Stunning 9-Gallon Reef Tank by Dennis | Reef2Reef
Tank Specifications
Volume: 9 Gallons / 34 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
17.7" ×
11.8" ×
11.8"
45.0cm ×
30.0cm ×
30.0cm
Equipment List
- Salt: Instant Ocean
Frequently Asked Questions
What should my maintenance routine look like for a macroalgae tank?
For a macroalgae tank, a good maintenance routine includes daily tasks like dosing supplements, top-off of evaporated water, and feeding inhabitants. Weekly, you should perform a 20% water change and trim your macroalgae. Additionally, every few days, replace the filter floss and spray RO/DI water on any mangroves present. A deep clean of pumps and equipment should be conducted twice a month.
How do I handle macroalgae going sexual?
If macroalgae go sexual, which can lead to a nutrient spike and increased CO2, it’s important to act quickly. Remove all translucent or dying parts of the macroalgae, perform a significant water change, and run activated carbon for 24-48 hours to help restore water quality.
What tools do you recommend for trimming macroalgae?
Regular trimming is essential for maintaining healthy macroalgae. Use freshwater aquascaping stainless steel tools; black-coated tools are preferable as they are less prone to rust. These tools help promote healthy growth and keep macroalgae from obstructing flow in the tank.
What are the ideal water parameters for a macroalgae tank?
For a macroalgae display tank, aim for a temperature of 75-78°F, pH at 8.2, salinity of 1.025, nitrates between 20-30 ppm, calcium at 480 ppm, alkalinity at 9 dKH, magnesium at 1400 ppm, and phosphates around 0.1 ppm. Ammonia and nitrites should remain at 0.
How do you supply nutrients for your macroalgae?
To provide nutrients for macroalgae, consider dosing with products like Brightwell Aquatics ChaetoGro (fertilizer), NeoNitro (for nitrates), and NeoPhos (for phosphates). These supplements replenish essential nutrients that macroalgae need to thrive, especially in a nutrient-exporting ecosystem like a macroalgae tank.
What type of lighting is best for macroalgae growth?
Full spectrum lighting, around 6500K, is ideal for macroalgae growth. Many freshwater planted tank lights fall within this spectrum and can provide effective illumination. The current setup uses Twinstar brand lights, which have yielded good results, but reef lights can also work as long as they are adjustable to meet the needs of the macroalgae.
Do I need to worry about PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) when lighting my macroalgae tank?
While macroalgae can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, it's advisable to monitor PAR levels to avoid burning sensitive species. Some macroalgae, like certain red varieties, may look better under lower light intensity. Test different placements to determine where your macroalgae thrive best.
What types of inhabitants can I keep in a macroalgae tank?
In a macroalgae tank, you can include various fish and invertebrates that coexist well with macroalgae. Ideal inhabitants include certain damsels, clownfish, masked gobies, and a variety of invertebrates like shrimp, hermit crabs, and snails. Be mindful of specific fish that may graze on macroalgae.
Can I keep corals alongside macroalgae, and what challenges might arise?
Yes, it is possible to maintain a hybrid macroalgae and coral tank. However, compromises will need to be made regarding lighting and nutrient management. Corals may require different light spectrums than those optimal for macroalgae. Additionally, rapid growth of macroalgae could smother sensitive corals if not managed through regular pruning.