GFO 24/7 for SPS?

[Waynel333]

My 300 is heavily SPS dominated and I run GFO and Carbon (3 cups full each) 24x7. I change them out about every 3-4 weeks. I've done it for years and I find that if I don't I notice cyano and other nuisance algae to start creeping in. Here are a couple of tank shots.

 

[wakeboardgeek]

For all those running GFO 24/7, are you doing anything else for nutrient control; i.e. cheato?

 

[Waynel333]

yeah, I have a refugium with cheato. I've also got 2 big clams.

 

[Downbeach]

Other than my DSB, and LR, I also use a GAC and bio-pellet reactor. I did have a refugium with chaeto, but took it off line a few years ago when I started the pellets.

 

[Montrosereef]

Every system is different. I suggest not to follow someone because he has a successful tank full of SPS for years. Monitor your corals after you add any media and test your water accordingly. I know there are many SPS reefers like me have abandoned gfo.

 

[Zack]

Nice tank Wayne!!

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[sleeri]

Wow, amazing colors in your tank Waynel333!

 

[WesF]

Some more pics of my tank that usesGFO 24/7

 

[JoeCanada]

What is GFO and how do you run it? Is this the same as a phosban reactor ?

 

[WesF]

What is GFO and how do you run it? Is this the same as a phosban reactor ?

Yes. GFO is granular ferric oxide. Phosban is a brand of GFO.

 

[sleeri]

WesF, amazing tank! How many gallons is your tank?

 

[WesF]

Thanks, it's 250g

 

[Graham's Aquaculture Verified Sponsor]

I have also run GFO 24/7 successfully with SPS for years. The key for me is moderation. Less than a cup on ~200 gallons. I change it every month approximately. I typically gauge when to change it or add more by the onset of small amounts of nuisance algae. I do remember on one or two occasions when my Alk was slightly high adding a significant amount of GFO had adverse effects on SPS.... paling and polyp recession. Definitely recommend only adding a new batch if parameters are in check.

 

[Zack]

I have also run GFO 24/7 successfully with SPS for years. The key for me is moderation. Less than a cup on ~200 gallons. I change it every month approximately. I typically gauge when to change it or add more by the onset of small amounts of nuisance algae. I do remember on one or two occasions when my Alk was slightly high adding a significant amount of GFO had adverse effects on SPS.... paling and polyp recession. Definitely recommend only adding a new batch if parameters are in check.

I agree, a little goes a long way. I use 2 to 3 tablespoons on a 30 gallon tank. Keeps my phosphates 0 or very close to it

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[Aquaph8]

I use 1 cup changed out every month ran 24/7 on a mostly SPS tank

 

[westreef]

WesF, beautiful tank!
I have been using GFO for a while, 24/7. About 1/2 cup changed every month. Dial the flow just enough to see slight tumbling. My phosphate is around 0.03 ppm to 0.08ppm by Hanna. I have no refuge.

 

[sleeri]

Interesting, some of you run pretty small amounts of GFO. I've got roughly 80-85 gallons of water and I probably run a cup of GFO, which I change monthly. Seems to be fine. Wouldn't the amount you use really depend on stocking level? I've got a mixed reef with lots of fish, so I tend to run a little more GFO.

 

[Zack]

Interesting, some of you run pretty small amounts of GFO. I've got roughly 80-85 gallons of water and I probably run a cup of GFO, which I change monthly. Seems to be fine. Wouldn't the amount you use really depend on stocking level? I've got a mixed reef with lots of fish, so I tend to run a little more GFO.

That's what I was thinking. I think it depends on feeding too. Since I have a 30 gal with 4 fish I use a pipette to individually feed each fish so the pellets or brine I feed doesn't get a chance to lay in the tank and rot, which I've heard the pellets are high in phosphates. Works for me anyways.

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