Stunning 36-Gallon Reef Tank – vlangel's TOTM | NanoReef
Tank Specifications
Volume: 36 Gallons / 136 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
36.0" ×
15.0" ×
18.0"
91.4cm ×
38.1cm ×
45.7cm
Equipment List
- Salt: Instant Ocean
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of tank and stand is used in this reef tank?
The reef tank is a 36 gallon Aqueon glass bow-front aquarium, which is supported by an Aqueon pine stand. This allows for an aesthetically pleasing appearance and structural stability.
How is the water circulation managed in the tank?
Water circulation is managed using multiple Rio pumps: one Rio 180, two Rio 90's, and one Rio 50. This setup distributes water flow while also protecting delicate creatures, such as seahorses, from getting their tails caught.
What kind of lighting is recommended for this reef tank?
The tank utilizes a 30" Coralife T5HO 4 bulb fixture, which includes 2 actinic bulbs running for 9 hours and 1 coral daylight plus 1 10,000K bulb for 6 hours. An automatic timer controls the lighting schedule, and there are also LED moonlights for added nighttime illumination.
Is a basement sump required for this setup?
While a basement sump is not strictly required, it enhances system management significantly. In this setup, a 20 gallon long basement sump is used with DIY chambers for filtration, which helps to manage water changes more easily and maintains water quality effectively.
What is the feeding routine for the seahorses?
The seahorses are fed frozen mysis shrimp twice a day, which they consume from a feeding bowl. This method reduces waste since the mysis is pushed down an acrylic tube to minimize pollution in the tank. Additionally, live ghost shrimp are occasionally provided as treats.
How should coral be fed in a reef tank with seahorses?
Although there are concerns about added nutrients affecting seahorses, it is recommended to feed the coral with baby brine shrimp (BBS) and frozen rotifers. This should be done about once a week to promote coral health without compromising the seahorses' well-being.
What is the water change routine for this reef tank?
Water changes are performed three times a week, typically changing about 7 gallons at a time. This is done by making RO/DI water mixed with Instant Ocean, draining the sump, and then pumping the premade saltwater back into the sump to replace the removed water.
How often should you maintain the skimmer and carbon in this setup?
The skimmer cup should be cleaned during each water change, whereas the activated carbon should be replaced and rinsed in a media bag once a week to ensure effective filtration.
What kind of dosing is performed in the reef tank?
Dosing includes two-part solutions for managing alkalinity and calcium, with magnesium and iron being dosed as needed, especially since magnesium is consumed quickly due to the macroalgae in the tank.