Stunning 190-Gallon Reef Tank by John Salituro | ReefKeeping
Tank Specifications
Volume: 190 Gallons / 718 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
60.0" ×
30.0" ×
24.0"
152.4cm ×
76.2cm ×
61.0cm
Equipment List
- Salt: Instant Ocean
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I efficiently design a custom stand and cabinet for my reef tank?
To create an efficient custom stand and cabinet for your reef tank, work with a skilled cabinet builder and consider your space requirements for all equipment. Ensure the design incorporates ample storage for equipment and supplies while providing easy access to the tank's plumbing and frag tanks. Plan for visibility by keeping equipment out of sight, while enabling proper ventilation and easy access for maintenance.
What is the best way to plumb multiple tanks together?
Plumbing multiple tanks can be achieved by drilling holes in the tanks for bulkhead fittings, thereby connecting them with appropriate size flexible tubing (like spa-flex). Make sure to design a system that includes proper overflow intake and return setup, considering gravity and water flow direction to ensure efficient movement between tanks.
What parameters should I monitor to ensure water quality in my reef tank?
It's crucial to monitor the following parameters regularly: temperature (76-80°F), pH (8.1-8.3), specific gravity (1.026), nitrate (NO3) below 0.5 ppm, calcium (Ca 380-420 ppm), alkalinity (Alk 8-10 dKH), magnesium (Mg 1200-1300 ppm), phosphate (PO4) (0.3-0.7 ppm), and ensuring ammonia and nitrites are undetectable. This ensures a healthy environment for your corals and fish.
How often should water changes be performed and how much water should be changed?
It's recommended to change 25 to 30 gallons of saltwater every two weeks for optimal water quality. This frequency helps to maintain low nutrient levels, replenish trace elements, and reduce waste build-up in your tank.
What maintenance tasks should I perform regularly for a reef tank?
Regular maintenance should include: checking and adjusting calcium and alkalinity levels post-water change, cleaning the glass, filling the RO/DI reservoir every 4-5 days, emptying the skimmer waste jug when full, refilling the containers for calcium/alkalinity/magnesium solutions, adding kalk powder to the reactor, and cleaning pumps as needed.
What is the best feeding schedule for a reef tank?
A good feeding schedule includes feeding fish a variety of frozen foods, such as Mysis and spirulina brine, once a day in the evening. Additionally, for corals, provide nourishment 1-2 times a week using Cyclop-Eeze, reef plankton, or other similar products. Allow food to settle by turning off all pumps for 20-30 minutes after feeding.
How can I enhance the nutrition of frozen foods for my fish?
You can enhance frozen foods by soaking them briefly in nutritional supplements like Selcon and garlic extract before feeding. This ensures your fish receive additional vitamins and improves their immune health.
How do I effectively manage calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels in a reef tank?
Manage calcium and alkalinity through a DIY two-part solution dosing system. Using a dual dosing pump can automate the addition of these supplements at calculated intervals. For magnesium, use a solution of magnesium chloride and sulfate, dosed manually a few times weekly. Additionally, using a Kalkwasser reactor connected to your auto top-off system can help maintain calcium and alkalinity levels.
What type of lighting is recommended for a reef aquarium?
For a reef aquarium, a combination of Metal Halide (MH) lights and T5 fluorescent bulbs is recommended. You can use a split photoperiod to minimize heat; for instance, use MH lighting for 6 hours split into two segments and T5 lights for 9 hours. Experiment with different bulb types to find what works best for your coral growth and coloration.