Stunning 29-Gallon Reef Tank – Tinpanva's TOTM | NanoReef
Tank Specifications
Volume: 29 Gallons / 109 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
24.0" ×
24.0" ×
24.0"
61.0cm ×
61.0cm ×
61.0cm
Equipment List
- Salt: Red Sea
- Salt: Hanna Checker
- Salt: Seachem
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of skimmer does Tinpanva use, and why was it upgraded?
Tinpanva uses the AquaMaxx HOB-1 protein skimmer. It was upgraded from the stock skimmer because he believes that the AquaMaxx is a primary factor in the success of his tank, providing better protein removal.
Can you describe the setup of the inTank media rack?
The inTank media rack is organized as follows: Top shelf contains filter pads, the Middle shelf has a bag of RowaPhos, and the Bottom shelf holds a bag of nuclear grade carbon along with a bag of Purigen. Additionally, the refugium space contains a ball of chaeto macroalgae for nutrient export.
What is the role of the refugium in the tank?
The refugium serves as a habitat for beneficial macroalgae, which helps to consume excess nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates, aiding in maintaining water quality and providing a food source for herbivorous fish.
What are the ideal water parameters for a successful reef tank, based on Tinpanva's experience?
According to Tinpanva, ideal water parameters include a salinity of 1.026, a pH of 8.1, a temperature around 78°F, calcium at 450 ppm, alkalinity (KH) close to 9, and magnesium at 1600 ppm. He aims to keep nitrates and phosphates as close to 0 as possible.
How does Tinpanva maintain his water parameters?
Tinpanva maintains his water parameters using a pair of dosing pumps for calcium and alkalinity, which are controlled via the ReefKeeper Lite. He doses regularly and monitors closely to ensure stability.
What is Tinpanva's maintenance routine for his tank?
Tinpanva has a detailed maintenance routine that includes feeding fish daily with Fish Frenzy, weekly water changes of 5 gallons, and changing the filter pad every few days. He also conducts regular water testing and maintains an online log.
Why is a quarantine tank important, and how does Tinpanva utilize one?
A quarantine tank is crucial for preventing the introduction of pests and diseases into the main tank. Tinpanva uses a small 7-gallon rimless aquarium for quarantine, where new corals go for at least 4-5 weeks to observe and treat any potential issues before adding them to the BioCube.
What are the specifications of Tinpanva's quarantine tank setup?
Tinpanva's quarantine tank setup includes a Deep Blue Rimless 7 gallon glass tank, an AC 50 HOB filter, a small bag of carbon, a VorTech MP-10 powerhead for circulation, a DIY Rapid LED fixture for lighting, an egg crate rack for coral placement, and a Hydor Theo 50w heater.
What types of food does Tinpanva feed his fish, and how often?
Tinpanva feeds his fish a varied diet, offering Fish Frenzy daily, a pinch of Reef Frenzy on Sundays, and a pinch of Reef Chili on Wednesdays. This varied diet helps ensure that the fish receive all necessary nutrients.
What steps did Tinpanva take to manage high nitrates in his tank?
Tinpanva noticed his nitrates rising to 16 ppm and has taken steps to reduce them gradually without stressing about the exact numbers. He employs water changes, uses RowaPhos in his filtration system, and relies on macroalgae in the refugium to help address the issue.
What should I do if I encounter pests in my corals?
If you encounter pests in your corals, Tinpanva recommends setting up a quarantine tank to treat those corals before introducing them to your main display. It's essential to dip the corals in a pest-removal solution and observe them for a few weeks in the quarantine before adding them to your reef tank.