Algae turf scrubbers - questions

ionix · Mar 19, 2014

Hi, I would like to first say thanks for all the help I've gotten so far on this forum! (If you don't get rep it is cause i gotta "spread it around" lol).

I have a list of questions and I don't know which to ask first so I shall post some pictures for you to look at (the top pic is just to show the first ever design).

Just FYI, I have a 40g cube and 40g sump

So my questions:

In the pictures above, you notice they are using wood. These questions correspond to those:
1. If it was plain unfinished wood, what wood would you think they used?
  1. If it was finished, what would have been used in your opinion?
Would you use aquarium silicone to seal the boards (like sides and drains)?
What size (of mesh) would I need to retrofit my system? I would assume it is limiting by the size and availability of nutrients
I also thought of just lining it with pond liner (what do you think)?

I am thinking of just designing a square trough that goes to the tank (with the knitting squares or w.e.) with 4x4 legs to support it well.

Reefing Madness · Mar 19, 2014

1- Its not unfinished wood.
2- Yes, I'd use silicone to seal up the box, after using wood glue.
3-

14 Mesh Cross Stitch Plastic Canvas Ivory Color | eBay

4- No, pond liner wont' work, its gotta have something to grab on to.

Next, I'd not use that one pictured, but if you did, I'd throw in a bubbler underneath for more O2, this will give you better growth.

ravi197699 · Mar 20, 2014

I have been using similar design for my tank and I made that out of one acrylic magazine holder that i found outside the store next to dumpster. I drilled few holes for the drain and hang three cfl warm white bulbs and used mesh that shown in the picture by other member and I had pretty good results.... Its simple design and as long as you have enough water flowing on the mesh you should be fine and you will need stronger light.....in terms of design you have shown you seems to be on right path...