The Eagle Has Landed - My 48 x 28 x 30 Tank

[gedsta]

Hello all, decided to do a tank thread on here, so as to further my knowledge. I am based in the UK and have been keeping Marines on and off for about 20 years or so.

Until I have told the story, I will just copy and paste what I have added to Marine Forums in the UK and then carry on the story here.

So here we go......



I managed to buy a second hand tank today.

I was going to get a new one, but after thinking about it, its still the same size room, so a 5 or 6 foot tank would still struggle to fit in, therefore I have gone with a wider and deeper tank.

My current tank is 48x24x24 plus sump with a volume of approx 100 gallons (UK) / 452 litres excluding sump and displacement.

The new tank is 48x28x30 plus sump with a volume of approx 145 gallons (UK) / 660 litres excluding sump and displacement.


Stay tuned.

My old 4x2x2 Tank as at 04/07/2013

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/93842d1372945501t-eagle-has-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20130704_144407%5B1%5D.jpg

My old and new tank as at 12/07/2013

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/100814d1380959920t-eagle-has-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20130712_153526.jpg

New tank as at 23/07/2013

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/100992d1374609483t-eagle-has-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20130723_205229.jpg

New Tank as at 01/10/2013

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/100672d1380654600t-eagle-has-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-100671d1380654600-eagle-has-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131001_195903.jpg

New tank running with Radion Pros since 13/11/2013

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/103323d1384523669t-eagle-has-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131115_135355.jpg



Tank

48"x28"x30" 12mm glass with Metallic Black cabinet
Sump

Equipment

Deltec APF600 skimmer gravity fed
Jebao DC-6000 Return pump
Vortech MP40WES x 2
Eco Tech Radion Pros x 2
Korallin Calcium Reactor
Apex Computer system controlling, temp, Top up, pH etc
300w Titanium Heater
200w Titanium Heater (back up)
7" Filter sock x 4 (changed every 2 days or so)
Reefloat AWC30 Pro Unit
Reefloat Flow Stop with microprocessor for float bounce and audible alarm

Media / dosing / feeding / Water Changes etc

No carbon used
No Phosphate remover used
No water changes at all at the moment
RedSea NoPox dosing 6ml daily
RedSea Reef Energy A dosing 20ml daily
RedSea Reef Energy B dosing 20ml daily
DD Reef Paste every couple of days
DD Reef Sticks every couple of days
New Era Aegis / Marine flakes daily
Tesco Sushi (Nori) every couple of days

Cheato

4" DSB with cheato above lit 24 hours per day, using 2 x 7w LED bulbs

Fish

Perc Misbar Clowns 2
Yellow Tang 1
Purple Tang 1
Regal Tang 1
Orange Striped Kole Tang 1 - added 15/09/2013
Chalk Goby 1
Algae Blenny 1
Randalls Goby 1
Cleaner Wrasse 1
Possum Wrasse 1 - added 17/08/2013
Black Leopard Wrasse 1 - added 15/09/2013
Naoko's Fairy Wrasse 1 - added 05/10/2013
Fire Fish 1 - added 21/09/2013
Scooter Blenny 1 - added 21/09/2013
Blue Striped Pipefish 1 - added 21/09/2013
Common Clowns 2 - added 21/09/2013

Coral

Red Planet frag
Jedi Monti frag
Green Plate
Purple Plate
Red Plate
Pink Histerix
Pink Histerix with Purple Polyps
Green Histerix
Pavona
Bali Green Slimer
Green Milli
Blue Milli
Purple Milka frag
Red Digi
Orange Digi
Silver Digi
Purple Digi
Forest Fire Digi frag
Blue tipped stag
Silver / green metallic Calliendrum
Green Calliendrum
Fire Coral frag
Brown Loripes colony
Rainbow Monti frag
Montipora Confusa frag
Hirsuta frag
Green Stag frag
Deep Water Acro - Green frag
Efflo - Green frag
Setosa frag


tbc

Purple Fungia
Orange Fungia
Green / Orange Fungia
Green Turbinaria Colony
Green Turbinaria frag
Scrolling Turbinaria frag
Candy Cane Colony
Bubble Coral
Fluorescent Green Australian Trachyphyllia
Duncan Colony (8 heads as at 22/09/2013)
Candy Cane frag (2 heads as at 22/09/2013)
Hammer (3 heads as at 22/09/2013)
Frogspawn (2 heads as at 22/09/2013)
Favia frag

Various zoas
Gorgonian frag
GSP Colony


CUC

Cleaner Shrimp 3
Fire Shrimp 2
Peppermint Shrimp 1
Pistol Shrimp 1
True Mexican Turbos 8
Nassarius Snails x 20
Cerith Sanils x 20
Assorted Snails 25
Algae Eating Hermits 10
Red Legged Hermits 7
Other Hermits 10
Tiger Tail Cucumber 1
Tuxedo Urchin 2
Conch 1

[gedsta]

Sump pictures

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131016_195659%5B1%5D.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131016_195652%5B1%5D.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131016_195642%5B1%5D.jpg

Routine wise,

Daily, 6ml of NoPox am - 15ml of Reef Energy A and B at night, skimmer off for 30 mins or so - Check sump / Calcium Reactor - feed fish flake am - Frozen (2 cubes) pm

Weekly - Test KH twice a week usually (maybe more) / Salinity / Topup RO tub etc etc

tbh I don't do that much to the tank, I do however spend hours looking at it and trying to improve it. I don't do water changes, and I aim to keep levels at;

SG - 35
KH - 12.2
Calcium - 450
Magnesium - 1440

I hardly ever test for Nitrates or Phosphates, as you can just tell if they have risen etc, maybe once a fortnight or so I will test them.

One thing my tank is is stable parameter wise, it hardly ever deviates.

Luckily I have an Apex controller which keeps my RO Topup, Temp, pH, Clacium Reactor, Lights etc all in sync, and I can check from work via my phone / iPad etc

I will get some more piccies up from the start as soon as I can.

[gedsta]

So once the tank was at mine, and moved into the room, I changed the weir plastic for some brand new laser cut acryllic.

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130709_100604.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130709_100714.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130710_151429.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130710_204745.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130711_184626.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130711_215308.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130712_120039.jpg

[gedsta]

Scaped it

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130713_210620.jpg

Then scaped it again lol

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130717_192949.jpg

Added the Apex

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/apex.jpg

Probe holders etc

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/probeholder.jpg

Added a few cups of sand out of other reefers / LFS tanks, added some AF Bacteria and then sat back and tried those Ammonia and Nitrites kits (the ones you never use)

A week later, 2 misbar percs added and then the fun started, catching the fish out of my old tank.

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/oldtank.jpg

[gedsta]

I added a fish per day, and also sold most of my old fish, as I knew the tank couldn't handle the bioload.

I also decided that I should start using NoPox and Reef Energy, and brought my Calcium Reactor online.

First coral (sorry for the crap photos)

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130720_161143.jpg

Broke the old tank down, and found a piece of copper wire in the return section, ffs

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/oldtankbroke.jpg

New tank now taking shape

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/newtank1.jpg

[gedsta]

So I transferred the fish that I wanted to keep

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/tankupdate1.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/tankupdate2.jpg

Set the CR up etc

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/tankupdate3.jpg

In my old tank I couldn't keep plate or calliendrum alive more than 2 weeks, so I figured it best to use these 2 as testers

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/tankupdate4.jpg

Finally got rid of the tank of doom

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/tankupdate5.jpg

Nem went in

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/tankupdate6.jpg

Treated Mr Randalls (had him since the start of my reefing career) to a companion, to this day they are still inseperable.

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/tankupdate7.jpg

This is where I was at as at 30th July

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/tankupdate8.jpg

[gedsta]

Added a few more frags

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130810_142216.jpg

CHanged the 65w CFL bulb for 2 x 7w LED bulbs

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130818_195055.jpg

Started to get plenty of green algae on the rocks so started dosing NoPox and Reef Energy A and B

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130819_164744.jpg

Did some tests

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130819_182956.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130827_133050.jpg

Started the dose at 20ml of NoPox per day, and within a week Nitrates were below 2 and Phosphates were

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130828_170711.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130903_160259.jpg

Called around to another reefers house, this tank is stunning

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130822_172834.jpg

And nicked a load more frags - at the end of August, my tank looked like this

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/headon.jpg

[gedsta]

Here's a quick one for now. This is the picture of the red plate from earlier on in the thread.

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130720_161143.jpg

This is what it looks like as at 18th October

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131018_200741.jpg

[meshwheel]

Looking great so far! I am setting up a 65 gallon and want a similar aquascape as yours. I want to be able to use different par numbers for different corals. So I need height with the rock!
My tank is a 65 gallon. 36x18x24. I'm doing plumbing right now, and getting closer! What are you running for lights? I just purchased a Reefbreeders 240 watt Photon32 fixture. So far I love it!
Your tank looks excellent so far! I love it! Keep the pics coming!

[chefzif]

coming along very nice!

[gedsta]

Looking great so far! I am setting up a 65 gallon and want a similar aquascape as yours. I want to be able to use different par numbers for different corals. So I need height with the rock!
My tank is a 65 gallon. 36x18x24. I'm doing plumbing right now, and getting closer! What are you running for lights? I just purchased a Reefbreeders 240 watt Photon32 fixture. So far I love it!
Your tank looks excellent so far! I love it! Keep the pics coming!

Hi mate

Thanks for the comments!

I was using an ATI 8x54w Sunpower, but I swapped over to Radion Pros 2 weeks ago, finally acclimatised upto 60% full power now, and also controlling them with the Apex and their new FW

Sand is a couple of inches deep max, and rock probably about 18 inch or so.

[gedsta]

coming along very nice!

Thank you mate, I guess RC must have a thing in place where threads don't show until you hit x amount of posts, I finally decided to add some more pics today and bingo some readers lol

Plenty of piccies to come, as long as people don't get bored too easily. :wildone:

[gedsta]

Note: some of this may appear that I am talking to myself, I am just copying stuff so as to bring this thread bang upto date



I try to keep KH at 12 ish but I do have a calcium reactor controlled by the Apex.

It switches the solenoid on at 6.70 and then back off at 6.40 - It normally comes on once an hour or so, 24 hours per day.

Even so, I have still dosed manually 331g of Sodium Bicarbonate, 517g of Magnesium and 194g Calcium, since setup. (I keep a spreadsheet)

It will normally drop to about 11.2 if I don't dose it manually, but theres not a lot I can do to maintain apart from what I am doing at the moment.

Calcium and Magnesium are always the same now when I test, so I know the CR can handle that demand, just the KH is being eaten away every day. I may up the drip rate or change the media to see if that helps. Either way, to drop from 12 to 11.2 would normally take about 3 days or so, so not coral threatening imo

Here's another couple for you, just wish I had more time to add loads more of piccies to bring the thread upto date.

11th August 2013

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130811_152433.jpg

19th October 2013

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131019_175806.jpg

6th August 2013

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130806_191457.jpg

19th October 2013

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131019_175848.jpg

Sorry for the poor quality piccies, they are off my phone, as the charger is bust on the camera.

[gedsta]

September 2013

Added some LEDs that simulate Lunar Moon stuff for the Apex

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130904_152355.jpg

Made a frame out of some uprights for shelving

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130912_160447.jpg

Changed my old return pump for a Jebao DC-6000

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130906_120232.jpg

Added some more frags lol

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130910_171016.jpg

Notice the new rock added?

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130909_163644.jpg

Created digi corner

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130909_145033.jpg

Added this frag and comparison directly underneath it from recent

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130910_170736.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131013_184626.jpg

Phosphates have come right down

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130912_185530.jpg

[gedsta]

Bought some coral off another reefer

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130917_152148.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130916_221739.jpg

Tank as at end of September 2013


http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130930_205202.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130930_205202_1.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131001_200214.jpg

[gedsta]

Some fairly recent piccies

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180254.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180258.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180305.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180309.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180313.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180322.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180331.jpg

[gedsta]

Continued

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180345.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180350.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180354.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180432.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180451.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180526.jpg

[gedsta]

And some more

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180528.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180532.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131029_180243.jpg

[gedsta]

Bought some new toys

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131106_213252.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131106_213203.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131106_213143.jpg

Now dosing,

NoPox - 15ml per day
Reef Energy A - 15ml per day
Reef Energy B - 15ml per day
Coral Colours A - 3ml per day
Coral Colours B - 3ml per day

[meshwheel]

Lovely! It's going to be looking great once those corals grow out!!!! Looks like the Radion Pros are coloring up your corals nicely!
So you have two Vortechs for circulation plus your return? Are you taking any PAR readings or just flyin by the seat of your pants for intensity?
Looking great!!! Should be alot of fun watching all those frags grow! That's my plan too!

[toothman]

Great size tank, good luck.

[gedsta]

Lovely! It's going to be looking great once those corals grow out!!!! Looks like the Radion Pros are coloring up your corals nicely!
So you have two Vortechs for circulation plus your return? Are you taking any PAR readings or just flyin by the seat of your pants for intensity?
Looking great!!! Should be alot of fun watching all those frags grow! That's my plan too!


Hi mate

Thanks for the comments.

Yep just a waiting game now for the coral to grow out. To be fair the Radions have only been on for 2 weeks, and they are only at 60% of full power at the moment as well.

2 Vortech MP40WES and a return of 6000lph however I have just sold the DC600 and getting a DC12000 for the added flow.

As for PAR readings, flying by the seat of my pants lol

Have you got a thread as well?

[gedsta]

Great size tank, good luck.

Thanks mate.

Lots more piccies to add when I find some more time lol

[meshwheel]

Gedsta,
Yep! Go over to the "lighting, filtration and other equipment" forum. My thread is titled "reefbreeders, hydra52,buildmyled or Razor" thread.
I am getting really close now. Just installed my Tunze Wavebox. Getting close to filling with filtered water. Maybe in the next day or two.
Your tank is looking great! I know once it grows out it's going to be awesome!
Thanks

[gedsta]

Gedsta,
Yep! Go over to the "lighting, filtration and other equipment" forum. My thread is titled "reefbreeders, hydra52,buildmyled or Razor" thread.
I am getting really close now. Just installed my Tunze Wavebox. Getting close to filling with filtered water. Maybe in the next day or two.
Your tank is looking great! I know once it grows out it's going to be awesome!
Thanks


Hi mate

Thanks for the nice words.

I will have a read of your thread at weekend, as I am off on Sunday. :)

Few piccies from today

Growth example - 12/11/2013

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131112_152446_2.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131128_210819_1.jpg


http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131128_210749.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131128_210752.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131128_211035.jpg

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131128_211042.jpg

[Amphiprion]

One of those looks like Millepora (fire coral, not Acropora)... If it is, you'll probably want to isolate it. They are great, beautiful hydrocorals, but they are fast growing and have a more than potent sting--vastly dominant over many other corals.

[gedsta]

One of those looks like Millepora (fire coral, not Acropora)... If it is, you'll probably want to isolate it. They are great, beautiful hydrocorals, but they are fast growing and have a more than potent sting--vastly dominant over many other corals.

Yes mate - its a lovely coral, I have fragged it 3 times so far since July, so it gets trimmed regularly and then given away to other reefers.

[meshwheel]

gedssta,
How do you like the RedSea Nopox and additives??? Very curious about them. Wanted to go Zeo possibly, but soooo dam expensive! And not sure I will be happy with the results for the price!
Thanks!

[gedsta]

gedssta,
How do you like the RedSea Nopox and additives??? Very curious about them. Wanted to go Zeo possibly, but soooo dam expensive! And not sure I will be happy with the results for the price!
Thanks!

Hi mate

The NoPox definitely does the job, my Nitrates and Phosphates are practically undetectable.

I throw food in the tank, and there is no sign of algae anywhere in the tank. I have upped the Reef Energy A and B up to 20ml of each daily, my NoPox is 6ml daily.

The RedSea Colours only doses 2ml of A B C D daily. This is purely a trial as they came with the doser units that I bought.

I have never tried Zeo so cannot compare to be honest. However once the Reef Energy A and B has gone, I am going to try Aquavitro Fuel.

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
So your not happy with the Reef Energy A and B? Of are you just wanting to try Seachems Aquavitro fuel? I am pretty much sold on the Nopox and ordered a large bottle. Should last me a while. Is there a shelf life on the Nopox?
Any new pics? Would love to see the corals and tank! Thanks!

[gedsta]

gedsta,
So your not happy with the Reef Energy A and B? Of are you just wanting to try Seachems Aquavitro fuel? I am pretty much sold on the Nopox and ordered a large bottle. Should last me a while. Is there a shelf life on the Nopox?
Any new pics? Would love to see the corals and tank! Thanks!

Its not that I am not happy, its £30 a month lol

Fuel is £18 a month, and now that I have used A and B I can draw a comparison if you get what I mean. The NoPox is great, definitely works. :)

afaik there isn't I have a 5 litre tub of it, as its cheaper in the long run, so I hope not lol

Will post some piccies later hopefully mate.

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
i know what you mean! It all adds up! You want it the best it can be, but youhave to draw the line somewhere as far as what you spending!
Well, the leds should save you some cash in the long run! Lookign forward to the new pics!

[gedsta]

gedsta,
i know what you mean! It all adds up! You want it the best it can be, but youhave to draw the line somewhere as far as what you spending!
Well, the leds should save you some cash in the long run! Lookign forward to the new pics!

I did some workings out for the cost savings. (I had an ATI unit before the Rads)

Running costs over 3 year Radions / ATI Unit

£1199.98 + £87.36 + £87.36 + £87.36 = £1462.06
ATI: £543.92 (purchase) + £218.40 (electric) + £218.40 (electric) + £218.40 (electric) = £1199.12 + 8 x New Tubes (average £21) £168.00 + 8 x New Tubes (average £21) £168.00 = £1535.12

So its nearly 3 years before the savings would kick in. However, I have them now so I am saving this amount on electricity immediately.

Quick calculations re electricity savings whilst running these.

Radions cost per day 24p
ATIs cost per day 60p

Radions cost per week £1.68
ATIs cost per week £4.20

Radions cost per month £7.28
ATIs cost per month £18.20

Radions cost per year £87.36
ATIs cost per year £218.40

NB - These are over estimated for the Radions as I only have them at 70% for a few hours per day, and sometimes they are at 2% intensity as they go into Moonlight mode. Therefore they probably cost about £80 per year maximum to run as I am doing. Good times.

Some piccies

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104475d1385918374t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131201_162503.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104482d1385918431t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131201_162552.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104486d1385918463t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131201_162618.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104502d1385918572t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131201_163042.jpg

I upgraded from an APF600 to an APF800 skimmer

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104577d1386111872t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131203_193548.jpg

Water params

Mg - 1400
Calc - 430
KH - 12
Salinity - 1.026


http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104578d1386112042t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131203_193638.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104579d1386112049t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131203_193645.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104580d1386112058t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131203_193650.jpg

[gedsta]

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104581d1386112066t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131203_193657.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104582d1386112073t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131203_193705.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104583d1386112083t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131203_193712.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104584d1386112091t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131203_193719.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104589d1386112126t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131203_193737.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104595d1386112166t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131203_193830.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104597d1386112177t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131203_193854.jpg

Will post more asap

[meshwheel]

Looking FANTABULOUS!!!! Very nice, and I was going to go 500 watt halides and ended up with the Reefbreeders fixure. I am using maybe 120 watts a day right now.
Your tank is going to be awesome once it grows in. What brand of skimmer is that? Never heard of it.

[gedsta]

Looking FANTABULOUS!!!! Very nice, and I was going to go 500 watt halides and ended up with the Reefbreeders fixure. I am using maybe 120 watts a day right now.
Your tank is going to be awesome once it grows in. What brand of skimmer is that? Never heard of it.

Wow thanks for the compliment!

The Radions are on at 70% at the moment, and tbh I don't think I need to increase them any further. The only one thing I want to do is to raise them a bit. They are only about 5" from the water level.

Yeh this is the worst part waiting for the growth, however the corals are growing pretty fast, heres a quick comparison for you.

11/11/2013

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104671d1386195892t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131122_205059.jpg

4/12/2013

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104670d1386195810t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131204_215953.jpg

The skimmer is a Deltec APF800 mate.

So how long have you been reefing then?

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
Been in the hobby since I was in my teens. Had freshwater since I was 8 years old I think. I am 47 now......................LOL. I service tanks too for a living.
I know Deltec makes great stuff! I have had 2 Deltec skimmers. Nice! Not too impressed with the reliability of the Aquabee pump. Perhaps they have gotten better.
Where are you from? Australia? Been there twice. Loved it!

[bigbpro916]

love the rock work! you are getting really nice growth as well!

[gedsta]

gedsta,
Been in the hobby since I was in my teens. Had freshwater since I was 8 years old I think. I am 47 now......................LOL. I service tanks too for a living.
I know Deltec makes great stuff! I have had 2 Deltec skimmers. Nice! Not too impressed with the reliability of the Aquabee pump. Perhaps they have gotten better.
Where are you from? Australia? Been there twice. Loved it!

I work in a LFS lol

About the same time as me, I am 45 now :(

I have never had an issue with the Aquabee pumps, changed the shaft once in the APF600 but I did change to the upgraded bearings etc which they had an issue with.

From the UK mate, would love to go to Australia.

[gedsta]

love the rock work! you are getting really nice growth as well!

Thanks mate. 2 attempts it took to get it like that, the pictures don't really show it off that well.

[gedsta]

So.... nearly a month in from the Radions being added, and I have to say really really happy with them.

They are now running at 75%

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104944d1386688297t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-gedradionsdec.jpg

The devil coral (pavola) is looking great and finally got its colour back and has now more or less covered the milliput it was stuck down with, and has got all the hairy bits back on it.

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104945d1386688450t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135751.jpg

My frogspawn is probably twice the size it was a month ago as well.

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104946d1386688522t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135447.jpg

Not lost any more frags either so it was obviously the reduced light that saw those off initially.

One of the biggest comparisons is this one.

11/11/2013

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104947d1384198622t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131111_193003.jpg

Today

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104948d1386688613t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_140846.jpg

[gedsta]

A few piccies from today

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104949d1386688777t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135909.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104950d1386688784t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135923.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104951d1386688789t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135842.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104953d1386688802t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135826.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104954d1386688807t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135820.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104955d1386688814t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135811.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104956d1386688821t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135736.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104957d1386688829t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135713.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104958d1386688836t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135520.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104959d1386688842t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135513.jpg

[gedsta]

And some more

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104960d1386688850t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135459.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104961d1386688858t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135616.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104962d1386688866t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135634.jpg

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
Looking very nice! seems they have got the led's dialed in well. I love mine, and they put out a massive amount of par. Still running mine at 50% blue channel and 40% white violet red channel.
Your corals colors look very nice as well. Cannot wait to watch them grow. I am going all frags as well in my tank. It's fun to watch em develop and color up.
Are you using the RedSea "Colors" additives as well?

[tdb320reef]

Great growth!

[gedsta]

gedsta,
Looking very nice! seems they have got the led's dialed in well. I love mine, and they put out a massive amount of par. Still running mine at 50% blue channel and 40% white violet red channel.

I lost a couple of frags when running the Radions on acclimatisation, I was too cautious I guess. I had them on acclimatisation on 40% lol so they were running about 20% brightness. I had an ATI 8x54w unit before so I should have just stuck them straight on at 45% I suppose.

Stick a FTS on this thread mate?

Your corals colors look very nice as well. Cannot wait to watch them grow. I am going all frags as well in my tank. It's fun to watch em develop and color up.
Are you using the RedSea "Colors" additives as well?

99.9% were out of mates tanks as frags, some believe it or not from one with over 100 Nitrates and 1.44 Phosphates (salifert and hanna) I won't buy colonies unless they are nearly dead or out of another reefers tank, as I think we harvest enough out of the sea. A bit hypocritical I know, as I get fish, but at least I haven't depleted the sea of coral lol

I also prefer to use frags as if they die, its no real damage as well. Plus I have got patience as well.

I dose Colours A B C D but only at 2ml per day, not even sure if they go in or not, as I didn't have any check valves on the tubing, but I do as from yesterday, so should definitely be 2ml going in now. The only reason I am dosing those is that they came with the dosers, I don't think I would buy them tbh

I have also just started to do some water changes, I set this tank up in July 2013 and refrained from doing them for a few months, and am now just finishing off half a bucket of TMC Pro Reef salt, by doing 31.5litre water changes every 10 days or so.

Once this salt has gone, I am going to try the Aquavitro Salinity for a bucket at least.

[gedsta]

Great growth!

Thanks mate, I hadn't even noticed how much it had, until compared photos etc

The LEDs have only been on a higher than 45% profile for about 10 days or so, and so far the corals appear to be loving it.

[nycoral1]

Amazing tank I used to live in the uk for several years.

Where abouts are you located.

[gedsta]

Amazing tank I used to live in the uk for several years.

Where abouts are you located.

Near Warrington, if you have ever heard of it lol

Thanks for the compliment. :beer:

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
My tank is 36x18x24 acrylic tank. I built the stand and installed a granite counter top all around 3 sides. I have high bar stools that site around the bar.
The bottom of the tank is actually 46 inches tall! Top is about 65 inches tall. I dont like hunching down anymore looking at my tanks! You walk in, it's eye level. You sit down at the bar for a drink, your staring right at it!
So far I love it. Rock and new gravel just add. Water balancing out. Nirates 0.25 and Phosphates 0.16. I need that nopox!!! LOL.
its coming along nicely. I added 3 corals LPS and three fish that I have had for about 5-7 years. Here's a few pics. Kinda plain but getting there. Tunze Wavebox and Vortech MP20 plus 2 returns from down below.
240 watts of ReefBreeders led lights. Love em so far!
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x122/65bug_01/Starbuckstankbuild005_zps3b50afe8.jpg (http://s182.photobucket.com/user/65bug_01/media/Starbuckstankbuild005_zps3b50afe8.jpg.html)
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x122/65bug_01/Starbuckstankbuild010_zps9d697be6.jpg (http://s182.photobucket.com/user/65bug_01/media/Starbuckstankbuild010_zps9d697be6.jpg.html)
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x122/65bug_01/Starbuckstankbuild009_zps5178855b.jpg (http://s182.photobucket.com/user/65bug_01/media/Starbuckstankbuild009_zps5178855b.jpg.html)

[gedsta]

That looks pretty cool dude.

Those lights definitely look more than capable as well. :)

Your Nitrates and Phosphates are about the levels I had when I set this tank up, less than a week for NoPox to sort for me lol

I did a water change today, and not sure if the tank looks any better for it or not though. I don't even bother testing for Nitrates or Phosphates at the moment anyway, last time I tested was 3/11/2013

I can just tell when they have risen as I get an algae film on the glass, which I had to clean about 3 times a day prior to getting the levels where I wanted them. Now I do it about 3 times a week tops.

The one thing you will notice with NoPox is a white film if your dosage is too high, on the glass, I just halve the dosage when I spot that, as the bacteria is multiplying too quickly.

[meshwheel]

gedsta
Thanks! Yea, half dead rock and half live rock. I may change around my rock too or add to the center. Not sure yet. I am starting to get some algae.
I hate snails, so I will start adding the nopox as soon as it arrives tomorrow. I ordered a liter of it. Along with Reef Energy parts A&B as I have heard rave reviews about it as well. I will follow their directions. Being part Jewish I love RedSea products...................LOL. Gota support my hommie...............lol
Their regular salt is my favorite, with consistent spot on levels always! I still prefer Salifert test kits, but I know getting used to the RedSea would be key. I have their test kits as well. I also ordered all their trace solutions too.
It should last me quite a while.
My lights are awesome! And 499.00 plus FREE SHIPPING and no sales tax was awesome! They only have 2 channels, but I can live with it. Coming from metal halides it's like nothing I have ever had before as far as lighting adjustability.
I can also adjust each channel at each 1/2 hour intervals(or 1 hour) so its great! I am at 50 blue 40 red white and UV. With the unit 9 inches off the water I am getting PAR readings around 400 at 14 inches below the water. The spread it EXCELLENT TOO! No spotting or anything I can complain about. Plus 2 year full warrantee.
I gota love it for the price!

[gedsta]

gedsta
Thanks! Yea, half dead rock and half live rock. I may change around my rock too or add to the center. Not sure yet. I am starting to get some algae.
I hate snails, so I will start adding the nopox as soon as it arrives tomorrow. I ordered a liter of it. Along with Reef Energy parts A&B as I have heard rave reviews about it as well. I will follow their directions. Being part Jewish I love RedSea products...................LOL. Gota support my hommie...............lol

I used 65kg of dead rock mate, then removed 8kg and added back 8kg of live rock to seed it. Everyone said to soak it in RO for weeks with GFO and I just went ahead and threw it in.

I have about 60 different snails in mine mate, I had loads of green algae as well initially but within 2 weeks of NoPox it disappeared, will dig you some comparisons out in a bit so you can see.

I have Red Sea wise

NoPox
Reef Energy A and B
Colours ABCD
Foundation ABC
Algae control test kit
KH/Calc/Mg test kit
Aiptasia X (doesn't work imo though)
And I filled the tank with RSCP salt

The Reef Energy has been dosed since 29/08/13 and I started with 20ml of each, tried dropping it and then went back to the 20ml which is what I still dose today.


Their regular salt is my favorite, with consistent spot on levels always! I still prefer Salifert test kits, but I know getting used to the RedSea would be key. I have their test kits as well. I also ordered all their trace solutions too.

You cannot go wrong if you follow the instructions, I have used RSCP salt for about 4 years and think its great. However I am changing to Aquavitro Salinity very soon, as we are getting some samples from work to give it a go with. I don't normally do water changes but I had half a bucket of TMC Pro salt that someone gave me so I am just finishing that off before I try the Salinity.

As for test kits I use

Calcium - Salifert
Phosphate - Hanna or RedSea
KH - Salifert
Magnesium - Salifert
Nitrates - Salifert or RedSea

And thats about all I test for when I can be bothered. After the water change today, I tested KH - 12 and Calcium - 450 - Nearly always the same whenever I do test stuff.


My lights are awesome! And 499.00 plus FREE SHIPPING and no sales tax was awesome! They only have 2 channels, but I can live with it. Coming from metal halides it's like nothing I have ever had before as far as lighting adjustability.
I can also adjust each channel at each 1/2 hour intervals(or 1 hour) so its great! I am at 50 blue 40 red white and UV. With the unit 9 inches off the water I am getting PAR readings around 400 at 14 inches below the water. The spread it EXCELLENT TOO! No spotting or anything I can complain about. Plus 2 year full warrantee.
I gota love it for the price!

Where are they from, China?

They look similar to a few units that some guys I know have bought and are well pleased with, do they have an SD card for programming etc?

The Radions need highering on mine, as you can see the rays of light where they cross over, which isn't apparent on your pictures, so either my lights are too low or the LEDs that you have have better lenses perhaps?

[gedsta]

I just checked my notes mate.

I started dosing 20ml of NoPox on 25/08/2013

Heres a piccie from 23/08/2013

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105019d1377283495t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20130823_165358.jpg

Clearly shows the algae growing etc

Here's the same coral on 02/09/2013

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105020d1386714798t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20130902_195142.jpg

I started dosing Reef Energy A and B 29/08/2013

Same coral as at today

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/104945d1386688450t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135751.jpg

[meshwheel]

Gedsta ,
Finally got the rest of the wiring ran. Looking much cleaner now! Here's a pic with the door off. I may the stand so the door comes off and is out of my way completely. This way I can get in there easily! Let me know what you guys think.
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x122/65bug_01/Wiringdone001_zps2e01cfad.jpg (http://s182.photobucket.com/user/65bug_01/media/Wiringdone001_zps2e01cfad.jpg.html)
i like it because its my little wave station. I dont have to go under the tank to turn off the feeder timers! I can do it all right here and make adjustments accordingly
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x122/65bug_01/Wiringdone002_zps51fe606a.jpg (http://s182.photobucket.com/user/65bug_01/media/Wiringdone002_zps51fe606a.jpg.html)
Here's a plate coral that was the size of a quarter when I got it from RAP about 2-3 years ago It's now 5 inches in diameter. Needs a little less light. then the colors will really look fantastic!
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x122/65bug_01/Wiringdone004_zps0388b80d.jpg[/URL
Here's the Galaxia. He's coming back strong, and these LPS seem to love the led's!
[URL=http://s182.photobucket.com/user/65bug_01/media/Wiringdone005_zps73dacc0f.jpg.html]http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x122/65bug_01/Wiringdone005_zps73dacc0f.jpg (http://s182.photobucket.com/user/65bug_01/media/Wiringdone004_zps0388b80d.jpg.html)
Here's a Acan I got from a friend on a rock. I found things I did not like on the rock, so i cut the Acan off with a hacksaw! In a few days he will be mounted. Trying to determine his lighting needs as well. This guy has spectacular genetics!!!
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x122/65bug_01/Wiringdone006_zps0fb3d779.jpg (http://s182.photobucket.com/user/65bug_01/media/Wiringdone006_zps0fb3d779.jpg.html)
Tank looking good. My phosphate shot back up to 0.23.........:uzi::uzi:
Lights are China lights, but very very well built! The company building these lights knows what they are doing. I have 90 degree lenses on mine, thats a huge PAR booster. They do bleed out a little lights through the sides though. Alloy coated would be a crazy amount of light!!!
Basic timer, but i like it!

[gedsta]

That looks great mate, all corals look ace.

I have a soft spot for the fungia / plate coral - I have 3 now lol

I struggle with acans tbh always have done. They fluff up for a few days then go to nothing special thereafter.

A few lads I know have very similar lights to yours if they are the same, one keeps a predominately LPS tank, and the other predominately SPS - Both are having great success so I have no doubt yours are up to the job. They definitely look like it.

I used to use Reef Beams 4 years ago, they were the most basic you could get but were £400 each and I needed 2 and they kept going bang all the time.

YOur tank looks so clean, how often are you cleaning glass etc?

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
The tank is acrylic mate. I am very partial to acrylic. I service tanks, and it seems like anything over about 80 gallons here in the states always ends up leaking at some point. In California the ground moves around alot! With acrylic, its never a issue.
Acrylic is so much more clear then glass. Unless you get the extra clear glass(low iron) then the glass scratches easily.
I got my nopox today and dosed my 5 mls today verrrrrrrry sloooooooowly...lol. this stuff smells like bloody finger nail polish remover!!!!
I also purchased the Reef Energy A&B and all the 4 elements as well. I thought i would try the Brightwells carbon-X. I will use a little in a bag in my sump.
I think about a week and I should be able to add my first set of SPS. I am looking for ORA corals.
So how is your tank doing?

[gedsta]

gedsta,
The tank is acrylic mate. I am very partial to acrylic. I service tanks, and it seems like anything over about 80 gallons here in the states always ends up leaking at some point. In California the ground moves around alot! With acrylic, its never a issue.

Doh! My bad.

Acrylic is so much more clear then glass. Unless you get the extra clear glass(low iron) then the glass scratches easily.
I got my nopox today and dosed my 5 mls today verrrrrrrry sloooooooowly...lol. this stuff smells like bloody finger nail polish remover!!!!

Yup stinks, and everytime I opened the sump initially it smelt worse lol

I just used to pour it in the last compartment mate, never worried about being slow with it. Keep an eye on the skimmer, once the bacteria kicks in it will produce a wet skim and in my case overflowed a few times.

I also purchased the Reef Energy A&B and all the 4 elements as well. I thought i would try the Brightwells carbon-X. I will use a little in a bag in my sump.
I think about a week and I should be able to add my first set of SPS. I am looking for ORA corals.
So how is your tank doing?

I don't run carbon so have no advice for you on if it is any good or not mate.

RE A and B defo worked well for me. My Aquavitro Fuel arrives next Tuesday so I will be using that for a bit, I ordered a 1 litre bottle from work.

I added my first SPS within a week of setting this tank up. :)

Tanks doing well, back at work yesterday so the usual neglect has kicked in for 5 days lol

Will take some piccies over the weekend.

Give me a shout if you need any help with the RedSea stuff.

[meshwheel]

Thank you gedsta!
I added the Reef A&B and it's flourescent green in the tank! HA!!! looked really cool! I know I added way to much. 5 mls! Once my phosphates get where I want them I will start adding again. Maybe 1 ml daily until I get some SPS in the tank!
How are your corals looking? Dont neglect it too much! SPS do not play nice if you dont give them attention!
I will more then likely wait another week or two before getting SPS. I want everything dialed in perfectly.
I AM GETTING BROWN MICRO ALGAE NOW!!!! I added 5 snails today and a Jeweled blenny. I hate fricken snails!!!! Oh well, only 5! I am hoping the Blennie can handle the rest. Added a nice Acan and some green dragon polyps. this is all bottom of the tank stuff. I should be good to go for quite a while.
Get some more pics of your tank on here. Love to look at them frags mate!
Thanks!

[gedsta]

Thank you gedsta!
I added the Reef A&B and it's flourescent green in the tank! HA!!! looked really cool! I know I added way to much. 5 mls! Once my phosphates get where I want them I will start adding again. Maybe 1 ml daily until I get some SPS in the tank!

Forgot that part lol - Yeh its a funky colour.

How are your corals looking? Dont neglect it too much! SPS do not play nice if you dont give them attention!
I will more then likely wait another week or two before getting SPS. I want everything dialed in perfectly.

tbh mate, I don't do a lot as most of it is automated. I feed the fish twice a night when I am at work, once when I get in, and once about 9:15pm - I also add a pea sized blob of DD Reef Paste, a few DD Reef Sticks and New Era flake.

Levels wise, are always the same, and now I have the Radions sorted, the lights etc are spot on.

When I say neglect, I mean like scraping the glass, etc - I still check the RO topup and that the Calcium Reactor is dripping etc - I just don't have the time whilst at work to do what I normally would.

If I am 100% honest, I don't do anything special SPS wise, they just grow and develop. I have learnt over the years to look after the water and then everything else will fall into place.

I use Calliendrum and some red plate as my tester frags, if they grow then everything is normally fine.

I AM GETTING BROWN MICRO ALGAE NOW!!!! I added 5 snails today and a Jeweled blenny. I hate fricken snails!!!! Oh well, only 5! I am hoping the Blennie can handle the rest. Added a nice Acan and some green dragon polyps. this is all bottom of the tank stuff. I should be good to go for quite a while.
Get some more pics of your tank on here. Love to look at them frags mate!
Thanks!

Snails are good for the tank mate, get over the phobia lol

Brown algae wise, I had that for a few weeks, but mainly on the sand.

Would love to be able to keep acans, but I guess they are not for me.Polyps sound nice.

Will upload some shortly.

[gedsta]

Some quick ones from 10/12/2013

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105092d1386888180t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135505.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105093d1386888188t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135525.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105094d1386888195t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135535.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105095d1386888202t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135442.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105096d1386888208t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135648.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105097d1386888213t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135730.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105098d1386888218t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135721.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105101d1386888236t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135855.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105102d1386888243t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131210_135847.jpg

[meshwheel]

LOL. Looking great! I am trying to do some LPS on the bottom and all SPS on top. Yea, I am getting over the snail phobia....................lol.
Just hate having those bastards mowing over everything in the tank. Gota have em though!
Looking forward to more pics! Thanks!

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
Are you getting better colors with the Radions?? Just curious as I too am totally new to these led's. I do have a PAR meter though, so if I fry anything it's my own dam fault! HA!
Got some major algae kicking in today. Corals all look happy though. that NoPox is something else!!!! Smelly stuff too like you said! I am going to hang tough with the RedSea products and see how it rolls!
Thanks

[gedsta]

gedsta,
Are you getting better colors with the Radions?? Just curious as I too am totally new to these led's. I do have a PAR meter though, so if I fry anything it's my own dam fault! HA!
Got some major algae kicking in today. Corals all look happy though. that NoPox is something else!!!! Smelly stuff too like you said! I am going to hang tough with the RedSea products and see how it rolls!
Thanks


I am getting better fluorescing mate for sure. Its like having a UV tube above the tank.

A friend has a 250w Halide and a Radion Pro over his tank, and he did some par readings. He did have an ATI 8x54w (same as mine before swapping to the Pro) bu tis using the 250w until he can get the second pro.

His readings were;

par for 250w halide
top 420
middle 250
bottom 120


radion 70 percent
top 600
middle 360
bottom 160

His tank is stunning btw

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/102911d1383853770t-hellers-godiva-build-thinking-change-img_4641.jpg

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
Yep! More light with alot less wattage for sure! That's awesome! Beautiful tank by the way.
The Radion Pro's are top of the line for sure. Certainly in the top 3. I love the Mitras also. Very nice, but very pricey too.
The NoPox stuff works and works quick!!!! My phos is down to 0.5 and nitrates barely detectable!!! This was right after I fed too. I am cutting back already to a half dosage for tomorrow.
I can certainly feed now.................lol

[gedsta]

gedsta,
Yep! More light with alot less wattage for sure! That's awesome! Beautiful tank by the way.
The Radion Pro's are top of the line for sure. Certainly in the top 3. I love the Mitras also. Very nice, but very pricey too.
The NoPox stuff works and works quick!!!! My phos is down to 0.5 and nitrates barely detectable!!! This was right after I fed too. I am cutting back already to a half dosage for tomorrow.
I can certainly feed now.................lol

Sorry for the delay in replying lol

His tank is beautiful mate.

I like the Vertex lights, they look pretty smart.

Yep NoPox is a great product, sometimes though the Phosphates take a fair bit of time to start reducing.

I still throw food in, and I also added 2 more fish today.

A nice black Scopas Tang and a female Scooter Blenny to keep the male one happy.

I also added 5 peppermint shrimps on Friday, as I spotted 4 aiptasia.

I also got a couple of new things today. :)

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105342d1387134976t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131215_183858.jpg

[Lilmatty5dimes]

tank looks really great.

[gedsta]

tank looks really great.

Thank you!

[gedsta]

So Cheryl (the Kole) has absolutely hammered the Black Scopas, however judging by her fins and her body, he has given as good, back.

The Purple Tang is still a bit off with him, but overall, it appears to have calmed down slightly.

I have mixed the Salinity in my AWC and will be doing the first change with this salt this evening. Time will tell if it improves over the course of the next few weeks or not.

The good thing about this salt is the batch levels, these are unique per batch.

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105379d1387222559t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-66133.00.jpg

And also, heres a picture of what I had achieved in my reefing career, as on this day, exactly a year ago.

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105380d1387222668t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20121216_192938.jpg

Heres a few from today.

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105382d1387222748t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131216_191422.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105383d1387222753t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131216_191401.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105384d1387222758t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131216_191354.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105385d1387222764t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131216_191329.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105386d1387222770t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131216_191213.jpg

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/large-tanks-101gal/105387d1387222778t-radions-have-landed-my-48-x-28-x-30-tank-20131216_191454.jpg

[meshwheel]

Looking great mate! I tried the Brightwells salt and it was spot on as well. Looks like Seachem got real serious about their salt. The competition gives us quality products!
Please let me know how you like the Seachem salt. I love the RedSea and it's always done me right. I could not tell a huge difference between the RedSea and Brightwells.
My phosphates are down to 0.06 so I am pretty much good to go for adding some SPS frags..:beer::beer::smokin::smokin:
Had to add 6 more snails, they are tearing through the algae!!!! I am only on day 5 I think with the NoPox so it seems to be working well and fast.
My corals are not losing any colors and polyp extension seems to be good!
Are you on a maintenance dose now for your tank with the NoPox?
You tank and corals are looking great!

[gedsta]

Looking great mate! I tried the Brightwells salt and it was spot on as well. Looks like Seachem got real serious about their salt. The competition gives us quality products!

Thanks mate.
Please let me know how you like the Seachem salt. I love the RedSea and it's always done me right. I could not tell a huge difference between the RedSea and Brightwells.

We use it at work mate and you can see the difference in the tanks already, prior to this we used TMC Bio Actif.

My phosphates are down to 0.06 so I am pretty much good to go for adding some SPS frags..:beer::beer::smokin::smokin:

woot! Get some in mate. :)

Had to add 6 more snails, they are tearing through the algae!!!! I am only on day 5 I think with the NoPox so it seems to be working well and fast.

Never have enough snails imo mate, I have loads of baby turbos now, as they have obviously bred in the tank, along with shed loads of dove snails, mexican turbos and a conch for the sand.

I found within 2 weeks both Nitrates and Phosphates were were I wanted them to be. :)Glad to hear you are having success as well dude.

My corals are not losing any colors and polyp extension seems to be good!
Are you on a maintenance dose now for your tank with the NoPox?
You tank and corals are looking great!

Great news! Make sure you feed them now though as well with the Reef Energy.

I only dose 6ml per day of NoPox now just to keep it ticking over, and tbh I haven't tested Nitrates or Phosphates for ages (03/11/2013 lol)

[gedsta]

Oh forgot, Apex have given me the latest beta FW to test re the Radions, and so far (apart from me making a schoolboy error) it is working as intended. :)

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
Nice to hear on the salt!!! I may have to try it. The snails are kicken ***! Another day or so and most algae will be gone.
Yes, I have been adding the Reef Energy as well as a little fish food for the fish. I figured the corals are getting some food for sure. No lightening that I can see at all.
My cheapo Bubble Magus is working very well so far. I am really happy with it for the price.
I am loving the lights as well, and will go for a slight bump up once i get my first baby heard of SPS!!! Not sure where to get them yet. I would like 4 or 5 ORA frags. That would be nice to start with.
Happy Holidays to you!

[gedsta]

Bubble Magus are pretty good, I have a doser and 2 slave units of theirs. I know plenty of people using their skimmers as well.

Glad to hear the snails are making an impact as well.

I use calliendrum and plating to test for SPS normally.

Happy Christmas / Holidays to you as well mate.

Heres some piccies.

16/11/2013

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131116_201936.jpg

Today

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131217_203622.jpg

21/07/2013

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20130721_151644.jpg

Today

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131217_203710.jpg

FTS

http://www.ultimatereef.net/uploader/2013Q4/20131217_203556.jpg

Radions working well on the new Apex FW so far as well.

Back to work tomorrow for 5 days, then 4 days off. woot!

[meshwheel]

Great looking growth! I love it! That last picture is stellar!!! Corals look healthy and growing for sure mate!
My tank phosphates shot up to 0.16 last night after feeding 4 mls. of A&B plus some Salifert granule fish food!
i am thinking my bacterial strains are still not quite up to snuffy! I want to test again tonight after now food for a 24 hour period just to see if they have dropped back down to around 0.06. What do you think? Only been dosing NoPox for 5 or 6 days so far!

[gedsta]

NoPox takes longer to control Phosphates mate, so I wouldn't be too surprised. Plus if you have added food etc then I would expect to see them increase.

5 or 6 days is not long enough. Did you get the RedSea Algae Control tests kit? I cannot remember if you did, but you need to adjust the dosage re the levels that you measure.

Bacteria duplicates every 24 hours so every day it will have doubled and be getting more and more efficient.

Even so, Phosphates at 0.16 are nothing to worry about mate. Worst they would do is possibly make your corals (SPS) lose some colour.

I have a friend that has one of the nicest SPS tanks I have ever seen and his Phosphates on a Hanna checker are 1.44 ;)

(His Nitrates are well over 100 on a Salifert kit)

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
I have never heard of that before. I am shocked his params are that high! He must be exporting like a mother!!!!!!LOL
I dont have the RedSea Algae control test kits. Do I need them??? What do yours say if your at 0.06 for 65 gallons??? Maybe I need to get them.
I have Salifert Nitrate Test kit and Hanna phosphate checker digi meter. And boy, that Hanna meter is sensitive for sure!

[gedsta]

Hi mate

NO3 above 10

3ml per 100 litres of NoPox

NO3 above 1 but less than 10

2ml per 100 litres of NoPox

NO3 above 0.25 but less than 1 ;
PO4 above 0.04

2ml per 100 litres of NoPox

NO3 above 0.25 but less than 1 ;
PO4 above 0.02 but less than 0.04

1ml per 100 litres of NoPox

In the event that the nitrate level drops below 0.25ppm or the phosphate drops below 0.02 immediately cut the daily dose by 50%. Test nitrate and phosphate 2 times per week and adjust the dosage accordingly until they stabilize at the desired levels.

See how you get on mate, I got the kit but only used it a few days, and now I just dose the last option, 6ml per day.

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
Thank you kindly sir! I am right on with my dosing mate! Just got to give it probably another week i bet. Let me check my log here quickly.
Ok, today was my seventh dose! Only been going 1 week today. I will give it another week. I am betting I will be good to go then.
My corals are looking better and better every day too. Anytime I set up a new salt water tank, the water always seems so corrosive to coral tissue.
As time goes on, it really settle down and looks much better. I know guys that will not put SPS in for 6 months!!! That's too long to wait, or I cannot wait that long..............LOL.
My corals look good so far!
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x122/65bug_01/1217-13coralpics008_zpsbd2546d2.jpg (http://s182.photobucket.com/user/65bug_01/media/1217-13coralpics008_zpsbd2546d2.jpg.html)
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x122/65bug_01/1217-13coralpics005_zps58dd7f32.jpg (http://s182.photobucket.com/user/65bug_01/media/1217-13coralpics005_zps58dd7f32.jpg.html)

[gedsta]

I know guys that will not put SPS in for 6 months!!! That's too long to wait, or I cannot wait that long..............LOL.

I couldn't be bothered waiting that long.

10 days and they were in for me lol

My corals look good so far!

Look great mate :)

I got my Aquavitro Fuel today,but am going to wait for the Reef Energy A and B to run out then give that a go.

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
yea, thats quite a long time to wait. Very much so now that we have low nutrient systems and know how to supercharge the bacteria to levels that just strip the water out.
Did some tests, and my nitrates are at ZERO!!!! Phosphates, I need to not feed for a day or so and then do a test.
I feed 4 ml. total. 2 of reef A and 2 of reef B. Then salifert granule food for my fish once a day. My algae is pretty much gone!!!! The snails mowed it down quickly! I am surprised they knocked it out so fast.
So whats with the Aquavitro? Are you friends using it too?

[gedsta]

Hi mate

So whats with the Aquavitro? Are you friends using it too?

A friend does, most people use the Reef Energy.

I still have about 2 weeks or so left so will try it when the Energy is exhausted.

Off work for 4 days now so will update with some piccies asap

[meshwheel]

Did Santa bring you anything new for your reef??? My tank is looking pretty good now. Everything is stabilizing. My corals are happy and puffy looking too. I am getting ready to place a order for SPS corals. I dont want to order anything fancy yet until I can see some positive results with some cheaper SPS.
So far water quality is great! Loving the Red Sea stuff so far!
Merry Christmas!

[gedsta]

Did Santa bring you anything new for your reef??? My tank is looking pretty good now. Everything is stabilizing. My corals are happy and puffy looking too. I am getting ready to place a order for SPS corals. I dont want to order anything fancy yet until I can see some positive results with some cheaper SPS.
So far water quality is great! Loving the Red Sea stuff so far!
Merry Christmas!

Hi mate

Happy Christmas. No I didn't get anything for the tank :(

Gonna get a couple of fish when I get back to work though :)

Glad your tank is coming on well, I also like the RedSea stuff as well.

Calliendrum and plating monti is my normal testing coral.

Here's what I got my eldest daughter for Christmas.

http://www.thesaltybox.com/forum/attachments/general-chit-chat/105866d1387967659t-christmas-day-thread-uploadfromtaptalk1387967663045.jpg

[meshwheel]

Nice! What kind of dog is that? He looks like he may be a chewer! Keep all your things picked up!

[gedsta]

Nice! What kind of dog is that? He looks like he may be a chewer! Keep all your things picked up!

Syberian Husky mate. Defo a chewer I think lol

Did you get anything for the tank as a Christmas Pressie?

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
Lots of cash!!!!! 600.00. I am ready to rock today.................lol. I have alot of room on the bottom for some LPS and zoos that I want. Then all on top will be SPS for sure. Lots on ebay to chose from. I am going to hit a few places today and see what they have.
Also I am going to pick up a Red Sea Algae test kit. My Sali nitate test kit is old. My Hanna phos checker is old as well. Im gonna KILL it today........................LOL

[meshwheel]

Congrats on the new puppy. He's a beaut! Yea, I figured he was some kinda Husky. Beautiful eyes! Bond with him and he will be a good dog.
I have 2 dogs. A Mini Dauchsund and a dauchsund/pit bull mix. Great little guys!

[gedsta]

Thanks mate, we got him for my eldest daughter and us if we get a chance lol

Heres a video I just made.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpNPzuir_FQ

[gedsta]

gedsta,
Lots of cash!!!!! 600.00. I am ready to rock today.................lol. I have alot of room on the bottom for some LPS and zoos that I want. Then all on top will be SPS for sure. Lots on ebay to chose from. I am going to hit a few places today and see what they have.
Also I am going to pick up a Red Sea Algae test kit. My Sali nitate test kit is old. My Hanna phos checker is old as well. Im gonna KILL it today........................LOL

Cool make sure you post some piccies of the new stuff :)

lol love it - Treat yourself!

[meshwheel]

Simply smashing mate! Do I sound like a Euro guy????LOL!!!! That tank is going to be awesome as it grows in. It's all just going to get better!!!!
Nice job for sure! Looking forward to watching it progress. Gedsta, where abouts do you live on the map????

[gedsta]

Simply smashing mate! Do I sound like a Euro guy????LOL!!!! That tank is going to be awesome as it grows in. It's all just going to get better!!!!
Nice job for sure! Looking forward to watching it progress. Gedsta, where abouts do you live on the map????


Thanks mate, really pleased with how its coming on. :)

https://maps.google.co.uk/maps?q=warrington&oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&ie=UTF-8&ei=oFK8UrigK4yihgfz74DIAw&ved=0CAoQ_AUoAg

Is probably the easiest way of showing you.

Now get out to the shops and get stuff bought lol

[meshwheel]

hell, your in England!!! One of my good friends moved over there! Wow! looks like a nice place to live.
Yessir, warming up the coffee and the truck now.......................LOL

[gedsta]

hell, your in England!!! One of my good friends moved over there! Wow! looks like a nice place to live.
Yessir, warming up the coffee and the truck now.......................LOL

Someone has to live here lol

Its not too bad I guess.

Hope that truck is on its way to a shop. ;)

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
I picked up 3 ORA frags, A Bubblegum chalice, Rasta Zoos and a neon green purple tipped frogspawn coral. The last three will be good bottom dwellers!
Also picked up the RedSea Algae control test kit! THE BEST KIT I HAVE OWNED FOR PHOSPHATES AND NITRATES!!!! THIS KIT IS CRACKIN!!!!!!!
Nitrates tested at 0.0 and phosphates tested at 0.2!!!! Easy tests and easy to read! AWESOME!!! My corals will be here next Tuesday mate!

[gedsta]

gedsta,
I picked up 3 ORA frags, A Bubblegum chalice, Rasta Zoos and a neon green purple tipped frogspawn coral. The last three will be good bottom dwellers!
Also picked up the RedSea Algae control test kit! THE BEST KIT I HAVE OWNED FOR PHOSPHATES AND NITRATES!!!! THIS KIT IS CRACKIN!!!!!!!
Nitrates tested at 0.0 and phosphates tested at 0.2!!!! Easy tests and easy to read! AWESOME!!! My corals will be here next Tuesday mate!

Cool as mate, wheres the piccies lol

The test kit is ace, I have found it to be a great help with the dosing of NoPox etc however now I just go by sight. There is not a scrap of algae in mine at the moment, and I am cleaning the glass twice a week max.

0.2 is OK mate for Phosphates, mine were at .27 iirc before NoPox and haven't moved above 0.02 for weeks.

I got some calliendrum today off a friend, and have shoved it on the sand to grow into a huge colony. (30" at least below the lights lol)

[meshwheel]

gedsta,
Corals will be here Tuesday. I am fine tuning and dropped the nopox down to 2 mls per day. My nitrate still reads zero! Phos 0.02. Cleaning algae about every 3-4 days off glass. Just a fine micro algae.
Corals are coming along now nicely! Yep, loving this algae test kit. It's sooo nice!