Stunning 225-Gallon Reef Tank by Marshal Smethers | ReefKeeping
Tank Specifications
Volume: 225 Gallons / 850 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
72.0" ×
30.0" ×
24.0"
182.9cm ×
76.2cm ×
61.0cm
Equipment List
- Salt: Salifert
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I perform water changes?
Water changes of 25 gallons are conducted weekly, comprising approximately 10% of the system's total water volume. This is beneficial for trace element replacement and overall tank health.
What is the best way to maintain my protein skimmer?
On a bi-monthly basis, during water changes, the protein skimmer should be disassembled, completely scrubbed out, and its pumps cleaned by soaking them in a vinegar solution. This ensures the skimmer maintains efficiency.
How can I manage detritus in my reef tank?
During water changes, siphon detritus from the sump and any nuisance algae from the display tank. Regular siphoning helps maintain water quality and tank aesthetics.
What water parameters should I monitor?
It's important to keep an eye on temperature (79-81ºF), specific gravity (~1.025), calcium (~400 ppm), alkalinity (~8 dKH), magnesium (1350), PO4 (undetectable), and NO3 (undetectable). Monitoring these parameters ensures a healthy environment for your marine inhabitants.
What is the best method for top-off and supplementation?
Top-off is achieved using a dedicated 75 gallons/day RO/DI unit. It's important to control the level with a quality float valve. Calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels are maintained using a calcium reactor filled with appropriate media.
What should I feed my fish and corals?
Daily feeding can include frozen Mysis cubes, frozen Formula 1, and frozen Prime Reef, as well as a mixture of Spectrum pellets and Formula 1 flakes. No supplemental feedings are typically targeted to corals.
What are the recommended lighting conditions for a reef tank?
A combination of five 250-watt metal halide lights is used, including three BLV 10K double-ended bulbs and two Hamilton 14K bulbs, along with actinic supplementation through two 160-watt VHO Actinic 03 bulbs. Control these with timers to maintain a proper photoperiod.
How can I improve water circulation in my reef tank?
Ensure adequate circulation with a good sump setup and circulation pumps. In this case, the tank uses a Mak 4 1190 gph pump along with two Tunze Stream pumps on a multi-controller, providing both flow and stability.
How do I ensure my corals thrive in my tank?
All corals should be grown from aquacultured fragments where possible. Maintain optimal water parameters, ensure proper lighting, provide appropriate flow, and avoid overfeeding to promote a healthy coral environment.
What types of cleaning crews are effective for a reef tank?
Invertebrates like Sally lightfoot crab, mini blue hermit crabs, bubble top serpent starfish, and various snails (Astraea, Nassarius, and Cerith) are effective in maintaining the tank's cleanliness by controlling algae and detritus.