Stunning 400-Gallon Reef Tank by Maroun Chahine | Reef2Reef
Tank Specifications
Volume: 400 Gallons / 1500 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
88.0" ×
34.0" ×
32.0"
220.0cm ×
85.0cm ×
81.0cm
Equipment List
- Salt: Instant Ocean
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I manage water circulation in a large reef tank?
For effective water circulation in a large reef tank (like a 400-gallon system), it's crucial to use powerful pumps that can handle the flow rate necessary for your tank size. In my setup, I use an Abyzz A400 return pump that provides a flow of 12000 LPH (3000 GPH), achieving about 8 times turnover of the tank volume. Additionally, I have installed 2 Vortech MP60s and 2 Maxspect Gyres 280 for redundancy and to create a turbulent flow pattern that benefits coral health.
What is my maintenance routine for a reef tank?
My maintenance routine is structured as follows: Daily, I feed the fish 5-6 times and clean the glass every 3-4 days. Weekly, I check on all tanks, clean the glass of the basement tanks, and perform regular equipment checks. I also do a water change biweekly or monthly, dose elements like calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium, and engage in coral fragging when needed.
How do I ensure stable water parameters in my reef tank?
Stability in water parameters is key for a healthy reef tank. I use the Dastaco Calcium reactor for calcium and alkalinity needs, and I monitor levels regularly through ICP tests to adjust doses as necessary. It's important to avoid making rapid changes to any parameters to prevent shock to the system. I aim to keep my temperature between 77-78°F, maintain a specific gravity of 1.026, and periodically check and dose magnesium and other trace elements.
What salt mix do you recommend for reef tanks?
I have seen good results with several salt mixes, including Reef Crystals and DD. Currently, I am using Tropic Marin as it has been one of the most reliable options available in my region.
How do you manage calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels in your reef tank?
I use a Dastaco Calcium reactor to maintain stable levels of calcium and alkalinity. Additionally, for magnesium, I dose it using an Apex DOS system or manually drip it into the sump when levels drop. Keeping an eye on these parameters is essential as they can fluctuate significantly with a heavy bioload.
What is your strategy for nutrient export in a heavily stocked reef tank?
In my 1250-gallon system, I perform monthly 10% water changes and rely on a healthy refugium for nutrient export. The growth of chaeto macroalgae helps to absorb excess nutrients, and I remove about 50% of it monthly. The large skimmer also aids in removing organic waste, contributing to overall water quality.
What feeding schedule do you recommend for fish in a reef tank?
For my fish, I feed them 4-6 times daily with a mix of pellets, flakes soaked in vitamins, and frozen foods. Variety is key to providing a balanced diet, so I switch up the brands and types of food based on availability and nutritional content.
How do I determine what corals to keep in my tank?
Choosing corals should be based on compatibility and the desired aesthetic for your tank. In my case, I aimed for a variety of shapes and colors while ensuring that the tank was primarily SPS-dominated, complemented by LPS and soft corals. It's essential to research the needs of specific corals and consider their growth habits.
What are the best practices for moving corals between tanks?
When moving corals between tanks, maintaining stable water parameters is crucial. I run my grow-out tanks on the same lighting schedule and water conditions as my main display. This minimizes the need for acclimation. Just be cautious about the corals' health and adaptive needs after being moved to a different light intensity.