Stunning 65-Gallon Reef Tank by Kevin Kuykendall | ReefKeeping
Tank Specifications
Volume: 65 Gallons / 246 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
48.0" ×
15.0" ×
20.0"
121.9cm ×
38.1cm ×
50.8cm
Equipment List
- Salt: Seachem
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of lighting is best for a reef tank with anemones?
For a reef tank with anemones, very high output (VHO) fluorescent lighting is recommended. In Kevin's tank, he uses 295 watts of VHO lighting which includes a combination of Actinic Blue and Actinic White bulbs. Lighting duration should be about 11 hours for main lighting and 12 hours for dawn/dusk simulations.
How should I set up my filtration system for a reef tank?
You can use a built-in filtration system if your tank is designed for it, like the SeaClear System II. This setup filters water through a filter pad, then a drip plate over bioballs. Additionally, adding a canister filter, like a Fluval, can enhance filtration and water movement. If possible, you can also modify part of the filtration area into a mini refugium with live rock and macroalgae.
What is the significance of having a backup system like APC Back-UPS in a reef tank?
Using an APC Back-UPS unit is crucial to maintain power to essential equipment during a power outage. It ensures that circulation and filtration pumps continue to operate, which can prevent fish stress and maintain water quality until power is restored.
What are the ideal water parameters for a reef tank with anemones?
Ideal parameters include a temperature range of 78.5-80.5°F, a specific gravity of approximately 1.026, calcium levels around 240 ppm (with a note to ensure accurate testing), alkalinity at about 7 dKH, and nitrates below 1.0 ppm. Regular monitoring of these parameters is essential for maintaining a healthy environment.
How often should I perform water changes, and how much?
It is recommended to change about 10% of the water every two to three weeks. This practice helps to maintain water quality by diluting any harmful substances and replenishing essential trace elements.
How should I feed my anemones and fish?
You should primarily feed your fish frozen cubes a few times a week, which anemones will also capture as the fish feed. In the past, specific target feeding with meaty foods such as frozen krill for anemones may help, but it is not always necessary if they are capturing food from the fish feeding.
What other food types can I provide to my anemones?
In addition to fish food, RBTAs have been observed to accept frozen silversides. Individual anemones may have different preferences, but in general, a variety of meaty foods can support their nutrition.
How can I prevent my anemones from moving around the tank?
One effective strategy is to create rockwork peaks separate from the glass so the anemones will tend to stay at the top of these structures. Additionally, providing holes or depressions in rockwork for the anemone’s foot to nestle into can help minimize their movement. Allowing them to anchor to the underside of rocks also tends to keep them placed.
What is the best way to manage anemone cloning?
To manage cloning effectively, try encouraging them to climb onto the tank’s walls, as it becomes easier to detach them with minimal stress. If they are not on the tank walls, other methods such as powerhead flow or ice cubes may not be reliably effective. It's essential to ensure other potential issues do not arise from attempting to remove them.