AIO users, please comment on unexpected issues you have encountered using a rear compartment for macroalgae. I am especially concerned with issues of nuisance algae growing in the compartment. I am weighing the pros/cons of using a chamber as a simple refugium compared to using a CPR HOB Aquafuge 2. I note I have run several marine tanks in the past, but this is my first AIO. It is a JBJ 45 Gallon Rimless.
Here are my thoughts. The pros of the Aquafuge (I do have the small version on hand) is it can easily be removed from the system if needed. It also adds a little water volume. The con is I worry about hanging it on a rimless tank even if I have it perfectly vertical (I know, I could build a support also, but not great looking where I will have the tank).
The pro of using one of the AIO compartments is it is contained in the system. I do not have to hang anything off of it (possibly ugly), or require extra space behind the system. The concern I have is if I get hair algae or some other nuisance algae in the refugium compartment, it is closer to getting in my display and would be much more difficult to clean or scrape out completely.
Anyone with experience in these types of setups have any thoughts, opinions or advice? Thanks!
Here are my thoughts. The pros of the Aquafuge (I do have the small version on hand) is it can easily be removed from the system if needed. It also adds a little water volume. The con is I worry about hanging it on a rimless tank even if I have it perfectly vertical (I know, I could build a support also, but not great looking where I will have the tank).
The pro of using one of the AIO compartments is it is contained in the system. I do not have to hang anything off of it (possibly ugly), or require extra space behind the system. The concern I have is if I get hair algae or some other nuisance algae in the refugium compartment, it is closer to getting in my display and would be much more difficult to clean or scrape out completely.
Anyone with experience in these types of setups have any thoughts, opinions or advice? Thanks!