS (hard to get in one shot with my point and shoot):
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/FTS/IMAG0143.jpg
-=Efrain=-
04/04/2011, 10:02 PM
Looking really good.. Just the way you said it would come out.
NewSchool04
04/04/2011, 10:52 PM
Very nice, I like the FTS.
blkg35
04/05/2011, 01:23 AM
Man, you sure move fast....:lol:
Nice setup, everything turned out good. What other algae are you planning for the fuge tank? OR are they going in the sump?
BANDIT ANGEL
04/05/2011, 04:46 AM
Nice tank, the mangrove decoration is cool.
fote03
04/05/2011, 09:34 AM
Look cool. Keep us up dated with pics
SkullV
04/05/2011, 12:23 PM
Man, you sure move fast....:lol:
Nice setup, everything turned out good. What other algae are you planning for the fuge tank? OR are they going in the sump?
I need to look at Reefcleaners catalog and see what they have. I want as much yellow/orange/red in the tank as possible to bring out those colors in the seahorses.
Nice tank, the mangrove decoration is cool.
Thanks! I really like how it turned out with the mangroves. I hope they provide some nutrient export as well!
Look cool. Keep us up dated with pics
Will do!
SlickSkimmer19
04/05/2011, 12:33 PM
Wow!! Awesome setup! I love the dual tanks goin on. Are you suspending the mangroves so that the roots don't break open the seams on the tank? Also how do you have your mp10 dialed in for flow? (Judging by one of the first couple videos it seemed pretty nice and even around your display) :-)
SkullV
04/05/2011, 12:43 PM
Wow!! Awesome setup! I love the dual tanks goin on. Are you suspending the mangroves so that the roots don't break open the seams on the tank? Also how do you have your mp10 dialed in for flow? (Judging by one of the first couple videos it seemed pretty nice and even around your display) :-)
The mangroves are suspended because I want thick aerial prop roots for hitching points for Seahorses and hiding places for the POSSIBLY Bangaii cardinals that might be going in.
I have the MP10 at about 80% on reef crest mode.
SlickSkimmer19
04/05/2011, 12:47 PM
Awesome! I'll be tagging along on this one.
ange062
04/05/2011, 01:00 PM
Lookin awesome!! Love the distinct look of each tank even though they are close.
SkullV
04/06/2011, 07:36 AM
One of the stupid clowns took a ride down the overflow plumbing last night and wound up in the filter sock! Luckily I heard a splash when he jumped into the overflow and noticed him missing so I got him out quickly.
The overflow even has an egg crate cover on it, I can't believe he made himself small enough to fit through that.
fote03
04/06/2011, 10:13 AM
Lucky u heard the fish. I just happened to walk by one of my tanks once right after one of my clowns jumped out. after throwing him back in the tank i went and built a screen top for the tank.
SkullV
04/06/2011, 10:43 AM
Lucky u heard the fish. I just happened to walk by one of my tanks once right after one of my clowns jumped out. after throwing him back in the tank i went and built a screen top for the tank.
I think he would have done fine in the filter sock overnight if I didn't notice him since there is a lot of water in the sock, but I'm glad I got him out.
I hate to do it, but after this escape attempt I think he may get the name "Nemo"
ange062
04/06/2011, 11:22 AM
I hate to do it, but after this escape attempt I think he may get the name "Nemo"
LOL!
Glad you got him back, that's an expensive little fishy to lose!
Jadams
04/06/2011, 11:26 AM
Very cool set up!!! I love the display fuge with the mangroves and seahorses!!! :thumbsup:
nanonubey
04/06/2011, 06:13 PM
I think he would have done fine in the filter sock overnight if I didn't notice him since there is a lot of water in the sock, but I'm glad I got him out.
I hate to do it, but after this escape attempt I think he may get the name "Nemo"
Don't count on it I just one of my snowflakes the same way and he was only in it for an hour or so.
SkullV
04/06/2011, 07:16 PM
I was playing around with my Droid Incredible and found out it takes pretty decent pictures! I really do need to get the DSLR back from my Dad though (he took it to China on vacation):
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/IMAG0164.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/IMAG0170.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/IMAG0165.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/IMAG0149.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/IMAG0168.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/IMAG0148.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/IMAG0172.jpg
SkullV
04/07/2011, 01:37 PM
Well to keep up with the journal theme of this thread, I noticed a couple baby stomatella snails on the glass today so I'm guessing the 2 (or more) adults that I know exist in the tank must have spawned!
nanonubey
04/07/2011, 02:00 PM
Those pictures are great, i've found that my phone captures the true colors better than my good camera most of the time.
SkullV
04/09/2011, 04:12 PM
Some new pickups from today:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Corals/IMAG0178.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Corals/IMAG0179.jpg
SkullV
04/09/2011, 05:21 PM
And the newest FTS(s):
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/FTS/IMAG0180.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/FTS/IMAG0181.jpg
I'm going to do my first water change since moving everything over tomorrow. There is a little hair algae on the sand so the mini-cycle is over. The stupid snails finally figured it out today so I'm sure it will be gone by tomorrow.
SkullV
04/11/2011, 04:52 PM
Well I came home today and noticed that the rock in my reef had somewhat collapsed. Luckily there was no loss of coral or anything, but I'm not completely happy with how the "new" scape turned out.
I'll figure it out in the next couple days.
SkullV
04/12/2011, 10:21 AM
Ordered my Reefkeeper Lite Plus yesterday. Can't wait to get some more automation into this system!
JasonBJones
04/12/2011, 01:44 PM
Looking good. Watch that clam as he is small and will need to filter feed and the tank is pretty new to sustain him without any additional force feeding.
SkullV
04/12/2011, 01:51 PM
Looking good. Watch that clam as he is small and will need to filter feed and the tank is pretty new to sustain him without any additional force feeding.
Thanks for the compliment. I am not worried about the clam though, the tank has been up long enough. Remember this was all moved over from an established tank. I am also a firm believer that clams never need spot feeding as long as they have sufficient lighting (especially over 2" which this one is).
I guess we will see though, this is my first clam under T5.
SkullV
04/12/2011, 11:04 PM
Just added a dosing pump to my Reefkeeper Lite Plus order. As soon as it all gets here I'll start dripping Kalk 24/7.
SkullV
04/15/2011, 06:38 PM
Even though I'm battling a low ALK issue, I am starting to see some coraline growth on the back glass/overflow after less then 3 weeks so I'm happy with the water quality.
Can't wait to get my RKL and Dosing pump next week so I can post some real updates! I'm about to order a Swabbie from Avast Marine as well.
SkullV
04/19/2011, 09:03 PM
Did some work on the seahorse tank/fuge today. Got tired of how yellow the Par38 bulb I had made the tank look so I added a couple polyp/soft corals and another LED fixture with some blue on top (needs optics). Looking pretty good, hopefully my Captive Bred pair of Bengaii Cardinals will be ready next week!
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/IMAG0199.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/IMAG0203.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Dual%20Nano%20Seahorses/IMAG0204.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Corals/IMAG0200.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Corals/IMAG0202.jpg
Palys are closing up because I was playing with the lighting:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/NanoCube/Corals/IMAG0201.jpg
I'll have some new pics of the Reef tomorrow with a couple new coral additions.
SkullV
04/19/2011, 09:28 PM
Aaaaand I just looked in my sump and who was down there? Male clownfish again! I'm just going to run without a filter sock until this little guy gets too big to fit through the egg crate cover on the overflow.
I also found one of the seahorses in the sump last week! These overflows skim the surface like a champ, but maybe they do their job too well! I have no idea how the Zeroedge guys are keeping their fish in the tank!
SkullV
04/21/2011, 11:45 AM
Goodies came today from Premium Aquatics!!! I got my Reefkeeper Lite +, my CoralVue AquaHouse Dosing Pump (that I have no idea how to use), and 6lbs of premium rock rubble for my fuge.
Can't wait to get out of my meeting this afternoon and start setting stuff up!
ange062
04/21/2011, 11:58 AM
Aaaaand I just looked in my sump and who was down there? Male clownfish again! I'm just going to run without a filter sock until this little guy gets too big to fit through the egg crate cover on the overflow.
I also found one of the seahorses in the sump last week! These overflows skim the surface like a champ, but maybe they do their job too well! I have no idea how the Zeroedge guys are keeping their fish in the tank!
Neeeeemoooo!!! Hahaha, sounds like you need to screen off those overflows or something. Glad you haven't lost anything yet.
SkullV
04/21/2011, 12:05 PM
Neeeeemoooo!!! Hahaha, sounds like you need to screen off those overflows or something. Glad you haven't lost anything yet.
They have eggcrate covers, but apparently that is not enough. I'm going to get some BRS mesh to wrap them in until the fish get a little larger.
SkullV
04/24/2011, 10:38 AM
Last night between 2-4AM I:
Set Up My CoralVue Aquahouse Dosing Pump for 24/7 Kalk Drip
Mixed 5g Kalk Solution
Set Up my entire RKL+
Calibrated my pH Probe
Tested Mg
RKL Mounting (covers the only visual flaw in the stand too :celeb1:):
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0215.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0216.jpg
CoralVue Aquahouse Dosing Pump:
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0213.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/Dual%20Nano%20Build/IMAG0214.jpg
the reefer
04/24/2011, 10:52 AM
Nice ted. The tank is looking awesome. And the rkl does make life a bit easier. I'm thinking about getting another pc4 and adding a ato. I think for though first I have to get a wider stand for the my cube
SkullV
04/24/2011, 11:51 PM
Well, just found Nemo (the male clown has earned this name by now!) down in the sump again! Luckily if he is small enough to fit through egg crate (not sure how he does it, he is larger then the squares!) then he is definitely large enough to fit down the 1" PVC drain pipe. I am going to go to Ace tomorrow and get some bird netting or something similar to try and keep him out!
On a lighter note, I got the RKL power strips and SL1 all mounted today so as soon as my outlet splitters get in tomorrow I'll be finishing up the wiring overhaul.
SkullV
04/25/2011, 10:24 PM
Well the RKL+ is 100% mounted, programmed, and running. I have the dosing pump connected to the RKL and set to be on as long as the pH is below 8.4 (I normally run between 7.85-8.15).
All in all a pretty neat product. I need to get my old windows laptop from high school out (MyReef will not run on Mac which is all I have) to get MyReef going and then order my NET module so I can play with the tanks from my phone.
I'll snap some shots of the whole setup tomorrow.
SkullV
05/02/2011, 11:02 PM
Update coming tomorrow with new equipment, coral, and new to me dslr camera!
ange062
05/03/2011, 08:18 AM
Well, just found Nemo (the male clown has earned this name by now!) down in the sump again!
No way, a 3rd time?!?!? Definitely earned the name, I wonder what the heck he thinks is down there!
Glad to hear you like the RKL, I have been tossing around the idea of getting once since I have been having problems with my analog light timers. Problem is I want to be able to control 3 x 0-10v lights for future upgrades, and the Neptune Apex Lite actually does this for cheaper, and comes with ethernet capability. Only catch is it's not modular, so it's $400 up front instead of in chunks (RKL, add NET later, add 2 x ALC later, etc).
bruce922
05/03/2011, 06:41 PM
I really like your setup. I watched most of your videos and really enjoyed them.
SkullV
05/04/2011, 11:30 AM
I really like your setup. I watched most of your videos and really enjoyed them.
Thanks for the compliment! I'll have another update sometime in the next couple days if I can ever get this NET module for the RKL working properly. It's also finals the next couple weeks for Law School so I'm kind of busy :mad2:.
SkullV
05/07/2011, 02:14 AM
Well....the "Dual Nano" is dead.
Came home today to 20g of water on the floor and a complete tank failure of the Display Reef (top) tank. I have no idea what caused the crack, nothing was around it, the stand is perfectly level and square, and no one (even my dog) was home to knock into it.
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/IMG_1232.jpg
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/IMG_1234.jpg
I quickly moved the seahorses into the sump refugium and transferred everything else over to the seahorse tank.
Luckily the SPS was only out of the water for a MAX of 2 hours so it seems like everything is going to survive.
Here is how the tank looks now. I pulled a bunch of the SPS frags off the rock so I could put them on the frag rack to make sure there was space for everything.
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/Fish%20Tank/IMAG0250.jpg
Carriegiesler
05/07/2011, 07:49 AM
OMG....this totally stincks and scares the heck out of me. That is no little crack. Do you think the heat for the light vent below(sitting on the other tank) blowing onto the glass caused the glass of the tank to exspand and contract to much? I hope you figure out the mistery because I'm curious as to what would make that happen. I'm glad you were able to save everything.
Are you going to get a replacement tank?
ange062
05/07/2011, 07:27 PM
Man, that's terrible, sorry to hear it!
Glad that you managed to save most or all of your livestock though, I guess that is the plus side.
SkullV
05/10/2011, 10:22 PM
Well the seahorses and soft corals have made it into their temporary 10g house. I am moving in a month or 2 and I am going to do away with the whole NanoCube thing all together. I won't touch another JBJ product after this. being that the crack does not extend to either rim, that the stand is PERFECTLY square and level, and that nothing was touching the glass on the outside/inside of the tank it has led me to believe that this is another break in the string of Manufacturer Defect cracked 24g JBJ NanoCubes.
I'm just going to go back to a 4' tank and keep a Mr. Aqua cube for the seahorses/softies.
http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb102/rockyrubicon/IMAG0259.jpg
JasonBJones
05/11/2011, 09:52 AM
Sorry to hear about the cracked tank, very unfortunate. Glad most of the livestock seems ok.
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