Stunning 120-Gallon Reef Tank by Jamie Cross | ReefKeeping
Tank Specifications
Volume: 120 Gallons / 454 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
48.0" ×
24.0" ×
24.0"
121.9cm ×
61.0cm ×
61.0cm
Equipment List
- Salt: Instant Ocean
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I set up a reef tank similar to yours?
To set up a reef tank like mine, start with a high-quality glass aquarium, ideally in the range of 120 gallons for a main display. Use a sump (around 70 gallons) for better water quality and to house equipment. Ensure you have adequate lighting, filtration (like a calcium reactor), and heating. Using approximately 160 lbs of live rock and a sand bed of 1-2 inches of oolithic aragonite will support the biological filtration. Finally, establish reliable water parameters, such as a specific gravity of ~1.025 and maintain temperature between 79-82°F.
What is your maintenance routine for the reef tank?
I perform daily inspections to check coral and fish health, emphasizing nighttime polyp expansion in corals. Weekly tasks include cleaning the skimmer, replacing carbon, and running a glass cleaner. I change 20 gallons of water bi-weekly using Instant Ocean salt. Media for the calcium reactor is replaced every 2-3 months, and lighting bulbs are changed every 8-10 months.
What are the water parameters I should maintain for a reef tank?
Key water parameters to maintain are: Calcium ~400ppm, Alkalinity ~11.2 - 12.5 dKH, Specific gravity ~1.025, Temperature between 79 - 82°F, and pH levels of 8.1 - 8.3. Regular testing of these parameters will help ensure a healthy environment for your corals and fish.
What do you feed your reef tank inhabitants?
I feed my fish once a day with frozen Mysis shrimp, Formula One, or enriched brine shrimp. Occasionally, I provide Formula One flake food or nori. For the corals, I experiment with feeding freshly hatched brine shrimp once a week, typically in the early morning hours.
How do you filter the water in your reef tank?
My filtration system includes approximately 160 lbs of Fiji live rock arranged above the substrate using PVC and egg crate to increase water movement. I also use a dual Beckett skimmer connected to a Gen-X pump for protein skimming, along with carbon media in the sump replaced weekly to help maintain water clarity and quality.
What role does a calcium reactor play in my tank maintenance?
A calcium reactor helps maintain stable calcium and alkalinity levels, essential for coral health. It automates the supplementation process, allowing you to leave the tank for extended periods without needing daily manual interventions.