Stunning 650-Gallon Reef Tank by Dr. Billy Franklin | Reef2Reef
Tank Specifications
Volume: 650 Gallons / 2460 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
54.0" ×
56.0" ×
48.0"
137.2cm ×
142.2cm ×
121.9cm
Equipment List
- Salt: Instant Ocean
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maintenance routine for the reef tank?
The maintenance routine involves various tasks: <br> Daily: Feed the fish, clean viewing panels a few times a week. <br> Weekly: Perform 10% water changes, test water parameters, clean the skimmer cup, refill dosing containers, and dose minor/trace elements. Trim and manage corals, and remove turf algae. <br> Biweekly: Harvest macroalgae from the refugium. <br> Monthly: Clean sponges and replace carbon.
What water changes do you perform and how often?
A 10% water change is performed weekly to maintain water quality.
How do you maintain water quality in the tank?
Water quality is maintained through a combination of skimming, sponge filtration, regular water changes, and the use of macroalgae which consumes nutrients. Weekly testing of water parameters also helps in identifying and correcting any imbalances.
How do you control algae growth in the tank?
Algae growth is managed by nutrient control, regular maintenance including cleaning of skimmer and viewing panels, and employing herbivorous fish that consume algae. The system exports nutrients through corals and macroalgae.
What are the target water parameters for the tank?
The target water parameters are: <br> Temperature: 76.5-78.5°F <br> pH: 8.2-8.4 <br> Specific gravity: 1.027 <br> Nitrate (NO3): 20ppm <br> Calcium (Ca): 400-450ppm <br> Alkalinity (Alk): 10 dKH <br> Magnesium (Mg): 1350ppm <br> Phosphate (PO4): 0.04-0.12ppm.
How do you dose calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium?
Calcium and alkalinity are dosed using a Neptune Dos system. Specifically, 165ml of Red Sea Foundation A (Calcium/Strontium) is dosed daily, and 1092ml of Soda Ash is dosed daily. Magnesium is hand-dosed weekly.
Do you use any additional supplements or trace elements?
Yes, additional supplements include hand dosing Red Sea Trace Colors once a week based on calcium consumption, and Red Sea AB+ amino acids. Adjustments are also made based on ICP tests when necessary.
What type of lighting system is used for the display tank?
The display tank is lit with 8 Ecotech Radion XR30 Pro, 2 Kessil A500x, 2 Kessil Ap700, and 3 Kessil A160 Tuna Blue lamps, which provide a full spectrum and blue lighting essential for coral growth.
What is the filtration method used in the tank?
The main filtration method includes a Deltec 6000i in-sump protein skimmer, sponge filters, and carbon filtration. Sponge filters are cleaned monthly, and additional bacterial treatments have been used to manage water quality.
What types of fish are included in the tank?
The fish stock includes a variety of species such as Achilles Tang, Scopas Tang, Tomini Bristletooth Tang, multiple wrasse species, a few anthias, clownfish, and a mandarin dragonet, among others.
What corals are being kept in this reef tank?
The reef features a diverse range of corals including over 50 species of Acropora, 20 species of Montipora, and various others like Seriatopora, Stylophora, Pocillopora, and many more.
How can I improve my reef tank’s coral health?
To improve coral health, ensure stable water parameters, provide adequate lighting, use proper filtration, and maintain nutrient balance. Regularly test and adjust for calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium, and consider feeding corals with amino acids and trace elements.
What should I do if I notice coral discoloration or poor health?
If you notice coral discoloration, check water parameters immediately, focusing on calcium, alkalinity, magnesium, and nutrient levels. Consider performing a water change and test for pathogens. Monitor for signs of disease and treat accordingly, possibly by contacting an expert.
How do you handle setbacks or challenges in the reef tank?
Immediately address issues as they arise. Conduct thorough investigations if problems occur, and implement solutions based on research. It's essential to stay proactive in maintaining water quality and addressing any observed health issues in corals or fish.