My Piece of the Reef 135 gallon Reef Aquarium

After two days of settling into our new apartment nestled in the Throggs Neck section of the Bronx. My wife gave me the okay to spoil myself for a job well done during the move. The First order of business would be my Reef Aquarium but in a very large 2 bedroom apartment a 45 gallon aquarium seemed just too little..... after all I was spoiling myself. :D Well I realized that if I wanted a bigger tank I would definitely require a way to get it back home and I was already in the market for a family vehicle with my first born on the way in November 2007. So I went and purchased a Honda Element 4WD EX Sport Utility Vehicle. A great buy for $25,000.00 Then off to the local fish store to purchase the aquarium.


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Photograph - June 15, 2007 - "2007 Honda Element 4WD EX" All that height just begin to be filled with a tall aquarium.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/Honda%20Element%204WD%20EX/CanonPhotographs029.jpg
Photograph - June 15, 2007 - "2007 Honda Element 4WD EX" The suicide doors make getting in and out with an aquarium and supplies easy. The inside seat fold away for even more space..... you can almost consider it cheating. :tongue2:


My goal with this Reef Aquarium setup was to provide the best possible setup by focusing on patience, knowledge, and cost effectiveness to ensure an environement that would provide my aquatic buddies the with ability to thrive and not just survive! I have always been an impatient Reef Keeper but lately things have changed in my life that allow me to understand a very known phrase to use here in the Talkingreef, "Nothing Good Happens Fast!" Rob. Below are some photographs of what the setup looked like on June 17, 2007. I will get into more detail in later post to this thread.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs160.jpg
Photograph - June 17, 2007 - My 135 gallon Reef Aquarium in the works.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs163.jpg
Photograph - June 17, 2007 - My 135 gallon Reef Aquarium in the works.

That is a really nice set up.You were comfortable disclosing the cost of the Element,what did the entire 135g set you back?
My next venture is a 125g with all the bell & whistles.

That is a really nice set up.You were comfortable disclosing the cost of the Element,what did the entire 135g set you back?
My next venture is a 125g with all the bell & whistles.

Larry Copperband, I don't mind disclosing the cost of the 2007 Honda Element 4WD EX because it is a standard price for the package included from the dealership. The SUV is full of practicality and almost seems as though it was designed for the Reef Keeping Community. The seats are water proof and the bed is plastic so you can easily clean out spilled water and sand or rock with a hose. As for the aquarium itself, I was only set back $435.00 which included a Non-Reef Ready Aquarium and three 20 lbs. bags of Araga Live Reef Sand from Carib Sea. The majority of the other equipment I already own from a previous setup but I should be upgrading the majority of it slowly. You cannot sacrifice quality to save a buck in my personal opinion. Thank you very much for the compliments on the setup! :D

Just amazed at the prices at my LFS these days.Looks like I'm gonna have to go "Pre-Owned".

Hahaha, buy a car to haul a tank! Think I would have spent the 25k on a new tank. Your set up is looking good!

Just amazed at the prices at my LFS these days.Looks like I'm gonna have to go "Pre-Owned".

I bought my 90g pre-owned for $600. Also bought my daughter a pre-owned 55g set-up for $300. Just the LS & LR, alone, would have cost more than $900 at the LFS. The 30g set-up I have now, everything bought all new, $1300.

Jay, looking good!

Just amazed at the prices at my LFS these days.Looks like I'm gonna have to go "Pre-Owned".

Larry Copperband, I can completely relate. I drive to one of the best Aquatics stores that I have seen in the nation to make some of my purchases. "House of Fins" located in Greenwhich, CT. There livestock is always beautiful and healthy and their dry goods stock cannot be matched but your gonna pay for it. Example: One XM Metal Halide 10,000k Bulb goes for $260.00 in the store. :unsure:

Hahaha, buy a car to haul a tank! Think I would have spent the 25k on a new tank. Your set up is looking good!

Saltyreef, I personally would have gone the same way but then I would be at home holding up a flag stating I surrendor. :love!: Besides I needed a family vehicle with my little boy on the way. Thank you for the compliments on the tank. It is no were near finished.

Jay, looking good!

Thank you CarmieJo, your comments are always welcomed. I apologize for not being on for a while. I have had a really busy scheduled these past couple of weeks.

Coloration, Intensity and Getting the Shimmer of Lighting Just Right

I personally love the shimmer of Metal Halide Lighting and I love the intensity of T-5 VHO Lighting. So why not combine the best of both worlds. I found in my storage a Current USA Nova Extreme T-5 VHO rated at 436 watts (four 54 watt 10,000k T-5 VHO bulbs and four 54 watt 460 nanometer Actinic T-5 VHO bulbs and four 1 watt White Moonlights). But when driving home with it I managed to break four out of the eight bulbs. :shout: So while starring at this beautiful piece of plastic and broke glass I decided to take advantage of the situation and retro-fit my two Hello Lights 150 watt Metal Halide Lighting ARO Electronic Ballast (150 watt XM 20,000k Metal Halide bulb) into the Current USA Nova Extreme fixture.

The end result of my Frankenstein experiement is a combined lighting system totaling 520 watts (216 watts of T-5 VHO lighting and 300 watts of Metal Halide Lighting) and 4 watts of LED Moonlighting) supporting a 24 hour lighting scheme of Dawn, High Noon, Dusk and Night with the assistance of four Marineland timers.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs163.jpg
Photograph - June 17, 2007 - 48 inches wide Current USA Nova Extreme Lighting fixture combined with two Hello Lights ARO Electronic Metal Halide Lighting fixtures.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs168.jpg
Photograph - June 17, 2007 - 16 inchdes deep Current USA Nova Extreme Lighting fixture combined with two Hello Lights ARO Electronic Metal Halide Lighting fixtures sporting two exhaust fans to decipate heat.

Lets Keep the Waves Moving

Circulation has always been a key factor in setting up my aquariums in the past and none could more more true with this setup. I'm aiming to eventually hold primarily SPS Corals with Clams and a few SPS Corals. I want to ensure that all my corals are delivered the nutrients the require. So I have turned to EcoTech Marine's VorTech Propeller to answer this call. At a cost of $350.00 it is definitely worth every penny. :up: I currently only have one that is almost controlled to about half the power of what it is capable of and the circulation it provides is amazing. I may be looking to purchase one or two more of the units to reduce the stress load overall and create multiple points of failure within the aquarium.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs166.jpg
Photograph - June 17, 2007 - EcoTech Marine's VorTech Propeller installed on the right pane of my Reef Aquarium and set at about 1,500 gph.

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Photograph - June 17, 2007 - EcoTech Marine's VorTech Propeller view from the far left pane of my Reef Aquarium.

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Photograph - July 20, 2007 - EcoTech Marine's VorTech Propeller view of the wet side.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs008.jpg
Photograph July 20, 2007 EcoTech Marine's VorTech Propeller side view of both the wet/dry sides.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs009.jpg
Photograph July 20, 2007 EcoTech Marine's VorTech Propeller side view of the dry side.

Just There Little Part of the Reef

Here are a few photographs of my little aquatic buddies in their home. I hope you enjoy!


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs172.jpg
Photogaph - July 01, 2007 - The Red Head of the House, my Gold Stripped Maroon Clownfish.

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Photogaph - July 01, 2007 - The Butler of the House, my Sand Sifting Blenny.

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Photogaph - July 01, 2007 - One of two Nudist in the Colony, my Orange, White and black Nudibracnh aka Adam.

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Photogaph - July 01, 2007 - Two of two Nudist in the Colony, my Purple, White and Yellow Nudibranch aka Eve.

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Photogaph - July 01, 2007 - One of the Maids of the House, my Black Mouthed Turbo Snail.

Nice images Jay. Watch out for that maroon, mine bites hardenough to draw blood! (Then you jerk your hand into the lights and cause all kinds of problems.)

Nice images Jay. Watch out for that maroon, mine bites hardenough to draw blood! (Then you jerk your hand into the lights and cause all kinds of problems.)

CarmieJo, I'm no Rocket Surgeon but I'm pretty sure electricity and water don't mix that well. :tongue2:

Saltyreef, I personally would have gone the same way but then I would be at home holding up a flag stating I surrendor. :love!: Besides I needed a family vehicle with my little boy on the way. Thank you for the compliments on the tank. It is no were near finished.


LOL! My husband went on a fishing trip to Alaska with his father/brothers. Since I didn't get to go (Alaska - fishing - dream vacation) I bought the 90g! Then we had the "talk" about the overstuffed chair that is part of a 3 piece set:

M - Denis would you put the chair in the garage please?
H - What?
M- Put the chair in the garage, there is no room for it in here with the new tank.
H - You want me to put a $700 chair in the garage? The dogs & cats will ruin it.
M - The dogs & cats are the only living things that sit in it.
H - No, it's not going in the garage, put the tank in the front bedroom, make it a fish room!
M- No, put the chair in the bedroom, you can make it your living room.
H - Is there any way I will win this argument?
M - No
H - Where, in the garage, do you want the chair.

Very nice pictures! What kind of camera do you have? Did you consider drilling the tank?

Very nice pictures! What kind of camera do you have? Did you consider drilling the tank?

Saltrookie, thank you very much for the compliments on the aquarium. I actually though about driling the tank but I personally have never done so nor do I have anyone in the vicinity of my home that has done so as well. So taking a chance with over 135 gallons of Saltwater combined with living on the 2nd floor of my apartment building just above my landlord didn't give me that warm fuzzy feeling inside. :unsure: However, I did manage to put a little something together using an overflow conversion box.

Just a Little Creativity Overflowing

I understand that having a reef ready aquarium with built in overflows are just the best thing to happen to Reef Keeping since sliced bread and Cyclopeze but seeing the price difference to have a tank with a seperation and a couple of holes just was not enough to convince me that something could not be put together that would ensure functionality as well as dependability for a much lower price.

Now we all understand the Overflow Coversion Boxes have a pretty bad reputation concerning their dependability on maintaining a syphon to work. Should enough bubbles build up within the Acrylic U-tube then you could risk coming home to a pool of saltwater on your floor. Not really the type of thing that you want to worry about while at work or out with the family. So for $50.00 for the Overflow Conversion Box, $16.00 for a Tom's Aqualifter External Pump rated at 3 gph and about $1.00 in Flex Tubing I managed to create more dependability without the high price.

After setting up the Overflow Conversion Box, establishing the syphon and having your return pump from my Refugium on and moving water into the aquarium I took some Flex Tubing and place the Suction Line into the Acrylic U-Tube about halfway to meet the top also taking some more Flex Tubing and having it run from the Tom's Aqualifter Pump back into the Main Display. Once the Tom's Aqualifter Pump was turned on any bubbles or air pockets that managed to form at the top of the Acrylic U-Tube were immediately sucked in and pushed back into the Main Display. The flow rate of the puump ensure that their is enough power to remove the bubbles from the Acrylic U-Tube but not enough to inhibit the syphon from funtioning corrently. Mine has been opertional for about over 1 month now and I have not 1 bubble in the Acrylic U-Tube.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/DigitalRebelPhotographs008.jpgPhotograph - July 18, 2007 - Overflow Conversion Box with Mounted Tom's Aqualifter Pump for Acrylic U-Tube bubble removal.

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Photograph - July 18, 2007 - Overflow Conversion Box with Mounted Tom's Aqualifter Pump for Acrylic U-Tube bubble removal Deep Shot.

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Photograph - July 18, 2007 - Overflow Conversion Box with Tom's Aqualifter Pump for Acrylic U-Tube bubble removal Front View.

looks good man, love the pics.

looks good man, love the pics.

Small Fry, thank you for the compliments. They are very much appreciated.

The Bottom of the Ocean Floor

Well I was experimenting for a few using Seachem's Grey Tidal Sand in my last aquarium but I thought that I would try something more traditional looking in this newest setup. My choice was Carib Sea's Arag-Live Reef Sand which comes seeded with all the little beenficial bacteria needed to decrease cycling time of an aquarium for about $30.00 per 20 lbs. bag which can't hurt if you ask me. I currently have 80 lbs. within my main display creating a 2 inch sandbed. I'm pretty sure that I'm going to add another 20 lbs. at the end of the month to fill in the little gaps that are annoying to look at.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/DigitalRebelPhotographs001.jpg
Photograph - June 15, 2007 - Carib Sea's Arag-Live Reef Sand 20 lbs. Bag.

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Photograph - June 15, 2007 - Carib Sea's Arag-Live Reef Sand in the display tank, left side pane view.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs004.jpg
Photograph - June 15, 2007 - Carib Sea's Arag-Live Reef Sand in the display tank, left half front View.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs005.jpg
Photograph - June 15, 2007 - Carib Sea's Arag-Live Reef Sand in the display tank, right half front view.


My refugium was actually my last Reef Aquarium which I converted to hold an extre 45 gallons saltwater and place all my equipment within. It is filled with 60 lbs. of Seachem's Tidal Grey Marine Substrate. I really didn't see any reason to dump all that good sand just because of the color difference. Also Seachems states that it is able to buffer the pH better then traditional aragonite substrate and also provide some extra goodies as for as chemicals go.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs010.jpg
Photograph - June 15, 2007 - 45 gallon Refugium with 60 lbs. of Seachem's Tidal Grey Marine Substrate.

SPS Corals Among the Reef

Here is my first SPS Coral addition to my Reef Aquarium. I wanted something that was easy to care for but would look beautiful and the Green Montipora Capricornus Coral just seemed perfect. I'm please because a staff person at House of Fins in Greenwhich, CT fragged this small 1 Inch Height x 1 Inch Length piece for about $25.00. So far it doing well and the rim is actually a bit on the Pink/Puprle side I'm hoping it colors up a bit more to reveal itself as a true Purple Rim Montipora Capricornus Coral.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs001.jpg
Photograph - July 18, 2007 - Green Montipora Capricornus Coral.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs003.jpg
Photograph - July 18, 2007 - Green Montipora Capricornus Coral Side View.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs002.jpg
Photograph - July 18, 2007 - Green Montipora Capricornus Coral Zoom View.

Just There Little Part of the Reef

Here are a few photographs of my little aquatic buddies in their home. I hope you enjoy!

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs002-1.jpg
Photograph - July 20, 2007 - Another member of the New York City Sanitation Department, my Horseshoe Crab which does a great job at stirring my substrate.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs001-1.jpg
Photograph - July 20, 2007 - Another member of the New York City Sanitation Department, my Horseshoe Crab which does a great job at stirring my substrate.

Water Parameter Testing Results

Date: Saturday, July 21, 2007
Average Temperature: 76.3 Degrees Fahrenheit
Salinity Grade: 1.023 SG
Alkalinity: 8.0 KH Carbonate Hardness
Calcium: 400 PPM
pH: 7.8 pH
Magnesium: 960 PPM
Ammonia: 0.0 PPM
Nitrite: 0.0 PPM
Nitrate: 0.0 PPM
Last Water Change: Sunday, July 15, 2007 / 5 gallons of Saltwater
Notes: Added 3 capfuls or 30 ml. of Kent Marine Tech M Expert Series ionically balanced Magnesium supplement to increase Magnesium level to 1200 PPM. Magnesium level currently at 1140 PPM after supplement addition.

Okay everyone after freeloading on The Talkingreef for easily over 2 years I have activated my Premium Membership on a monthly recurring basis. :up:

Thanks Jay. It's a good investment.

Thanks Jay. It's a good investment.

CarmieJo, its definitely the best investment a Reef Keeper can make besides a Karillin Calcium Reactor. :D I have personally learned everything that I know about reef keeping from the Talkingreef Podcasts and information on the forums. I would suggest that everyone who is not a Premium Member sign up to be since it only cost $3.00 per month on a standard membership. A noble price to help ensure a wealth of information from dissapearing off the Internet.

New Second Job To Support My Habit of Reef Keeping

Well after an initial interview last week and the final interview this morning I will be starting a new second job to bring in so much needed extra income to support my new family and of course my addiction to the Reef Keeping hobby. In celebration of this I took a drive to my loca fish store House of Fins in Greenwich, CT and purchased my first Blue Tortusa SPS Coral which is doing well after an hour acclimation period. It actually opened more of the little polyps then what was showing in the store and it looks amazing.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs010-1.jpg
Photograph - July 23, 2007 - My first Blue Tortusa SPS Coral which is doing just fine after a 1 hour acclimation period.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs008-1.jpg
Photograph - July 23, 2007 - My Green Montipora Capricornus SPS Coral and Blue Tortusa SPS Coral in their little homes within the Reef.

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Photograph - July 23, 2007 - The latest shot of my Gold Stripped Maroon Clownfish.

Congratulations on your new job and new coral!

Congratulations on your new job and new coral!

Thank you vey much CarmieJo. :up:

1) wow, fantastic car, suiside doors rip brother.

2) Good job on the light situation > throw a couple more shot of that bud, wouldn't mind seeing your handy work.

3) Are your ecotechs wide berth penductor style > not a forceful jetstream although still moving large volumes of water? Magnatised is always a neat plus!

4) how old are your nudi's?

(saltyreef you crack me up with your chair story)

5)Does the unit allow you to upspec the piping diameters on you overflow in the future? if so are you grill teeth able to handle the flow through?

6)Good to see ya buddy, been ages between drinks, glad all is well. Helping to provide beer & bandwith again with your memberships which is always good loyalty speaking.:D

7) In my opinion, if you want your rays to be happier long term id provide more front side swimming space with gentler curves on the rockwork at the 180 turn spots. Maybe gear the reef/rockwork towards more dominated cave type with clear substructure in the middle with weight transferance geared towards the back & sides, that way swimmming space underneth is achieved & the cave top still provides you lighting real-estate for the corals.

Ok im done, great to see your achievement bud, i like what your creating. congrats too on the move, & congrats in advance to your 2min of pleasure, lifetime of "dad can i have some money" achievment also.

1) wow, fantastic car, suiside doors rip brother!

2) Good job on the light situation > throw a couple more shot of that bud, wouldn't mind seeing your handy work.

3) Are your ecotechs wide berth penductor style > not a forceful jetstream although still moving large volumes of water? Magnatised is always a neat plus!

4) how old are your nudi's?

(saltyreef you crack me up with your chair story)

5)Does the unit allow you to upspec the piping diameters on you overflow in the future? if so are you grill teeth able to handle the flow through?

6)Good to see ya buddy, been ages between drinks, glad all is well. Helping to provide beer & bandwith again with your memberships which is always good loyalty speaking.:D

7) In my opinion, if you want your rays to be happier long term id provide more front side swimming space with gentler curves on the rockwork at the 180 turn spots. Maybe gear the reef/rockwork towards more dominated cave type with clear substructure in the middle with weight transferance geared towards the back & sides, that way swimmming space underneth is achieved & the cave top still provides you lighting real-estate for the corals.

Ok im done, great to see your achievement bud, i like what your creating. congrats too on the move, & congrats in advance to your 2min of pleasure, lifetime of "dad can i have some money" achievment also.

Veriann, its great to hear from you. I was curious as to when you would stumble across my newest post. Suicide Doors are awesom and I actually love the car even though I miss the need for speed from my Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX.

I will definitely throw in a couple of more photographs of the lighting for you this evening when I get home. I'm thinking about maybe upgrading the two 150 watt Electronic Metal Halide Balast and 20,000K bulbs to 400 watt Electronic Metal Halide Balast and 20,000K or 14,000K bulbs. That is of course after a Purchase a stronger chiller. The unfortunate part of having to jobs is that I actually have to wait twice as long in order to get home and play with my Reef Aquarium and Canon Digital Rebel.

I actually only have 1 EcoTech VorTech Propeller but to be perfectly this little piece of equipment is God sent in the Reef Keeping hobby. The is a small powerful stream literally that dissapates after about 5 inches from the main propeller but water all over the tank gets moved around even within the caves that I have formed. Also the undertow is amazing, this little device manages to find still water in your tank and give it the shove that it needs. I don't really need another but I'm going to purchase it to decrease the speed and strain on just one VorTech. Also the magnetic coupling allows heat to stay out of your tank which is also a plus. You should definitely get one if you don't have one because it will definitely blow you mind.

My little Nudibranchs are only about 1 month old and still doing well. Colorful little guys if you ask me. :) I also do not have my Stingrays any more. When I moved I actually was able to donate them to a Car Dealerships that has a beautiful 500 gallon Fish Only Display Tank.

As far as the dad thing goes thank you. It is definitely a life changing experience for the better. The little ones Crib just came in and you would be suprised how heavy Solid Oak is! I still have to clean up the room and paint and get the crib together and wow the list just on and on. :o By the way definitely more the just 2 minutes of pleasure. :D Lets just hope after this one the second is a far distant creation in the future. :tongue2:

Okay everyone after freeloading on The Talkingreef for easily over 2 years I have activated my Premium Membership on a monthly recurring basis. :up:

OK, fine, you convinced me too. No more freeloading for me either.

I feel your pain on giving up the Evo, too. I just sold my 05 SRT-4 for a more "family friendly" ride :roll:

we each gota do what we each gota do when responsibility knocks.
Congrats anyways bud.

Wow, before my last boy was born i bought another project car. Got in early before she new it was happening..lol

the thing is 10years old & only 57,000km on the clock, this thing was real clean, real looked after! Which is ashame cause all the internals have to be upspec to be truly worthy of "an ozzie exclusive V8 street muscle" Normal power is still outstanding, however trying to find the art of "keeping" traction is down right better, anyways ....Call me patriotic, but my tune is swinging these days, We have been flooded by the LS1 & LS2 engines through GM, (although LS2 is a nice engine).& they have been under the hoods of our aussie cars for some time now. I figure my next build car is going to be a 67 camoro, or 67 ponty firebird so if i wanted american power, id buy an american car, not be forced into submission by a backyard deal for old series engines from the US. So mate, this ones going 100% tough ozzie engineered. & im unashamed to say its my favourite.

OK, fine, you convinced me too. No more freeloading for me either.

I feel your pain on giving up the Evo, too. I just sold my 05 SRT-4 for a more "family friendly" ride :roll:

Phurst, great to see your onboard the "Supporting Talkingreef" band wagon. As for the Evolution IX, I actually still have the car and just going back and forth in my mind about keeping her since I do have this new job. But think of all the wonderful reefing toys I can get with the car gone? My brain hurts just going back and forth about the decision. :wow:


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/Mitsubishi%20Lancer%20Evolution/MitsubishiLancerEvolutionIX014.jpg
Photograph - October 13, 2006 - Just too sexy and powerful to want to say goodbye to my Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX Special Edition.

we each gota do what we each gota do when responsibility knocks.
Congrats anyways bud.

Wow, before my last boy was born i bought another project car. Got in early before she new it was happening..lol

the thing is 10years old & only 57,000km on the clock, this thing was real clean, real looked after! Which is ashame cause all the internals have to be upspec to be truly worthy of "an ozzie exclusive V8 street muscle" Normal power is still outstanding, however trying to find the art of "keeping" traction is down right better, anyways ....Call me patriotic, but my tune is swinging these days, We have been flooded by the LS1 & LS2 engines through GM, (although LS2 is a nice engine).& they have been under the hoods of our aussie cars for some time now. I figure my next build car is going to be a 67 camoro, or 67 ponty firebird so if i wanted american power, id buy an american car, not be forced into submission by a backyard deal for old series engines from the US. So mate, this ones going 100% tough ozzie engineered. & im unashamed to say its my favourite.

Veriann, I couldn't agree with you more. Responsibilities are responsibilities and nothing should take presedence over it. But if you have the cash and the knowledge by all means treat yourself to a job well done whether is be salty related or street power hungry!

Need Help With My Personal Debate: Calcium Reactor or Imrpoved Protein Skimmer

I'm very due for my latest Reef Aquarium purchase and it is very sad to say that I'm having trouble completing this decision on my own. So of course I turn to the wonderful and knowledgable friends within the Talkingreef. I am interested in either a Calium Reactor since my major goal of this Reef setup are SPS Coral, LPS and Clams or an improved skimmer because the current Corallife Super Skimmer rated for 65 gallons of total water capacity (Yes I know I have alot more then 65 gallon of saltwater in my setup) doesn't seem to operate quiet like it was doing on my much smaller setup. My question is this. What would you choose that rate on these factors in this order:

1. Electrical efficieny.
2. Performance.
3. Cost of purcahse.
4. Ease of use and adjustibility.
5. Setup ease for my Reef Aquarium setup.

your aware of the load on the tank. Is the current skimmer stuggling?

you can make additives & test for them manually, however the same cant be said for skimming duties in load outstrips the effencies rated.

the evo 9 is a hot beast.

very low SEV's approval quanties into Oz unfortunately.:madmad:

now all you need is the thin number plate so it doesn't block airflow to the core & your laughing J

your aware of the load on the tank. Is the current skimmer stuggling?

you can make additives & test for them manually, however the same cant be said for skimming duties in load outstrips the effencies rated.

Veriann, well currently I'm gathering that the protein skimmer is doing its job because my latest Water Parameter Test show that all the harmful chemicals are at an indetectable reading. I'm gathering that you are telling me to upgrade the Protein Skimmer before purchasing a calcium reactor? If so what would you suggest?

You just have the cap and the tort? I think at this point, I agree with Veriann, you would be better off upgrading your skimmer before worying about a CA reactor. The coralife skimmers aren't the greatest, and you can go quite a ways before having to worry about a reactor.

What kind of price range are you looking at for a new skimmer? Any preference as far as style? Venturi, needlewheel, downdraft, recirculating?

You just have the cap and the tort? I think at this point, I agree with Veriann, you would be better off upgrading your skimmer before worying about a CA reactor. The coralife skimmers aren't the greatest, and you can go quite a ways before having to worry about a reactor.

What kind of price range are you looking at for a new skimmer? Any preference as far as style? Venturi, needlewheel, downdraft, recirculating?

Phurst, I am completely open to all suggestions just would like something that I can easily install into my Reef Aquarium whether it be an In-sump or Hang On Tank model. Price...... well lets not make the Misses kill me!

Well, I have an Aqua-C skimmer. They make very good in sump and HOB models. It's no Deltec or Bubble King, but for the price, they're hard to beat.

Welcome to proteinskimmer.com! The official web site for AquaC marine aquarium products... (http://www.proteinskimmer.com/)

Anyone else have any recomendations for Protein Skimmer that can handle a minimum of 135 gallons of total capacity? :anyone:

I have a Berlin which is OK but if I was buying a new one I would go with an ASM or EuroReef.

I have a Berlin which is OK but if I was buying a new one I would go with an ASM or EuroReef.

CarmieJo, any particular model you had in mind for each company with regards to my current setup?

Just There Little Part of the Reef

Here is the latest addition to gang of little aquatic buddies. The correct name I believe is a Powder Brown Tang. I actually have to get a photograph when the lighting system of the aquarium is actually on. I say a he but my wife thinks a she. :)


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs003-2.jpg
Photograph - July 26, 2007 - Left side view of my new Powder Brown Tang.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs002-2.jpg
Photograph - July 26, 2007 - Right side view of my new Powder Brown Tang.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs007-1.jpg
Photograph - July 26, 2007 - Best view of my new Powder Brown Tang.

For skimmers, I'm very happy with my euro. I have the gate valve but have it full open and get some super thick stuff. I have a CS 100 (same as rs100) in the sump of my 90g. The pump is pretty efficient too. Though I think if you go any bigger you end up with a bigger pump that is not quite as low poer as this one. I empty it twice a week just to clean it up. There is aobut a 1/2" of gunk when I empty it.

As for the car... That evo is sweet. 4 doors and AWD sound pratical enough to me. I would keep it and sell the honda :D

For skimmers, I'm very happy with my euro. I have the gate valve but have it full open and get some super thick stuff. I have a CS 100 (same as rs100) in the sump of my 90g. The pump is pretty efficient too. Though I think if you go any bigger you end up with a bigger pump that is not quite as low poer as this one. I empty it twice a week just to clean it up. There is aobut a 1/2" of gunk when I empty it.

As for the car... That evo is sweet. 4 doors and AWD sound pratical enough to me. I would keep it and sell the honda :D

<NaClfinatic, what model EuroReef Protien Skimmer do you have or which would you recommend for over 135 gallons of saltwater.

Protein Skimmer Recomendation - Euro-Reef RC135 (Recirculating) Protein Skimmer

After a few recommendations from other Talkingreef members I have come to a decision that I will purchase a Euro-Reef RC135 (Recirculating) Protein Skimmer from Marine Depot for $668.00. :D What does everyone think about this decision?

Specifications

Pump(s) Included: 1 x SP3
Realistic Rating: ave load 135+gal; heavy load 100+gal
Comparative Rating: up to 300+gal
Power: 35W
Air Intake: 780lph
Neck Diameter: 3.5"
Chamber Diameter: 6"
Height: 20"
Footprint: 7" x 16"
Inlet Size: .5"
Outlet Size: 1"Euro-Reef™ RC135 (Recirculating) Protein Skimmer (Saltwater Aquarium Supplies > Protein Skimmers > In-Sump > Venturi With Needle Wheel ) (http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewItem~idproduct~ER1613~idCartRow~5339255~isK it~0.html)

Water Parameter Testing Results

Date: Saturday, July 28, 2007
Average Temperature: 77.7 Degrees Fahrenheit
Salinity (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4636-jaybedriftens-piece-reef-photographic-intensive.html#) Grade: 1.024 SG (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4636-jaybedriftens-piece-reef-photographic-intensive.html#)
Alkalinity: 9.0 KH Carbonate Hardness
Calcium: 380 PPM (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4636-jaybedriftens-piece-reef-photographic-intensive.html#)
pH (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4636-jaybedriftens-piece-reef-photographic-intensive.html#): 7.8 pH (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4636-jaybedriftens-piece-reef-photographic-intensive.html#)
Magnesium: 1050 PPM (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4636-jaybedriftens-piece-reef-photographic-intensive.html#)
Ammonia (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4636-jaybedriftens-piece-reef-photographic-intensive.html#): 0.25 PPM (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4636-jaybedriftens-piece-reef-photographic-intensive.html#)
Nitrite (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4636-jaybedriftens-piece-reef-photographic-intensive.html#): 0.0 PPM (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4636-jaybedriftens-piece-reef-photographic-intensive.html#)
Nitrate (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4636-jaybedriftens-piece-reef-photographic-intensive.html#): 0.0 PPM (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4636-jaybedriftens-piece-reef-photographic-intensive.html#)
Last Water Change: Sunday, July 22, 2007 / 5 gallons of Saltwater
Notes:

Added 2 capfuls or 20 ml. of Kent Marine Tech M Expert Series ionically balanced Magnesium supplement to increase Magnesium level to 1200 PPM. Magnesium level currently at 1140 PPM after supplement addition.
Added 3 capfuls or 30 ml. of Kent Marine Tech CD Part A Expert Series and 3 capfuls or 30 ml. of Kent Marine Tech CD Part B Expert Series ionically balanced Calcium supplement to increase Calcium level to 450 PPM. Calcium level currently at 400 PPM after supplement addition.
Added 12 g. of Seachem Reef Builder Alkalinity supplement to increase Alkalinity level to 12 KH. Alkalinity level currently at 10 KH after supplements addition.

Jay,

Sorry, I didn't see your question to me earlier but I would have not have had the knowledge to recommend the specific model. I just know that both brands have a good reputation.

I had a nice reply about skimmers typed up, but when I clicked "post reply" the site was down. So now I will give you the shorter version. I too have been searching for a skimmer to replace my modded CSS 125. This skimmer works well, but I have always wanted to try something better.

I started with ASM because everyone said they were an awesome skimmer for the money. So I was going to get a ASM G2 being that I have a small sump. ASM has seem to disappear and raised their prices. They site that had the best prices on ASM skimmers now sells the Octopus skimmer. These skimmers are a Euroreef knockoff, and about half the price. Octopus Skimmers (http://www.marinesolutionsinc.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=22_35&osCsid=vi9aibf646v0k3hmueg9t51204)

Another skimmer I looked out was the AquaEuro USA. JR Aquatics wrote a review on this skimmers. Review AquaEuro Skimmer (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/product-reviews/4279-aqua-euro-usa-135-classic-review.html)

Both these brands sell a recirculating skimmer for about half the price of a EuroReef. So check them out. I don't know about you, but I don't mind saving a buck or two in this hobby.

I had a nice reply about skimmers typed up, but when I clicked "post reply" the site was down. So now I will give you the shorter version. I too have been searching for a skimmer to replace my modded CSS 125. This skimmer works well, but I have always wanted to try something better.

I started with ASM because everyone said they were an awesome skimmer for the money. So I was going to get a ASM G2 being that I have a small sump. ASM has seem to disappear and raised their prices. They site that had the best prices on ASM skimmers now sells the Octopus skimmer. These skimmers are a Euroreef knockoff, and about half the price. Octopus Skimmers (http://www.marinesolutionsinc.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=22_35&osCsid=vi9aibf646v0k3hmueg9t51204)

Another skimmer I looked out was the AquaEuro USA. JR Aquatics wrote a review on this skimmers. Review AquaEuro Skimmer (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/product-reviews/4279-aqua-euro-usa-135-classic-review.html)

Both these brands sell a recirculating skimmer for about half the price of a EuroReef. So check them out. I don't know about you, but I don't mind saving a buck or two in this hobby.

Psh, I'm all for saving a buck or to myself. How are the performance benchmarks on these so called Knock off Protein Skimmers in camparison to the Euro Reef?

Honestly I haven't seen to many bad things posted about either of them. I just know if it was my money saving half is a good thing. Do a google search. I know I am having a hard time deciding. I mean if you look around you could find a used EuroReef at a great discount.

I have a CS100 which is now called RS100. The RS line now makes euroreefs very reasonalby priced IMO. I only got the 100 because it was on sale when the new RS line was being released. Otherwise I may have just bought an 80. Anyway how much skimmer you need will depend on how much load you plan. On their website they make some reccommendations on what each can handle at normal load but if you have a heavier (or light) load you could step it up (or down) to the next model.

whats the recirclation ratios?
nobody is sharing:( details. recirculation......is it a plumb back system, or intake area dump?

jay, slowly & incrimentally start buffering your levels slightly higher in advance of future coral eddition ok

looking good bud

whats the recirclation ratios?
nobody is sharing:( details. recirculation......is it a plumb back system, or intake area dump?

jay, slowly & incrimentally start buffering your levels slightly higher in advance of future coral eddition ok

looking good bud

Veriann, thank you for the compliment. What would you recommend all my water parameters be at? I'm slowly bring everything up using supplemental chemicals. ;)

Euro-Reef Recirculating Protein Skimmer modal RC135

Price: $668.00 + 15.00 Additional shipping charges from Marine Depot.
Specifications:

Pump(s) Included: 1 x SP3
Realistic Rating: ave load 135+gal; heavy load 100+gal
Comparative Rating: up to 300+gal
Power: 35W
Air Intake: 780lph
Neck Diameter: 3.5"
Chamber Diameter: 6"
Height: 20"
Footprint: 7" x 16"
Inlet Size: .5"
Outlet Size: 1"


http://www.marinedepot.com/IMD/250/ER1613/ER1613_99.jpg

Identification Needed

I took a look a few days ago and noticed what appears to be some type of red colored Algae growing on one of my rocks. It must have been tasty because after the recent addition of my Power Brown Tang it and other patches of Algae are now gone. Is this beneficial Macro Algea? :huh: Any assistance in the identification of this would be greatly appreciated.


http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/135%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/CanonDigitalRebelPhotographs012.jpg
Photograph - July 26, 2007 - Unknown red algae growing on rock.

i second the id, that stuff is starting to grow all over my rock as well. I dont believe it is a harmful algae, becuase i believe i have seen it in fuges before, but im sure someone else knows best.

http://www.marinedepot.com/IMD/250/ER1613/ER1613_99.jpg
Pump(s) Included: 1 x SP3
Realistic Rating: ave load 135+gal; heavy load 100+gal
Comparative Rating: up to 300+gal
Power: 35W
Air Intake: 780lph
Neck Diameter: 3.5"
Chamber Diameter: 6"
Height: 20"
Footprint: 7" x 16"
Inlet Size: .5"
Outlet Size: 1"

Might have to run me through the operation on your perspective unit here:huh: .
This vortex chamber can handle 2.5lt volume give or take. With 13lt/min air intake. straight volume gives you 19% air/water ratio. Two things are missing, the pump flow rate & the recirculation ratio if im not mistaken.

Ok so im going to assume "realistic rating" refers to total water volume through-put per hour under mass(biologic weight), take the heavy load value as a base. 100gal times 4 for rough convert to liters gives 400lt. divide that by an hour & you get almost 7lt/h processed correct?
i dont know if that sounds right.
Try work out your recirculation ratio? because this will have an inpact on your standard air/water ratio if the pickup drains bubble volume in recirc mode. Double check my calcs too, end of day calcs could be messed up!

Let us know, im interested in your purchase?

Jay,

Sorry, I didn't see your question to me earlier but I would have not have had the knowledge to recommend the specific model. I just know that both brands have a good reputation.

CarmieJo, it okay. I'm still stumped on it myself and wondering if a Kent Nautlius Te Protein Skimmer with a Mag-7 Drive will do the trick for me. I'm so undecisive! :tongue2:

Tang Guru Advice Needed

I'm currently housing a new Powder Brown Tang which is doing great and a voracious eater constantly grazing for his next meal. I'm interested in getting more Tangs such as an Achilles Tang and a Power Blue Tang to name a couple. Are these little ones going to give me a problem if house in the same display together?

Tang Guru Advice Needed

I'm currently housing a new Powder Brown Tang which is doing great and a voracious eater constantly grazing for his next meal. I'm interested in getting more Tangs such as an Achilles Tang and a Power Blue Tang to name a couple. Are these little ones going to give me a problem if house in the same display together?

probably, both Achilles tangs and Powder Blue tangs are extremely aggressive towards other tangs. even if they were all added at the same time ... they would probably fight to the death. the Powder Brown is the most layed back of the 3 listed so he would probably die first, from being bullied by the other 2. this is just my opinion, but i HTH.

BTW ... i am no GURU !!