Aquarium Setup and Maintenance Insights

Aug 4, 2024

Lecture Notes: Aquarium Setup and Maintenance

Introduction

  • Enjoying the weather in New York City (85 degrees, low humidity)
  • Visiting John, who has a stunning 200-gallon aquarium
  • The importance of meticulous tank management and setup

Lighting Setup

  • Started with AI 32s from the previous 90-gallon tank
  • Added Reefbrite 50/50 for better light quality
  • Focused on light intensity and shimmer
  • Aim to mimic natural sunlight without burning corals
  • Current lighting includes:
    • Four Kessil A160 (primarily white)
    • Four Hydra HD lights
    • Two Reefbrite strips (blue and 50/50)

Tank Specifications

  • 200-gallon tank dimensions: 72" long x 27" wide x 28" high
  • Challenges with flow delivery in a peninsula tank
    • Initially used MP40s and Js but switched to MP60s for better flow dynamics

Coral Selection

  • Primarily SPS dominated, also includes soft corals
  • Key species:
    • Montipora, Acropora, Euphyllia (torches and elegance)
    • Notable corals: a pink TP and a grafted anemone
  • Long-term care for corals (e.g., burgundy coral for over three years)
  • Personal favorites: candy canes and mushrooms

Fish Stocking

  • Current fish include:
    • Three pyramid butterflies
    • Blonde Naso tang, Powder Blue tang, clownfish pair

Maintenance Practices

  • Daily water changes (2 gallons, 1% of tank volume)
  • Use of Fritz salt mix for water changes
  • Calcium reactor, doser, and A&B for balanced parameters
    • Calcium: 400, Alkalinity: 8-9, Nitrates: 15-25, Phosphates: 0.08

Filtration System

  • Impressive filtration setup:
    • Bashsea skimmer
    • Roller mat filter
    • Refugium with mangroves
    • Additional floss filter before the pump chamber
  • Use of Neptune controller for automation

Conclusion

  • John's tank is thriving and well-maintained
  • Encouragement for viewers to engage with the content
  • Mention of upcoming event in California (Reefapalooza) and giveaways

Key Takeaways

  • Importance of tailored lighting and flow management
  • Balance of coral diversity and fish compatibility
  • Regular maintenance and monitoring of water parameters
  • Utilization of technology for efficient tank management