Stunning 120-Gallon Reef Tank by Mark Hallett | ReefKeeping
Tank Specifications
Volume: 120 Gallons / 454 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
48.0" ×
28.0" ×
20.0"
121.9cm ×
71.1cm ×
50.8cm
Equipment List
- Salt: Instant Ocean
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of lighting is best for Acanthastrea corals?
The best lighting for Acanthastrea corals is a combination of metal halide and T5 lights. In Mark's system, he uses a 400-watt XM 20,000K metal halide bulb alongside blue Aqua Science T5s. This combination provides vibrant colors and encourages healthy growth.
How do you maintain water quality in a reef tank?
Maintaining water quality involves regular water changes and monitoring key parameters. Mark performs a 10% water change weekly using Instant Ocean salt and changes carbon every month. Regular testing of specific gravity, pH, calcium, alkalinity, magnesium, and temperature is essential to keep the tank stable.
What type of filtration is recommended for a reef tank?
A good filtration system includes live rock, a protein skimmer, and a filter sock. In Mark's tank, he uses 80lbs of live rock and a Mini Bubble King 200 skimmer to manage waste, along with a PhosBan filter filled with carbon that runs continuously to remove impurities.
What should I feed my corals?
Corals like Acanthastrea thrive on a diet that includes food like Cyclop-eeze and Reef-Roids. Mark feeds his corals these foods once a week, ensuring to turn off the main pump while feeding to avoid food being blown around the tank.
How do I avoid issues with fish nipping at corals?
To prevent fish from nipping at corals, avoid spot feeding corals, as it can attract fish. Instead, feed the tank by releasing food into the water while the main pump is off, as done by Mark, which allows corals to catch food while minimizing fish interference.
What is the proper way to change lights in a reef tank?
It's important to change bulbs according to their lifespan for optimal performance. Mark changes his metal halide bulb once a year and his T5 bulbs every six months, ensuring that the lighting spectrum remains effective for coral health.
How do I determine when to add supplements like magnesium?
Supplements should only be added when necessary. Monitor the magnesium levels regularly; for instance, Mark maintains his magnesium at around 1350ppm and adds magnesium supplement only when levels drop below the desired value.