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ahh good! wouldn't want somthing like that to give you any problems

Nick
"Impossumable- unable to play dead"

PICS!?

Nick,

I changed the metal clasps over to the plastic ones from Marine Depot I think.

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

cant wait to see more pictures! Im in the process of setting my tank up too so its nice to see. Also you can pick a bunch of stuff up just from you and dark flinging stuff back and forth between e/o. One thing i did notice, is that you have metal clasps on your hoses in the sump, are you worried at all about that corroding?

nick

Nick
"Impossumable- unable to play dead"

*cant wait for some pictures* from the last pics of the live rock it looks good, and i love that stand and cannopy, cant wait to see the finished pics, i kno you put a lot of hard work into that

its me sk8freak20...i need to get premie so i can change my name back

Yes.

Pictures in a couple days.

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

ok any up-dates have your lights come?

Scans as promised...

[link=http://www.fishprofiles.com/files/forums/The%20Recovery%20Room/60889.html?0330517]http://www.fishprofiles.com/files/forums/The%20Recovery%20Room/60889.html?0330517" style="COLOR: #3c4e82[/link]

-Ferret



[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
I tear my heart open, I sew myself shut
My weakness is that I care too much
And my scars remind me that the past is real
I tear my heart open just to feel
[/font]

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

Ohhh you're slacking!!!

Since when do I beat you to posting.

S'ok, I know you were busy yesterday, but aren't you glad I pushed going to that meeting?

I'd give Kip a big hug if I was you.

Maybe the new work with the club will help you find a buyer for the 180 and toys...

Just a thought.

>.<

It's the weirdest thing...I dont know what happend...but I have a fish in my hair.



Ideas?


-Ferret

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

Lights- undecided, and I'll tell you guys why. Originally I was going to do an Aquamedic strip fixture. But many in my reef club pointed out that if something goes wrong, the whole thing needs to be sent back for repair, so I'll suddenly be left with NO lights. But I really dont like pendants...so I'm still deciding

99% of the time if you place a call to an Aquamedic dealer they will get you the part that you need to make the repair yourself. There really isnt a lot that can go wrong with them other than if the ballast or capacitor goes out.

Good job on the plumbing....It wasnt that hard was it?


[hr width='40%']Ever since the day you went away
And left me lonely and cold
My life just hasn't been the same
Oh baby no

Tentative Rockscape...



Personally I dont like the middle righthand side of it. Like, directly to the right of the center brace. I know I'll play with it more.

-Ferret



[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
I tear my heart open, I sew myself shut
My weakness is that I care too much
And my scars remind me that the past is real
I tear my heart open just to feel
[/font]

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

I completely messed up that last thread, so instead of editing and adding I'm going to have to post again. Remember that time I accidentally quoted like, my entire post? Well this time it basically linked my entire post. Weird...anyway, I fixed it, and I'm going to start over.

So, for my shopping list:

Calcium and alkalinity supplement (2 part)

http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewItem.asp?idproduct=EV1111

Kalkwasser

Too many to choose from...pick me one?

Kalkwasser drip container

http://www.marinedepot.com/aquarium_dosing_pumps_top_off_kent_marine_aquadose.asp?CartId= ?

Iodine (Kent Lugols solution)- used for emergency coral dips

http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewItem.asp?idproduct=KM3611

Okay...I think that's all.

The algae scraper magnet will have to wait until the next order.

*remembers she has to call someone about an RO/DI unit*

-Ferret

EDIT: While I'm at it...I suppose I should order this?



[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
I tear my heart open, I sew myself shut
My weakness is that I care too much
And my scars remind me that the past is real
I tear my heart open just to feel
[/font]

Last edited by Ferretfish at 12-Jun-2005 14:39

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

[font color="#C00000"]SIDE NOTE[/font]

Starting aquascaping. Oh boy. I had no idea what I was getting myself into. Well, I had an idea, but it's a lot easier to tell someone else to do something as opposed to actually doing it yourself. Yeah, aquascaping, no big deal right? That's what I tell my customers. Hah. Now I can share stories with them...

I've been running around like a chicken with it's head cut off for the past hour or two. No joke. First off, since I had just chucked all the rock in the tank initially, there were base pieces and top pieces mixed up all over the place. I ended up having to mix two big batches of saltwater in rubbermaid tubs, that way I could put all the "cherry picking" pieces somewhere while I dug out the bigger, heavier, base pieces. So here I am, running around finding extra heaters, powerheads, airstones, whatever. Now it's like I have 4 tanks. I did some arranging of the base pieces, but I can't really see what I did because I made such a sand/silt storm in the tank. So when it clears, I can see what I did, and then rearrange again, and put more pieces in. I wish I had invited someone over to help me, it's really hard to aquascape a tank (which is deeper than your arm) by yourself.

The entire kitchen and den is lined with towels. There's a big bucket of TM in the middle of the floor. My hydrometer is laying around somewhere, and there is dried up salt on my arms. I'm a wreck. And so is the house...

Guess it's time to relax with some shopping (oh great, spending more money...) and then I'll have to clean up a bit. Hopefully the tank settled a little by then.

In addition, I added the tablespoon of baking soda maybe an hour ago now? I should test pH again probably...and add again. What an adventure...

I didn't even do the water changes on the freshwater tanks yet.

-Ferret



[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
I tear my heart open, I sew myself shut
My weakness is that I care too much
And my scars remind me that the past is real
I tear my heart open just to feel
[/font]

Last edited by Ferretfish at 12-Jun-2005 13:43

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

Shopping list as requested.

Calcium and alkalinity supplement (2 part)
Kalkwasser
Kalkwasser drip container
Iodine (Kent Lugols solution)- used for emergency coral dips

Honestly, that is all you should need with the water change ritual that you are planning.




[hr width='40%']Look at me, my depth perception must be off again,
Coz' this hurts deeper than I thought it did,
It has not healed with time...
It just shot down my spine.

THE SUPER SQUIRT JAMMED AGAIN.

hopefully it will stop jamming once the sand/silt settles.

Be careful with your four ways when you get them...

The 4-ways probably wont be turned on until I start stocking, so the sand should be cleared up and pretty well stuck with bacteria by that time. I hope I dont have any problems...

My main concern at this moment is the skimmer. It's hooked up correctly (I think...) but it just doesn't seem to be working that well...I would figure even though the bio load is virtually zero, that it'd still be pulling a nice amount out of the water. *shrug* I think I'm gunna do a full water test today just to see where my levels stand.

With just rock in the tank, your skimmer should still skim. But remember that your tank is still very new and that there are not a lot of organics in the water yet considering that you just added the rock a week ago.

The snails climbing up the overflow wall worry me...I dont want them to get in.

I wouldnt worry too much, just let them roam.

I think I said this earlier, but the polyps are going to be eventually banned to the sump or traded to my friend Lonnie. I still want to know more about them in chat sometime though.

Sounds like a plan! Look forward to the saltie chat

I dont feel like aquascaping bymyself, because the tank is so deep (for me) so I'm trying to drag a couple guys over from the club to help me out. It makes things so much easier. I <3 reef clubs.

Its not cause the tank is so deep....its because you dont know where to start No worries, Ive had that "lost" feeling plenty of times when it has came to the tank.

Whens the last time you went to a meeting Nate?

I believe the last meeting I went to was the March meeting when Anthony was out visiting. Just havent had any motivation, have been working too much, and dont have a tank so I really dont feel like going.

Hope you're feeling better...you really need to be careful Nate.

Im feeling much better. Im not very sore anymore, and the bruises are healing nicely. They are a nice shade of green and yellow now

*adds an overpriced cleaner shrimp to the care package and giggles*

why just add one? Might as well add 4-5 considering the great price!


[hr width='40%']Look at me, my depth perception must be off again,
Coz' this hurts deeper than I thought it did,
It has not healed with time...
It just shot down my spine.

Hmm...

THE SUPER SQUIRT JAMMED AGAIN.

There's too much silt and sand and other mini particles floating around; a mere ten grains jams it. My dad has taken it apart and put it back together at least five times now, he can do it in record time. Yesterday while I was at work he modified the intake tube on the left hand side of the tank. He used some sort of magnum filter cartridge on the outside, because it's really fine. I have to admit, it was some pretty nice DIY work. I'll have to get a picture of it later on today. It's sort of hard for me to explain in words, an illustration might work better. So, jammed and fixed the SS again. Be careful with your four ways when you get them...

Now the tank is much clearer though. It's actually nice to look at. It's still in major need of aquascaping, but I'm not worried about it now. My main concern at this moment is the skimmer. It's hooked up correctly (I think...) but it just doesn't seem to be working that well...I would figure even though the bio load is virtually zero, that it'd still be pulling a nice amount out of the water. *shrug* I think I'm gunna do a full water test today just to see where my levels stand.

The whole family, especially my little sister, take great joy in dragging me over to point out the new snail or hermit they "just" found...even though they showed me the same one usually about ten minutes beforehand. There's only a couple hitch hikers in there as of now, but it's going to be fun to add a whole clean up crew. The snails climbing up the overflow wall worry me...I dont want them to get in.

I think I said this earlier, but the polyps are going to be eventually banned to the sump or traded to my friend Lonnie. I still want to know more about them in chat sometime though.

Hmm...I forgot to take a picture of my hybrid urchin aiptasia. That's honestly what it looks like though! It's the weirdest thing. I dont feel like aquascaping bymyself, because the tank is so deep (for me) so I'm trying to drag a couple guys over from the club to help me out. It makes things so much easier. I <3 reef clubs. Whens the last time you went to a meeting Nate?

Hope you're feeling better...you really need to be careful Nate.

*adds an overpriced cleaner shrimp to the care package and giggles*

-Ferret

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

I always tell you to be careful Nate...why dont you ever listen to me?

Its not all my fault I promise

Well how do we get rid of these Palythoa whatever polyp things? They look cool now but they're going to spread like wildfire longterm...so that obviously means they cant stay. Makes more sense to fix the problem now, no?

To be honest, the best way to get rid of them is to trade the rock that they are on! Would your store take them in on trade and trade them for a piece of rock the same weight/size? You can also banish them to the refugium portion of your tank if you want to keep them, or just keep them away from other pieces of rock and watch out for "floaters" that may detatch.

Trust me, you like them now because they are the first coral that you have....after awhile you wont want them anymore. Been there, done that...with the same coral even. Be selective on the corals that you keep....I know its hard, but it will sooooooo be worth it in the long run.

I was hoping I wouldn't develop a problem with nuisance algae...I just wish I had my real lights. Not to mention the halogens look like REALLY bad 10K's

As long as you are skimming and doing water changes, and dont run the lights too long you should be fine. As for the halogens looking like really bad 10K's.....Ive seen 6,500K halides look more white than some halogens

Could you tell me a little more about these polyps? I think we have some at work, and I like to target feed them. Just for fun...good time waster

Not a time waster at all! If you really want to talk about them it would be so much easier in chat sometime. Put it on your list of things to talk about
[link=http://fishprofiles.com/files/forums/Reef%20Keeping/13291.html?200408201622]http://fishprofiles.com/files/forums/Reef%20Keeping/13291.html?200408201622" style="COLOR: #FF0000[/link]

The other thing I seem to find on my rock seems like little baby feather duster type things..

Thats most likely exactly what they are

and this other thing that looks like a cross between an urchin and Aiptasia. It's sort of freaky, I didn't really get a good look at it though

Without a picture I dont think I can help you on an ID *still at the mental image*

I want to go in at night with a flashlight.

Do it!!! Before you do though, go to Walmart and go to the sporting goods section by the fishing stuff...pick up a red filter for your flashlight....or get some red Suran wrap and put over it. The critters wont be bothered by the red color as much.

The SUPER SQUIRT is finally fixed. Dad called Paul, they talked about it, played with some things, and it hasn't jammed since. Fingers crossed there...

Fingers are crossed for ya here too ......and I still crack up everytime I see that word. I dont think its the word itself, I think its the voice I hear saying it and the way it is said

The rock has a lot of build up on it...not really build up, but spare particles, of mostly sand I guess. Makes the rock look dusty almost. I think when I aquascape and start moving things around, and play with the SS jets, that it might "fall" off...but then the tank is going to be mondo cloudy again. Having the rock is fun but frusturating at the same time. I feel like I dont know where to go from here. So...I aquascape...and then what? Wait? It just seems so weird since the rock technically doesn't have to cure

The build up is natural...its a combination of sand and silt. Even established reefs will get the build up, but you shouldnt have any problems with the flow you have in your tank.

Take your time, aquascape and get it the way you want it. After you aquascape, check your water parameters again after a couple days. If your water parameters are good, then start stocking by adding a small clean up crew. You can drop in some food for them every once in awhile, and it will also give you some ammonia to keep your bacteria happy. I would wait till you have some form of lighting that is the correct color spectrum before adding any fish though...that way you can give them a full and regular photoperiod.

Hope you're feeling better. *sends get well package, complete with strawberries, cool whip, tim tams, OJ, and a Princess Anthias* [Not to be used simultaneously]

Thanks! Im feeling a bit better...bruising is getting worse, and Im still very sore but Ill survive. Its not the most/worst pain Ive been through recently Ahhhh, strawberries, cool whip, tim tams and Oraaaannnge JuIIIce and Princess anthias! Who could ask for a better get well package FISH IN MY HAIR!

[hr width='40%']I lay here in my bed and dream of you
Hoping you are dreaming of me too...
Someday the miles will be less and we will dream together
Your heart and mine Always and Forever...

Sand bed is close to 5" at it's highest point, mostly an average of about 4.5"

So yes, it's a deep sand bed.

Not sure what the rockscape is going to be yet. I didn't want to go with a standard wall but it might end up taking on a similar form. I'd like to be different, but I'm not sure how yet. I gotta play with the rock.

-Ferret

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

Looking good Liana.....once again, great job on being VERY creative

I think the design will work well for the tank and I'm sure you will be happy with it. Im glad its finally starting to come together for you!




[hr width='40%']I lay here in my bed and dream of you
Hoping you are dreaming of me too...
Someday the miles will be less and we will dream together
Your heart and mine Always and Forever...

I really like Serdar...hes a good guy with strong business ethics. Let me know when you are ready to order and ill get you that promo code Oh, and yes....he does sometimes give out free t-shirts. I have 3

ROFL! I'll let you know when I'm ready. *thinks* Oh oh I remember, there was that thread, where you won the thing at the meeting, and you asked for black or something.

quote]You will be able to get a good design/aquascape going in the bowfront.....You will just have to keep arranging it till you are happy with it

You can use your creativity on future tanks also. There will be plenty to set up![

Yeah, the bowfront does have a really cool aquascaping potential. It'll take many hours of playing around but heck, that's what I'm used to so who cares. I feel like my tank has no room.

Yep, this is just my practice tank. I've got so many planned out already for years to come.

I dont think you will have a problem with things not doing well. Its all about watching water quality, lighting and flow....I think you have those covered pretty well.

Well I've got lights and flow covered...lets see if I can handle water quality. I've got test kits for everything I think...I'm still scared though. No SPS till at least August anyway though...

There are no other Nates in the club I dont like the blue background either, but he bought the tank that way. I would much rather have a black acrylic background...oh well, its not my tank.

Well it was worth a shot! I'm the only Liana in my club too. Actually, I'm the only Liana I know. Yeah, the blue looks okay for FO tanks, but I dont like it for reef. It doesn't look natural enough IMO...how come he doesn't have it covered w/ coralline anyway? SPS sucking up too much calcium for that?

Yup I know....only difference is that you have total control over the stocking list. Your family has to like the list or its a no go

Lol, well I'm sure they'll like everything you suggest. This tank isn't really about the fish anyway. I can't wait to hear some of your ideas.

Liana? Can you do me a favor? SLAP him for me.....and make sure its a nice and hard one Man, I hope I never get my water too clean

Nate? Want to pay for the rest of my reef tank so that I still have money after I get fired for slapping him? If the answer is yes, then sure! I'll even slap him with a koi, his favorite. We always joke with him that he has a koi tattoo on his butt...he gets angry at us.

Keep calcium and alk up and it wont take long at all

Okay...but I dont have a calc or kalk reactor thingy yet...

What can I dose?

Yup, I follow.......and thats usually how I do it. I just make sure the water has been circulating for 24 hours and that its up to temp then I go to town

Good good, we're on the same track then. Sounds like a plan!

Serdar normally has a good quantity of live rock in stock.....if not, most rock supplies come into LA on a thursday and are shipped out ASAP...it wont take long for you to get it.

Nice nice. Maybe I could send him an email for starters. I'll do that when the time comes closer. Ohh now I'm excited.

*dances*

I am Princess Ball Valve! *giggles*

Okay so if Del's the Captain, and I'm the Princess, who are you?!




[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
My hopes are so high,
that your kiss might kill me.
So won't you kill me,
so I die happy…
[/font]

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

I probably will most likely go with Serdar, just because he's the only one I'm familiar with, and I know how loyal he is to his customers. Since he'll be willing to work with me, he's got my order. I'll tell you when ordering time gets closer. Does he give out free tee shirts?!

I really like Serdar...hes a good guy with strong business ethics. Let me know when you are ready to order and ill get you that promo code Oh, and yes....he does sometimes give out free t-shirts. I have 3

Yeah...I guess that's true. I'm pretty limited on space too, so that's going to effect how I a-scape. It just would be cool to have something a little different instead of the solid line of rock going across. >.< We'll see...maybe I'll get into a creative mood and do something neat. Or maybe my creativity will have to wait for a future tank.

You will be able to get a good design/aquascape going in the bowfront.....You will just have to keep arranging it till you are happy with it

You can use your creativity on future tanks also. There will be plenty to set up!

Yeah yeah. I love it too much to give it up...it's just a matter of if I can stick w/ SPS or not. >.< I know I'll get discouraged if my acros dont do well.

I dont think you will have a problem with things not doing well. Its all about watching water quality, lighting and flow....I think you have those covered pretty well.

! You should be like, "No, the other Nate helped him." Haha, I dont really like blue backgrounds either. I just want to throw like another hundred pounds of rock in his tank. Maybe it's just me, but it seems too bare...but I do love the CBB!

There are no other Nates in the club I dont like the blue background either, but he bought the tank that way. I would much rather have a black acrylic background...oh well, its not my tank.

LOL! Works for me! I already started your stocking list in the other thread.

Yup I know....only difference is that you have total control over the stocking list. Your family has to like the list or its a no go

Oh Nate, you have NO idea. You know what he told me the other day? I asked him how come we never get Tridacnids...and he stared at me. So I said, "Why dont we ever get in clams?" And his response? "Our water is too clean for them. They like really dirty water because they're filter feeders." Hmmm...okay. Water is too clean for them? I dont really understand that....but whatever

Liana? Can you do me a favor? SLAP him for me.....and make sure its a nice and hard one Man, I hope I never get my water too clean

Yeah. It def. looks better than a regular background does. Much cleaner and flatter looking. I'm glad I decided to paint it. It was well worth the time. It's amazing how easily it scratches off though. I just hope it wont take too long for coralline to cover it

Keep calcium and alk up and it wont take long at all

Yes. Well can't I just mix the initial batch of saltwater in the tank and have it go for at least 24 hours, and then add rock? Because that way I dont have to add dechlor, so the skimmer wont flip out. Do you follow?

Yup, I follow.......and thats usually how I do it. I just make sure the water has been circulating for 24 hours and that its up to temp then I go to town

Hmm...well that's a comforting thought...because I really wasn't looking forward to mixing a whole bunch of batches...I've gotta make like 100 gallons worth. That's not much to you, but it's much to me! Dad was going to get some big Brute trash cans or something for mixing, but if we can mix it in the main display than I can just do that, and used the 25/30 gallon containers for WC's. I love it when things come together so nicely. I hope that Serdar can get my rock to me on a convenient date. Things will start coming together once all these friggen AP exams are over. I just want to be able to keep something other than dust bunnies in the tank. It's really getting to me...I've had it for almost...*counts*...5 months now. *sigh* And I knew all those ball valves would come in handy! Now it's going to be really easy to play with the flow. Oh Del is such an inspiration. *tear tear* !!

I always do new tanks like that...just make sure you add the salt slowly and that the salinity is stable before you add your rock.

Serdar normally has a good quantity of live rock in stock.....if not, most rock supplies come into LA on a thursday and are shipped out ASAP...it wont take long for you to get it.

Oh and for ball valves


[hr width='40%']Now who will be the one to dry my tears?
Who will be the one to chase away my fears?
Your love was like a guiding light
That kept me safe all day, all night.
Without you here in my life
I'm scared, I'm lost. Nothing is right

I probably will most likely go with Serdar, just because he's the only one I'm familiar with, and I know how loyal he is to his customers. Since he'll be willing to work with me, he's got my order. I'll tell you when ordering time gets closer. Does he give out free tee shirts?!

Even if it is a "normal" slice of the reef, its still a slice and thats what counts. Aquascaping is generally pretty simple...keep the rock off the back wall if possible, and make it appealing to you. After all, you are the one that is going to be looking at it. Oh, and once the SPS start growing.....you wont be able to see much of the rock anyway

Yeah...I guess that's true. I'm pretty limited on space too, so that's going to effect how I a-scape. It just would be cool to have something a little different instead of the solid line of rock going across. >.< We'll see...maybe I'll get into a creative mood and do something neat. Or maybe my creativity will have to wait for a future tank.

What are you talking about!!! You better stick with it! you havent came this far for nothing....time to put that research and knowledge to use!

Yeah yeah. I love it too much to give it up...it's just a matter of if I can stick w/ SPS or not. >.< I know I'll get discouraged if my acros dont do well.

If the new tank was done being built Id snap some pictures for you I think there are some diagram in coral prop that show the "pegs". I believe its around page 19....or somewhere in that area.

I'll have to take a look at it on my way to work today. You've sparked my interest.

He does that too! The sad thing is Ive had people ask me to help them aquascape their tank like his I just dont understand it

And yes, his CBB is awesome...its probably one of the best looking and most healthy CBB's that I have seen. Must be that PE Mysis

! You should be like, "No, the other Nate helped him." Haha, I dont really like blue backgrounds either. I just want to throw like another hundred pounds of rock in his tank. Maybe it's just me, but it seems too bare...but I do love the CBB!

No problem......you stock mine, and Ill stock yours Ill put together a list of fish that I think you and your family would enjoy..and also ones that are easy to take care of for when you are away from home, or after you go to college.

LOL! Works for me! I already started your stocking list in the other thread.

Hes a smart one isnt he?

Oh Nate, you have NO idea. You know what he told me the other day? I asked him how come we never get Tridacnids...and he stared at me. So I said, "Why dont we ever get in clams?" And his response? "Our water is too clean for them. They like really dirty water because they're filter feeders." Hmmm...okay. Water is too clean for them? I dont really understand that....but whatever.

I figured it would take a lot of coats to get good coverage....but it looks better and holds up better than a regular background.

Yeah. It def. looks better than a regular background does. Much cleaner and flatter looking. I'm glad I decided to paint it. It was well worth the time. It's amazing how easily it scratches off though. I just hope it wont take too long for coralline to cover it.

Just remember...dechlorinater WILL cause your skimmer to foam excessively! Its not a dry foam either.....its nice and wet and can make a mess rather quickly. Letting the water sit with an airstone and a heater would be better IMO...that way you can still run your skimmer when your rock is curing.

Yes. Well can't I just mix the initial batch of saltwater in the tank and have it go for at least 24 hours, and then add rock? Because that way I dont have to add dechlor, so the skimmer wont flip out. Do you follow?

Ive always mixed my first batch of water in the tank and have used tap water for the initial fill. Its not going to hurt anything. You just need to slowly add the salt so that you dont get salt settling on the sand and sitting there. Also, without rock in the tank I would cut your return pump down and aim the return nozzles from your super squirt ( ) so your sand doesnt blow around and cause a sand storm. You will probably be a bit cloudy from the sand until you add rock and get a bacteria colony going to hold the sand down/together.

Hmm...well that's a comforting thought...because I really wasn't looking forward to mixing a whole bunch of batches...I've gotta make like 100 gallons worth. That's not much to you, but it's much to me! Dad was going to get some big Brute trash cans or something for mixing, but if we can mix it in the main display than I can just do that, and used the 25/30 gallon containers for WC's. I love it when things come together so nicely. I hope that Serdar can get my rock to me on a convenient date. Things will start coming together once all these friggen AP exams are over. I just want to be able to keep something other than dust bunnies in the tank. ] It's really getting to me...I've had it for almost...*counts*...5 months now. *sigh* And I knew all those ball valves would come in handy! Now it's going to be really easy to play with the flow. Oh Del is such an inspiration. *tear tear* !!




[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
My hopes are so high,
that your kiss might kill me.
So won't you kill me,
so I die happy…
[/font]

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

That's what it seems like...I'll prolly just end up going with Fiji b/c it's the cheapest and most readily available. I thought that Serdar would really work with me so that I got exactly what I wanted, but I'm not even sure what I want. I dont know what to ask for! It's...weird.

If you tell Serdar what size tank you have (and that its bowfront) he will most likely be able to pick out some pieces for you that will make aquascaping easy. If you decide to go with Serdar let me know. I have a "promo code" that can only be used once and I wont use it by the end of June when it expires

I did I did, but it didn't get me anywhere! Actually I think I read it twice too. I feel like I HAVE to pick my centerpiece fish before I a-scape...I know I'm just going to end up with a normal "slice of reef" in the long run, I dont know why I'm even bothering.

Even if it is a "normal" slice of the reef, its still a slice and thats what counts. Aquascaping is generally pretty simple...keep the rock off the back wall if possible, and make it appealing to you. After all, you are the one that is going to be looking at it. Oh, and once the SPS start growing.....you wont be able to see much of the rock anyway

Yeah I guess...lets see if I stick with it though

What are you talking about!!! You better stick with it!] you havent came this far for nothing....time to put that research and knowledge to use!

Hmm...that's something to think about...kind of hard for me to picture though, I need visuals. Maybe when I'm in a better mood I'll think about that a little more.

If the new tank was done being built Id snap some pictures for you I think there are some diagram in coral prop that show the "pegs". I believe its around page 19....or somewhere in that area.

*dies laughing* "Oh, and NATE helped me make this BEAUTIFUL rocky arch..."

You have to admit though, he does have one of the nicest CBB you'll ever see.

He does that too! The sad thing is Ive had people ask me to help them aquascape their tank like his I just dont understand it

And yes, his CBB is awesome...its probably one of the best looking and most healthy CBB's that I have seen. Must be that PE Mysis

I guess so...I cant add fish for awhile anyway, gotta get the pod populations up and whatnot...can you make a couple suggestions though? I have entirely no idea what I want in my tank anymore...I've focused so much on the corals I guess. >.< Which isn't a bad thing, but I do want shishies too...in this tank at least.

No problem......you stock mine, and Ill stock yours Ill put together a list of fish that I think you and your family would enjoy..and also ones that are easy to take care of for when you are away from home, or after you go to college.

Oh, and believe me I know, my boss decides to put a lemon peel in the reef tank...Well, bye bye brain corals...

We had fun getting that one out...trust me I've been there done that too

Hes a smart one isnt he?

Yes, getting closer...but still so far, or so it seems. We had to do a LOT of layers. It was a waiting game really. Paint, let dry. Repeat. 3x,4x,5x Looks good now though. And I left the overflow unpainted b/c I like to be able to see into it. I dont know why, it was just something that would have bothered me otherwise.

I figured it would take a lot of coats to get good coverage....but it looks better and holds up better than a regular background.

Now about dechlor...

Yeah, eventually I'll be on an RO/DI unit, but that'll have to wait for funds to come in.

Understandable.....funds are always important when making a purchase

I dont think the LR will be added within the first 48 hours of the tank being filled with saltwater anyway, so I'm not really worried. I'll grab some Prime for top offs though.

Just remember...dechlorinater WILL cause your skimmer to foam excessively! Its not a dry foam either.....its nice and wet and can make a mess rather quickly. Letting the water sit with an airstone and a heater would be better IMO...that way you can still run your skimmer when your rock is curing.

I thought I wasn't...well, I guess, "allowed" to mix my first giant initial batch in the tank...

Ive always mixed my first batch of water in the tank and have used tap water for the initial fill. Its not going to hurt anything. You just need to slowly add the salt so that you dont get salt settling on the sand and sitting there. Also, without rock in the tank I would cut your return pump down and aim the return nozzles from your super squirt ( ) so your sand doesnt blow around and cause a sand storm. You will probably be a bit cloudy from the sand until you add rock and get a bacteria colony going to hold the sand down/together.


[hr width='40%']Now who will be the one to dry my tears?
Who will be the one to chase away my fears?
Your love was like a guiding light
That kept me safe all day, all night.
Without you here in my life
I'm scared, I'm lost. Nothing is right

Most of the rock available is very porous and there usually isnt much difference in it other than where it came from and some of the different critters that come in on it.

That's what it seems like...I'll prolly just end up going with Fiji b/c it's the cheapest and most readily available. I thought that Serdar would really work with me so that I got exactly what I wanted, but I'm not even sure what I want. I dont know what to ask for! It's...weird.

Depending on the rock, I would probably just go with 1lb per gallon to start....then hit the LFS and cherry pick specific pieces that you want to finish off your aquascaping.

Yeah, that was the idea. I think that's the best way to do it.

There are plenty of things that you can do to be different....have a look in Coral Prop, page 19 and start reading there.

I did I did, but it didn't get me anywhere! Actually I think I read it twice too. I feel like I HAVE to pick my centerpiece fish before I a-scape...I know I'm just going to end up with a normal "slice of reef" in the long run, I dont know why I'm even bothering.

a) You are brave enough...you have to be! After all, you did venture to the Dark side

Yeah I guess...lets see if I stick with it though.

b)Use your imagination.....be creative like you were on the stand Ok, Ill give out one of my little secrets that Im doing in the new tank....silicone or epoxy small shelves on the tank walls/back...then mount frags to them and let them go to town. Im hoping for a nice 3D look to make the tank more interesting.

Hmm...that's something to think about...kind of hard for me to picture though, I need visuals. Maybe when I'm in a better mood I'll think about that a little more.

I hate it that he tells everyone that I aquascaped it for him! oh well, I only did what I was told...but its def. not the look that I would want in my tank.

*dies laughing* "Oh, and NATE helped me make this BEAUTIFUL rocky arch..."

You have to admit though, he does have one of the nicest CBB you'll ever see.

Just go slow....if you dont know what fish you want as your centerpiece then dont add fish yet...get the tank up and running and start stocking corals. Fish can wait till you know exactly what you want, because if you stock it and change your mind its hell getting a fish out without taking all the rock out! (yes, personal experience talking )

I guess so...I cant add fish for awhile anyway, gotta get the pod populations up and whatnot...can you make a couple suggestions though? I have entirely no idea what I want in my tank anymore...I've focused so much on the corals I guess. >.< Which isn't a bad thing, but I do want shishies too...in this tank at least.

Oh, and believe me I know, my boss decides to put a lemon peel in the reef tank...Well, bye bye brain corals...

We had fun getting that one out...trust me I've been there done that too.

Very good! See, its getting closer! How did the painting of the back work out?

Yes, getting closer...but still so far, or so it seems. We had to do a LOT of layers. It was a waiting game really. Paint, let dry. Repeat. 3x,4x,5x Looks good now though. And I left the overflow unpainted b/c I like to be able to see into it. I dont know why, it was just something that would have bothered me otherwise.

Now about dechlor...

Yeah, eventually I'll be on an RO/DI unit, but that'll have to wait for funds to come in.

I dont think the LR will be added within the first 48 hours of the tank being filled with saltwater anyway, so I'm not really worried. I'll grab some Prime for top offs though.

I thought I wasn't...well, I guess, "allowed" to mix my first giant initial batch in the tank...

*posted out at this point*

More later...




[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
My hopes are so high,
that your kiss might kill me.
So won't you kill me,
so I die happy…
[/font]

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

So now...what type of rock, how much, and from where.

Most of the rock available is very porous and there usually isnt much difference in it other than where it came from and some of the different critters that come in on it.

I recommend [link=Phishybusiness]http://www.phishybusiness.com" style="COLOR: #FF0000[/link] or [link=Reefermadness]http://www.reefermadness.us" style="COLOR: #FF0000[/link]. Both Serdar and Chris are very helpful and will make sure you get the rock that you want. I bet they will even pick out specific sizes and shapes if you ask them too What type of rock depends on where you want to get it from...Reefermadness has very good prices on Fiji, but Phishybusiness has rock from places that nobody else carries.

Depending on the rock, I would probably just go with 1lb per gallon to start....then hit the LFS and cherry pick specific pieces that you want to finish off your aquascaping.

What structure do I want?!

Calfo made me really concentrate at the conference (ohh, that's tough to say!) on trying to get away from the traditional tank. He's seen so many of the same exact thing, it would be nice to try some different. But,
a) I dont know if I'm that brave
b) I dont know what else I could do!

There are plenty of things that you can do to be different....have a look in Coral Prop, page 19 and start reading there.

a) You are brave enough...you have to be! After all, you did venture to the Dark side

b)Use your imagination.....be creative like you were on the stand Ok, Ill give out one of my little secrets that Im doing in the new tank....silicone or epoxy small shelves on the tank walls/back...then mount frags to them and let them go to town. Im hoping for a nice 3D look to make the tank more interesting.

I dont like the archy look that Kip has, his tank is too bare IMO.
Calfo said to concentrate on picking that one perfect fish, and arrange the tank based on their natural niche or habitat or whatnot. So that's what I want to do...except I dont know what fish to base it on. I've gotta pick that prized centerpiece fish I guess...I'm in love with many Anthias as you know, but I dont think I have a big enough tank to keep them nicely. And I like 6-lines...but a 3" fish wont really be the focal point of my tank...and I like CBB but just for Aiptasia control...and I like dartfish, but they're tiny too, and they just look cool...and I dont think my family will let me have a reef tank w/ some sort of anenomefish...I like the pink skunk. *sigh* Why is this so hard?

I hate it that he tells everyone that I aquascaped it for him! oh well, I only did what I was told...but its def. not the look that I would want in my tank.

Just go slow....if you dont know what fish you want as your centerpiece then dont add fish yet...get the tank up and running and start stocking corals. Fish can wait till you know exactly what you want, because if you stock it and change your mind its hell getting a fish out without taking all the rock out! (yes, personal experience talking )

Side note...we painted the back of the tank. The whole thing has been up and running (with freshwater, for leak tests) for over 48 hours now. We're doing pretty good.

Very good! See, its getting closer! How did the painting of the back work out?

Question---what do you do to your tanks as far as dechlorinating is concerned...?

Im assuming that you are talking about your initial fill using tap water? On initial fill I usually just let the water sit with the pumps running to keep circulation high.....after 24 hours you dont have to worry about it anymore. I have been known to use some Prime to dechlorinate if I was in a hurry to get salt mixed and get the tank going.

If you plan on adding salt to the water in thats in the tank now you will be fine. Just add it slowly or you will get a nice carbonate deposit on your heater Add salt mix till you get it to where you want the salinity to be, then let it set with the pumps going for a day then test again and adjust accordingly.

If you are using all ro or ro/di water.....you dont have to worry about dechlorinating ever.

I know I had more things I was wondering about, but I forget...so I'll prolly post again on this soon. *has too much on her mind*

I always forget things too if I dont write them down or record them on the phone when I think of them. Post when you remember what they were.....its not like Im going anywhere



[hr width='40%']Now who will be the one to dry my tears?
Who will be the one to chase away my fears?
Your love was like a guiding light
That kept me safe all day, all night.
Without you here in my life
I'm scared, I'm lost. Nothing is right

Sounds good, that's almost def. what I'll do then.

So now...what type of rock, how much, and from where. Ugg...

I think I'll go with a big mail order at first, and then browse LFS' for smaller pieces to complete the structure I want.

What structure do I want?!

Calfo made me really concentrate at the conference (ohh, that's tough to say!) on trying to get away from the traditional tank. He's seen so many of the same exact thing, it would be nice to try some different. But,
a) I dont know if I'm that brave
b) I dont know what else I could do!
I dont like the archy look that Kip has, his tank is too bare IMO.
Calfo said to concentrate on picking that one perfect fish, and arrange the tank based on their natural niche or habitat or whatnot. So that's what I want to do...except I dont know what fish to base it on. I've gotta pick that prized centerpiece fish I guess...I'm in love with many Anthias as you know, but I dont think I have a big enough tank to keep them nicely. And I like 6-lines...but a 3" fish wont really be the focal point of my tank...and I like CBB but just for Aiptasia control...and I like dartfish, but they're tiny too, and they just look cool...and I dont think my family will let me have a reef tank w/ some sort of anenomefish...I like the pink skunk. *sigh* Why is this so hard?

Side note...we painted the back of the tank. The whole thing has been up and running (with freshwater, for leak tests) for over 48 hours now. We're doing pretty good.

Question---what do you do to your tanks as far as dechlorinating is concerned...?

I know I had more things I was wondering about, but I forget...so I'll prolly post again on this soon. *has too much on her mind*

STUPID AP EXAMS ]:|




[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
My hopes are so high,
that your kiss might kill me.
So won't you kill me,
so I die happy…
[/font]

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

What are your thoughts on throwing in some LR without having my lights yet.

I know it can be done but i'm kinda sketchy about it...I just want this tank filled

You will be fine with throwing rock in without any light over the tank. The coraline will die off but it will come back once light is over the tank.

Just keep testing and keep up on water changes if the ammonia and nitrite get to high....save all the little critters you can.

[hr width='40%']Now who will be the one to dry my tears?
Who will be the one to chase away my fears?
Your love was like a guiding light
That kept me safe all day, all night.
Without you here in my life
I'm scared, I'm lost. Nothing is right

Thankies.

Things are slowly falling into place. It's getting there.

The tanks been running for 2 days with freshwater. We've been doing leak checks and whatnot.

I'd like to pick up a decent amount of TM this weekend...and we have sand already.

What are your thoughts on throwing in some LR without having my lights yet.

I know it can be done but i'm kinda sketchy about it...I just want this tank filled.

I know I know...in a reef tank only bad things happen quickly.




[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
My hopes are so high,
that your kiss might kill me.
So won't you kill me,
so I die happy…
[/font]

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

Its bigger then mine....

~Scott

Okey dokey, did some tank work today, so here's some piccies.

I might have to resize these later, but no time now. I have no idea how big they're going to be.

This first picture is the modified stand w/ the sump tank in it too. The sump tank is a 30 gallon long I believe, and you can sort of see the divider we made. (Better pic of that later) It shows how well everything fits.



This next picture is without the sump, so you can really see the woodwork. All the pine is the stuff we added on, anything black was the original.



This third picture is just the sump tank. We used lexan to divide the tank into two parts. The smaller part is going to be used as a sump. There will be no substrate, and it'll be used strictly for equipment. The other side is the fuge side, and it can be used for vegetable filtration, or basically whatever I need it for. The divider also helps calm the overflow pipe so there's no tidal waves.



That's all for now, I'll add some more later if I find the time.



[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
If genies were real and wishes came true, I’d rub the bottle and be holding you,
I’d close my eyes, wish upon a star, open my eyes, and there you are…
[/font][/font][/font]

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

More pictures? Cant wait to see updates.








[hr width='40%']I lay here in my bed and dream of you
Hoping you are dreaming of me too...
Someday the miles will be less and we will dream together
Your heart and mine Always and Forever...

See, with a little creative thinking everything worked out....you did all that worrying and brick throwing for nothing!

Meh. I guess so. It still technically doesn't "work" yet, so we dont know for sure.

Tell me about it...when I was plumbing up the 180 I made 15 trips to HD. I would make a list, and add extra parts on top of the ones that I needed and I still ended up going back I think I spent more on gas than I did on the plumbing!

Ditto! I think it's unavoidable...and with the cost of gas these days, I wouldn't be surprised if we actually did spend more on gas.

Ah, one other thing that I noticed....the strainer on the end of your Durso standpipe isnt really needed. My experience with them is that they tend to start growing algae on them and they either clog or the flow slows down..way down. The way the overflow is set up you shouldnt have to worry about fish or snails getting back there so IMO and IME its not needed. Just thought I'd point that out so you could make the decision while its easier to get to.

Hmm. Didn't think of that. The strainer is kind of, um, how do I describe it...it's very open? I guess? So it doesn't seem like it'd clog too easy, but I'll take it off anyways because there's really not a point to having it there. Smart thinking.

Pictures will be up soon.



[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
If genies were real and wishes came true, I’d rub the bottle and be holding you,
I’d close my eyes, wish upon a star, open my eyes, and there you are…
[/font]

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

I also want to share the DIY canopy, or skirt rather, that we built together. We had to build our own because Oceanic/AGA/Perfecto all those companies haven't put the wooden canopies for bowfronts on the market yet. Plus, using MH and weird circulation units always provides issues for design. Another thing that contributed to our design was my height. With the skirt on (which is 10" tall) the whole set up is exactly my height. So we made special removable panels for daily feedings and small maintenance. This way the whole canopy doesn't need to come off for a quick task.

Very cool, cant wait to see pics of it on the tank

I will ALSO share the way we modified the stand. This had two purposes, which I think I already stated. Reinforcement, for one thing, and because of the bowfront design there wasn't much room under the stand for a sump. So we knocked out some braces and made our own, and extended the whole thing a couple of inches. Now, we can comfortably fit a 100 gallon system within 4 feet of space. Plus, this allowed us to raise the skimmer to the proper height.

Aquarists are some of the most creative people around. I have to say, this hobby always keeps you on yours toes.

See, with a little creative thinking everything worked out....you did all that worrying and brick throwing for nothing!

Another thing I'm learning from this whole project: It's impossible to make less than 3 trips to Home Depot while plumbing a new tank. No matter how well you plan, no matter how many lists you write, you will always have to return. Several times that is.

Tell me about it...when I was plumbing up the 180 I made 15 trips to HD. I would make a list, and add extra parts on top of the ones that I needed and I still ended up going back I think I spent more on gas than I did on the plumbing!

Ah, one other thing that I noticed....the strainer on the end of your Durso standpipe isnt really needed. My experience with them is that they tend to start growing algae on them and they either clog or the flow slows down..way down. The way the overflow is set up you shouldnt have to worry about fish or snails getting back there so IMO and IME its not needed. Just thought I'd point that out so you could make the decision while its easier to get to.




[hr width='40%']I lay here in my bed and dream of you
Hoping you are dreaming of me too...
Someday the miles will be less and we will dream together
Your heart and mine Always and Forever...

Last edited by DarkRealm Overlord at 27-Apr-2005 20:17

Thanks. I'm pretty sure we modified the top a bit since that picture was taken, but my Dad is playing with it down in the basement so I can't grab another updated pic for a couple of days. Not to mention he's got the camera 6 hours away at our other house.

I also want to share the DIY canopy, or skirt rather, that we built together. We had to build our own because Oceanic/AGA/Perfecto all those companies haven't put the wooden canopies for bowfronts on the market yet. Plus, using MH and weird circulation units always provides issues for design. Another thing that contributed to our design was my height. With the skirt on (which is 10" tall) the whole set up is exactly my height. So we made special removable panels for daily feedings and small maintenance. This way the whole canopy doesn't need to come off for a quick task.

I will ALSO share the way we modified the stand. This had two purposes, which I think I already stated. Reinforcement, for one thing, and because of the bowfront design there wasn't much room under the stand for a sump. So we knocked out some braces and made our own, and extended the whole thing a couple of inches. Now, we can comfortably fit a 100 gallon system within 4 feet of space. Plus, this allowed us to raise the skimmer to the proper height.

Aquarists are some of the most creative people around. I have to say, this hobby always keeps you on yours toes.

Another thing I'm learning from this whole project: It's impossible to make less than 3 trips to Home Depot while plumbing a new tank. No matter how well you plan, no matter how many lists you write, you will always have to return. Several times that is.


[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
Life’s tough,
Get a helmet.
[/font]

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

Very nice job on the plumbing.

Dan


Dan

I'm still considering them, they aren't totally out of the question. The one I've been considering lately is the combo MH/T5. It's got two 250 watt halides, and the T5's in the front and back. It's a nice price too.

Many phone calls between my Dad and Paul, and some help from the reef club led up to the plumbing. They all understood it, I really didn't have to touch any of it. I just said what I wanted, and BOOM! it was done. I'm happy with it.

We've had water running through the tank to test the plumbing, but the pump for the OM was on backorder, and when it came in finally it was damaged. So we had to ship it back and actually it shold be arriving today. Then we can make more modifications if necessary.


[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
Life’s tough,
Get a helmet.
[/font]

Last edited by Ferretfish at 25-Apr-2005 12:47

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

Been working on my new tank a lot lately.

Updates:

72 gallon RR bowfront

30 gallon sump/refugium (1/3 sump, 2/3's fuge)

AquaC EV protein skimmer w/ mag 5, sitting outside the sump on a removable shelf

mag 12 on the return

Oceans Motions 4 way super squirt w/ Iwaki (PanWorld? It didn't come yet and I cant remember) pump, alternating sequences---Got a ball valve on each for complete control, and lockline tubing on the end of each pipe. I was originally going to go with the 4 way, but after many calls to Paul from OM I learned that I could easily get away with the super squirt.

Modified stand, in order to fit the sump and to reinforce it, and DIY canopy

Several hundred pounds of Southdown sand in my garage, just waiting

Heaters, test kits, hydrometers, refractometers, the usual deal...

Lights- undecided, and I'll tell you guys why. Originally I was going to do an Aquamedic strip fixture. But many in my reef club pointed out that if something goes wrong, the whole thing needs to be sent back for repair, so I'll suddenly be left with NO lights. But I really dont like pendants...so I'm still deciding.

I attended the NERAC conference on the 16th and 17th. Met all the favorites, Anthony Calfo, Scott W. Michael, etc. And I've got a great reef club helping me out.

So any input appreciated, I just thought I'd update as I haven't posted in awhile.

Pics:



and...



So...comments, questions, concerns, whatever. All appreciated.

-Ferret


[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
Life’s tough,
Get a helmet.
[/font][/font]

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

Good memory I am starting to get quite the collection of shirts from online vendors It seems I can always con a shirt out of them

! *pictures Nate's closet* Marine Depot, Phishy Business...hahaha At NERAC the Cyclop-eez guys were there wearing the Got Pods? t-shirts, those are amazing.

No matter what tank you have, aquascaping will always take playing around with..and not just hours You will mess around with it for weeks trying to get it just the way you like it. I had my 180 set up for 7 months then decided to take everything out and re-aquascape it...talk about a chore!

Ouchies. >.< Yeah I think I can count on that happening...especially with the way I can be a perfectionist.

Good, Im glad you are planning future setups already I hope everything works out and you can have a house full of tanks and frags

It's impossible to NOT form future set ups...I mean, if you see something you like, but it's not compatible with the other things you like...BOOM! New tank! Or at least, that's the way I see it. Why limit yourself?

Water quality will be a piece of cake once the tank settles down and you get the balance. You understand the concept, you just need to put it into action. You can do it, I know you can

I hope so...thanks for the vote of confidence.

Yup, same reason I didnt have any growing in my tank except on the rock....Calcium gets sucked up kinda fast with SPS.

That's what I figured...will I get good coralline growth on the back if I wait on SPS for a couple months...?

I hope YOU like everything I suggest...I remember going through Reef Fishes so I think I have a pretty good idea of things you like Ill start working on a list soon...hopefully things will settle down a bit and Ill have more time to research and post.

Yes yes...I trust you in doing a good job. And I mean c'mon, basically anything pink purple or blue appeals to me.

You know I would if it was possible....I dont mind giving away freebies to fellow reefers.

That's the only way to have a nice tank in this hobby. Awww, Nate should be Fish Profile Sweetheart. Everyone at work has names like that.

The first two are a two part calcium and alkalinity supplement that you dose directly to the tank in a high flow area. The two brands that I would suggest is B-Ionic or Oceans Blend.....both are comparable but IMO/IME the Oceans Blend is cheaper and lasts longer. Calcium and Kalk reactors just make life a little easier because you dont have to dose.

Okay, I know I've seen the B-ionic one at work, and yeah it's a two part thing by Kent I think. I always look at the Kent supplements b/c the bottles are so colorful and attractive. I haven't seen the other one, but of course if we dont carry it I can order it in from somewhere else. But...

You could also talk to Joe (or others in your club) and have them help you set up a drip system for dosing kalkwasser. This would do a couple things....keep your calcium up, keep your PH up and not have a night day swing, and also keep your alk up. Kalkwasser also helps precipitate phosphate and will help your skimmer pull it from the water

Yes yes...that sounds like a much better idea. Initially I wouldn't mind dosing, but overtime it's going to get annoying, especially when I have to trust other people to do it. So...how soon should I do that...? I'll bring it up to "the boys" when it's time, I'm sure they wouldn't mind.

If we are on the same track......I hope we are going the same direction

I think we are...I think we're both moving towards success with these annoying-pain-in-the-butt new SPS tanks.

Im sure Serdar will be more than willing to answer any questions you have. Its good to see you excited about the tank again....I know its been a rough road.

Good...I cant wait to talk to him. And yes...this tank has been a rough road, and it's hard to make progress when you're unhappy about the way things are going. >.< Sometimes if you remember to keep your chin up, and "just keep swimming" things are a bit easier though. I promise.

Prince Ball Valve?

Oh you're cool now! *giggles* Yeah I guess you can be Prince BV. Or King BV, whichever you prefer. Or co captain!




[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
My hopes are so high,
that your kiss might kill me.
So won't you kill me,
so I die happy…
[/font]

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish

Okay, well maybe I haven't quite placed THAT many orders, but I have placed quite more than the average teenager has. I dont remember seeing the free t shirt box, I guess I'll have to look more carefully. >.< Do you have to spend a certain amount in order to get it?

Yes you do...I dont remember what the amount is, but I know you have placed orders large enough to qualify for it. If you ask them, they may throw one in just because of how much you have ordered in the last couple months

Side note...all the plumbing is done on the tank, now we're working on the electrical stuff today. Playing around with outlets heaters pumps and more...oh, and the super squirt! I think we have to put in like a new circuit or something, there's so much power going into that tank that the TV and the computer along with the ps2 and everything else in there is sorta freaking out

I know how that goes. My brother is coming up this weekend to add a subpanel in the basement just for tank equipment. In the old house I had to upgrade the wiring in certain parts of the house to a larger sized wire, and also bump up the breakers on certain parts of the house. It was to the point that if the tank lights were on and you ran the microwave you would kick the breaker. I wont have to worry about it in the new house though....there will be plenty of JuIIIce coming out of the new subpanel

Yeah, my dad pretty much bought all the plumbing supplies. Which saved me another couple hundred, which means a lot. Also, I'm hoping I can get away with, "You like that fish mom? (pointing to a Princess Anthias) Good! You can buy it for us!" She's so cute when she picks out things, I love going to the fish stores with her. We look at all the tanks together and she shows me which frags look healthy and she shows me the things she likes. She's HOOKED on a pure crystal white bubble coral, that's going to be fun to find over here. Usually the ones I see have some sort of greenish tint, but I know we can find one she likes. She also likes goni's; even though they're LPS? I dont mind too much b/c we actually get some really nice specimens in here, it'll just be a matter of finding the perfect colored one. (But under the T5's it might not matter too much anyway...)

Im hoping that my Dad will do the same thing when they come up this weekend...I think I can con him into buying the plumbing and the stuff to build the stand Its kinda funny cause I can get him to buy things and he doesnt even realise that Im doing it.

It seems like your Mom is an LPS nut. Everything that you have listed that she likes is an LPS. Oh well, most LPS are not that bad to have mixed into an SPS tank as long as you take into account the possibility of sweepers. Im glad that they are taking an interest in it and helping you out

Do they have tanks? My parents really want this tank to look good b/c it is now the focal point of our den. Whenever we have company they will be sure to see it.

They dont have tanks, but I know they would if I was closer and could help them start them up and take care of them for awhile. They really enjoyed sitting in front of mine and watching it for hours.

I have no doubt that your tank will look good....it wont happen over night, but it will happen.

Yeah, I'm a weird kid, what can I say. They dont understand it, but I'm sure when they get to see it they'll appreciate it much more. Sometimes I let my closer friends in on decisions, they "adopt" fish for my tank. Hey, if it keeps them happy, they can pretend that the Nemo is theirs.

You are far from being weird.....Even if they dont appreciate it or understand it I would be willing to place bets that they will think its cool.

I like your plan on letting them adopt things for your tank Its a good way to get them involved too!

Thanks. It's for your own good!!!

I dont know about that, but Ill keep it up

Ohhh not anymore it's not

Ummmm.....MMTB?!?!

Ohhh I like that mille. And now that your superman is gone, I think you're going to need another one. Greenish things dont usually appeal to me just b/c they just remind me of algae a lot. That doesn't mean that there are exceptions though

I already have a frag of the superman waiting for me to get back up and running....same with the Mille and various others that he has, including the pink BN and green BN.

Im not too into leathers, but the green polyp leathers are worth having...check out reeffarmers.com and see how long the wait list is for them. I think it goes to 2009 or something crazy like that plus the price is outragous for the size. While they may be "rare" in some places, they are all over the place here. They are always up for sale on our forum, and nobody wants them....because everyone already has them

Aww, that's cute. I wish some of the people in the club were more towards my age. >.< Whenever the guys come over to help the other guys out, they usually will treat them to dinner and wine or something...and I'm just this random little 16 year old in the middle of an amazing hobby. Not like I'm complaining, it's just that in the entire reef club, from all over the island, there is only ONE other member my age. Grrr. The hobby is growing, but we still need to get more people involved.

Cris is a very cool guy, and even more generous. If you ever make it out here we will have to head over to his house and check things out....We can also hit Dels, Kips, Steves, and anyone elses that you want to check out.

I think the youngest member in our club is 11. Our club is growing like crazy. I remember when I would go to meetings and I would know everyone there Thats not the case anymore.

Well that's pretty cool! I totally forgot that you guys exchanged your beaches for mountains. That is so not fair...b/c I like mountains more. I set myself up for this one. Actually we still have mountains here, my house up state is IN the mountains. Just...well, they're a couple hours away. At least I can have both if I want to!!! I want a club ski trip

*looks out window* Whaaaa, could it be? Are those the Colorado Rocky Mountains I see? Yes, you did set yourself up for that one and I took advantage of it

The club ski trips are fun.....or so I hear. I havent been boarding in soooooo long I dont even know if I remember how to do it I think we are planning a big field trip for this summer too.....not sure where we are going to go, but we are going to rent a huge bus and go somewhere.

Merph.

Sorry

It's already weird not being able to ask you for a pic of your tank, get moving silly!

Im moving as fast as money will let me Think its weird not being able to ask for a pic of the tank? Try not taking pics of the tank and corals. I use to take pics of every coral in the tank once a week to track growth and color. Not to mention not hearing the tank running.....its a freaky sound to be able to hear the fridge kick on and off!

LOL, I'll be the plumbing on this tank could give anyone, even Calfo, a headache. Maybe you should fly him in for tank plumbing day? I have no idea what I want to do with my rocks, I've looked through the Book of Coral Prop but it didn't really help...b/c I still dont have a clue as to what I want to do. I dont think I'm even going to think about it more until I see the stocking list, b/c I want to make it the most natural setting for those shishies.

I wont fly him out, but I will guarantee that he will see the plans and be able to comment/offer suggestions on it. Im gonna see if I can beat Dels ball valve record.

You wont know what to do with the rockwork until you get the rock and just start doing it. It will come to you during the process. Just dont get frustrated if it takes you all day to get it aquascaped

Ill work on the stocking list tonight and hopefully post it tomorrow night for you

WHAT?!?! Oh doesn't that just make you feel great...

Yup it does....but not as great as seeing his 800 gallon display tank I guess it helps when you can build your own tanks

99% acros will be pretty cool. And I picked out a nice list of clams for you to help fill out that 1%.

I've been looking at Atlantisaquarium.net ever since you sent me the link of the acro that resembles L. spp. Even sometimes they cheat on their sci names though. I need to order (another) book.

Everyone cheats on their Scientific names They have to unless they want to take a frag, bleach it, and then look at it under a scope to get a correct ID. Most of the time they get pretty close though

If you want a book that will show good pictures of the corals, and also the coral skeleton let me know...I recommended it to you one time already, but I think it was a tad expensive for you right now.

Pig. Lol, well that's good. Just seems like for some reason when FProfillians dont feel like eating they come into chat.

Wow, thats the same reason some of them have taken 3 weeks to get moved!

*fingers crossed* Online dealers are the biggest blessing and the biggest curse at the same time. Does MarineDepot ship free on livestock when you buy over $175 like with dry goods? I'm afraid I'm going to be sucked into buying online constantly. Although the new reef store has several hundred gallons w/ halides dedicated to SPS. Finally

I dont believe they do....actually i doubt they do since they are not associated with Marine depot in any way. They are completely different business'

There are a couple stores here that stock mostly Acro's....they still dont get the stuff that you can get online though. Everything is cherry picked as by local stores before it even has a chance to be listed on an availability list. Thats why its nice to have connections and be able to fly out and do some cherry picking yourself

I'm pretty good with the whole patience deal...after all, I have been waiting since Christmas. I think todays project is adding in sand, I'm trying to do a little something each day. Something tells me I might not be able to lift the bags though, and I dont have anyone to help me, so this could be quite an event

Thats good that you have patience...I hope it continues I like your plan of trying to do a little something every day. It makes it seem like you are making progress even if you dont do a whole lot to it at once.

The thing is, summer isn't the busiest season, b/c they dont specialize in ponds, they specialize in marine. I'm not sure what's going to happen, but he has my number, so all we can do is cross our fingers and wait.

You would be suprised with how much business they will have during the summer. The store I worked at was 100% marine and we were just as busy in the summer (if not busier) than what we were in the winter. Holiday time is when it really slowed down.

If this doesn't fall through the way I want it to I'm not sure what I'm going to do...

Thats easy....Keep your chin up and keep plugging away. I know its hard to do sometimes, but.....if I have to do it then you do too

HEY NOW!!! I'm not as short as you think I am. Okay...well, maybe. The skimmers are cool, so is the fluidized bed thingies he's got. I forgot to mention he's also running Ozone. That's a new concept that really fascinates me. I'm learning about it slowly, dont think it's right for this tank, but in the future possibly. As far as UV goes, to me it just seems like it kills off the bad but it kills off too much good at the same time. Our friends have one on their 90 reef, but it's not SPS dominated, there's very simple things in there. *shrug*

you forget that I know how tall you are Fluidized bed filters are great for stores....they are able to process a LOT of nitrate.

As for the Ozone....Id look into it if you want to. It would do wonders for your tank, and make the SPS veeeerrry happy. Ozone will increase your skimmer performance, raise ORP, and also make the water crystal clear so that your SPS get the most light they can get from the fixture that you chose. Its DEF. beneficial to any reef tank IMO.

Exactly. I really hope this turns out to be the new job. I'd really like to work there, they've got a nice selection. Today I saw several rare-ish eels and rays, some nice angels and butterflies, including the HUGEST CBB I've ever seen, the HUGEST heniochus i've ever seen, and lots of smaller favorites, like the 6 line and dartfish. I also saw a purple filefish maybe? THAT was cool...I'm so excited for the corals.

Im keeping my fingers crossed for you. I know you really want it, and I know you would be an great addition to their staff. With the knowledge that you have now, I dont see how they could say no.

Hey now, I do NOT snort when I laugh! Silly.

I NEVER said you did

Oh? Well I guess we'll have to wait and see if they follow the path of reefkeeping. When all my reef books move down to the fish room I'm sure they'll find some time to do a little bit of research, even if they dont care about phosphates the way I do.

I have a feeling they will get into more as you start to stock the tank...how could they not be interested in it?

Indeed. The SPS will probably have to go. Oh well, I dont think I should be talking about this when they aren't even HERE yet. They probably wont want to take care of anything that needs to be target fed either. *cough* Sun Polyps *cough* I've been target feeding at work, it's actually fun. I like feeding the flame scallops the most!

It never hurts to plan ahead into the future a bit

Ya gonna try your hand with Tubastrea huh? IMO they are not hard to take care of at all....just a little time consuming at first when you are trying to train them. If you do it right, they will be out all day long

Awww. She's such a cutie though. She may bark a lot, but I dont think she could beat Mocha in a stealing contest. My fuzzbutt is the biggest thief EVER! She could kick Akia's butt in the Stealing Monster tournament. Too bad she doesn't double as a SnuggleMonster though. She bites toes...

She is a cutie....AND I get to see her this weekend when my parents come up

I really miss my little SnuggleMonster

Ouch...that sounds pretty boring and pretty tiring. Wait...what tanks do you have to top off if all the SPS are gone..? *confused* Well at least you have more time to yourself now that you're closer to work. No more rushing to and from lunch breaks and whatnot. And who could complain about more sleep?

I still have to top off the tanks because of the live rock and fish

I will have a little more time to myself. The sleep issue isnt really because of the distance that I have to drive....its more of a issue with me getting use to being up at 4am a couple months ago

More time at home for lunch breaks will be nice though

Nah, you would have been less happy with it in the long run if you got a smaller house. I think you'll be happy with what you chose. Do whatever you feel is right; just make sure the roomie is an SPS freak or you're going to have quite a few problems!

I might not have been as happy, but I would have had more money and not have to work as much. Im gonna give it a shot without a roomie for atleast a couple months to see how things go. If Im struggling with bills then Ill look into it.

I highly doubt I will find a roomie that is an SPS freak....atleast not around here.

You better get moving! I can't wait to see the webby. Are you guys carrying dry goods and livestock? There probably wont be any good livestock on the site anyway, you and Kip will snatch all the good frags and save the suckier ones for everyone else.

We will just carry dry goods for awhile...the plan is for me to start stocking SPS a little farther down the road. That will probably happen when/if I start doing the business full time from home.

How did you know that we would be cherry picking? We wont cherry pick everything though....and what we do cherry pick will be put in grow out systems so we can start selling frags of them.

I hope the princes are good. Frequent buyers discount anyone?

Ummmm, I dont think we will be selling Princes The prices will be very good from what I have seen. Im sure we could work out a Frequent buyers discount

Dont worry, I'm a tough cookie, and I'm watching out for myself. I'll be okay.

Good deal...thats what I like to hear

Daydreams are good! Well I do have a beatiful reef-to-be tank. Does that count. Maybe you could draw up a giant blueprint or something? And hang it on the wall? Or just print out a picure of the 180 at its best, blown up of course. And buy a tape that plays overflow sounds. Or just listen to one of those therapy tapes that plays waves crashing against the shores...same effect I'm sure.

How about I hire an artist to come and paint the whole wall to look like a reef! Then I wouldnt have to set up a tank! *starts running*

know the feeling. This reminds me, I have to scan in the pictures I've been drawing. I did a really good one last night that I have to finish. I'm gunna have to play with the scanner later.

Yes you do! Im anxious to see them

YES!!! I finally made it through this post!

I did too! Have fun replying

Hey Nate? It's your turn to post. Have fun.

Ummmm, no its your turn

BTW, How is the tank looking now? Is it still cloudy or did it settle a little?

Ill post links to the lighting for the fuge and the timers in a little bit....gotta grab some eats first

*lobs giant cool whip ball at Liana*

[hr width='40%']Go to my room and I close my eyes
I make believe that I have a new life
I don’t believe you when you say
Everything will be wonderful someday

Okay, as requested by you annoying little kids in chat, here's the pics with the sand added. It's terrible, but part of the process. Tank was filled with sand and water at approximately 6 PM eastern time...

w/o sump showing...


With sump showing...


I hope those worked.

*kicks photobucket*

-Ferret

PS...no laughing at my ugly tank

EDIT: Gahh! They're sideways! *smacks head* grr...i'll fix it later, deal for now *tired*



[hr width='40%'][font color="#000080"]
My hopes are so high,
that your kiss might kill me.
So won't you kill me,
so I die happy…
[/font][/font]

Last edited by Ferretfish at 15-May-2005 19:01

-Formerly known as the Ferretfish