Stunning 300-Gallon Reef Tank by Graham | Reef2Reef
Tank Specifications
Volume: 300 Gallons / 1135 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
83.0" ×
26.0" ×
20.0"
210.8cm ×
66.0cm ×
50.8cm
Equipment List
- Salt: Instant Ocean
Frequently Asked Questions
What water parameters are crucial for keeping SPS corals?
Crucial water parameters for SPS corals include: - Temperature: 77.0 – 78.0 F - pH: 7.7 – 8.1 - Specific gravity: 33.0 – 33.5 ppt - Nitrate (NO3): 1 – 5 ppm - Calcium (Ca): 430 - 440 ppm - Alkalinity (Alk): 7.7 – 8.2 dKh - Magnesium (Mg): 1300 – 1400 ppm - Phosphate (PO4): 0.05 - 0.15 ppm Monitoring these parameters regularly is essential for coral health.
How often should I perform water changes and what volume is recommended?
It is recommended to perform a 20% water change every other week. This regular maintenance helps to maintain stable water parameters and replenish essential trace elements.
What is the best way to control phosphate levels in my reef tank?
A good way to control phosphate levels is to dose Lanthanum Chloride (LaCl) carefully. Aim to keep PO4 levels between 0.05-0.15 ppm for optimal coral growth. Monitor closely, as exceeding 0.10 ppm can lead to reduced growth and other issues.
What is the best way to feed fish and corals in a mixed reef tank?
For fish feeding, frozen mysis cubes and nori are provided on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, while NLS pellets are fed on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. Additionally, dosing Aquavitro Fuel at half the recommended dosage twice a week can enhance coral health and growth.
How can I encourage better coral growth in my SPS tank?
To encourage better growth, maintain stable water parameters, ensure adequate lighting, and provide consistent feeding. Additionally, aim for higher lighting intensity and quality, as SPS corals respond well to stronger light from quality sources like Radion LEDs.
What is the best substrate type for an SPS-dominated tank?
Using a bare bottom substrate is often preferred for SPS tanks as it simplifies maintenance and allows for higher water flow. If you want to cover the bottom, using montipora can utilize space while maintaining a cleaner look.
What type of skimmer is recommended for a large reef tank?
A high-quality skimmer such as the Super Reef Octopus XP5000 is recommended for larger tanks. Running it 24/7 is ideal for aeration and to help maintain stable pH levels, although its role in nutrient export may diminish as the tank matures.
How do I manage calcium and alkalinity in an SPS tank?
You can manage calcium and alkalinity using a calcium reactor like the Geo 624 or a two-part dosing system. Regular testing is crucial to ensure parameters remain stable, and adjustments should be made based on test results.
What is a good routine for general tank maintenance?
A good maintenance routine includes daily tasks such as feeding fish, checking water levels, and changing filter socks as needed. Weekly tasks should consist of testing alkalinity, performing 20% water changes, and cleaning powerheads to ensure optimal flow.
What lighting is effective for SPS growth?
Independently controlled LED systems such as the Radion XR series are effective for SPS growth. A well-balanced lighting schedule such as 12 hours of Reefbrite, 10 hours of T5, and 8 hours of Radion light (with a ramp up/ramp down) has shown to promote healthy growth and vibrant colors.
How can lighting affect coral coloration?
Corals absorb different light wavelengths, and bluer spectrums tend to enhance coloration in SPS corals. Transitioning from less effective lighting to a spectrum primarily utilizing blue wavelengths can substantially improve coral appearance.
What should I do if my SPS corals are not thriving?
If SPS corals are not thriving, first check and stabilize water parameters, especially alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate levels. Ensure your lighting is adequate and consider possible issues such as too much or too little nutrient availability. Patience is key, as it may take time for corals to adjust to improved conditions.
How do I deal with fluctuations in water parameters?
To deal with fluctuations in water parameters, incorporate redundancy such as backup testing equipment and auto-dosing systems. Make gradual changes rather than abrupt ones to better maintain stability, as significant swings can stress or damage corals.