Stunning 160-Gallon Reef Tank by Todd | Reef2Reef
Tank Specifications
Volume: 160 Gallons / 605 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
60.0" ×
24.0" ×
20.0"
152.4cm ×
61.0cm ×
50.8cm
Equipment List
- Salt: Red Sea
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I set up a reef tank successfully?
To set up a reef tank, start by choosing the right tank size and type of filtration. Use live rock and sand for natural biological filtration. Incorporate a sump and skimmer for water quality management. Ensure proper water circulation with pumps, and select lighting suitable for coral growth. Cycle the tank for 4-6 weeks before adding livestock.
What is a refugium and how do I build one?
A refugium is a separate chamber in your sump that allows beneficial organisms and macroalgae to thrive. To build one, divide your sump using baffles to create a high-flow section filled with macroalgae, live rock, and possibly a cryptic zone for biological filtration with materials like bio-balls.
How often should I perform water changes in a reef tank?
Water changes in a reef tank should typically be performed every 1-2 weeks, changing 10-20% of the water. More mature systems may require less frequent changes, but monitor water parameters closely.
What are the key water parameters I should monitor regularly?
The key water parameters are temperature (ideally 77-78°F), pH (8.2-8.4), specific gravity (1.025-1.026), ORP (ideal 400-460 mV), ammonia (should be 0), nitrite (should be 0), nitrate (ideally below 2.0 ppm), phosphate (ideally below 0.2 ppm), calcium (450-490 ppm), alkalinity (2.5-3.0 meq/L), and magnesium (1300-1600 ppm).
What is the best way to manage algae growth?
To manage algae growth, maintain nutrient levels (nitrate and phosphate) low through routine testing and water changes, utilize a refugium with macroalgae, and ensure adequate water circulation. Regularly clean the tank and remove excess algae manually.
How do I feed my reef tank fish and corals?
Feed fish 2-3 times daily with a mix of frozen cubes (like Hikari Mysis and Blood Worms) and sinking pellets. Corals can be fed with specific coral foods or by broadcasting finely crushed foods during feeding time to mimic natural conditions.
What types of foods are best for reef tank inhabitants?
For fish, a combination of high-quality frozen foods (e.g., mysis shrimp, brine shrimp) and specialized pellets or flakes is ideal. For corals, use foods designed specifically for their needs, such as phytoplankton or coral-specific particles.
How do I acclimate new fish or coral to my reef tank?
To acclimate new livestock, float the sealed bag in the tank for 15-20 minutes to equalize temperature. Then, slowly add small amounts of tank water into the bag (over 1-2 hours) before gently transferring the inhabitants into the tank to minimize stress.
What should I do if my fish show signs of stress or disease?
If fish show stress or disease signs, quarantine the affected fish immediately to prevent spreading and observe water parameters for any issues. Treat based on the specific illness identified, and ensure the main tank conditions are stable.
What equipment do I need for a reef tank?
Essential equipment includes a quality protein skimmer, a refugium for biological filtration, powerheads for water circulation, appropriate lighting for coral growth (like LED fixtures), a heater for temperature control, a reliable return pump, and test kits for monitoring water parameters.
How do I set up and calibrate an ATO (auto top-off) system?
To set up an ATO system, first install a float valve in your sump or refugium to detect low water levels. Connect a reservoir with RO/DI water to the float valve. Use a pump (like Eheim Compact 1000) to deliver water from the reservoir to the tank automatically when levels drop.
How do I use a dosing pump for maintaining parameters?
To use a dosing pump, program it to deliver specific amounts of two-part calcium and alkalinity, plus magnesium solution, at regular intervals to maintain stable parameters in your reef tank. Monitor levels and adjust dosing accordingly.
What should I consider when selecting lighting for my reef tank?
When selecting lighting, consider the type of corals you'll keep as some require more intense light than others. LEDs are popular for their energy efficiency and customizable light spectrum. Ensure the light fixture can adequately cover your tank dimensions and can ramp up/down to simulate natural cycles.