Stunning 3-Gallon Reef Tank – pj86's TOTM | NanoReef
Tank Specifications
Volume: 3 Gallons / 11 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
11.8" ×
8.9" ×
8.1"
30.0cm ×
22.6cm ×
20.6cm
Equipment List
No equipment information available
Frequently Asked Questions
What lighting is used in a 3 gallon pico reef tank?
The 3 gallon pico reef tank utilizes a 12" 2x18 Watt Current USA Powercompact Dual Satellite lighting system, which provides adequate light for both photosynthetic corals and other tank inhabitants.
How is circulation managed in the tank?
The Aqua Clear 70 filter not only serves as a filtration system but also provides the necessary circulation for the tank. It is essential to maintain water flow for the health of corals and other aquatic life.
What type of heater is recommended for small aquariums like this?
A Hydor Theo 25W heater is used in this setup, primarily during the winter months, to maintain stable water temperatures.
How is the tank maintained automatically?
A Neptune Apex controller automates various maintenance tasks such as daily water changes and feeding schedules, significantly reducing the time spent on daily maintenance.
What is the daily maintenance routine for a small reef aquarium?
The daily maintenance includes automated tasks such as the exchange of approximately 1.5-2.0 quarts of water, feeding microscopic food every two hours, and feeding crushed Hikari Marine A pellets and Fauna Marin Ultra Min F in the morning.
What should be done weekly for maintenance?
Weekly tasks include changing the filter floss, preparing 2.5 gallons of saltwater for water changes, and removing excess chaeto macroalgae if it becomes overgrown.
How do you handle feeding for non-photosynthetic corals?
Feeding non-photosynthetic corals like sun corals involves a specific regimen, including a mix of microscopic foods and direct feeding of larger particles like mysis every other day. A DIY chilled feeding system can help manage these feeds.
What types of food are used for feeding the aquarium inhabitants?
A mixture of foods is provided, including phyto-feast, roti-feast, oyster-feast, and Fauna Marin Ultra products, distributed at intervals over the feeding period to ensure all corals and invertebrates receive nutrition.
How often should feeding occur?
Feeding is done every two hours during a 12-hour period, with variations for specific types of corals such as feeding sun corals and LPS mysis every other day.
How do you care for non-photosynthetic corals?
Caring for non-photosynthetic corals requires specific feeding schedules with high-quality foods since they do not rely on sunlight. Regular monitoring and ensuring consistent feeding is crucial.
What challenges might arise with certain corals, like sun coral?
Sun corals require frequent feeding and can be demanding, which may pose a challenge for those with limited time. It’s important to establish a routine to meet their requirements effectively.