Biology vs. Technology....

[bugj51]

I can see what you're saying. If laziness was growing by X it is probably growing by X^10 as technology gets cheaper and more readibily available.

[FireWater]

Something like that. Lol
i think whatever route a person decides to follow there has to be some form of active interaction with their tank.

[rrasco]

I think finding a balance between both is the best. As stated, it all really depends on the system and the keeper. I love automation, but I also love doing *something* with the tank. Then again, I try not to do too much.

For example, an ATO is definitely technology, but a great one to have. It's not that I'm too lazy to top off with RO, it's that the system is more stable with an ATO. If I have to do it manually, my SG is going to swing when I top off nightly, or the next day, or whenever I remember/get to it. Especially with my rimless, there is about 2 gallons of evap per day. I love being able to watch my tank, hear a click, a little water and I'm like, "Hey, my tank just topped itself off."

[Mr Cob]

I'm all for biology first...then technology. The basics for all of my reef aquariums have consisted of powerheads, sump, refugium, heater, fans, lights, return pump and skimmer along with the largest fuge possible, lots of live rock and a DSB that is regularly turned in small sections by natural reef inhabitants either in the sump or display. An ATO is also a must in my opinion.

As problems arise I always try to address them naturally first, I almost always stay clear of treatments unless all other natural resources have been exhausted. When things get out of control, only then will I consider adding technology such as a reactor etc.

Frequent small water changes seem to be the cure for many issues.

[rrasco]

Frequent small water changes seem to be the cure for many issues.

I'm actually trying to get onto 5g twice a week to see what it does for my system. I was performing 10g 1x weekly but figured it's easier to do 5g since I don't have to stop my system while doing it. I've also read time and time again that smaller more frequent WCs are better.

[hobogato]

that is what i do on the 250 - 5 gallons twice a week.

[Mr Cob]

I know Ace does twice a week small water changes. I have never been able to do more than once a week.

Though...when we had the MCC tanks up I did small water changes every Monday when we would ship coral, every Wednesday when we would do local pickups. Plus every third Sunday when we had Austin deliveries. I noticed a huge decline in water quality when I stopped this routine.

[Mr Cob]

lol, Ae beat me to his own post.