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Acronic
08/11/2013, 07:08 PM
Hello and welcome to Acronics Statement of the Art

First and foremost, I would like to thank you for visiting my tank thread! I would also like to thank all here on RC and in the hobby for your contributions that have progressed this wonderful hobby to the heights it is today :) Thank you

The Vision

A clean, usable and simple bonzai inspired aquarium. Capable of handling a very high bio-load of small reef fish while maintaining quality water for delicate corals. Mainly, but not limited to, Acropora, Gorgonia and whatever else catches my eye really :) This isn't my first spin around the block, so, I plan on riding in style this time around.

The System

- 154 gallon 54.5x30.5x22.5in StarFire, demi-eurobrace, external bean animal CC overflow, PVC bottom aquarium built by Rubin at Planet Aquarium.

- 40 gallon Breeder no frills sump

- 75 gallon divided QT. Half for fish, a quarter for corals and a quarter for peppermint shrimp to eat AEFW, MEN, vermetilid snails ect. off of the corals. (more on this later as I know people will be asking)

- Evergrow A4 LED x 2, Ecotech Radion Pro and Reefbrite XHO blue x 2

- SRO xp3000 cone Skimmer. I have used his skimmer since 2011 and have zero complaints. I will use this skimmer unless the bio-load gets too high for it, in which case I would switch to a My Reef Creation skimmer.

- Ecotech MP40wes x 2, (Tunze 6105 x 2 - gonna see how the MP's handle the foot print / aquascape first)

- Waveline DC10000 return pump split for reactors.

- Fauna Marin Balling Lite method on GHL stand-alone 4 pump doser, plus a 4 pump doser drone. Still undecided if I want to run the full system or a hybrid with bio pellets instead of the Ultra Bak. A better reactor with more control would be in order (suggestions welcome).

- 400w heaters x2 since I live in an igloo in Canada ;)

- Digital Aquatics RKL3 monitor system (because I have it and it works)

Thanks to all who have patiently waited for me to light a fire under my wrasse and get this new build underway. Bear with me as I am a new father to a beautiful 4.5 month old baby girl that has a way of consuming my free time ;)

Whats a thread without pics?
Useless...

Its FINALLY here!!!!! :bounce1: :celeb3: ignore all the tape glue on the tank... heh
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4021_zps659da600.jpg

And a look at one of the inhabitants destine for a dream reef
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3588_zpsf6dd283d.jpg

jroovers
08/11/2013, 07:30 PM
Off to a great start!

TheReefKeeper
08/11/2013, 07:38 PM
Great lookin piece is it a RR?

typezero
08/11/2013, 09:40 PM
Congrats on getting the new tank Kevin!!! Nice crab in the acro too!

ryanrid
08/11/2013, 09:55 PM
following with interest, congrats on getting yo dream tank

Acronic
08/12/2013, 01:12 PM
Thanks guys, I am very excited to get going but will restrain myself from any hasty moves. So far my patience is alowing me to address issues I didnt plan for.


Great lookin piece is it a RR?

It sure is a beauty! Not a RR coral though. Ill call it "Terra Nova Milli", that makes it cooler right?

blakers82
08/12/2013, 01:31 PM
Kevin's back! Not that you ever left! :) Man, am I excited for this build. Congratulations on the baby girl. You must be really stoked with life right now?! SUBSCRIBED!

tripdad
08/12/2013, 03:51 PM
Have always found your advice and insight helpful, will be looking in. Congrats on the girl and welcome to the parents club.

ormet
08/13/2013, 03:09 AM
Tagging along!


A clean, usable and simple bonzai inspired aquarium.

What is bonzai style?


a quarter for peppermint shrimp to eat AEFW, MEN, vermetilid snails ect. off of the corals. (more on this later as I know people will be asking)

http://www.korallen-zucht.de/en/service/flatworm-and-monti-snail-eaters/ ? :D


Bear with me as I am a new father to a beautiful 4.5 month old baby girl that has a way of consuming my free time ;)

I have a 3 month old girl and a 2,5 year old boy at home ... free time is a luxury! Best of luck :thumbsup:

biggles
08/13/2013, 05:37 AM
A clean, usable and simple bonzai inspired aquarium. You had me at this Kevin............lol.
The tank dimensions will let you create an awesome aquascape mate, that extra 6" front to back also works out to be about 15 more frag placement spots i'd think.:p Really looking forward to seeing things evolve right from the start. Congrats on becoming a dad, nothing quite like having your baby son or daughter asleep in your arms on a quiet night - kinda puts a few things into perspective for you right then and there i think, in a really good way :thumbsup:

Acronic
08/13/2013, 09:20 AM
Thanks for the love everyone! Much appreciated.

Kevin's back! Not that you ever left! :) Man, am I excited for this build. Congratulations on the baby girl. You must be really stoked with life right now?! SUBSCRIBED!

Thanks :) U bet im stoked. Best part of my day is seeing Sophia smile!

Acronic
08/13/2013, 09:30 AM
Tagging along!


What is bonzai style?


http://www.korallen-zucht.de/en/service/flatworm-and-monti-snail-eaters/ ? :D

Bonzai is a style of aquascape fashioned after the Japanese ornamental tree keeping.

Your link describes my plan very well. Though, i have been experimenting with peppermint shrimp. They are slightly less harsh on corals than camel shrimp and more readly available. I have been studying the MEN's spawning traits and have found some interesting behaviour. I have watched peppermint shrimp eat aefw as large as my thumb nail. It should be cautioned that the shrimp will eat the coral polyps unless fed, which counteracts their purpose in the QT as they spend more time eating Pellets than the worms, snails and nudis.

agcneves
08/13/2013, 12:10 PM
I sincerely hope that the Reef brings you many joys.
Children are a gift of God supreme. Only those who have them can you measure love this. Congratulations daughter Sophia.
Cheers!!

kimacom
08/13/2013, 02:29 PM
WOW, congrats.
Nice starts & awesome millie!

Andyf30
08/13/2013, 07:21 PM
This is going to be a sweet build. Looking forward to following this progress

galleon
08/14/2013, 02:08 PM
Following!

M007
08/14/2013, 08:11 PM
:celeb1::celeb1::celeb1:

reefmutt
08/15/2013, 03:46 PM
nice! looking forward to seeing this take shape.

reefmutt
08/15/2013, 03:51 PM
all Led! i like it..
forgot to ask, why the pvc bottom? does it help in any way? cost?
how is the glass bonded to the pvc?

Acronic
08/15/2013, 09:18 PM
I wanted to be lazy and reply without quoting everything but that would be an injustice to the community.

Off to a great start!

Thanks Jordan, if it wasn't for your help, my photos would not be as intriguing as they are. You are a champ :)

Congrats on getting the new tank Kevin!!! Nice crab in the acro too!

Thanks Long. U mad jelly of my crab?

following with interest, congrats on getting yo dream tank

Thank you Ryan. Your tank is an inspiration.

Have always found your advice and insight helpful, will be looking in. Congrats on the girl and welcome to the parents club.

I do try to be nice and helpful where I can. Thanks, this is an awesome club :crazy1:

You had me at this Kevin............lol.
The tank dimensions will let you create an awesome aquascape mate, that extra 6" front to back also works out to be about 15 more frag placement spots i'd think.:p Really looking forward to seeing things evolve right from the start. Congrats on becoming a dad, nothing quite like having your baby son or daughter asleep in your arms on a quiet night - kinda puts a few things into perspective for you right then and there i think, in a really good way

And that is exactly when they poo or puke on you :spin3: its a magical sensation lol.

The aquascape I have in mind will use a lot of the width. I planned on incorporating a large clam shell but it is difficult to find one that is real or under $2000 shipped. Ill keep trying but its looking grim. 15 is a good number but lets be real here... 115 is a MUCH better number.

I sincerely hope that the Reef brings you many joys.
Children are a gift of God supreme. Only those who have them can you measure love this. Congratulations daughter Sophia.
Cheers!!

The reef engulfs my every waking moment. Oh ya, my dreams too... and my day dreams.... and my nightmares..... and I would bet comas too.

Yes it is a wonderful feeling. I am hard pressed to find something I would not do for her. I firmly believe I would even die for her. At this stage, the meaning of life is self defined. A rhetorical question not because it has no answer but because it has infinite answers.

WOW, congrats.
Nice starts & awesome millie!

Thank you.

This is going to be a sweet build. Looking forward to following this progress

Thanks, I look forward to you dropping in to check it out :wave:

Following!

I have a stalker :eek2: jk Thanks for the shout out.

:celeb1:

Pop a bottle of Krug and :celeb3: beers are good too :)

all Led! i like it..
forgot to ask, why the pvc bottom? does it help in any way? cost?
how is the glass bonded to the pvc?

LEDs are the future :spin3:

PVC bottom is nice because it is lighter for starters. The seams are stronger since the PVC gets channels routed in it for the panes of glass to sit in. Its really no big deal... just ballin'

Thanks all for stopping in. I will be out of town for a week so I will apologize in advance for a lack of action to come.

Acronic
08/15/2013, 09:53 PM
Quick vid of Sophia so you can see how she is growing! my little frag :)

<embed width="600" height="361" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowFullscreen="true" allowNetworking="all" wmode="transparent" src="http://static.photobucket.com/player.swf" flashvars="file=http%3A%2F%2Fvid946.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fad310%2Fsalvini55%2FIMG_1611_zpsf7ba619f.mp4">

Chipie
08/16/2013, 06:43 AM
OMG! She's sooo cute.

biggles
08/24/2013, 04:37 PM
Lol she's a cutie mate, is that red hair or cyano developing on her head Kevin. :)

Acronic
08/24/2013, 11:50 PM
:) thanks.

At this point, i think it will be more brown, like mine. There are redheads on my side however. A bit of the old Scottish blood coming through.

This week, the stand will be completed and I will start the canopy aswell (really excited for this) Pics to follow :D

biggles
08/27/2013, 06:57 AM
Pics are always a good thing mate, i bet Sophia will agree - just show her the newspaper and then some colorful acro pics and i know which one will make her smile, i rest my case........
I forgot to say before, that's a nice acro and a great shot of the resident acro crab - gotta love those little guys especially when they have a little argument over a colony lol. They're like those guys that are going to have a fight but you know that neither of them really wants to actually get biffed so they just posture and threaten each other until one or the other just walks off...... never seen a crab actually biff another one to this day, all show and no go thank goodness. :)

Acronic
08/27/2013, 10:22 PM
The first page turns and a few coral pics go up to feed all you addicts :beer:

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4145_zpse7ac7677.jpg

I really love this coral
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4154_zpsff3974b0.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4152_zps0c54ea4e.jpg

If this guy holds true, whoowee :spin3:
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4146_zps7e4386da.jpg

And for you deep water fans
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4149_zpse8479b78.jpg

I had to take all the blue LEDs off to capture this corals true beauty. Its just disgusting how this guy radiates.
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4157_zps1958751a.jpg

Closer with all blues on, don't mind the snow... ;)
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4155_zps98fed2a9.jpg

That should hold it down until the tank is ready and hummin' along.

biggles
08/28/2013, 01:29 AM
Dunno what to say really after that set of pics........... i was going to just call you a bastard Kevin but that really doesn't sum up the extent of my jealousy mate. :) Those are just disgustingly beautiful............

Bello
08/28/2013, 05:52 AM
God!!! Wow!!!

Amazing stuff!! :thumbsup:

glaukos
08/28/2013, 06:12 AM
amazing pics acronic!thanks
They should do it for a while(with our addiction :) )

reefmutt
08/28/2013, 06:56 AM
Beautiful!
Are they mariculture?
Did you put black gravel in the display or is that in the sump?
If so what type of gravel is it?

Acronic
08/28/2013, 03:41 PM
Pics are always a good thing mate, i bet Sophia will agree - just show her the newspaper and then some colorful acro pics and i know which one will make her smile, i rest my case........
I forgot to say before, that's a nice acro and a great shot of the resident acro crab - gotta love those little guys especially when they have a little argument over a colony lol. They're like those guys that are going to have a fight but you know that neither of them really wants to actually get biffed so they just posture and threaten each other until one or the other just walks off...... never seen a crab actually biff another one to this day, all show and no go thank goodness. :)

Dunno what to say really after that set of pics........... i was going to just call you a bastard Kevin but that really doesn't sum up the extent of my jealousy mate. :) Those are just disgustingly beautiful............

I have seen the fight dance your talking about, very entertaining.

What you said will do just fine ;)

God!!! Wow!!!

Amazing stuff!! :thumbsup:

Thanks Bello

amazing pics acronic!thanks
They should do it for a while(with our addiction :) )

Thanks.
Ok, you got me.... I am obviously an addict as well :facepalm:

Beautiful!
Are they mariculture?
Did you put black gravel in the display or is that in the sump?
If so what type of gravel is it?

They are all maris. bali, java, lombok mainly. Thanks.

The black gravel is in a little bin about 1 x 1, used only for photos. Its flourite for planted tanks. I dont recall the exact one though.

Arkayology
08/28/2013, 11:08 PM
Beautiful pics Acronic! Very jelly.

Acronic
08/28/2013, 11:30 PM
Thanks for stopping in :)

jroovers
08/29/2013, 12:23 PM
I had to take all the blue LEDs off to capture this corals true beauty. Its just disgusting how this guy radiates.
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4157_zps1958751a.jpg



Holy ****, let me know when a piece of that is ready to make the trip down the 401 to London!

reefmutt
08/29/2013, 07:46 PM
and up the 401 to montreal!!
the ice blue one with the red polyps is also amazing

footballdude2k3
08/30/2013, 02:08 PM
those are some amazing pictures, great job! What are you using for the pictures? Camera/lens combo and settings please?

Acronic
08/31/2013, 10:22 AM
Holy ****, let me know when a piece of that is ready to make the trip down the 401 to London!

and up the 401 to montreal!!
the ice blue one with the red polyps is also amazing

In due time :lol2: Ill snip a couple frags when I get the tank up and running

those are some amazing pictures, great job! What are you using for the pictures? Camera/lens combo and settings please?

Thanks, Canon 60D with Tamron 90mm marco lens on a manfrotto tripod. Shot Raw with 100 iso, probably a high aperture value judging by the diffraction and softness of the photos. Top down with no look down box and unless amanda changed the settings the mirror lock should be on.

biggles
10/12/2013, 03:22 AM
How are things coming along with the reef mate, hope everything is going well :)

maikoa02
10/12/2013, 05:55 AM
Beautiful pics. Thanks for sharing.

jroovers
10/12/2013, 07:57 AM
Yes, hopefully you are finding time for the tank between work and child care! Can be a challenge.

Arkayology
10/12/2013, 09:03 AM
Great shots of some sick SPS! This tank is going to be great!

sahin
10/12/2013, 11:11 AM
I dont even know what to say...that last SPS is just the BOMB!

Look forward to this build.

DarkStalker
10/12/2013, 12:13 PM
Beatiful colors.
Nice photo skills, the leds makes much harder

Acronic
10/12/2013, 11:05 PM
How are things coming along with the reef mate, hope everything is going well :)

The reef is making slow progress ATM but getting there, thanks for asking :) I have made some last minute changes and cut a hole in the floor to plumb a sump to the basement. I am not too fond of the floor. Since its what got me into this mess to begin with, I figured that was due reparations. :uzi:

My great dane has been severely ill the last 3 weeks. He had an allergic reaction (so they say) to something resulting in swelling, bruising, nose bleeds and now progressed into some gnarly lesions and open sores on his legs and paws. He is starting to heal and is much more energetic now which is fantastic!

Beautiful pics. Thanks for sharing.

Thank you. No problem

Yes, hopefully you are finding time for the tank between work and child care! Can be a challenge.

Between caring for the dog (also the substantial vet bills) and the fam/work, time has been hard to find. I am still slowly chipping away piece by piece. I figure a few weeks and Ill be up and running.

Great shots of some sick SPS! This tank is going to be great!

Thanks, I am in full collector mode :) not really driven by named corals but unique beauty. I hope it turns out as well as I invision it being.

I dont even know what to say...that last SPS is just the BOMB!

Look forward to this build.

I call that one Frozen Ivy. Not sure if it already has a name or not, I just like to slap cool titles on my sps like Orchid Berry and Fukijamma.... It makes it more ballin'

Beatiful colors.
Nice photo skills, the leds makes much harder

Thank you for checking it out



Here is a quick deep water acro speciosa
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3572_zpse458030c.jpg

Acronic
10/13/2013, 09:54 PM
A little plumbing action going down! exciting I know ;) I just wanted to post a little proof that I am still making moves :P

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/photo21_zpsf821c127.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/photo11_zpsfe70e7ae.jpg

Bello
10/14/2013, 01:21 PM
Glad to see progress.... :thumbsup:

ANY progress made, while fathering an infant, is an achievement :)

dvanacker
10/14/2013, 05:42 PM
Looks good Kevin. Thanks for the update.

M Woodhill
10/14/2013, 06:16 PM
Looks cool, dude. I've moved outa Ottawa, too. Back home in Manhattan now and am, too, starting a new tank.

s2nhle
10/15/2013, 01:34 PM
tagging along

Acronic
10/15/2013, 09:30 PM
Glad to see progress.... :thumbsup:

ANY progress made, while fathering an infant, is an achievement :)

Amen brudda!

Looks good Kevin. Thanks for the update.

Good Lookin' out D :wave:

Looks cool, dude. I've moved outa Ottawa, too. Back home in Manhattan now and am, too, starting a new tank.

Thanks.
Nice, looking forward to seeing the new tank.

tagging along

We roll mad deep

Acronic
10/15/2013, 09:36 PM
Another page, another coral... or two, three, no, four.... ok maybe five.

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_35942_zpsbb76cf0e.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3574_zpse3a21cfa.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3579_zps0f96c3fa.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3589_zps9a97db88.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3591_zpsa208d9f8.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3586_zpsed31f108.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3594_zpse06baf71.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3584_zps94f76f7f.jpg

franklypre
10/15/2013, 09:41 PM
Very nice acros, any chance of a FTS.

Acronic
10/15/2013, 09:45 PM
Very nice acros, any chance of a FTS.

Thanks, these corals are in my holding tank. I would love to post an FTS but the display is still under construction :)

Dukester
10/15/2013, 09:50 PM
wow, amazing photos, do you know the name of the coral in the second photo of your last post and it also came from reef raft correct?

Acronic
10/15/2013, 11:26 PM
wow, amazing photos, do you know the name of the coral in the second photo of your last post and it also came from reef raft correct?

Thank you.

You mean on this page or the last page? Second pic on this page I call Meridian Sky. Second pic on the last page I call Palmberry. Not from RR. If I bought these through RR I would not have food to eat ;)

jroovers
10/16/2013, 09:44 AM
Wow! Love that fourth one - what's its story? Love the shot with the acro crab. When your new tank is up and running and you are ready to frag, I'll be paying you a visit. :beer:

egis
10/16/2013, 09:58 AM
Beautiful pics Kevin!

aquaph8
10/16/2013, 04:52 PM
Some awesome SPS Kevin, looking good man!

Acronic
10/16/2013, 05:44 PM
Wow! Love that fourth one - what's its story? Love the shot with the acro crab. When your new tank is up and running and you are ready to frag, I'll be paying you a visit. :beer:

Thanks,
Yeah I love that one too! Its called "Sun God Milli" You are more than welcome :beer:

Beautiful pics Kevin!

Thank you very much

Some awesome SPS Kevin, looking good man!

Thanks Brett, hey do you still have those purple queen anthias?

frankyrivera
10/16/2013, 06:05 PM
what kind of wrasse is that in your avatar very nice looking fish

aquaph8
10/16/2013, 06:42 PM
Thanks Brett, hey do you still have those purple queen anthias?

No I don't have any at the moment but I really would love to work with them again soon, one of my favorites for sure but are definitely some work.

Acronic
10/16/2013, 07:43 PM
what kind of wrasse is that in your avatar very nice looking fish

Ya i miss that fish. Lost it to an O2 crash amung others. Its a red velvet super male.

No I don't have any at the moment but I really would love to work with them again soon, one of my favorites for sure but are definitely some work.

So I hear. Its too bad, I have an oppertunity to get a trio but i just dont have that kind of time everyday to feed. Maybe some day.

frankyrivera
10/16/2013, 07:58 PM
Would u be willing to send me some pics of that fish u took so I can save it to take to my lfs to see if they can get it for me

Acronic
10/16/2013, 09:17 PM
Sure, feel free to use this one :)

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/RedVelvetSuperMale_zpsf35686b9.jpg

selje
10/17/2013, 03:29 AM
Wow! You have some killer Acroporas:thumbsup:

Looking forward to following your new build!

*subscribed

sahin
10/17/2013, 06:15 AM
Those are awesome pieces. Man you guys have some nice coral selection! :eek1:

tmc1313
10/17/2013, 08:00 AM
Ahem, well sir, how far are you into the new construction? BTW, I'm anticipating something pretty awesome.

Bello
10/17/2013, 11:44 AM
That's some seriously cool sps.... the last one....how long have you had it?

I noticed in your initial introduction, you mentioned an area with peppermint shrimp for dealing with pest issues....so...lucky me, I still have AEFW.....care to elaborate on that?

jroovers
10/17/2013, 01:54 PM
Thanks,
Yeah I love that one too! Its called "Sun God Milli" You are more than welcome :beer:
[QUOTE]

I am going to take you up on the offer once your new setup is up and running.

[QUOTE=Acronic;21996497]

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3574_zpse3a21cfa.jpg



This one looks sort of like RR Red Diablo - you should charge an arm and a leg for frags!

ebond009
10/18/2013, 04:52 AM
Wow.inspiring photos...thanks for sharing!

glaukos
10/18/2013, 05:28 AM
Amazing photos kevin!!
Thank you!

Acronic
10/21/2013, 10:51 PM
Wow! You have some killer Acroporas:thumbsup:

Looking forward to following your new build!

*subscribed

Thanks for the vested interest :) Looking forward to sharing with you.

Those are awesome pieces. Man you guys have some nice coral selection! :eek1:

I thought so too sahin! Gotta keep your eyes on the prize :crazy1: thanks for dropping in.

Ahem, well sir, how far are you into the new construction? BTW, I'm anticipating something pretty awesome.

I'm getting there, keep your filter socks on... ;p

Its all about low expectations.. Invision an ugly brown softie tank with 3000k PC lighting and I can assure you I will blow your filter socks off!

That's some seriously cool sps.... the last one....how long have you had it?

I noticed in your initial introduction, you mentioned an area with peppermint shrimp for dealing with pest issues....so...lucky me, I still have AEFW.....care to elaborate on that?

Thanks duder :wave: I've had that coral 8 months now I think.

Well, in short, florida peppermint shrimp (Lysmata wurdemanni) make pests go bye bye.

Now obviously this is 100% effective 90% of the time but I have witnessed them destroy monti nudies, AEFW, vermetilid snails (its fascinating how they reach into the tube and rip em' out) eggs disappear sometimes too. They literally pick the coral clean, even the polyps too. I left a coral with them once for three days and all the polyps were gone and the coralites just encrusted over sans polyps. made for an odd looking coral. I've also noted that they are most effective when starved for a few days first. Some peppermint species are ineffective for this application though.



I am going to take you up on the offer once your new setup is up and running.

This one looks sort of like RR Red Diablo - you should charge an arm and a leg for frags!

Come bearing frags ;)

RR Red diablo is cool and all... but Meridian Sky is way more ballin' and 7.8 times more rare. I crunched the numbers myself so you know these numbers are legit.

Wow.inspiring photos...thanks for sharing!

My mother taught me the importance of sharing so all thanks should be directed to momma Acronic but since she is not here to accept the thanks, on behalf of momma Acronic, a heart felt "thank you"

Amazing photos kevin!!
Thank you!

Your welcome glaukos :wave: I really like saying your name :fish1:

Fail_sh3d
10/22/2013, 08:54 PM
This tank... I can't hold all these feels. I can't wait to see a fts. Amazing finds.

I may have missed it, but where are you finding all these gorgeous sps!?

RKLion
10/23/2013, 12:34 AM
[QUOTE=Acronic;21998963]Thanks,
Yeah I love that one too! Its called "Sun God Milli" You are more than welcome :beer:
[QUOTE]

I am going to take you up on the offer once your new setup is up and running.



This one looks sort of like RR Red Diablo - you should charge an arm and a leg for frags!

Not so much...
<a href="http://s1353.photobucket.com/user/RKLion/media/rrreddiablo__1382509917_9923412253_zps1946ddc4.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1353.photobucket.com/albums/q676/RKLion/rrreddiablo__1382509917_9923412253_zps1946ddc4.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo rrreddiablo__1382509917_9923412253_zps1946ddc4.jpg"/></a>

RKLion
10/23/2013, 12:35 AM
Another page, another coral... or two, three, no, four.... ok maybe five.

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_35942_zpsbb76cf0e.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3574_zpse3a21cfa.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3579_zps0f96c3fa.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3589_zps9a97db88.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3591_zpsa208d9f8.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3586_zpsed31f108.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3594_zpse06baf71.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3584_zps94f76f7f.jpg

Very nice photos!...

Bello
10/23/2013, 03:39 PM
Thanks for the peppermint shrimp theory :thumbsup:

I have one, most likely not from Florida, and doesn't eat aiptasia or anything... His name is therefore..... Fukall :p

jroovers
10/24/2013, 06:52 AM
[QUOTE=jroovers;22001673][QUOTE=Acronic;21998963]Thanks,
Yeah I love that one too! Its called "Sun God Milli" You are more than welcome :beer:


Not so much...
<a href="http://s1353.photobucket.com/user/RKLion/media/rrreddiablo__1382509917_9923412253_zps1946ddc4.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1353.photobucket.com/albums/q676/RKLion/rrreddiablo__1382509917_9923412253_zps1946ddc4.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo rrreddiablo__1382509917_9923412253_zps1946ddc4.jpg"/></a>

Oh that is what the RR red diablo looks like! :lmao: Funny, the only piece I've seen of it looks nothing like that.

Regardless, Kevin's is a nice piece and probably was a fraction of the cost of the RR Red Diablo, and probably looks near as good, if not just as good, as RR RD in real life.

dvanacker
10/24/2013, 07:50 AM
[QUOTE=RKLion;22018161][QUOTE=jroovers;22001673]

Oh that is what the RR red diablo looks like! :lmao: Funny, the only piece I've seen of it looks nothing like that.

Regardless, Kevin's is a nice piece and probably was a fraction of the cost of the RR Red Diablo, and probably looks near as good, if not just as good, as RR RD in real life.
Same here. And also dido on the avengers. Those who I have seen been able to keep it it doesnt look like the pictures floating around on the net.

stonecold
10/27/2013, 07:40 PM
Your SPS collection and pictures are amazing!!!

Acronic
11/03/2013, 08:59 PM
This tank... I can't hold all these feels. I can't wait to see a fts. Amazing finds.

I may have missed it, but where are you finding all these gorgeous sps!?

Thanks! I have been collecting from various places for a long while now.

Very nice photos!...

Thanks, Richard right?

Thanks for the peppermint shrimp theory :thumbsup:

I have one, most likely not from Florida, and doesn't eat aiptasia or anything... His name is therefore..... Fukall :p

NP, fitting name :) none the less its a nice critter for the reef tank :thumbsup:

Your SPS collection and pictures are amazing!!!

Thank you, you have a nice collection yourself.

Acronic
11/06/2013, 12:04 AM
Reaching total Acronica :celeb1:


This guys has just exploded in the last month
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4447-1_zps9d5b9bac.jpg

Full shot
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4447-1-2_zps3905ed4f.jpg

This guy has some good potential. I cant wait to see how it turns out. Sry, a little blurry...
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4446-1_zps3b88ef39.jpg

One more for the road
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4444_zps9177690c.jpg

Full shot
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4444-2_zpsf10d13a2.jpg

watchguy123
11/06/2013, 02:24 AM
Wow, I missed this thread somehow. Some of the best looking coral
I have ever seen. And I'd like to think I've seen many. Is it the water in Canada or just a combination of awesome coral and very talented reefers. Stunning, shockingly beautiful colors and exquisite photos. You raised the possibilities greatly of what one can see and grow in fabulously colored sps. I want to try harder but not sure I could ever locate the number of beautiful rare coral you maintain. I need to plan a trip to Canada

reefmutt
11/06/2013, 05:48 AM
Looking superb, Kevin.
The greater Toronto area is a hot bed for amazing reefers and amazing coral suppliers..

Piper27
11/06/2013, 06:13 AM
Beautiful corals! Looking forward to the tanks setup for sure!

jroovers
11/06/2013, 07:38 AM
Reaching total Acronica :celeb1:

This guys has just exploded in the last month
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4447-1_zps9d5b9bac.jpg

Full shot
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4447-1-2_zps3905ed4f.jpg



Love the contrast of colour and white growth tips against the dark substrate with nice bokeh, fantastic shots and coral. :thumbsup:

ksicard
11/06/2013, 08:09 AM
Beautiful photos and SPS, I'm in awe of how well photographed your corals are. Do you take your photo's in blue 14k-20k light with the led's or do you tweak the kelvin for photos? Lastly is your display tank up and running? If so lets see that FTS.

reefmutt
11/06/2013, 08:31 AM
Been wondering about your awesome photos and skills...
You say you have a small 1x1 bin with black sand for taking shots.. Is this bin plumbed into your system? Or do remove the corals from the system and let them rest for a bit in the bin before shooting? I ask because I noticed some bubbles in one acro in the last group off shots.. Like it has been out of water a bit and began to slime up and trapped some bubbles..
Also, if it's a separate bin, what lighting are you using when you shoot the corals?
I guess I'm just interested in your whole process when it comes to preparing to shoot, shooting and post production...... If you don't mind.. :)
Thanks!

Bello
11/07/2013, 05:36 AM
Beautiful!!! but that pinkish one is just breath taking :thumbsup:

Any more progress on the tank?

LoJack
11/07/2013, 10:59 AM
absolutely stunning photographs!

aquaph8
11/07/2013, 06:37 PM
Man you have some nice acros, Im jelous every time you post pics.

glaukos
11/09/2013, 07:09 AM
OMG...for one more time kevin!:eek1:

Acronic
11/23/2013, 12:12 AM
Looking superb, Kevin.
The greater Toronto area is a hot bed for amazing reefers and amazing coral suppliers..

Beautiful corals! Looking forward to the tanks setup for sure!

Love the contrast of colour and white growth tips against the dark substrate with nice bokeh, fantastic shots and coral. :thumbsup:

Beautiful!!! but that pinkish one is just breath taking :thumbsup:

Any more progress on the tank?

absolutely stunning photographs!

Man you have some nice acros, Im jelous every time you post pics.

OMG...for one more time kevin!:eek1:

Thank you everyone for taking the time to drop in. Apologies for the tardy posting. I am lurking but only briefly on the iphone lately. Sophia said her first word yesterday! "Dada" :love1: thats ma girl.

I am in no rush to set up so I embrace the hindsight and have already taken advantage of many changes to the system. Spoiler; I have decided to use a MH pendant along with the LED's. I love leds but have never used MH. I keep hearing its the bees knees so I thought I would give it a whirl.

This weekend is totally clear and I have all the pieces to get the build much closer to water.

Wow, I missed this thread somehow. Some of the best looking coral
I have ever seen. And I'd like to think I've seen many. Is it the water in Canada or just a combination of awesome coral and very talented reefers. Stunning, shockingly beautiful colors and exquisite photos. You raised the possibilities greatly of what one can see and grow in fabulously colored sps. I want to try harder but not sure I could ever locate the number of beautiful rare coral you maintain. I need to plan a trip to Canada

I am deeply humbled. Thank you. Suppose it is a mix of awesome coral, talent AND the water. Though, my TDS has doubled since moving to Toronto... Oh well, the espresso tastes just as good.

Beautiful photos and SPS, I'm in awe of how well photographed your corals are. Do you take your photo's in blue 14k-20k light with the led's or do you tweak the kelvin for photos? Lastly is your display tank up and running? If so lets see that FTS.

Thanks for stopping in :) I take my pics under a 14k (ish) light. I will lower the blues for certain corals. FTS will come in due time.

Been wondering about your awesome photos and skills...
You say you have a small 1x1 bin with black sand for taking shots.. Is this bin plumbed into your system? Or do remove the corals from the system and let them rest for a bit in the bin before shooting? I ask because I noticed some bubbles in one acro in the last group off shots.. Like it has been out of water a bit and began to slime up and trapped some bubbles..
Also, if it's a separate bin, what lighting are you using when you shoot the corals?
I guess I'm just interested in your whole process when it comes to preparing to shoot, shooting and post production...... If you don't mind.. :)
Thanks!

Its just a little dollar store bin with gravel that sits on the eggcrate. Good eye and spot on, its a nice effect, the bubbles. The slime can get in the way though if I am not paying attention.

Canon 60D with Tamron 90mil goes on a manfrotto pod set to full manual, iso 100-400 - aperture varies usually 9-16, lower for polyp shots, focus and metering takes place, mirror locked with a 10 second shutter to reduce vibrations. PP is done in lightroom 4. The usual suspects like temp, exposure and contrast get adjusted to further correct the cameras WB. If I am feeling saucy, I will play with the shadows and highlights but any further than that and you can easily lose focus of the piece and have to start over.

glaukos
11/23/2013, 06:16 AM
aaah..welldone for sophia....she made her "dada" happy,i can see:beer:
happy for you kevin:)

go with the MH's,always a sure bet

reefmutt
11/23/2013, 10:50 AM
Thanks for the details!
If it's the sump, how do light your corals for shooting?
How long does it take to produce a shot that you post on RC??
I'm always impressed by - and very appreciative of - the amount of time and care the top photogs (like yourself, Kevin) take to produce shots for posting here..
Thanks again!

reefmutt
11/23/2013, 10:52 AM
Have you experimented with HDR photography for your reef shots?
Wondering if it would help/enhance anything...

Acronic
11/23/2013, 07:36 PM
aaah..welldone for sophia....she made her "dada" happy,i can see:beer:
happy for you kevin:)

go with the MH's,always a sure bet

She makes me very happy. :love2:

I have proven to myself that LED works, I have proven to myself that T5 works. Now I will prove to myself that MH works. I am very excited for the MH. I will use the reef brite MH pendant with 250w ballast. It has superior heat dissipation and I hear the twin arc bulb was formulated after the radium bulb.

Thanks for the details!
If it's the sump, how do light your corals for shooting?
How long does it take to produce a shot that you post on RC??
I'm always impressed by - and very appreciative of - the amount of time and care the top photogs (like yourself, Kevin) take to produce shots for posting here..
Thanks again!

Have you experimented with HDR photography for your reef shots?
Wondering if it would help/enhance anything...

They are in a holding tank lit with LED. For one photo, I could probably have it posted within 20 mins. Though, I rarely take photos from conception to post in one sitting. This also doesn't take into account the photos that I take and process that do not end up getting posted for one reason or another. I also forgot to mention that I shoot in RAW.

I have looked into HDR for my coral pics. The 60D has the exposure bracketing capabilities but I lack the tonemapping software. I cant justify the $100 for it ATM but maybe I can find another way. There is a way to make HDR-esk photos in lightroom by lowering highlights, raising shadows and adding clarity and vibrance. Dodge and burn effects can be added aswell for a hard lighting affect but it just isn't the same. In the end its a lot more work for a photo that is maybe better.

An interesting concept that I have been playing with is layering three photos of a subject at different focal points to create a DOF parallel. It makes for some stunning photos. The downside is the amount of work involved and the limits of the subject used. For example, soft corals would not be suitable in this application since the frame must be identical for all three photos.

reefmutt
11/29/2013, 08:11 PM
Yes! Imagine a macro of multiple acro heads all in perfect focus. That would be very nice.
I think there are some pretty decent free HDR programs running around the net.. But I guess with the results you get with your photos, I'm not sure an HDR photo would look any better..

You must spend as much time on preparing a photo as you do on your tank! And you have a baby.. I applaud and am secretly jealous of your energy levels... When do you sleep?

selje
12/02/2013, 01:41 PM
Wow! Really nice pieces.

Acronic
12/02/2013, 10:29 PM
Yes! Imagine a macro of multiple acro heads all in perfect focus. That would be very nice.
I think there are some pretty decent free HDR programs running around the net.. But I guess with the results you get with your photos, I'm not sure an HDR photo would look any better..

I read there was a patch for lightroom that is only $40 but I am still unsure if that requires Photomatix or not... I think ill just save my pennies for Photoshop.

You must spend as much time on preparing a photo as you do on your tank! And you have a baby.. I applaud and am secretly jealous of your energy levels... When do you sleep?

Sleep? I just googled it and it sounds really nice! Ill try that some day.


Wow! Really nice pieces.

Thanks Andreas :wave:

Fail_sh3d
12/02/2013, 10:40 PM
These corals are amazing. Great color. Great growth. Wow. I couldn't be more envious.
Acronic - keep up the amazing work. And congrats on the first word win!

ThorEffex
12/03/2013, 04:34 AM
Where do you buy your get your corals?

MBMAX
12/03/2013, 01:01 PM
Beautiful corals and amazing pictures; I do not know if you mentioned before but can you give us more details about type of camera, lens and settings for those amazing photos.
And also .......Where do you get those corals!!!!!!!

sahin
12/03/2013, 07:46 PM
Thanks for the peppermint shrimp theory :thumbsup:

I have one, most likely not from Florida, and doesn't eat aiptasia or anything... His name is therefore..... Fukall :p

You and Biggles crack me up when I come across both your comments...Very funny! :lol:

Acronic
12/06/2013, 01:41 AM
These corals are amazing. Great color. Great growth. Wow. I couldn't be more envious.
Acronic - keep up the amazing work. And congrats on the first word win!

Thank you :) Pleasure having you along.

Where do you buy your get your corals?

Well if I told you that then I wouldn't have these awesome corals to photograph.... :frog: every reefer has his secrets :D

Beautiful corals and amazing pictures; I do not know if you mentioned before but can you give us more details about type of camera, lens and settings for those amazing photos.
And also .......Where do you get those corals!!!!!!!

I went into more detail a few posts ago. I do change it up though. I used a canon 60mm macro for these next pics and an aperture of 20. The lights were too blue this time around so the rest of the pics were unusable.

You and Biggles crack me up when I come across both your comments...Very funny! :lol:

Agreed. Biggles sure has a sense of humour and a brand that I like. I wish he would just post the word "bloody" in my thread. It would make my day.

Acronic
12/06/2013, 01:51 AM
Ruby Bullion
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_9983_zps7ef8d45a.jpg

Paletta Pink Tip
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_9984_zps107e1961.jpg

Acronic
12/06/2013, 02:24 AM
Well i really wanted to get a better shot of this coral but what the hay... Here is a growth comparison of the Terra Nova Milli over 6 months

Terra Nova Milli 6 months ago,
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3588_zpsf6dd283d.jpg
Terra Nova Milli today
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_9980_zpse928d3d3.jpg

biggles
12/06/2013, 03:48 AM
Damn mate that's impressive growth and i love the color. Looks like pink lipped corallites with reddy purple polyps and blue tips - awesome . Is that a light shading issue with the paleness on the branch bases mate or just my eyes.
Gotta love acro crabs don't ya, some of them aren't afraid of my hand and will come out and wave their claws at me if i get too close lol - great little bonuses with wild pieces :)
I'm jealous of all those pieces you've been showing recently mate, not that bloody green blob thing though, the Paletta Green Bum with Pink Tips one.............. i don't really like green acros a whole lot lol.

If i was within driving distance i'd break into your house to get this one Kevin, that's a compliment btw mate :beer: You couldn't report it if you think about it anyway Kevin lol..........

Police - " So Kevin you're saying that someone broke into your house and disabled the alarm system just to take one of these fish tank plant thingies your growing........"

Kevin - " Yes they did officer and for the fifth bloody time it's a reef tank and those 'plants' are actually corals which are animals "

Police - " Just stay calm sir - dispatch can i have a psych unit to this location "

Keep the pics coming when you can please mate, your corals are stunning as is your photography :)
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4447-1-2_zps3905ed4f.jpg

jroovers
12/06/2013, 08:39 AM
Kevin, that Terra nova piece is sweet, you sure it's a Mille though?

MBMAX
12/06/2013, 09:39 AM
thanks for your answer,I just started playing with the camera and I have the same len and most of my pictures are too blue but thanks God for digital; We dont loose anything just keep trying different settings.

Bello
12/06/2013, 12:30 PM
Holy crap on a cracker!!!

I was somewhat happy with my growth.... now you've ruined it :p. Beautiful :thumbsup:

Reef1589
12/06/2013, 02:27 PM
SERIOSULY!... that terra nova.. :inlove:

Acronic
12/06/2013, 10:30 PM
I was lazy and didn't re-take photos today so Ill post a couple more from yesterday.

Hyper Pink Spathulata. I'm certain it is going to stay this size for eternity. It has encrusted maybe half an inch in 10 months.
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_9981_zps31629a48.jpg

Another up and comer. Quite a few months in the making getting ANY colour out of this one.
Russian Frost
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_3595_zps6795ee49.jpg

Acronic
12/06/2013, 10:45 PM
Damn mate that's impressive growth and i love the color. Looks like pink lipped corallites with reddy purple polyps and blue tips - awesome . Is that a light shading issue with the paleness on the branch bases mate or just my eyes.
Gotta love acro crabs don't ya, some of them aren't afraid of my hand and will come out and wave their claws at me if i get too close lol - great little bonuses with wild pieces :)
I'm jealous of all those pieces you've been showing recently mate, not that bloody green blob thing though, the Paletta Green Bum with Pink Tips one.............. i don't really like green acros a whole lot lol.

If i was within driving distance i'd break into your house to get this one Kevin, that's a compliment btw mate :beer: You couldn't report it if you think about it anyway Kevin lol..........

Police - " So Kevin you're saying that someone broke into your house and disabled the alarm system just to take one of these fish tank plant thingies your growing........"

Kevin - " Yes they did officer and for the fifth bloody time it's a reef tank and those 'plants' are actually corals which are animals "

Police - " Just stay calm sir - dispatch can i have a psych unit to this location "

Keep the pics coming when you can please mate, your corals are stunning as is your photography :)


LOL - Im glad there is a vast ocean in between us :p but even if there wasn't, have you seen my dogs? They show no mercy... 160lbs Dane and a 120lbs pittbullmastif :thumbsup:
Even green acros have a place in this reef. Though this is a very special green acro.
Also, you forgot a few colours ;) pink lipped corallites with reddy purple, white tipped polyps and blue tips with purple terminal polyp coralites all over a lime green base. Not a shading issue, colour is great its just stretching showing its armpits!

Kevin, that Terra nova piece is sweet, you sure it's a Mille though?

I know, its been growing weird. I'm almost positive it is but I'm no taxonomist. Any ideas? I'm thinking its trying to escape from all the other acros around it.

thanks for your answer,I just started playing with the camera and I have the same len and most of my pictures are too blue but thanks God for digital; We dont loose anything just keep trying different settings.

Jroovers gave me a great tip, set the white balance on the camera to 10k.

Holy crap on a cracker!!!

I was somewhat happy with my growth.... now you've ruined it :p. Beautiful :thumbsup:

Thanks
But what kind of cracker are we talking about here?... Makes a big difference

SERIOSULY!... that terra nova.. :inlove:

:spin2:

tripdad
12/07/2013, 02:26 PM
I think you bought the big box of crayons and are just coloring these things in, Seriously six or seven colors on one coral!!! Talk about raising the bar. Unbelievable colors all over this thread. Now I gotta get the airbrush out, hope the fish don't get in my way. LOL

glaukos
12/08/2013, 07:48 AM
Always a pleasure seeing your photos kevin!!
Been staring at the screen for 10 minutes now!
Thanks for sharing

KritikaL
12/08/2013, 12:47 PM
seen u use radion pros! whats your graph like? can you upload your schedule?

Acronic
12/13/2013, 11:22 PM
I think you bought the big box of crayons and are just coloring these things in, Seriously six or seven colors on one coral!!! Talk about raising the bar. Unbelievable colors all over this thread. Now I gotta get the airbrush out, hope the fish don't get in my way. LOL

Thanks,
That would be cool! Imagine an acro with little flames airbrushed on it lol

Always a pleasure seeing your photos kevin!!
Been staring at the screen for 10 minutes now!
Thanks for sharing

Thats the intention ;) glad you are enjoying them :thumbsup:

seen u use radion pros! whats your graph like? can you upload your schedule?

I don't use radions. The plan was to use them along with the reef brites and evergrows. The new plan is to use a reef brite 250w MH with reef brite LED and evergrow a4's. I may still get some radions in the future though :)

Acronic
12/13/2013, 11:30 PM
I was desperately trying to figure out why my photos were so grainy in the last round. Well, it helps to set the ISO back down to a low number. 1250 is just too high :debi:

New batch of pics at ISO 100. I re-calibrated my laptop screen so please let me know how the pics turn out.

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_9993-2_zps9f939f87.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_9990-2_zps78243c79.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_9991-2_zpsa2ba169a.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_9994_zpse71ba223.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_9993_zps06a34841.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_9992_zps4123e1e1.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_9991_zpscd023829.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_9990_zpsfcc35c78.jpg

Acronic
12/14/2013, 11:32 PM
I was bored so I decided to remaster two old photos so they weren't so blue anymore

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4149_zpsb9c7c06a.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4152_zps3c14a199.jpg

Fail_sh3d
12/15/2013, 06:24 PM
So awesome. What programs are you using for editing?

Acronic
12/17/2013, 09:32 AM
Thanks, I use lightroom 4.

New RO/DI filters come in today! I can make water :D still wating on new seals for the wahoo though.

jroovers
12/17/2013, 02:15 PM
Picks look good here

TheReefKeeper
12/17/2013, 02:33 PM
Wow loads of nice pieces in here your not fraggin yet are ya LOL.

glaukos
12/18/2013, 07:19 AM
WOW...one more time kevin!!
You never stop to amaze me with your coral choices and photo skills!

biggles
12/30/2013, 01:20 AM
New batch of pics at ISO 100. I re-calibrated my laptop screen so please let me know how the pics turn out.

It's been your monitor the whole time Kevin, no idea why you bother trying to keep acros tbh mate, take the acro below for instance - what a dog......... :p
Beautiful pics and acros mate, even the green ones look half tolerable......;)

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_9993_zps06a34841.jpg

Acronic
01/02/2014, 12:22 AM
Picks look good here

Sweet, thanks J :)

Wow loads of nice pieces in here your not fraggin yet are ya LOL.

Thanks. Not for a bit yet. In due time.

WOW...one more time kevin!!
You never stop to amaze me with your coral choices and photo skills!

Thanks buddy, thanks for droping by.

It's been your monitor the whole time Kevin, no idea why you bother trying to keep acros tbh mate, take the acro below for instance - what a dog......... :p
Beautiful pics and acros mate, even the green ones look half tolerable......;)


I have no Idea, i bought a live rock for my planted tank and all these things started growing... No idea why or whats going on ;)

Acronic
01/02/2014, 12:25 AM
Don't get too excited. Its only a 75 gpd membrane :p

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/image_zps9c7da270.jpg

reef80
01/02/2014, 01:31 AM
Speechless with your rare gems...good night ; p

Bello
01/02/2014, 05:34 AM
Don't get too excited. Its only a 75 gpd membrane :p



Oh but we are! :p...Any update on that "wolverine" acro you had?

jroovers
01/02/2014, 08:29 AM
Looks like progress to me!

small_polyp
01/02/2014, 08:43 AM
Some beautiful pieces there.:eek1:
Good luck with the tank.

glaukos
01/02/2014, 05:02 PM
:dance:.....really excited for you kevin!!

reefmutt
01/05/2014, 02:34 PM
Sweet!!!
Can't wait!!

stonecold
01/05/2014, 07:41 PM
Don't get too excited. Its only a 75 gpd membrane :p

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/image_zps9c7da270.jpg

Ask your friends/locals to donate you water. Everyone is waiting!!!!! :-)

Acronic
01/05/2014, 09:17 PM
LOL thanks guys :)

I traded the "wolverine" It didnt colour up as expected :(

Slowly, It is coming together. Still a ways to go yet and a trip to Mexico coming up will get in the way.

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/photo7_zpsc95c20b0.jpg

rsaha
01/05/2014, 09:38 PM
Can't wait!

Bello
01/06/2014, 05:21 AM
LOL thanks guys :)

I traded the "wolverine" It didnt colour up as expected :(

Slowly, It is coming together. Still a ways to go yet and a trip to Mexico coming up will get in the way.



Too bad about the "wolverine", but don't expect me to feel bad for you, you have too many nice pieces already :p

Glad to see that things are coming along :thumbsup:

glaukos
01/06/2014, 05:51 AM
:thumbsup:You are almost there kevin!

Totally agree with what bello said..."but don't expect me to feel bad for you, you have too many nice pieces already"..lol lol

Have a safe trip and good time in mexico:beer:

Acronic
01/10/2014, 07:34 PM
:p you guys are mean. I lost a couple pieces the other day so were even :fun2:

Check out the newb

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_0538_zpsa8196b3b.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_0537-2_zps332e92b8.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_0537_zps2e81f1e7.jpg

reefmutt
01/10/2014, 09:43 PM
That macro is crazy..
Nice!!!

stonecold
01/10/2014, 10:39 PM
Double Post

stonecold
01/10/2014, 10:42 PM
That macro is crazy..
Nice!!!

+1. Your SPS and photography skills are amazing!! Let me know when the next enrollment is for Photography 101.

jroovers
01/11/2014, 01:14 PM
:p you guys are mean. I lost a couple pieces the other day so were even :fun2:

Check out the newb

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_0538_zpsa8196b3b.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_0537-2_zps332e92b8.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_0537_zps2e81f1e7.jpg

Very nice, tank is looking great, what is this acro? Looks similar to sunset monti in colouration?

glaukos
01/11/2014, 05:58 PM
oh,come on kevin...i can't take any more!:wildone:
I think at the second photo i can see paradise!!!!
Thanks for sharing...

Fail_sh3d
01/11/2014, 06:09 PM
:p you guys are mean. I lost a couple pieces the other day so were even :fun2:

Check out the newb

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_0538_zpsa8196b3b.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_0537-2_zps332e92b8.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_0537_zps2e81f1e7.jpg

Wow, that is a stunner! Good stuff! Great work, Acronic.

tripdad
01/18/2014, 02:21 PM
Any news? Waiting to see all those great corals displayed in your new set-up.

Acronic
01/26/2014, 11:14 AM
That macro is crazy..
Nice!!!

Thanks matt

+1. Your SPS and photography skills are amazing!! Let me know when the next enrollment is for Photography 101.

Thanks, im not good enough to teach :P Its all camera ;)

Very nice, tank is looking great, what is this acro? Looks similar to sunset monti in colouration?

it really is! its a gorgeous milli

oh,come on kevin...i can't take any more!:wildone:
I think at the second photo i can see paradise!!!!
Thanks for sharing...

:D the longer you stare the better it gets! thanks

Wow, that is a stunner! Good stuff! Great work, Acronic.

Thank you.

Any news? Waiting to see all those great corals displayed in your new set-up.

Yes there is news!

...
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1074_zps422a7bfc.jpg

galleon
01/26/2014, 11:59 AM
This is so exciting!

sahin
01/26/2014, 12:37 PM
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1074_zps422a7bfc.jpg

That looks awesome!!! :lmao:

Cant wait to see what you been cooking all this time! :fun4:

Acronic
01/26/2014, 04:23 PM
Now that the sand has settled down;

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1077_zpsa891727f.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1078_zps6f1c745f.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1079_zps75f075d7.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1076_zpsf7e3dcf5.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1080_zps38a18ad7.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1081_zps8dbae55e.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1082_zpsba424c52.jpg

frankyrivera
01/26/2014, 04:26 PM
Damm I wouldn't even add coral to that. The rockscape alone is amazing to look at. This build is siiiiiiickkkkkk. Nice job

sahin
01/26/2014, 04:32 PM
Wow!!!

Lots of places to mount corals! Awesome scape. :thumbsup:

cFloor
01/26/2014, 04:35 PM
wonderful job on the scape! Looking forward to watching this progress

Acronic
01/26/2014, 04:38 PM
Thanks guys, just want to bump the pics, seems I was a post early :)

Now that the sand has settled down;

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1077_zpsa891727f.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1078_zps6f1c745f.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1079_zps75f075d7.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1076_zpsf7e3dcf5.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1080_zps38a18ad7.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1081_zps8dbae55e.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1082_zpsba424c52.jpg

M007
01/26/2014, 04:54 PM
Nice scape, about time ;)

frankyrivera
01/26/2014, 04:58 PM
Ok so maybe I missed it but what are the tank dimmensions and how many gallons that thing is beautiful.

Acronic
01/26/2014, 05:20 PM
:) thanks

The DT is 154g 54.5x30x22in. Total system is ~300g

M007
01/26/2014, 05:32 PM
:) thanks The DT is 154g 54.5x30x22in. Total system is ~300g

Ya, meant to ask that, nice! Hopefully won't end up cluttered with "stuff"! Nice clean sand bed will look nice :)

sweet ride
01/26/2014, 06:17 PM
nice setup! cant wait to see all those cherry corals in the display!!!!!

jroovers
01/26/2014, 06:46 PM
:thumbsup:

reefmutt
01/26/2014, 07:20 PM
Kevin, I'm keeping it real here... You know I'm a fan and expect only the best from you..
Although, there are a million fantastic spots for corals, I find the scape a bit busy...
Having said that, my scape is no less busy, but if I had to do it over, it would be less so..
Either way, I can't wait to see the tank filled with drool worthy coral..

Acronic
01/26/2014, 08:55 PM
Thanks guys.

I definitely get that Matt. Honestly, the scape changed several times from my initial bonsai / minimal vision. Adding rock after rock I had to resist the urge to "fill the voids" searching for the final product that the corals should be creating, prompting me to remove rocks.

It doesn't quite translate well through the photographs but the undersides are all an open network of tunnels and pass-throughs which should be awesome for observing the fish and there are going to be alot of fish. The uber minimalist style would not be conducive to keeping many fish, no matter how much I love it. Surprisingly though, the lines really flow well the more I look at it. So far the urge to change it hasn't overpowered me :) Plus, that bowl/ledge filled with sand and crushed coral is badass. I hope some gobies or jaws call it home.

reefmutt
01/26/2014, 09:15 PM
I hear ya.. Photos never demonstrate the depth and intricacy.. Finding that balance between openness and maximum real estate for coral placement is the most perplexing part of aquascaping. Creativity pulls you one way and practicality pulls you the other..
Ultimately, it will look awesome..

Bello
01/27/2014, 04:48 AM
Oooooohhhhh! :thumbsup:

Looks great, I like the swim holes through the left structure, should look pretty cool.... :)

Are you doing any LPS/softies for the front area or leaving it open?

tripdad
01/27/2014, 11:43 AM
Thanks, very nicely done. Can't wait for a little time to pass so we can see it "sticked"

CW from the OC
01/27/2014, 01:08 PM
Rock scape looks great. To my eye it looks right, as it looks right now.

I worry that it will become a "wall of rock" when the corals grow out. I'd remove at least 1/3 of the rock.

Awesome build, can't wait to see it mature!

Acronic
01/28/2014, 11:45 PM
Oooooohhhhh! :thumbsup:

Looks great, I like the swim holes through the left structure, should look pretty cool.... :)

Are you doing any LPS/softies for the front area or leaving it open?

Thanks buddy, I dont plan on having much of anything on the sandbed. I hate the look. Of course a few lings are mandatory... like a brain or fungia.

I hear ya.. Photos never demonstrate the depth and intricacy.. Finding that balance between openness and maximum real estate for coral placement is the most perplexing part of aquascaping. Creativity pulls you one way and practicality pulls you the other..
Ultimately, it will look awesome..

:thumbsup: be careful what you wish for

Thanks, very nicely done. Can't wait for a little time to pass so we can see it "sticked"

shhhhh, dont tell anyone but there is a birdsnest hiding in the back... :lol: A few days is long enough to wait right?

Rock scape looks great. To my eye it looks right, as it looks right now.

I worry that it will become a "wall of rock" when the corals grow out. I'd remove at least 1/3 of the rock.

Awesome build, can't wait to see it mature!

Alright!!!! you guys win. But your only getting ONE rock!

Geez, no mercy round here

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1083_zps39823dfb.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1084_zps7f7aa3bb.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1085_zps6880a84f.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1089_zpsbf460f66.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1090_zpsf16930da.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1091_zps19cd6459.jpg

tmc1313
01/29/2014, 08:01 AM
Finally! Man, I've been waiting a long time to see this get set up, LOL. So far, so good. I really like the scaping, it has a lot of openness to it for some good flow and placement of corals. Can't wait to see it progress. Following along.:thumbsup:

reefmutt
01/29/2014, 08:37 AM
I approve. Less uniform across the top.
Makes the peaks more interesting..

Dukester
01/29/2014, 12:43 PM
wow, looking great, one thing if i was to do my tank over again i would keep the rock at least 6-8" away from the side panels, once you have some coral on those rocks its going to be impossible to clean the side panels efficiently, and by the looks of it i bet you are going to keep a really "clean" look to the tank. cant wait to see this develop into something great!! way to go!

Acronic
01/30/2014, 12:42 AM
Finally! Man, I've been waiting a long time to see this get set up, LOL. So far, so good. I really like the scaping, it has a lot of openness to it for some good flow and placement of corals. Can't wait to see it progress. Following along.:thumbsup:

Its only been a year :beer:

I approve. Less uniform across the top.
Makes the peaks more interesting..

Thats what I use to tell my hairdresser.... now I cut my own hair :P

I guess you could say my scape peaks your interest? :lolspin:

wow, looking great, one thing if i was to do my tank over again i would keep the rock at least 6-8" away from the side panels, once you have some coral on those rocks its going to be impossible to clean the side panels efficiently, and by the looks of it i bet you are going to keep a really "clean" look to the tank. cant wait to see this develop into something great!! way to go!

Thanks! If a coral gets in between the glass and the magfloat.... its fair game. I use to stop for snails but now I just keep driving the magnet right over them. I like to make vroom vroom and gear changing sounds when I do it. Same applies to corals now. I am a menace to society :uzi:

KritikaL
01/30/2014, 01:13 AM
sorry if this has been mentioned which lights are u using ?

Bello
01/30/2014, 01:43 AM
sorry if this has been mentioned which lights are u using ?

+1

:lol: I'd like to know from which Disco did you steal those lights from? :p

biggles
01/30/2014, 02:20 AM
Looks great to me mate. I know how hard it is to convey the depth of field created in rockwork but you've created a multi leveled structure that's perfect for overlapping acro placement. I see a lot of scapes created now days that look cool but will result in much wasted real estate with no forethought as to the end game.
Can i ask what the gap is between the two structures, i'm surprised you didn't gap them more but it might just be the pics.
Like everyone i'm looking forward to the acro carpet bombing that's coming. :thumbsup:

glaukos
01/30/2014, 05:00 AM
Wow kevin!
I knew you would make something beautiful but you exceeded the expectations i had!
I like it soooo much:dance:

Great job!
I can't wait for the corals to go in.....i would say in other cases,but in thisone...i'm already happy seeing the scape!:rollface:

Acronic
01/31/2014, 12:02 AM
sorry if this has been mentioned which lights are u using ?

2 x Nova A4's and a Reef Brite XHO blue. Looking to add an halide if I can stomach going back to the stone age.

+1

:lol: I'd like to know from which Disco did you steal those lights from? :p

Come to the Funky Side :strooper: Bello, I am your disco daddy

http://cdn2.nerdapproved.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/darth-vader-disco-ball.jpg

Looks great to me mate. I know how hard it is to convey the depth of field created in rockwork but you've created a multi leveled structure that's perfect for overlapping acro placement. I see a lot of scapes created now days that look cool but will result in much wasted real estate with no forethought as to the end game.
Can i ask what the gap is between the two structures, i'm surprised you didn't gap them more but it might just be the pics.
Like everyone i'm looking forward to the acro carpet bombing that's coming. :thumbsup:

what can I say, I like a tight gap. Carpet bombing? sounds naughty, does it involve a koala by chance? If so, count me in, I'll leave my keys in the fish bowl.

Wow kevin!
I knew you would make something beautiful but you exceeded the expectations i had!
I like it soooo much:dance:

Great job!
I can't wait for the corals to go in.....i would say in other cases,but in thisone...i'm already happy seeing the scape!:rollface:

Thanks buddy, Im glad you had low expectations :D

KritikaL
01/31/2014, 12:58 AM
i'm from the uk, never heard of a4 novas :S i have 2 radion pros over a 4 footer with the wide angled lenses, but i struggle to hard to take any photos of it...

Just a complete blue mess. :( any tips?

Acronic
02/13/2014, 01:37 AM
i'm from the uk, never heard of a4 novas :S i have 2 radion pros over a 4 footer with the wide angled lenses, but i struggle to hard to take any photos of it...

Just a complete blue mess. :( any tips?

Get some software that can tweak the white balance, unless you have a camera that can do it :) Changing the lighting to a white spectrum will help too.

Acronic
02/13/2014, 01:44 AM
Sump is coming along. It aint the sexiest thang on the block but it gets the job done.

Kitty checking the levels
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/photo4-2_zpsc2f6e052.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/photo3-2_zpsdccfd725.jpg

Best way to hang filter socks
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/photo2-2_zpsa1e416c7.jpg


Check out my new coffee mug! Its killer :uzi:
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/photo1-2_zps67332d2f.jpg


I do have one last finishing touch to ensure that routine maintenance is performed. :beer:
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/photo5-2_zpsf312507a.jpg

sahin
02/13/2014, 05:12 AM
Yes...how can you resist doing a water change when you get a view like this: :lol:
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/photo5-2_zpsf312507a.jpg

glaukos
02/13/2014, 10:55 AM
lol....agree!!!

tripdad
02/13/2014, 11:37 AM
It's always nice when a guy keeps a photo of his wife in his workspace. Sump is looking good also.

reefmutt
02/13/2014, 12:11 PM
It's always nice when a guy keeps a photo of his wife in his workspace. Sump is looking good also.

ha! very funny..... but its actually MY wife... i swear...

reefmutt
02/13/2014, 12:11 PM
or..... maybe i wish...:)

Bello
02/14/2014, 02:00 PM
Naughty Bello says: Damn, that's some inspiration there!!

Mature father of toddler, Bello says: What about childproofing that sump? Or is this tucked away in your Koala Cave...oops Man Cave? :p

jroovers
02/14/2014, 02:37 PM
Nice mug and motivator... also like the filter sock hangers, great idea - just adhesive hooks?

BrentH
02/14/2014, 03:32 PM
Filter sock idea is great I also like the camel shrimp cleaning station I saw on page one great ideas

nivram
02/14/2014, 05:34 PM
Filter sock idea is great I also like the camel shrimp cleaning station I saw on page one great ideas

Plus one. Love the filter sock cleaner hooks.

Dukester
02/14/2014, 09:34 PM
looks great, can you explain how your sump setup works, i must be missing something.. your display tank must be upstairs i think right?.. and then it drains into the filter socks and then the pump pumps water to the skimmer tank? but what happens after that?

typezero
02/15/2014, 11:46 AM
Everything looks bombastic kevin!

reefmutt
02/15/2014, 06:52 PM
Naughty Bello says: Damn, that's some inspiration there!!

Mature father of toddler, Bello says: What about childproofing that sump? Or is this tucked away in your Koala Cave...oops Man Cave? :p

+1
I wondered the same thing, although, only once bello brought it up.. Before that I wasn't getting past the bikini. I assume mrs Acronic is tolerant of the scantily clad 'reef gear'.. Mrs reefmutt certainly wouldn't be quite as tolerant..

As for the pep shrimp acro cleaning, I like the idea very much but how do you know when the peps have finished the job on the pests and not started in on the acro itself? And how can you be sure they get every last egg and adult?

Oh yeah..... And where are some new pics????

Acronic
02/16/2014, 12:54 AM
Yes...how can you resist doing a water change when you get a view like this: :lol:

lol....agree!!!

Haha thats the idea! The true test will be not overfilling the sump in lala land ;)

It's always nice when a guy keeps a photo of his wife in his workspace. Sump is looking good also.

ha! very funny..... but its actually MY wife... i swear...

LOL, if I had a photo of MY wife up there I would need to run TWO chillers on the tank just to keep it from catching fire :p

Naughty Bello says: Damn, that's some inspiration there!!

Mature father of toddler, Bello says: What about childproofing that sump? Or is this tucked away in your Koala Cave...oops Man Cave? :p

I like naughty Bello better. Mature father of toddler bello is always harshing my buzz. Talkin about being all responsible and stuff.

Have no fear, the meth lab is securely tucked away in the lower Koala Cave on level B1 under lock and key (aka, my finger) up high where vertically challenged humans are unable to venture even with elaborate elevator systems (aka, a chair).

A rigorous back ground check has been performed and security clearance has been granted to No*202 (aka, wife) by No*101 (aka, me), for work related tasks such as but not limited to; Laundry, Guard Dog Bladder and Bowel Evacuation (aka, GDBBE) and Regular House Keeping Duty.

This all pertains to subsection 908, article 4 & 7 of the reef keeping hand book, revised edition.

Nice mug and motivator... also like the filter sock hangers, great idea - just adhesive hooks?

Ha, I knew youd like it :)

yep, just 3M adhesive hooks. Works like a champ.

Filter sock idea is great I also like the camel shrimp cleaning station I saw on page one great ideas

Thank you.

Peppermint shrimp! Its the difference between having a coral after and not ;)

Plus one. Love the filter sock cleaner hooks.

:thumbsup:

looks great, can you explain how your sump setup works, i must be missing something.. your display tank must be upstairs i think right?.. and then it drains into the filter socks and then the pump pumps water to the skimmer tank? but what happens after that?

It is set up so that I can run huge amounts of water through my mechanical filtration without reducing the efficiency of the skimmer. It also makes maintenance of the skimmer and reactors easier having them elevated.

You are correct, the tank is a level above the sump. It drains down into the socks in the 150 and is pumped back to the tank. There is a second pump in the 150 that is matched to the skimmer pump (approx) feeding the elevated 40 breeder where the skimmer is located. Water then drains back to the 150 near the return to be pumped back to the display.

Everything looks bombastic kevin!

Thanks buddy. Ill be coming by to snag that cawcaw frag soon ;)

+1
I wondered the same thing, although, only once bello brought it up.. Before that I wasn't getting past the bikini. I assume mrs Acronic is tolerant of the scantily clad 'reef gear'.. Mrs reefmutt certainly wouldn't be quite as tolerant..

As for the pep shrimp acro cleaning, I like the idea very much but how do you know when the peps have finished the job on the pests and not started in on the acro itself? And how can you be sure they get every last egg and adult?

Oh yeah..... And where are some new pics????

Hey man, what happens in the Koala Cave, stays in the Koala Cave... Kapeesh?

Mrs Acronic may wear the pants around here but only I wear the overalls.

As for the peps, there is a stringent set of rules involved.

Rule No*1 - No coral is allowed to reside with peps longer than 48 hours MAX.

Rule No*2 - All acros must undergo "the sniff" test.

Rule No*3 - All acros require a dip after 48 hours rest once extracted from the pep tank.

Rule No*4 - Peps are not to be fed shrimp pellets for 3 days before introduction of acro.

You can never be sure that the coral is 100% "clean" however it is very effective as an addition to dipping.

I have seen acros get 100% of their polyps removed. The tissue just encrusts the corallite, causing an irregular growth pattern and proceeds to live. The problem is when the coral is stressed from being picked at to the point it no longer produces a slime coat. A good way to tell if this has happened is to take a coral out of the tank. If the skin stays "moist" and dripping with slime after 10mins its good to go. If the tissue becomes "dry" and brittle looking with an absence of slime, it is open to predation and infections. This is also a good trick to know if acros are fresh imports or not. Fresh imports will almost always lack a good slime coat. I firmly believe that the slime coat plays a huge roll in overall coral heath and keeps it resistant to sudden flux in parameters as well as increase the corals ability to uptake trace elements and minerals. This is the reason I dose Vitality to my tank once a week.

I'll snap some new pics soon. The tank is still stickless since I have a huge surprise in the fish department currently undergoing quinine treatment. I will only give one hint; roaps

sahin
02/16/2014, 04:22 AM
This is the reason I dose Vitality to my tank once a week.


What is the full name of this Vitality product you speak of? Sounds like something you apply to a Koala's fur to keep it nice and shiny...:lol:

Hmmm this Koala potion is the secret to your nicely coloured acros...

Bello
02/16/2014, 05:16 AM
Hahaha, that was hilarious! :thumbsup:. Perhaps you should invest in an optical scanner, and a fingerprint reader for door access.....just to be sure, you know :p... This is after all, top secret. Though I think such security access systems, in time of urgent bowel evacuation, might be a slight hindrance :p

Good info on the peps, though I'm pretty sure mine's not from Florida, could see if it does anything, or just sits there looking smug.

Awesome stuff, awaiting pics now :p

reefmutt
02/16/2014, 07:52 AM
Thanks for the pep description, Kevin.

Sahin, Vitality is a Fauna Marin product..

Acronic
02/16/2014, 08:10 AM
What is the full name of this Vitality product you speak of? Sounds like something you apply to a Koala's fur to keep it nice and shiny...:lol:

Hmmm this Koala potion is the secret to your nicely coloured acros...

Yep, it is Fauna. Koala approved.

Hahaha, that was hilarious! :thumbsup:. Perhaps you should invest in an optical scanner, and a fingerprint reader for door access.....just to be sure, you know :p... This is after all, top secret. Though I think such security access systems, in time of urgent bowel evacuation, might be a slight hindrance :p

Good info on the peps, though I'm pretty sure mine's not from Florida, could see if it does anything, or just sits there looking smug.

Awesome stuff, awaiting pics now :p

Biometric scanners! Thats a great idea! I suppose the guard dogs have been equipped with voice and sent recognition.

Thanks for the pep description, Kevin.

Sahin, Vitality is a Fauna Marin product..

No problamo.

Yes, I have enstilled my faith in Claude. Drink the potion...

Acronic
02/18/2014, 11:05 PM
So I couldnt resist the urge to rescape... I like the new layout. much more open. Once corals are in it will look fantastic.

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1363_zpse0c45714.jpg

My new pride and joy Declivis pair!!!!!!! pls excuse the sub par photos. I am tired today but too excited not to share!
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1342_zps4e89d638.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1354_zpse7ca6139.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1353_zps7ab698f4.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1355_zps36100cd6.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1357_zps7e260be6.jpg

Must be love.
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1358_zpsb28b566e.jpg

Checkin the place out
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1359_zps85cd8f45.jpg

Slight disagreement over something
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1361_zpsd001a339.jpg

This guy is so shy. Tried to get a great shot showing off the yellow belly but I had to give up.
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1373_zps60274479.jpg

ryanrid
02/19/2014, 01:56 AM
Nice declivis! Keep us posted with their diet please

sahin
02/19/2014, 05:01 AM
Nice Declivis. Pretty cool they seem to swim together. New scape looks better, more open and better all round for flow. :)

reefmutt
02/19/2014, 08:12 AM
Yeah, baby!! LOVE the new scape!
Also love the fish... Never considered them for a reef, didn't know they were safe..
Beautiful..

Bello
02/19/2014, 11:36 AM
Kevin, some friendly advice....beef up your home security system :p

What the hell man? A declivis PAIR? Sheesh, I wouldn't even bother keeping any other fish in the tank :lol:. Looks awesome, hope they behave well :thumbsup:, the odds are in your favour.

Your previous aquascape was nice, but this is more like it :thumbsup:. This is art!

glaukos
02/19/2014, 06:22 PM
+1!
Couldn't agree more with bello!;)

Can't wait for this piece of art to be filled with corals!:dance:

Acronic
02/22/2014, 05:59 PM
Nice declivis! Keep us posted with their diet please

So far, no corals have fallen victim. They are voracious! They DESTROY pellets, any frozen and rip sheets of nori out of my hand.

Nice Declivis. Pretty cool they seem to swim together. New scape looks better, more open and better all round for flow. :)

They keep constant tabs on each other. Though once they settle in im sure they will swim a little more loosely. I like the scape much better too :)

Yeah, baby!! LOVE the new scape!
Also love the fish... Never considered them for a reef, didn't know they were safe..
Beautiful..

:thumbsup: There is certainly an element of danger to the polyps. After reading what limited experience I could find, I decided to roll the dice. They are just so unique and stunning, I couldn't resist.

Kevin, some friendly advice....beef up your home security system :p

What the hell man? A declivis PAIR? Sheesh, I wouldn't even bother keeping any other fish in the tank :lol:. Looks awesome, hope they behave well :thumbsup:, the odds are in your favour.

Your previous aquascape was nice, but this is more like it :thumbsup:. This is art!

What? I couldn't separate these love birds!

lol ya man, fingers crossed. my security system is top notch. Any intruder is eaten with in 5 seconds of entry by a collective 246lbs of ferocious K-9.

+1!
Couldn't agree more with bello!;)

Can't wait for this piece of art to be filled with corals!:dance:

SOON Mike, SOON :) first wave of algae blooms are complete with minimal issue. Waiting on a replacement impeller for my bubble blaster before I go crazy and fill the tank with goodies.

sahin
02/22/2014, 06:20 PM
My security system is top notch. Any intruder is eaten with in 5 seconds of entry by a collective 246lbs of ferocious K-9.


I heard that a certain Koala can get in there without even being detected...:lolspin:

Acronic
02/22/2014, 08:28 PM
I heard that a certain Koala can get in there without even being detected...:lolspin:

Lol. All I picture is a Koala doing the "mission impossible" rappel into the dead zone that is the basement :D

biggles
02/22/2014, 08:45 PM
Kevin is like a bloody Ninja.............

http://i1283.photobucket.com/albums/a553/BigglesRC/kev_zps45ec2894.png~original

Acronic
02/23/2014, 01:55 AM
:eek: so thats where that coral went! Im pretty beat up over that one since I lost that colony. I managed to save a TINY frag that is doing fine but it still stings.

sahin
02/23/2014, 05:32 AM
Kevin is like a bloody Ninja.............

http://i1283.photobucket.com/albums/a553/BigglesRC/kev_zps45ec2894.png~original

:lol:

I knew it!

reefmutt
02/23/2014, 07:00 AM
That is one crazy kinky ninja koala!

glaukos
02/23/2014, 07:42 AM
Kevin,i hope your replacement impeller comes fast;)

lol lol biggles!!Your Koala has given me countless and priceless loughs buddy!

Oldude
02/23/2014, 03:51 PM
I had to take all the blue LEDs off to capture this corals true beauty. Its just disgusting how this guy radiates.
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4157_zps1958751a.jpg

Closer with all blues on, don't mind the snow... ;)
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_4155_zps98fed2a9.jpg


Would love to see an update of how this piece is doing and how it's holding those color contrasts over time.

reefmutt
02/23/2014, 04:58 PM
Oh yeah.. +1 on that.

Acronic
03/01/2014, 01:57 AM
right now, that one is looking a little blah after my little hiccup :hmm3: I will get a pic so I can do a before and after colouring it back up.

Speaking of colouring up, my abroit has been looking gangbuster lately.

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1566_zps419c76b0.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1565_zps64ed0332.jpg

watchguy123
03/01/2014, 02:11 AM
Now that is absolutely stunning

sahin
03/01/2014, 09:11 AM
I give you much credit for colouring up that Abro. :thumbsup: Most find it a difficult acro to keep coloured.

Fail_sh3d
03/01/2014, 10:54 AM
right now, that one is looking a little blah after my little hiccup :hmm3: I will get a pic so I can do a before and after colouring it back up.

Speaking of colouring up, my abroit has been looking gangbuster lately.

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1566_zps419c76b0.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1565_zps64ed0332.jpg

Spectacular coral and shot. Acronic your tank is awesome.

tripdad
03/01/2014, 12:33 PM
Haven't you run out of crayons in that box yet? :fun4: All kidding aside, beautiful job on the corals and the photo's.

glaukos
03/01/2014, 12:50 PM
What an amazing abro,kevin!!!!!
Absolutely love it!

sahin
03/01/2014, 01:14 PM
Haven't you run out of crayons in that box yet? :fun4: All kidding aside, beautiful job on the corals and the photo's.

Nope, kevin the Koala steals the Acros from various sources for Kevin (Acronic) the Reefkeeper. :lol:

Fail_sh3d
03/01/2014, 01:15 PM
Nope, kevin the Koala steals the Acros from various sources for Kevin (Acronic) the Reefkeeper. :lol:

I want in on that deal!

jroovers
03/01/2014, 01:44 PM
right now, that one is looking a little blah after my little hiccup :hmm3: I will get a pic so I can do a before and after colouring it back up.

Speaking of colouring up, my abroit has been looking gangbuster lately.

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1566_zps419c76b0.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1565_zps64ed0332.jpg

Wow, beautiful colour and photos!

Acronic
03/01/2014, 02:19 PM
Now that is absolutely stunning

Thanks buddy :)

I give you much credit for colouring up that Abro. :thumbsup: Most find it a difficult acro to keep coloured.

Thanks, It is a tricky one for sure. This acro really depends on good genetics to succeed.

Spectacular coral and shot. Acronic your tank is awesome.

Thank ya Thank ya

Haven't you run out of crayons in that box yet? :fun4: All kidding aside, beautiful job on the corals and the photo's.

I bought the XXL set ;) Whenever there is a rainbow outside my house its always green with envy :spin3:

What an amazing abro,kevin!!!!!
Absolutely love it!

Thanks for stopping in buddy!

Nope, kevin the Koala steals the Acros from various sources for Kevin (Acronic) the Reefkeeper. :lol:

Hes my homeboy! We have a secret handshake already.

I want in on that deal!

I offered him twice the eucalyptus Biggles was giving him. He is taking this letter to biggles now;

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/Untitled_zps9128df6d.png

Wow, beautiful colour and photos!

Thanks J Ive been trying some new setting and just trying to evolve :)

sahin
03/01/2014, 02:33 PM
Kevin, can you please detail what the filtration system consists of on:

1. The new tank
-GFO?
-GAC?
-Bio Pellets?
-Other?

2. Old tank/tank where all these Acros from heaven reside in
-GFO?
-GAC?
-Bio Pellets?
-Other?

Thanks. :)

Fail_sh3d
03/01/2014, 02:39 PM
kevin, can you please detail what the filtration system consists of on:

1. The new tank
-gfo?
-gac?
-bio pellets?
-other?

2. Old tank/tank where all these acros from heaven reside in
-gfo?
-gac?
-bio pellets?
-other?

Thanks. :)

+1!

Acronic
03/01/2014, 07:35 PM
Kevin, can you please detail what the filtration system consists of on:

1. The new tank
-GFO?
-GAC?
-Bio Pellets?
-Other?

2. Old tank/tank where all these Acros from heaven reside in
-GFO?
-GAC?
-Bio Pellets?
-Other?

Thanks. :)

{EXPORT}
-GFO - Ultra Power Phos 0.04
-GAC - Carb L
-Bio Pellets - TLF pellets, ~500ml
-Other - Aqua Medic Ozone gen 300mg/h
-Skimmer - XP3000int
-filter socks (200 micron?)
-Healthy sump with loads of various sponges
-Regular water changes w Fritz salt

{IMPORT}
-Lugols twice weekly
-FM trace elements in balling salts
-FM Vitality once weekly
-FM colour elements daily except on Vitality day
-FM MinS
-FM Organic
-FM Amin
[all FM doses on opposing schedules to maximize the corals energy processes of that given addition with the exception of the trace elements in the balling salt additions.]
-Potassium Chloride additions when necessary to maintain 400ppm.
-PE mysis w Garlic concentrate
-Hikari baby brine w Garlic concentrate
-oyster eggs w Garlic concentrate
-Banana
-TLF purple seaveggies
Auto feeder mix;
-FM soft protect
-FM spirulina
-FM base color
-FM base energy
-FM minF
-FM seafan
-NLS pellets

Fail_sh3d
03/01/2014, 08:06 PM
Thanks, Kevin!

sahin
03/01/2014, 08:34 PM
{EXPORT}
-GFO - Ultra Power Phos 0.04
-GAC - Carb L
-Bio Pellets - TLF pellets, ~500ml
-Other - Aqua Medic Ozone gen 300mg/h
-Skimmer - XP3000int
-filter socks (200 micron?)
-Healthy sump with loads of various sponges
-Regular water changes w Fritz salt

{IMPORT}
-Lugols twice weekly
-FM trace elements in balling salts
-FM Vitality once weekly
-FM colour elements daily except on Vitality day
-FM MinS
-FM Organic
-FM Amin
[all FM doses on opposing schedules to maximize the corals energy processes of that given addition with the exception of the trace elements in the balling salt additions.]
-Potassium Chloride additions when necessary to maintain 400ppm.
-PE mysis w Garlic concentrate
-Hikari baby brine w Garlic concentrate
-oyster eggs w Garlic concentrate
-Banana
-TLF purple seaveggies
Auto feeder mix;
-FM soft protect
-FM spirulina
-FM base color
-FM base energy
-FM minF
-FM seafan
-NLS pellets

Woah! Wasnt expecting such a long list :lol:

-Banana??? Your fish eat banana's?

Thanks.

Acronic
03/01/2014, 08:43 PM
Woah! Wasnt expecting such a long list :lol:

-Banana??? Your fish eat banana's?

Thanks.

yeah buddy! Banana is a staple for my fish :)

Fail_sh3d
03/01/2014, 08:50 PM
yeah buddy! Banana is a staple for my fish :)

Was this an accidental discovery?

Acronic
03/01/2014, 09:16 PM
Was this an accidental discovery?

Feeding bananas to fish is old hat, especially in the discus trade.

I decided to try bananas to combat pinched belly in tangs upon import. Turns out, most fish love banana :thumbsup:

Bananas have high nutritional value, great texture and make good roughage for the GI tract. Anybody that says its "unnatural" for fish to eat bananas obviously think that banana trees don't grow near oceans...

Check out this vid
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHFyMqUGoWQ

Fail_sh3d
03/01/2014, 09:18 PM
Feeding bananas to fish is old hat, especially in the discus trade.

I decided to try bananas to combat pinched belly in tangs upon import. Turns out, most fish love banana :thumbsup:

Bananas have high nutritional value, great texture and make good roughage for the GI tract. Anybody that says that its "unnatural" for fish to eat bananas obviously think that banana trees don't grow near oceans...

Check out this vid
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHFyMqUGoWQ

That is insane and hilarious!

I may have to try this out when I get "big boy" fish.

biggles
03/01/2014, 09:30 PM
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1566_zps419c76b0.jpg

http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1565_zps64ed0332.jpg

Wow mate, just stunning colors and photography :thumbsup:

I hope you realise Kevin is a koala/drop bear cross......... we'll see how things are after the next full moon in the Acronic household i think.

Don't show him any pics of AEFW while he's there, if he finds out the difference between AEFW and salt water crocs i'll never get him back in the bloody water collecting for me........... he really is quite stupid tbh.

http://i1283.photobucket.com/albums/a553/BigglesRC/kev_zps906694f6.png~original

Acronic
03/01/2014, 09:46 PM
:lol:

Ill just spread a little veggemite behind my ears. If things escalate, Ill pee on myself.

Fail_sh3d
03/01/2014, 11:56 PM
Rofl!

sahin
03/02/2014, 04:24 AM
:lol:

Thanks for the Banana tip Kevin. One of these days I'll try see if my fish like it.

Biggles, the things you put poor Kevin through! :eek2: (Nice Photoshop skills mate!). :lol:

Acronic
03/02/2014, 04:46 PM
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1504_zpse34d5d0e.jpg

Fail_sh3d
03/02/2014, 04:49 PM
http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad310/salvini55/IMG_1504_zpse34d5d0e.jpg

What!? Stop. This hurts my eyes.

Seriously, wow. Kevin that is gorgeous.

sahin
03/02/2014, 05:07 PM
Seriously dude...you are gifted with the ability to pull some crazy colours out of those SPS...:smokin:

I see a future heavyweight TOTM contender...:D

Whats the PO4 and NO3 levels in that tank?

reefmutt
03/02/2014, 06:27 PM
yeah.... agreed, sahin..
Kevin, the photos on this thread are from another world.. they have to be some of the best acro shots i have ever seen.. anywhere.

question..
clearly you are a fauna marin disciple. how long have you been using the products?
I've just started trying the coral vitality and i have found that my corals are looking a little healthier and the pe for several hours after adding it, is really nice.
are you using the products as per fauna marin's guidelines? i see you are not using the coral vitality quite as frequently as they recommend but what about the colour elements?
I ask because I'm sure you've heard the old adage, 'don't add to your tank what you can't test for' but I'd like to try the colour elements even though they contain many elements that cannot be tested for..
also...Im curious about the ultra power phos.. how do you suppose they have created a product that stops absorbing po4 when the level reaches .04?? sounds a little far fetched to me... I've never looked at it, is it some modified gfo?

I can't wait to see all of these nutso acros growing like crazy in your new tank..

biggles
03/03/2014, 04:54 AM
That's a bloody nice green acro mate, i love the contrast between the pale branches and the green corallite lips. :)

I recently had the opportunity to visit Kevin's place and watch he and Matt at work on their fauna marin dosing.......... considering you two are using it and you both keep beautiful acros i'm going to do some :reading: on this stuff.

For those who haven't met them, that's Kevin adding the green food coloring (color elements) while Matt monitors the acro in that last pic soaking in the 'fauna marin dip'

http://i1283.photobucket.com/albums/a553/BigglesRC/kevmatt_zps669caa4a.jpg~original

The reef adage 'don't add to your tank what you can't test for' doesn't apply to SPS tanks Matt, in fact it's our duty as SPS keepers to 'speriment' :thumbsup:

sahin
03/03/2014, 05:08 AM
Laughing @Biggles.

Biggles are you seriously going to look at the Fauna Marin stuff? I have the 3 Colour Element bottles sitting in a Kitchen cupboard. I got them when my tank was newly set, used it for a couple of weeks, and then thought it wasnt worth using since at that time my tank was loaded with nutrients.

I might try them in a few months time to see what if any effect they have on my acros.

reefmutt
03/03/2014, 05:13 AM
Lol Biggles!
Where did you find that photo of us???
I haven't seen it in ages!!!
That's back when I had hair..

overexposed
03/03/2014, 02:57 PM
Banana... lol! When I was reading the list I, like others, figured it was a joke! How do you add it? Finely chopped? Sliced? Pureed?

Great looking tank BTW. Great is an understatement, actually. I've been a silent follower for quite some time.

Good God I can not stop staring at that abro!!!

tripdad
03/13/2014, 12:45 PM
You've been quiet for over a week, I think your cooking up an update to make us all acro green with envy.:lol:

reefmutt
03/13/2014, 12:50 PM
Yeah... Trying to be patient here....

sahin
03/13/2014, 12:59 PM
Yeah... Trying to be patient here....

+1 http://www.ultimatereef.net/forums/images/smilies/whistling.gif

glaukos
03/13/2014, 01:11 PM
:dance:+2

Acronic
03/13/2014, 11:40 PM
Ha! Nothing good happens fast right? Lets just wait a biiiiiit more shall we?

Sorry for the lack of excitement. Work has been INSANE! I will answer the questions soon.

reefmutt
03/14/2014, 04:39 AM
Ok. Fine.
:)

Acronic
03/15/2014, 03:51 AM
Transfer complete. Aquascaping will be a tall task. You guys are in for a treat :)