Nat's 25 Gallon Macro Predator Lagoon

[natattack]

Sharing my new build!

Background:
I currently have a 16 gallon mixed reef that started as a macro tank but ended up switching it to coral about a year ago. However, I got the macro itch again and moved into a larger space so I pulled the trigger on a IM Nuvo 25 Lagoon. I had an old full spectrum planted LED lying around and I am about ready to get started.

The Vision:
I want to have a tank that does three things:
1) Showcases macro algae prominently
2) Grows a mangrove
3) Features a non-reef safe predator I would not be able to keep in a reef.


Planned Equipment:

**Main Light** - Finnex Planted+
**Mangrove Light** - Random Amazon LED Grow Light
**AIO Aquarium** - IM 25 Lagoon
**Stand** - Duratech Bench
**Return Pump** - Sicce Syncra Silent 1.5 w/ Y connector
**Heater** - 150W Eheim Jager
**ATO** - Tunze Osmolator 3 Nano


Planned Stocking:
Honestly, right now I want to do a frogfish. Not sure how feasible this in this setup but this is where I am leaning.

Also, open to suggestions of other oddball predators or fish that fit the lagoon vibe.


Planned Macros/Coral:

-Caulerpa
-Red Ogo
-Blue Hypnea
-Maybe a big old toadstool or leather coral depending on if the fish I get would chomp it


Progress So Far:

So far I have built the stand and unboxed the aquarium basically. Getting everything level and finding a good spot for it was a little challenging but it is all set now.

Let me what you all thinK!

 

[EastonsReef]

Following along!

 

[TheNative192]

following along!

 

[natattack]

For stocking I am between 3 rough options:

1. A pair of leaf scorpionfish
2. A warty frogfish
3. A saddle valentini puffer

I think I am far undersized for a dwarf lion but those are awesome as well.

 

[mpatterson42]

Fu Manchu lionfish tank size recommendation is usually only 30 gallons.

 

[Gumbies R Us]

Following along!

 

[natattack]

Fu Manchu lionfish tank size recommendation is usually only 30 gallons.

I would definitely be interested in one.

I wish a valentini pair would work but would be too small

 

[natattack]

Final stocking looking something like this:

1x Valentini Puffer
2x Yellowspotted Scorpionfish

As for coral:
-Large toadstool
-Gorgonians

Macro algae will stay about what I expected:
-Caulerpa
-Red Ogo
-Blue Hypnea

Wildcard:
-MANGROVE

Don't really think hermits would survive the puffer so I will maybe try just some large snails as a CUC.

Hoping that feeding the puffer frequently enough will prevent too much snail attacking haha.

 

[TheNative192]

Final stocking looking something like this:

1x Valentini Puffer
2x Yellowspotted Scorpionfish

As for coral:
-Large toadstool
-Gorgonians

Macro algae will stay about what I expected:
-Caulerpa
-Red Ogo
-Blue Hypnea

Wildcard:
-MANGROVE

Don't really think hermits would survive the puffer so I will maybe try just some large snails as a CUC.

Hoping that feeding the puffer frequently enough will prevent too much snail attacking haha.

I may have to copy you although I really want a Mandarin lol or possible a possum wrasse. The scorpion fish & puffer are so cool though too.