Stunning 600-Gallon Reef Tank by Charlie Pace | Reef2Reef
Tank Specifications
Volume: 600 Gallons / 2271 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
84.0" ×
35.0" ×
32.0"
213.4cm ×
88.9cm ×
81.3cm
Equipment List
- Salt: ESV
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of rock should I use to start my reef tank?
For starting your reef tank, dry rock is recommended. In the featured tank, dry rock types like Marco and Ultra were used. These options are preferred because they are stable, free from pests and contaminants, and allow for better control of the tank's starting ecosystem.
What kind of substrate is best for a reef tank?
The substrate used in this tank is Tropic Eden Reeflakes, which is a type of aragonite sand that provides a natural and beneficial environment for beneficial bacteria to thrive, aiding in biological filtration.
How do I maintain my calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels?
The owner uses a Reef Octopus calcium reactor for maintaining calcium levels, along with dosing alkalinity and using a Geo kalk stirrer for stable pH levels. It's important to regularly test these parameters and adjust your dosing accordingly to keep everything in balance.
What is a good export strategy to maintain water quality?
A solid export strategy involves regular water changes, utilizing a protein skimmer, filter socks, and additional filtration methods like a sulfur denitrator and carbon or GFO as needed. This approach helps control nutrient levels and keeps the water clear.
What is the maintenance routine for a large reef tank?
In this setup, daily checks are conducted to monitor the tank's health, including inspections of the sump and drip lines. Weekly, all key parameters are tested: alkalinity is checked three times a week, and a comprehensive test of all parameters is performed once a week to ensure everything is within optimal ranges.
How important is it to use a high-quality protein skimmer?
A high-quality protein skimmer is crucial for maintaining water quality in your reef tank. It removes dissolved organic compounds and helps to reduce nutrient levels. The featured tank uses a Vertex Alphacone 250, which is known for its efficiency and reliability.
What role does a sulfur denitrator play in a reef tank?
A sulfur denitrator is an advanced filtration method that helps to lower nitrate levels in the tank. It functions by promoting denitrifying bacteria that convert nitrate into nitrogen gas, which is then released into the atmosphere. This method can effectively keep nitrate levels low for tanks with a large population of fish.
What lighting setup is ideal for a reef tank with SPS and LPS corals?
The ideal lighting setup should include a combination of high-quality LED lights and T5 fluorescent bulbs, as seen in this tank. The owner utilizes 10 Radion XR15 Pro Gen 4s combined with T5 lights for deeper light penetration and spectral quality, crucial for the health of both SPS and LPS corals.
How do I determine the right photoperiod for my corals?
A recommended photoperiod for corals is typically around 10 to 12 hours a day, depending on the type of corals you are keeping. This tank sets the display tank and grow-out tank at 12 hours of light exposure, while the refugium receives 10 hours. Consistency is key to coral health.
What should I feed my reef fish for optimal health?
A varied diet is essential for the health of reef fish. In this tank, frozen foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped clams, and even fresh fish eggs obtained from catch are used. This diversity ensures that the fish are getting a balanced intake of protein and nutrients.
How often should I feed my reef corals?
While corals primarily rely on photosynthesis, they can benefit from occasional feeding. Coral foods should be offered every week or so, depending on the coral species' nutritional needs. However, overfeeding should be avoided to prevent issues with water quality.