Volume: 65 Gallons / 246 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
36.0" ×
18.0" ×
18.0"
91.4cm ×
45.7cm ×
45.7cm
For a healthy reef tank, the owner follows a simple maintenance routine: feed the fish daily, perform a 10-gallon water change every week, test calcium, alkalinity, magnesium, and potassium levels weekly, clean the pumps monthly, and change T5 bulbs every 9 months.
To perform an effective water change, first ensure you have sufficient mixed saltwater at the same temperature and salinity as your tank water. Turn off any pumps and equipment, remove the necessary amount of water (about 10 gallons for this tank), then replace it with the prepared saltwater. Make sure to monitor parameters post-change to ensure stability.
A varied feeding regime is crucial. The owner feeds their tank a wide variety of foods daily to ensure a balanced diet. This includes foods of various particle sizes to cater to different species, which promotes health and growth. However, keep in mind that heavy feeding may lead to additional algae growth.
For fish, a mix of flakes, pellets, frozen food, and even live food can be fed. Corals benefit from liquid food supplements and powdered foods designed specifically for coral feeding. This ensures that all inhabitants receive the nutrients they need to thrive.
Maintaining stable water parameters is key for all types of corals. For SPS corals, ensure adequate lighting and flow as they require high light intensity and movement. LPS corals prefer moderate flow and can be fed directly with liquid foods. Soft corals generally are more adaptable but also benefit from stable conditions and periodic feeding.
Calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium are essential for coral growth and health. Regular testing allows you to monitor levels and make necessary adjustments with appropriate supplements. Keeping these levels balanced ensures that corals can deposit calcium carbonate efficiently, preventing stunting or bleaching.
A protein skimmer is crucial for removing organic waste before it breaks down in the water, thus helping to maintain water quality. The owner claims that a high-quality skimmer is the heart of their filtration system and is vital for keeping the tank healthy.
Equipment should be cleaned regularly to prevent buildup of algae and debris. For pumps, a monthly cleaning with vinegar or a designated cleaner is advisable. Ensure you disassemble and rinse all components thoroughly and inspect for wear or damage.
If your tank's water quality declines, check water parameters such as ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, salinity, and pH. Conduct a water change to help restore balance and assess any new changes in feeding or equipment that could be causing issues. Having a plan in place can help you troubleshoot effectively.
Engaging with the community through forums, asking questions, sharing experiences, and trading corals is encouraged. It is important to be respectful and helpful to others, as the reefkeeping hobby thrives on sharing knowledge and support.