Filter Suggestions...

[MattP725]

I was wondering if I should add a undergravel filter to my tank before adding the fish back in as well as teh LR. I currently have a Proquatics 1600 (I believe) canister filter which I think is rated up to 75g in my 55g. Since I have to do some cleanup it would be a now or never kinda thing... is it worth it?

[Bearfan]

No, do not use an UGF with your LR. A DSB would be far superior.

[captivereefs]

Use a good water flow with a good protein skimmer with about a 1-2" sandbed and you will be set. THe canister is optional but if you use it clean it weekly. Skip the UGF.

[phases99]

Originally Posted by captivereefs

Use a good water flow with a good protein skimmer with about a 1-2" sandbed and you will be set. THe canister is optional but if you use it clean it weekly. Skip the UGF.

I keep reading that a sandbed between 1/2" to 3" is a dead zone that can become a nutrient sink over time. Make sure you use a very fine aragonite sand. DSB is they way to go if you want denitrification.

Originally Posted by phases99

DSB is they way to go if you want denitrification.

But it is definately not the only way

Cheers
Steve

[Fishboy-from-NY]

Originally Posted by steve-s

But it is definately not the only way

Cheers
Steve

That's true, my filtration systems consist of a 120watt sterilizor, 200Lbs Live rock, 1-wet/dry filter, & denitrate/phosphate removal filter. It all come down to what you are thinking of keeing in your tank then you can find various options, but please don't get an undergravel filter.

[phases99]

If you decide you want to try delicate organisms then you will need to keep your nitrates below 10. If you are doing FO then don't worry about it. My NO3 never goes above 5 with NNR. A DSB is cheaper in the long run as buying chemical media adds up over time.

Originally Posted by phases99

A DSB is cheaper in the long run as buying chemical media adds up over time.

There are other NNR methods aside from a DSB and much less problematic. A 1-2" sandbed with an appropraite amount of LR and quality skimmer will work amazingly well.

Cheers
Steve

[phases99]

Originally Posted by steve-s

There are other NNR methods aside from a DSB and much less problematic. A 1-2" sandbed with an appropraite amount of LR and quality skimmer will work amazingly well.

There are people misusing the DSB concept, and yes that could be problematic. What I mean by misusing is overstocked, overfed and/or underskimed tanks, use of sand critters, etc. Hopefully folks will do the needed research before they decide if a DSB is right for them.

Originally Posted by phases99

Hopefully folks will do the needed research before they decide if a DSB is right for them.

Cheers
Steve