6 replies to this topic

[elliott]

Hi,

just wondering what would be the best type of filtration for a 160L tank. Just for fish only.
Aslo same question for a 750L aquarium. fish only.

Thanks
Elliott

[golden_dase]

Hi,

just wondering what would be the best type of filtration for a 160L tank. Just for fish only.
Aslo same question for a 750L aquarium. fish only.

Thanks
Elliott

Hi Elliot!

If you can be a bit patient, I'll be posting pics of the filtration system used in my new 5ft (317L) marine set up in a few days.

1. Im not using a sump
2. Im not using a skimmer

Hopefully all goes well, so there'll be a "cheap" alternative way for people to keep marines.

Cheers!

Kevin.

[Iamsam]

Live Rock, Power heads, And a skimmer and your good to go,
you dont need any other biological filtration as the live rock will do that for you, you may want to add a small internal or the likes just for mechanical filtratino tho.

[Mr_docfish]

....Just for fish only....

Keeping fish only, being marine or fresh water, the requirements are the same.
Any form of filtration that can handle the load of fish you intend to house, and try to keep the flow rate at around twice that of the total volume of the tank (as a guide) this of course depends on the total load of fish, and what sort of food you intend to feed (high protein or veggie diet for example)

There is no such thing as the best filtration, everyone will have a different view according to their own perspective or requirements, (you will see what I mean after reading all the posts). As long as the filter can break down the ammonia and nitrite in the tank created by the fish and the filter can keep the water clear mechanically without having to gravel clean or filter clean too often, then you are on the right track.

Have fun with your marine tank.

Oliver

[Tucunare]

i agree with oliver, everybody will tell you something different, ill go with sam and say im a big fan of the berlin method (when done right, 99% arnt) but im also a huge fan of old school stuff like sumps full of media and the newer ways aswell, grab some books and see what tickels your fancy.

[elliott]

thanks for that info.

I was just thinking of starting with my 3 x 18 x 18 and keeping some clownfish and maybe a few other small species. Pobably max 5 fish. I was just wondering though how much live rock would i need. I dont want a massive reef looking structure just something that gives the fish someplace to hide and feel secure. the tank is not that big aswell so i thought it wouldnt take that much live rock to make it look nice and assist with filtration.

The filtration i was thinking of is what i currently have on the tank right now (and given the time to grow the marine bacteria etc).
1 x aquaclear 300
1x small internal power filter and a second if needed.

And things i need to get..:
1x skimmer

I'm assuming that because i dont have corals then i dont need strong lighting and a 4' flourescent will do fine??? This is what i currently have by the way.

So stuff i need to know:
live rock= kg??
Substrate: depth? live sand? lime sand? whats the best and easiest and best value for money?

and salt:
brands?
prices?
etc

thanks guys any info would be greatly appreciated i dont want my first experience with marines to go bad.

Elliott

[dazzabozza]

Hi Elliott

Filtration: If your budget allows it go for something like a Tunze Turbelle Nano Stream 6025 ($100 RRP). Its flow rate is 2500Lph but the output is widely dispersed compared to the narrow jets in convetional powerheads. If u end up keeping an anemone for your clowns to host in then a pump like this won't put too much direct pressure on it. The live rock will also take advantage of the high flow rate when it comes to its filtration ability. I had two of these in my 200L reef tank with no other filtration besides LR.

Skimmer: Is optional. Besides the assistance with filtration it'll also remove phosphates which will help prevent algae outbreaks and help coraline algae (which is good) to propogate. IMO they are expensive pieces of plastic, perhaps money better spent on LR. You can also add phosphate removal products to your filters if it was to become as issue. Phosphates are generally introduced from tap water.

Live Rock (LR): I tend to go for at least 20 - 25% of the total tank volume in my tanks. If u can afford 40KG then that'll do the trick for your 170L tank. Avg metro price is around $18 per kilo at the moment. Buying a box full will be better value. Base rock (not as pretty) will be cheaper again.

Substrate: You could stay bare bottomed. I prefer the look of a substrate though. Over-sized CIM limesand (have seen at AAA and Malaga at a good price) will be sufficient. Else spend some big bucks and go for crushed coral / aragonite. 1 to 2 inches will do the trick. Examples here - http://www.aquariump.../coral_sand.php

Salt: If u can find someone that'll deliver that far North then I'd stick with sea water and get yourself a 200L storage drum. Dennis from Fremantle Ocean Farm or Steve (Tucunare) may be able to assist. Pre-mixing bagged salt is a pain IMO and you've got to keep a close eye on your salt levels/density. If that's not an option then check this link out for some examples - http://www.aquariump...marine_salt.php. Some are more pricier and focus of coral/reef tanks which u don't need.

Lighting: If u like the look of coraline algae growing on your LR then u'll probably need more wattage. Same goes if you want to keep an anemone happy. At least 100W for a tank your size e.g. 2x 10000k tubes and 1x actnic. Else your current light will be sufficient for a fish only tank.


Dazza