Stunning 240-Gallon Reef Tank by Dang Chevaosot | ReefKeeping
Tank Specifications
Volume: 240 Gallons / 908 Liters
Dimensions (L × W × H):
72.0" ×
24.0" ×
32.0"
182.9cm ×
61.0cm ×
81.3cm
Equipment List
- Salt: Instant Ocean
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I establish the water parameters for my reef tank?
To establish and maintain optimal water parameters in your reef tank, you should regularly monitor specific gravity, pH, temperature, alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate levels. Aim for: Specific gravity of 1.025, pH between 8.0 to 8.2, calcium around 400 ppm, alkalinity between 8 to 9 dKH, magnesium at 1300 ppm, phosphate undetectable, and temperature between 77 to 78°F. Use reliable test kits to regularly check these parameters.
What is the best way to perform water changes?
Perform water changes approximately once a week, changing about 20% of the tank's volume. Use Reverse Osmosis (RO) water mixed with Instant Ocean salt. Mix the salt with the water, aerate it for a day to ensure proper mixing, then add it to the tank slowly to avoid shocking the system.
How can I ensure my skimmer operates effectively?
Clean the skimmer's collection cup weekly to maintain efficiency. Regularly check the skimmer's operation, ensuring it's adjusted correctly to create optimal foam and skimmate. Adjust the water level in your skimmer for better performance if necessary.
What should I do if the tank has an algae bloom?
If you experience an algae bloom, assess and reduce nutrient levels such as phosphates and nitrates. Increase water flow and ensure that your skimmer is working properly. Introduce or maintain herbivorous fish and invertebrates that feed on algae and consider adjusting lighting periods to limit algae growth.
What should I feed the fish and corals in the tank?
Feed your fish daily using a mix of Ocean Nutrition's Formula 1, Formula 2, and Mysis shrimp. Twice a week, supplement their diet with rotifers, brine shrimp, Golden Pearls, and Cyclop-Eeze. It's best to feed these after the lights go off to mimic their natural feeding behavior and to ensure that the food reaches them amidst the flow created by the pumps.
How can I maintain the health of my corals?
To maintain coral health, ensure stable water parameters and perform regular water changes. Use Kalkwasser and a calcium reactor to provide consistent levels of calcium and alkalinity. Monitor coral growth and trim as needed to prevent overcrowding and promote healthy growth.
What type of filtration should I use in my reef tank?
Use a combination of biological filtration (live rock and sand bed) and mechanical filtration. A remote refugium can help convert detritus and nutrients into live plankton. Employ a protein skimmer for mechanical filtration along with activated carbon and a phosphate reactor for chemical filtration.
How do I improve water circulation in my tank?
To improve water circulation, use multiple pumps like the Tunze 6100 for designated flow areas with a controller. Adjust their position and flow rate to avoid dead spots created by coral growth, ensuring that all areas of the tank get adequate water movement.
What type of lighting is best for a reef tank with SPS corals?
Use high-intensity lighting such as metal halide bulbs, preferably 400-watt, along with some supplemental VHO or T5 bulbs for broader spectrum and better coverage. Ensure the lighting duration simulates natural conditions; your day-night cycle should mimic oceanic conditions for 10-12 hours of light.
How can I control the temperature in my tank effectively?
Utilize a chiller to maintain a stable temperature range of 77-78°F, crucial for the health of sensitive small-polyped stony corals. Monitor the temperature with a reliable controller (like the Octopus 3000) that can adjust automatic cooling as needed.