Prostar 60 sump modification

[jacobreynolds6883]

Ok looking for ideas or directions to go on adding a refugium to a ProStar V2 60. The manufactured sump is small and definitely not my favorite for several reasons. There is no space for a refugium, no baffle between skimmer and return chamber as a bubble trap, and very limited size in chambers for equipment. So I’m looking at 4 options….

1 - add a filter sock bracket or filter roller into the overflow chamber, cut out sock holder divider in second chamber and turn it into the refugium

2 - split the sock chamber into two chambers with acrylic divider turning the second half into a refugium and reducing the system down to one sock

3 - rig up an external refugium from a single reactor but needs to be small enough to stay in the cabinet

4 - scrap this small design of a sump and buy aftermarket one that will fit in the cabinet and accommodate all that is needed

Also I’d like opinions about adding an automatic filter roller, is it worth the investment even if I don’t mind changing socks every 2 days. Attached are some pictures to give some idea of the space and area that I’m working with.

 

[cdemoss01]

BUMPING...

 

[kitti-fish]

Same tank and sump so following!

 

[Bruttall]

I would add an external Algae Scrubber to that system, rather than try and cram any more stuff into that tiny little area. Might even have room on the left side of the sump for one. It will do the same job as a Fuge basically exporting nutrients, but instead of managing a ball of macro algae, you just strip the algae growth out regularly.

The algae grown in the scrubber I believe can then be dried and repurposed as fish food.

 

[kitti-fish]

I would add an external Algae Scrubber to that system, rather than try and cram any more stuff into that tiny little area. Might even have room on the left side of the sump for one. It will do the same job as a Fuge basically exporting nutrients, but instead of managing a ball of macro algae, you just strip the algae growth out regularly.

The algae grown in the scrubber I believe can then be dried and repurposed as fish food.

Do you recommend one? I looked at the slim AI version but the price is a little ridiculous.

 

[jacobreynolds6883]

Do you recommend one? I looked at the slim AI version but the price is a little ridiculous.

Agreed the with pricing and even the cheapest version that I can find Icecap is still on the high side.

 

[kitti-fish]

Do you recommend one? I looked at the slim AI version but the price is a little ridiculous.

Agreed the with pricing and even the cheapest version that I can find Icecap is still on the high side.

I was considering doing a DIY using a cheap HOB and using a clear mesh canvas to hold chaetto. I have a random grow light as well to stick on top of a plexiglass diy lid. Not pretty but no one sees except me. Worth a try!

 

[Bruttall]

There is a reason I don't mention cost, click my Tank Thread and browse. I sort of figured it'd be pricey, everything is, but your not working with a 360 gallon system like I am. I use very different methods forced onto me by having eyes way bigger than my wallet.

I also have 6 foot long sump in a 12x12 room behind my 8ft 300g display. Makes for a lot different approach for me.

 

[FUNGI]

IMO....
3 - rig up an external refugium from a single reactor but needs to be small enough to stay in the cabinet