Volume: 29 Gallons / 109 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
30.0" ×
12.0" ×
18.0"
76.2cm ×
30.5cm ×
45.7cm
No equipment information available
Topping off your reef tank is essential to maintain water levels due to evaporation. I top off daily with about half a gallon of RO filtered water mixed with Mrs. Wage's Pickling Lime (around one tablespoon per gallon). I combine it with a teaspoon of distilled white vinegar, which I then drip into the sump using a gallon plastic juice jug equipped with a plastic air valve nozzle attached to an air hose. This setup allows for any lime sediments to settle at the bottom, although I often add the mixture while it’s still a bit cloudy.
For algae control, I regularly remove excess algae once a week and make sure to monitor the growth of Bryopsis algae. If I notice it's increasing, I take action, sometimes including water changes to help with nutrient levels. I wash the glass covers and wipe the lights weekly to prevent dust and salt deposits that can contribute to algae growth.
I perform water changes about every few weeks, changing around five gallons at a time. I gauge the need for a water change based on the appearance of the corals and fish, any noticeable algae growth, or if detritus accumulates in the sump. If things seem 'off,' I check the protein skimmer and perform a larger water change.
I feed my tank twice a day. In the morning, when lights are off, I use frozen Mysis shrimp to feed my Tubastrea and the shrimp. In the evening, I feed with Brine Shrimp Direct brine shrimp flakes or Vibragro pellets, ensuring my Ricordea mushrooms and LPS corals get targeted feeding with pieces of shrimp about once a week. I also sometimes dose with algae cryopaste, which provides additional nutrition.
Excessive algae growth can be a sign of high nutrient levels. In my experience, I address this by doing regular maintenance such as cleaning the tank and performing water changes. I remove excess algae weekly and keep an eye on my water parameters, even if I don't test them regularly. If Bryopsis patches are growing larger, I ensure my protein skimmer is functioning effectively and consider increasing water changes.
Corals can grow close to each other which may lead to competition for space or stinging. I regularly prune and reposition them to ensure they have adequate space. If corals are overgrowing, I carefully remove smaller sections for propagation if possible.