My First Build

[Robert De Lisle]

Hey everyone. I figures since I'm finally on the right track with things I would start one of these threads.

I have a 75 gallon glass aquarium. 48" T-5 fixture with 2 whites and 2 actincs. (However that's spelled)
One hydor power head (850gph)

After getting some much needed advice, I removed the lava rock and went all in with live rock. I also pulled the hob filter so things could happen naturally.

My LFS was shocked to hear that I told them of the potential problems with lava rock in a reef tank. I was pleasantly pleased that they refunded me all my money. It helped to offset the cost of the live rock.

 

[sqcube4me]

looking good .. are you going to run a sump system or the HOB ??

 

[Robert De Lisle]

I just order a reef octopus HOB skimmer.

 

[Robert De Lisle]

Well it's day 5 now and the rust colored alge has arrived on my sand bed. From what I've read this is the start of my cycle.

I have also ordered another hydor power head 1150gph and the wave maker controller for more water motion. This should be enough movement in my tank now right?

 

[SeahorseKeeper]

Looking good! The brown algae, good sign that the tank is on the right path with cycling but so ugly to look at.

 

[Robert De Lisle]

Looking good! The brown algae, good sign that the tank is on the right path with cycling but so ugly to look at.

Thank you Krista :)

 

[mike007]

Looks great keep us posted.

 

[Flameback Pair]

subscribed

 

[Robert De Lisle]

Well, I have been patiently waiting on my cycle and then I went and did something crazy. What do you all think of this?

 

[joe2011]

looks very nice so far best of luck with it . i think you find you will like a reef ready tank over a non reef ready tank .
i started this hobby with an ten gallon tank an now have 5 tanks smallest one being a 120 gallons its hard too stop lol

 

[revhtree]

Looking good!

 

[Robert De Lisle]

Well it was a all day affair moving this beast around by myself but I finally got it in its spot.

The issue I have now is my two inch bulkhead for the drain is leaking. I have no idea how to get it to stop. I want to get the sump flowing but this is holding me back. any suggestions?

 

[Flameback Pair]

Yep... You've definitely got your feet wet!!!



Go to the DIY forum for bulkhead help. Put the word HELP in your thread title. You want the bulkhead fitting tight but if you overtighten you could break the glass.

 

[Robert De Lisle]

I actually stopped it from leaking with a bunch of trial and error. I ended up doubling up the rubber gasket.

 

[Robert De Lisle]

So my tank is finally through its cycle. I received my reef cleaners package last Friday with minimal loss. So, what's next? Can I start with the slow introduction of corals or fish first?

 

[reefwatcher]

Cuc or clean up crew in first.

 

[Robert De Lisle]

There in their already

 

[coralcollage]

I would go for a nice hardy fish before corals. With that said, zoas, palys or mushrooms should do fine if your tank is cycled.