refugium

[sunnyaz]

I was going to put a hang-on-back refugium on a 20 gallon salt tank. What size refuge should I use?

 

[reefman23]

simple answer? As big as you can safely fit. The more added volume the better.

Jesse

 

[sunnyaz]

Here is what I was thinking of doing.I have a 20 gallon tropical tank that I was going to convert into a salt. Here is a sort list of what I was going to get. Let me know what you think.

UV sterilizer 8watt
24in T5 linear double strip
CPR Aquafuge hang on back refugium with pump 3.60 gallon
protein skimmer
Rio 6hf fyperflow powerhead 350gph

I haven't though about the LS and LR yet.
I not sure on how much I should get.

 

[Jennie]

Everything on your list sounds good, and like Jesse stated, by going with the 19" Aquafuge you are increasing your water volume.

 

[sunnyaz]

Ok. Another easy question. Do I need a filter?

 

[Jennie]

Well, with adding a fuge you can add live rock rubble/macro algea/sand/etc. for instance and it becomes a natural filter. There are many combinations you can use to suit your needs. It can also help stabilize your water parameters.

 

[aquemeni5110]

On top of natural filtration,..... mechanical filtration is good for larger paticles such as uneaten food, waste, etc.. basically stuff that doesn't dissolve through biological filtration.

:welcome to Nanotank!

 

[reefman23]

Do you have a link to the T5 lighting you are considering? I would also possibly reconsider the Rio pump... some people have had big problems with thier larger pumps.

Jesse

 

[sunnyaz]

You kow I use the www.marineandreef.com site. They are based here in AZ. I have a Rio for my 8w UV and I haven't had any problems. What do you think of the Maxijets?

 

[reefman23]

the maxi-jets are more reliable. Which T5's are you looking into and is this a 20L or 20H?

Jesse

 

[sunnyaz]

I was looking at the 24in Aqualight double linear strip T5 fixture, Aqua Ultraviolet 8watt sterilizer, and CPR Aquafuge medium hang on back refugium w/pump 3.60 gallon.