40 Breeder Frag Tank Build

PastaReefs

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I'll start with a couple photos to show my progress so far. I started with a Aqueon 40 Breeder and drilled it for the Eshoppes Prodigy M overflow (I drilled a hair too high) I had to shave a little bit of the bracing in the back to make it fit more flush. I bought some metal shelving off amazon rated to hold the filled tank weight that matches the Overflow, BRS discontinued the Af100 fuge so i picked that up for a steal and it matches the stand. I plan on putting painted 40"x20"pieces of plywood under the tank and sump to evenly spread the weight. I need suggestions for plumbing should i go pvc or flexible tubing. Still waiting on my lights and finishing touchs.
40 Breeder.jpg
Gyre and Return from Jebao
Wavemaker Return pump.jpg
AF-100 with Bubble Magus Curve 5 Extreme an 150w Fluval heater
40 b Sump.jpg
Clear Choice Aquatics - Custom Frag Rack for 40 Breeder ( Black with UV Orange)
Frag Stand.jpg

Current Build Item List
1x Aqueon 40 Breeder
1x Eshoppes AF-100 Sump
1x Eshoppes Prodigy M Overflow
1x Jebao DCP-3500 Return Pump
1x Jebao SCP-70 CrossFlow Pump
1x Fluval 150w Heater
1x Bubble Magus Curve 5 Extreme Protein Skimmer
2x NooPsyche K7 PRO III kit with arm bracket
1x Metal Shelving off Amazon
1x Aqueon Glass Lid for 40 Breeder
 
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Following along!
 
Update I tool'd the bracing a little more so the overflow fits flush. My lights arrived so I set them up and configured them in the app. I ordered 200 Gal of AF sea salt from BRS on sale so i can begin cycling.

Still trying to learn more on the plumbing side but im leaning more toward flexible hosing for the return and a over the side nozzle.

overflow Bracing.jpg Reef Lights.jpg
 
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Cut some 1/2in plywood pieces and painted them white to put under the tank and sump to distribute the weight evenly. I am debating painting them black before I fill the tank. I need to figure out a return to get this project up and running.
 

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Cut some 1/2in plywood pieces and painted them white to put under the tank and sump to distribute the weight evenly. I am debating painting them black before I fill the tank. I need to figure out a return to get this project up and running.
I'd paint them black if it were my build!
 
Cut some 1/2in plywood pieces and painted them white to put under the tank and sump to distribute the weight evenly. I am debating painting them black before I fill the tank. I need to figure out a return to get this project up and running.
You should paint it black!
 
IMG_20250509_162147.jpg

Doing the fishless ammonia tank cycle, The racks are getting blown around a bit with nothing on them.

Lights on for photo. I have been propping the lid up slightly to decrease condensation
I would love a custom mesh lid for this tank , please point me that way if you know someone.

Any suggestions for fish hiding places? thinking of doing some PVC tubes.
 
IMG_20250509_162147.jpg

Doing the fishless ammonia tank cycle, The racks are getting blown around a bit with nothing on them.

Lights on for photo. I have been propping the lid up slightly to decrease condensation
I would love a custom mesh lid for this tank , please point me that way if you know someone.

Any suggestions for fish hiding places? thinking of doing some PVC tubes.
Could always diy a top for around $50.

I think the pvc fittings as big as possible that will fit under the racks is a great idea! Just make sure you get pvc and not abs. Abs will float....aak me how I know...
 

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