03/06/2026 update
On 01/24/2026, I added an extension sump to my main system to create a dedicated space for growing macroalgae and acclimating fish. This also freed up room in my primary sump, making skimmer maintenance much easier and allowing space for additional equipment.
For the extension sump, I used a TruVu 20g acrylic aquarium (24" × 13" × 16"). I built a wooden platform to raise the tank high enough to provide proper clearance for the drain plumbing.
To drill the tank, I picked up a step drill bit on
Amazon that covers 1/4" to 2-3/8" holes, since I needed to drill a 1-3/4" hole for 1" bulkheads. The drill bit is HUGE!
I drilled two holes for return lines so the water can gravity feed back into the main sump. Right now, the outflow from my AquaUV feeds into this tank. The flow is a bit on the weak side because I have to keep it slow for the AquaUV, but in the future I’ll probably add a dedicated pump so I can increase the flow and get the macro tumbling properly.
The extension sump has been running for about 1.5 months now, and it’s been a great addition. I also used it as an acclimation space for a Blonde Naso tang. It got nice and thick eating the algae I had down there. It has now successfully joined the tang gang in the display and paired up with my other Blonde Naso!
My Atomic Broccoli macro is growing really well, too. Now I’m on the hunt for Dragon’s Breath, does anyone have some available?
