57g rimless macroalgae tank

[txg8gxp]

I got a Oceanic Illuminata 57g rimless, I love the size and look of this tank. Tank is 36x18.5x21. This will take me awhile but I think I have a pretty good plan. Sump and skimmer should be here soon, I'm going with a PM R30 sump with a reef octopus 110. I will use the mag7 I have for the return pump, and I have a rio 4h I plan to use to run 2 TLF 150 reactors. Desiding on lighting has been killing me, but I have a plan. I will run 5 evilc66 par38 led fixtures on a track lighting system. This will keep everything very clean and modern looking. Running the led's on a track system will make adding led's or even a MH pendant very easy. I plan to run a single MP40 pump.

[hobogato]

that is a very nice looking tank, i cant wait to see what you do with it!

[txg8gxp]

Thanks, I ordered some dry rock from macrorock.com. Nice stuff, I like the rock alot. I didn't get alot so I may end up ordering some more. I will wait till I stack it up and go from there.

[ismvel]

That is a very nice looking tank. Once I get my army commission (hopefully in the next year - year and a half, I plan on going rimless but maybe not as big as you have or what I have. I was thinking something in the 20 - 30 gallon range. Is that tank starphire?

Love the look, very clean :)

[txg8gxp]

No...too much money. I wish


. Is that tank starphire?
Love the look, very clean :)

[Big_Pun]

nice thats great tank. I've been drooling over that rank at gabes since he got it in

[txg8gxp]

Option 1 for rock layout.

[sharkboy]

Awesome tank!!! the rock looks very much like live rock also...keep the pics coming!

[txg8gxp]

Option 2 Only changed the left side alittle to try to add some more shape.

[txg8gxp]

Option 3 Any ideas would be cool.

[ismvel]

I had some algae problem and I redid my rocks this week. Here is what I did...top down shot.

Tank is a little dirty, but I just did a water change and will take better pictures from the sides.

But doing this opened it up a bit and gave me more room to put items on the sand.

Dimensions 24 x 24 x 24

http://i798.photobucket.com/albums/yy270/ismvel/Topdown.jpg

[Big_Pun]

with center over flow I would stack in center start from front work up like a lil moutain or two seperate stacks in side

[txg8gxp]

Not perfect yet, but getting closer.

[txg8gxp]

Ok, I dont like the rock stacked up in the center. I think this looks alot better.

[txg8gxp]

Any opinions on rock layout?

[Europhyllia]

I like the little island/ big island look.
Love the tank. Very snazzy :D

[txg8gxp]

Thanks, I'm starting to get all excited now that it's coming together.


I like the little island/ big island look.
Love the tank. Very snazzy :D

[saabtech]

now that the rock is in the tank it sure looks alot bigger!
the first post had no reference point and looked a little small.

[txg8gxp]

The tank is not huge, small compared to yours but perfect for what I want(or think I want).



now that the rock is in the tank it sure looks alot bigger!
the first post had no reference point and looked a little small.

[txg8gxp]

This is my lighting plans so far. I think it will fit with the clean modern look I like. Picture from evilc66's setup.

[versach000]

I got a Oceanic Illuminata 57g rimless, I love the size and look of this tank. Tank is 36x18.5x21.


21 tall??

how much did you pay for tank??

[txg8gxp]

Tanks normally around $300, $650 for combo.


21 tall??

how much did you pay for tank??

[versach000]

good price..

[hobogato]

very cool on the lights, and i agree with karin on the rocks. its gonna be fun to watch you put this together

[dclegern]

That is the perfect tank!!!! Daaaaaamn......
Mine is 36x18x25h.....and just loosing that 4 inches off the top would be ideal. not to mention the rimless and predrilled.
Best of luck on that beauty! i'm sure it'll look great.

Only question, is the rock you're putting in LR or just look alike stuff? It looks pretty similar.

[ismvel]

Marco Rocks are dried out rocks. They just cook them so they are pest free. They are not DIY or homemade if that is what you are referring to. They will become live with time, as all tanks who start off with dry / cooked / uncured rocks.

I have purchased Marco Rocks and it is a great deal. Because they are dry, they are light and you actually get more for your money. 25 lbs of his dry rocks are more like 50 lbs of rock you would get at a LFS.

Plus they have great shapes and are typically very porous. Next time I start off a new tank, I will purchase rocks from them again.

www.marcorocks.com

[dclegern]

what type of lighting is that.......again, I like. I think!!!

[txg8gxp]

The rock is dry cured rock, for the price I thought it was a great deal. No pest, etc. I got 50 pounds of rock and used about 40-45. The rock is nice, once seeded with some coraline, etc. it will look great.

[txg8gxp]

The lights are japenesse Par38 spotlights refitted with cree led's. Very low power useage, plus for NPS tanks I love the spotlight look. It seems to really make blue and purple gorgs really pop when there in shadowed areas.



what type of lighting is that.......again, I like. I think!!!

[txg8gxp]

Thanks.


very cool on the lights, and i agree with karin on the rocks. its gonna be fun to watch you put this together

[saabtech]

i likey i likey. subscribificated to this post.

[txg8gxp]

Better rock pics

[txg8gxp]

few more

[aquasport24]

You know those bubble wraps are not reefsafe right?..hehehe. You can drill and use acrylic rods to hold them rock stacks together for more secure.

[txg8gxp]

hahaha, but I wanted to be different. The bubble wrap is just in there for test fit. You know, a new tank and I dont want any scratches.


You know those bubble wraps are not reefsafe right?..hehehe. You can drill and use acrylic rods to hold them rock stacks together for more secure.

[txg8gxp]

Rock is all put together with zipties and epoxy putty. Feels nice and strong.

[txg8gxp]

Alright... More parts...:)

[aquasport24]

Niceeeee Cone.

[clone]

nice build dude. I see you went with that PM sump after all.

[txg8gxp]

Thanks...Alot of money, but I really like there design and craftmanship.

[ReefCube]

nice tank!

[txg8gxp]

Thanks


nice tank!

[txg8gxp]

Sump in.

[txg8gxp]

LED build #3. Heatsink is 14" x 8.5" with 4 cree xpg white @ 500mA.

[StevenSeas]

wow looking nice...if only my tank builds came out this nice. So where do you get your heat sinks and LEDs from? and that heat sink didnt have to be that big did it?

[Big_Pun]

think its heatsinkusa very good prices, i got my leds from nanotuners but alot of other places sell them for about the same price also check out cutter.com.au . what i want to know is what kind of mount are you using for the leds,stephen?

[txg8gxp]

Thanks The HS didn't need to be that big, but it fits on the sump perfect. Plus I will never have to worry about overheating. I have ran it for several hours with no cooling fans and the emitter are right at or alittle over room temp.
www.heatsinkusa.com (http://www.heatsinkusa.com)
www.cutter.com.au (http://www.cutter.com.au)


wow looking nice...if only my tank builds came out this nice. So where do you get your heat sinks and LEDs from? and that heat sink didnt have to be that big did it?

[txg8gxp]

I drilled/tapped the HS and used two 4-40 cap head screws with bevel washers around them.


think its heatsinkusa very good prices, i got my leds from nanotuners but alot of other places sell them for about the same price also check out cutter.com.au . what i want to know is what kind of mount are you using for the leds,stephen?

[txg8gxp]

Better pics to show how nice the heatsink fits the sump.

[txg8gxp]

Alright, some more parts. TLF 150 reactor, Drain flex tube, misc. plumbing parts.

[txg8gxp]

Plumbing done. I will add one more TLF 150 reactors.

[txg8gxp]

Alright, finally got some water in it.

[txg8gxp]

If I deside to not go with GHL controller/moonlight, I think these par16 would work great. 5w 180 lumens 40 degree lenses. Plus they would work great with the par38's I will use for main tank lighting.

[TEXASFIST210]

nice

[aquasport24]

I would move the heater to the next chamber, just incase it breaks and shatter fragments to skimmer pump intake.

[txg8gxp]

Good info.


I would move the heater to the next chamber, just incase it breaks and shatter fragments to skimmer pump intake.

[clone]

nice cone myfriend.

[ReefCube]

cone head!

[txg8gxp]

Let there be light.:thumbs_up: It's not that blue in person.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00499.jpg?t=1271367663

[aquasport24]

Oh yeah, that's what am talking about.

[hobogato]

very nice! gotta love that clean rimless look!

[FireWater]

Sweet! How do you like the bulb combo?

[txg8gxp]

So far I love it.


Sweet! How do you like the bulb combo?

[clone]

did u go with the elite? looking good steve.

[Mr Cob]

Very nice. Love all the clean lines.

[txg8gxp]

No, I saved the money and got the older version.



did u go with the elite? looking good steve.

[txg8gxp]

Cooling fan added
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00518.jpg?t=1271452143

[StevenSeas]

wow now thats one intense fan

[txg8gxp]

http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00517.jpg?t=1271461534

[betiuminside]

WOW that is a pretty Cool Set Up!!!

That light pendant is very nice! I am little to late on this but I would of buy something like this. Just for the looks not the lighting I guess...
http://www.marinedepot.com/Elos_E_Power_Aquarium_Lighting_Pendant_w_Ballast_1 4K_MH_HQI_Bulb_Double_Ended_Metal_Halide_Pendants-Elos_USA-EO6303-FILTFIMHPDDE-vi.html

And the rock I would try to make something like triumphal arch structure looking....

Anyways... it's awesome!!!

[neogenix]

Looking gorgeous actually!!

[txg8gxp]

Ok, I finally added the extra refugium I wanted.

[txg8gxp]

A few acans

[StevenSeas]

there you go thats one way to use the BC14 looks nice, did you have to take the whole thing down to drill it? And im loving lose acans did u frag them?

[txg8gxp]

few more

[txg8gxp]

I did take down the biocube to install the overflow box. No fragging, just got a few new ones.

there you go thats one way to use the BC14 looks nice, did you have to take the whole thing down to drill it? And im loving lose acans did u frag them?

[StevenSeas]

I see my zoas are happy on ur frag rack in that last picture. they look like they are doin well, I love the eagle eyes i got from you. Just wish they would grow faster lol

[txg8gxp]

better pics
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00536.jpg?t=1272057136
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00535.jpg?t=1272057193

[Jarob]

I love that biocube fuge, can you show me how you did that, I would like to set up something like that sometime! The tank looks sawwwweeeet!

[txg8gxp]

Thanks, the biocube setup is pretty simple. I removed the back wall in the biocube then install a overflow box and return kit. The biocube has its own pump and everything drains back to the sump.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00554.jpg?t=1272607703
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00556.jpg?t=1272607875
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00557.jpg?t=1272607962
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00558.jpg?t=1272608039

[txg8gxp]

Quick update, everything seems happy and growning.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00564.jpg?t=1273188455
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00566.jpg?t=1273188543
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00565.jpg?t=1273188589
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00568.jpg?t=1273188638

[saabtech]

that is looking really clean and sharp. great job bud!

[Big_Pun]

looks really good,I wish I could start over from scratch sometimes. love the look of new rock, it's fun to watch it cure

[txg8gxp]

Thanks....I'm very happy with the tank so far, just need more acans. hahaha

[hobogato]

coming along very nicely :)

[olaggie01]

Looks great. Did you decide not to use the Par38 LEDs? I'm thinking of using 2 or 4 on my next tank as supplements to my ATI PM. Be careful with those TLF reactors, mine leaked and dumped a couple of gallons on the floor. Next time I'll grab a BRS reactor.

[txg8gxp]

No par38's on this tank. I wanted led's, but I needed something that cost less for now. Thanks for the info on the reactor, I'm not running the TLF reactor at the moment. I like the nextreef MR1 reactor, seems built well.

[Europhyllia]

I agree. You do need more acans! ;)

[txg8gxp]

hahaha, atleast a dozen more. :)

[txg8gxp]

New coral, I think the trumpet was hungry....
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00573.jpg?t=1273240305
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00574.jpg?t=1273240372

[txg8gxp]

Ok, I made some changes. I replaced the 2 koralia 1400's with a tunze nano wavebox. I love the wavebox, works great and takes up alot less room then the K1400's. Then I desided to go bare bottom, and removed alittle rock. The tank now has a much more clean/modern look I'm going for. I like this setup alot better.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00578.jpg?t=1273722374

[StevenSeas]

what u doin w/ the 2 K14s

[txg8gxp]

There sold...

[StevenSeas]

dang....

[chunkymonkey]

looking great. I'm starting to like the look of the bare bottom tanks or cleaner one. I like the other thread with the big shallow cube....Rimless is definitely a lot nicer.

[saabtech]

man that looks nice! you got a fella' thinkin'

[txg8gxp]

with the BB, the fish seem to really pop...

[txg8gxp]

man that looks nice! you got a fella' thinkin'

That would be alot of work on your tank...Plus you would have to make the change slow I would think.... DO IT...

[Big_Pun]

hows the wrasse holding up to no sand bed? mine goes to "bed" like clock work every night 30 min before the light turns off, buries itself in the sand

[aquasport24]

Looks good man, you can hide a bowl of sand behind the rock for the wrasse to sleep in if it comes to it.

[txg8gxp]

Thanks guys, I haven't had the wrasse long but never say it lay in the sand. The only fish that seems confused is my watchmen goby. I might have to rehome him.

[Big_Pun]

wrasse usually hide in sand at night to sleep, or when scared

[txg8gxp]

Well, hopefully the wrasse don't freak out...I would like to keep a wrasse in the tank as pest control.

[hobogato]

looking great steven, i do agree with the idea of adding some kind of container of sand for the wrasse if it seems troubled.

[txg8gxp]

It is a good idea, reminds me of a nest box for birds. hahahaha. So far the wrasse seems fine, but I know as I was removing sand the watchmen goby would lay on the last small pile of sand that was in the tank. If anyone is alittle stressed it is the watchmen for sure, hopefully he comes around or I will be looking for a new home.

[Double-O-Zilch]

It's always a treat to see what you're up to Steve, fish tanks and otherwise!

[txg8gxp]

Two new acan's.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00599.jpg?t=1274133112
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00598.jpg?t=1274133188

[txav8r]

Those aren't the ones you ordered this weekend are they?

[txg8gxp]

No, I have 3 more on the way.

[aquasport24]

That makes me wanna add some Acans to one of my tank now. Your new screen name is Acanfreak, it's alot easier to remember and won't get confuse with Jack screen name either.....lol..

[txav8r]

That makes me wanna add some Acans to one of my tank now. Your new screen name is Acanfreak, it's alot easier to remember and won't get confuse with Jack screen name either.....lol..

Welcome Acanfreak!! LOL

[txg8gxp]

hahahaha, or AcanAddict

[txg8gxp]

New pic, playing with new camera.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/d200004.jpg?t=1274155734
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/d200017.jpg?t=1274156271
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/d200015.jpg?t=1274156497

[hobogato]

nice looking clown steve

[aquasport24]

What camera do you using? looking great Steven.

[txg8gxp]

Thanks, Im useing my brothers old nikon D200 w/18x200 lens.

[txg8gxp]

nice looking clown steve

Yea, I like it alot...just might have to get another one.

[txg8gxp]

A couple quick pics of my new acans after adding them to the tank. I will post some better pics later.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00600.jpg?t=1274378842
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00601.jpg?t=1274378985
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00602.jpg?t=1274379022

[txav8r]

WOW! Lots of colors!

[txg8gxp]

More new coral. No acans this time. Three new SPS ORA red planet, borealis and joe the coral
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00610.jpg?t=1274580400
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00609.jpg?t=1274580583
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00607.jpg?t=1274580625

[saabtech]

looks great. it seems like you are really moving in a good direction.

[StevenSeas]

Good glad to see those acros are looking great in your tank. Already opened up and extended. Nice pics btw

[aquasport24]

Very cool selection of SPS there Steve, you will like them more than the Acans.......lol.........j/k

[txg8gxp]

Very cool selection of SPS there Steve, you will like them more than the Acans.......lol.........j/k
Hey, don't be picking on the acan's now :)

[txg8gxp]

Pics of two new acans, agian.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00612.jpg?t=1274753665
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00611.jpg?t=1274754151

[tebstan]

what's the count up to now?

[txg8gxp]

I stopped counting. 20-21 something like that.

[Double-O-Zilch]

When you run out of room I'll hold some of those acans for you! Oh, and the fish are doing great. The firefish ate right out of the bag.

[txg8gxp]

When you run out of room I'll hold some of those acans for you! Oh, and the fish are doing great. The firefish ate right out of the bag.

Thats good...

[txg8gxp]

Pic taken under blue + bulbs
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00619.jpg?t=1274767100
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00615.jpg?t=1274767159

[clownfish]

really liking your setup, keep up the good work...

[txg8gxp]

Thanks...

[txg8gxp]

A few new pics.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00631.jpg?t=1275981968
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00633.jpg?t=1275982050
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00634.jpg?t=1275982093

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

Steven,
Is that a regular wavebox or a nano? Steve loves his wavebox on his 57g. the only flow except for the return which is not much. The set-up look good.

[txg8gxp]

I have the nano wave box and a max7 return. Because I'm going BB I want alittle more flow so I will add a sicce 3.0 or 4.0 return pump soon.

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

I know a lot of people don't like them and go for more aggressive random flow but I think Steve's corals are happier with the wavebox. He has some coral that we can actually see them grow. I have never experienced this before with the SPS but it is exciting to see. I am so proud of the job and success Steve has had with this tank.

[txg8gxp]

I love my wavebox, any large tank I ever build will have one. The oscillating wave it makes is great, there are no dead spots at all in the tank.

[MRSBIGBIRD123]

When Steve does his upgrade to the 120g, I will take over his 57g and be looking for a nano box myself. If I stare at it too long, it get sick to my stomach but the corals seem to be really happy. That is the ultimate goal in a reef tank, the corals being happy. I have been having amazing growth with some of my zoas in my RSM 34g but I'm just not happy with the lights. The lights are blah and the corals don't have the "pop" in color that they normally have.

[txg8gxp]

I think I will be adding a icecap moonlight bar like ace did. I have been thinking about one for awhile, but after seeing his pics I'm sold.

[txg8gxp]

Today I replace my mag7 return pump with a sicce 4.0. The added flow is perfect, just what I needed. It's helping to keep stuff off the BB. The pump seems to be built really well. The flow is great, from a mag7(700gph) to the 4.0 (950gph).

[Europhyllia]

I am so glad you guys are happy with the Sicces. I've been looking into those but they are still so new so it's good to hear such positive feedback about them before buying one.

[txg8gxp]

It has only been running a short time, but they are built nice. I have nothing bad to say about them, I guess only time will tell

[jrsatx20]

Think I saw some led spotlights on nanotuners.com. par 38 also.

[txg8gxp]

A few SPS shots, not the best but you get the idea...and yes the tank is dirty..I'm working on that.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00640.jpg?t=1276231981
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00643.jpg?t=1276232118
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00642.jpg?t=1276232235
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00641.jpg?t=1276232275
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00644.jpg?t=1276232316

[aquasport24]

Looking good man, alot of PE. What is the name in the first picture?

[txg8gxp]

The first pic is the only one I don't have a name for. Its a nice fast grower...When I got this back about 3-4 weeks ago, it had some tissue recession and had lost alot of color and the polyps didn't look to happy. Now all the tissue is back and the color is starting to look really nice.

[Mr Cob]

Beautiful corals!

[txg8gxp]

Same sps, but under actinics...and a hungry scoly
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00645.jpg?t=1276476251
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00648.jpg?t=1276476357

[txg8gxp]

New pic
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/d1.jpg?t=1276568096

[txg8gxp]

I have been trying to learn more about photography, so I will be posting alot of practice pics I'm sure.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/4.jpg?t=1276655506
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/2.jpg?t=1276655626
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/3.jpg?t=1276655664
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/9.jpg?t=1276655699
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/10.jpg?t=1276655733
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/6.jpg?t=1276655771
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/5.jpg?t=1276655803
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/8.jpg?t=1276655846

[Mr.Schertz]

Looking real good

[txg8gxp]

http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/11.jpg?t=1276662601

[tebstan]

http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/11.jpg?t=1276662601

I love the coloring on that one. Fascinating that its one colony.

[txg8gxp]

Looking for advise on pic quality

I have been trying to learn more about photography, so I will be posting alot of practice pics I'm sure.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/4.jpg?t=1276655506
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/2.jpg?t=1276655626
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/3.jpg?t=1276655664
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/9.jpg?t=1276655699
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/10.jpg?t=1276655733
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/6.jpg?t=1276655771
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/5.jpg?t=1276655803
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/8.jpg?t=1276655846

[aquasport24]

I don't see any problem with it...BTW how about a FTS?FTS?FTS?

[txg8gxp]

Not to bad, I need a tri pod bad.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/FTS006.jpg?t=1276736737

[Europhyllia]

lots of very nice acans.
where did you get all of these from?

[txg8gxp]

Gabes, reefs2u, cherry corals, polly's, and maast. It's about time to start fraging a few.

[Europhyllia]

Gabes, reefs2u, cherry corals, polly's, and maast. It's about time to start fraging a few.
definitely! ;)

By the way if you have more dragon breath I might buy some more. It's so beautiful.

Your tank is looking great!

[aquasport24]

Looking good man, you packed that tank fast.:bigsmile:

[clone]

WOW Steven, looks good dude. How do you like your octo skimmer?Im thinking about the full cone xp2000 or the super reef 2000.
I know the body style on your skimmer is the same as the super reef.

[txg8gxp]

New add-on fuge... Thanks to ReefOne(ram) for building this tank for me. It's 12x13x12 and fits in my PM30 sump perfect. I will add a few more pics when I get all the plumbing parts I need.

[ReefOne]

Looks sweet Stephen!

[txg8gxp]

Looks sweet Stephen!
Now I just have to plan the next build...

[txg8gxp]

A few new corals from Saabtech.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00712.jpg?t=1277497436
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00711.jpg?t=1277497530
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00709.jpg?t=1277497575

[Europhyllia]

I really like the one that looks like a wrinkled sheet with violets sprinkled all over it :)

[saabtech]

those look good under your lighting!!

[txg8gxp]

another new coral from saabtech
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/1-1.jpg?t=1278027554

[saabtech]

sweeeeet picture.. looks very happy!

[ReefOne]

Man...that piece is sweet! Gotta get a piece of that once it grows up.

[txg8gxp]

Man...that piece is sweet! Gotta get a piece of that once it grows up.
You got it.

[txg8gxp]

New coral...Thanks Troy.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00760.jpg?t=1278111302
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00761.jpg?t=1278111357
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00763.jpg?t=1278111390
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00764.jpg?t=1278111426

[txg8gxp]

I really like these two corals
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00784.jpg?t=1278533136
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00782.jpg?t=1278533224

[aquasport24]

I really like them too, good job man.

[txg8gxp]

Thanks :)

[txg8gxp]

Another cool new one.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00787.jpg?t=1278618810

[txg8gxp]

New super cool frags :)
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00798.jpg?t=1278958732
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00800.jpg?t=1278958821
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00799.jpg?t=1278958867
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00801.jpg?t=1278958918

[aquasport24]

I see alot of PE:), gotta check out your tank in person soon.

[txg8gxp]

Yea, they all seem to be pretty happy.

[txg8gxp]

Useing a real camera is not easy, I'll get it one day.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/fts31.jpg?t=1279055388

[txav8r]

Looking really good, stephen!

[Europhyllia]

Yes - if you posted it on FB I would have 'like'-ed it. Very nice!

[txg8gxp]

Thanks.

[txg8gxp]

I'm excited to see how adding biopellets changes the look of the tank.

[txg8gxp]

Ok, biopellets and reactor installed.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00944.jpg?t=1279928155

[ReefCube]

i hear good things and not good about bio pellets. I am interested in your results everything looks good

[ReefCube]

I am also interested in finding out if your chromis dont kill eachother off

[txg8gxp]

I am also interested in finding out if your chromis dont kill eachother off

So, far I have lost one...

[Europhyllia]

Yeah I was tempted to add blue chromis to my Caribbean Reef but apparently it's normal for chromis to school as juveniles and then later pair off.
Looks nice Stephen.

[txg8gxp]

New equipment added :)
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00952.jpg?t=1280880732

[ReefOne]

Sweet!

[Big_Pun]

wow I've been thinking about adding biopellets, so did you remove the cheato

[txg8gxp]

Yea, no macro. I think I'm going to go with all rock, still thinking. I did put a few mangroves in the sump

[Triggerman]

Great Job! Thought you would find this interesting....it was a thread over at nano-reefs with the same tank build as yours....he used the ecoxotic led light fixture....alittle cheaper than the AI but they aren't controllable except with timers...the outcome is still really nice and very clean looking...i'm still trying to figure out how a 57 gallon became a nano tank....only in texas however that guy is from Atlanta....

http://www.nano-reef.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=230402&st=0

[txg8gxp]

Thanks for the link..that's a nice tank. I can't wait to add led's to my tank.....I think I see thunderstorms in my future :)

[Triggerman]

I just aquired a 34 red sea max and i'm going to add the ecoxotic panoramas modules to it and slowly faze out the current stock lighting....the cost isn't too bad especially when you factor in the overall cost savings and energy consumption...

LEDs on your build will look really nice....

[saabtech]

im jelous!!! and going through withdraws!!

[txg8gxp]

The bio pellets must be kicking in or something....The last couple days, my water has been crazy clear. I love it.

[txg8gxp]

Ok...I'm super excited now. My Aqua Illumination led fixture shipped today :) Looks like I will have to make a HD video here soon

[Europhyllia]

Woohoo. Congrats :)

[txg8gxp]

Ok, I got my LED fixture. I like it alot better. I still need to mess around with the position of the modules, but it's ok for now. It looks more natural then the t5 for sure, and I finally have a nice shimmer in the tank :) Sorry for the bad pics. As you can see I need to raise the fixture up a few inches, it has alittle more shadow effect low then I want and the pic makes it look even worse then it is.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00996.jpg?t=1282942045
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC00997.jpg?t=1282942418

[chunkymonkey]

maybe raise them a couple inches, spread them about 6 more inches apart, then find a way to angle them in? I wonder how that would look....Great looking tank...btw, those clowns from you are doing great in the 100gal all by themself, well, thw cleaner shrimp too.

[txg8gxp]

Ok it looks alot better with the light raised up about 6"
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01006.jpg?t=1282960775

[Europhyllia]

Looks great. Now clearly this needs to be shown as video -not pics since we want to see the dusk/dawn and storms! :)

[txg8gxp]

Looks great. Now clearly this needs to be shown as video -not pics since we want to see the dusk/dawn and storms! :)

I will, no storms until I upgrade controllers. :( Soon though.

[chunkymonkey]

That is a great difference. Maybe I can swing by with my hero hd(films 1080p hd) and us the suction cup on the glass for some vid.

[txg8gxp]

My favorite frag.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01021.jpg?t=1283287086

[txg8gxp]

A quick pic w/ flash after lights out. The PE is awesome.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01027.jpg?t=1283494086

[ramsey]

Looks awesome! Glad you like the LEDs. I'd like to see them in person though! :)

[txg8gxp]

A few coral pics
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01044.jpg?t=1283548874
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01032.jpg?t=1283548924
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01033.jpg?t=1283548962
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01034.jpg?t=1283549004
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01035.jpg?t=1283549043
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01036.jpg?t=1283549077
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01037.jpg?t=1283549110
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01039.jpg?t=1283549143
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01040.jpg?t=1283549178
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01041.jpg?t=1283549216
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01042.jpg?t=1283549259
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01043.jpg?t=1283549292

[Europhyllia]

Yes, Stephen. When do you want us to come over to see it in person ;)

[saabtech]

wow those look great, some look really familar......but much nicer!!

[hobogato]

very nice! everything looks colorful and happy

[txg8gxp]

I was playing with the night shot mode on my camera.
a15OGAJgMPY

[txg8gxp]

AI led SOL super blue, 2 modules.
m7RWP1cB5bM

[Big_Pun]

very nice polyp extension, love the swaying from wave box

[aquasport24]

very nice polyp extension, love the swaying from wave box
+1 true that.

[Europhyllia]

very nice :)
what's up with the fish? Why are they all on top ? lol

[txg8gxp]

They thought I was going to feed.

very nice :)
what's up with the fish? Why are they all on top ? lol

[jrsatx20]

looks awesome. had to watch the video in 2 parts half way through i had to go to restroom. hearing all the water made me go.

[ErikH]

Super duper!

It looks really good man, you've come so far so fast! Really really good job.

[Jarob]

How do you like that nano wave box? I was considering saving up for one of those instead of a vortech mp20

[txg8gxp]

Thanks everyone. I love the wavebox, works great.

[BIGBIRD123]

Nice job Stephen and I'm sure he will say the same....Nothing beats a wavebox...

[txg8gxp]

Some pics of my sump layout. I just redid all the wiring so it looks nice and clean :), and yes even my sump work light is LED :)
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01094.jpg?t=1284586350
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01095.jpg?t=1284586463
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01096.jpg?t=1284586497
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01097.jpg?t=1284586545
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01098.jpg?t=1284586576

[Europhyllia]

controllers ... got to love them. I always thought they were just fancy timers and didn't think I needed one but now I'd totally miss having one!

[txg8gxp]

Ok, I have slowly move the rock rubble out of the center section of my sump. Now I have a frag tank :) Thanks to jack I have a really nice frag rack that fits perfect. I also added a maxijet900 w/ hydor rotating wavemaker. The rack will be able to hold 46 SPS frags :)
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01144.jpg?t=1286238375
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC01142.jpg?t=1286238694

[txav8r]

Glad it worked out for you! You didn't waist any time getting pics up!

[txg8gxp]

A few new coral pictures
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01224.jpg?t=1286827739
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01235.jpg?t=1286827816
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01234.jpg?t=1286827854
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01233.jpg?t=1286827892
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01232.jpg?t=1286827925
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01231.jpg?t=1286827968
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01230.jpg?t=1286828042

[txg8gxp]

http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01229.jpg?t=1286828379
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01227.jpg?t=1286828412
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01225.jpg?t=1286828452
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01223.jpg?t=1286828487
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01222.jpg?t=1286828521
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01219.jpg?t=1286828553
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01218.jpg?t=1286828586
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01217.jpg?t=1286828618
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01216.jpg?t=1286828676
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01215.jpg?t=1286828710
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01236.jpg?t=1286828742

[Mr Cob]

Amazing! Everything...tank, corals, equipment! Beautiful!

[alton]

Looks great

[aquasport24]

Very good job Stephen, how about a FTS? You know i have to ask...

[tebstan]

http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/57g%20rimless/DSC01236.jpg?t=1286828742

^

My favorite!
Looks great, cool shot with the fish in the corner looking back at you lol

[txg8gxp]

FTS, I'm still not very good at FTS. Still need some more practice.
http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/txg8gxp/DSC_0024.jpg?t=1293242421

[Europhyllia]

I see little lonely boy got more buddies. That's nice :)

[txg8gxp]

Yes, I moved the ones from the biocube over and got 4 more. But of course, one is in the overflow box already...

[jpond83]

looking good. making me jealous :)

[Mr Cob]

looks awesome...very sleek...I see some Wet Acrylic Dakine racks in there : )

[txg8gxp]

Yes you do. So much better then my eggcrate magfloat one.

looks awesome...very sleek...I see some Wet Acrylic Dakine racks in there : )

[ErikH]

Growth looks good, I am impressed!

[txg8gxp]

Figured i would move my thread to the appropriate section. 57g is not a nano

[FireWater]

Good to see you taking the oportunity of the new Mid-Size section.


Tank looks great by the way. Love to see the growth and color under the LED's.

[txg8gxp]

A stormy night in my sps tank
wslLAU7tyAc

[txav8r]

That really is amazing Stephen!

[ErikH]

TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL :D

[Kristy]

Wow... absolutely amazingly beautiful!

[Europhyllia]

Great video.

Have you figured out if there's a way to select how long it goes on? I like to entertain the kids with it for a while but I don't need a 30 minute storm... ;)

[txg8gxp]

Looks like you can not adjust the duration of the storm. This version of the firmware is set to 20 minutes. Keep an eye out for new firmware updates, they may change it. If you would like, you can send in a request about having them make that change. If several people ask for it they will add it i'm sure

Great video.

Have you figured out if there's a way to select how long it goes on? I like to entertain the kids with it for a while but I don't need a 30 minute storm... ;)

[jrsatx20]

man stephen that is sick