Switching from fish-only to reef tank question

[BilboB]

I want to upgrade my fish-only tank from 55 gallons to 125 gallons and start a new reef tank. Can I use my 55-gallon tank for the reef tank, given that it uses a Fluval 407 canister filter and is on a cabinet that doesn't have space for a sump? Or do I need to buy a new tank/cabinet/sump system for thousands of dollars?

Thanks in advance,
Rob

 

[Isaac Alves]

The big issue is that the canister filter will need to be cleaned every few days to maintain proper nutrient levels for a reef system. The decomposing material in
In the canister will break down much faster since it’s basically a closed pressurized reactor of poop and coral waste that will get flushed with all the water in your tank several times an hour —- releasing a constant flow of nutrients into your system fueling algae growth that will likely out compete corals.

The other issue, probably, is you’ll lack oxygen exchange mechanisms that you get with a sump. Not to mention you won’t have a skimmer.

It can probably be done but maintenance might be a crazy ordeal.

But people do it. I’ve seen builds on R2R using canister filters.

 

[BilboB]

The big issue is that the canister filter will need to be cleaned every few days to maintain proper nutrient levels for a reef system. The decomposing material in
In the canister will break down much faster since it’s basically a closed pressurized reactor of poop and coral waste that will get flushed with all the water in your tank several times an hour —- releasing a constant flow of nutrients into your system fueling algae growth that will likely out compete corals.

The other issue, probably, is you’ll lack oxygen exchange mechanisms that you get with a sump. Not to mention you won’t have a skimmer.

It can probably be done but maintenance might be a crazy ordeal.

But people do it. I’ve seen builds on R2R using canister filters.

OK, thanks!

 

[jackhoekstra]

Based on what I have read on this forum, a canister filter works in a reef tank if you use the proper media.

I am not too experienced in this, but I have researched what reefers do to operate a tank using a canister fiter. So please correct me if I am wrong.

First, ditch the mechanical sponge filters that came with the canister. These are difficult and time consuming to clean every week, and if your negligect it, it will boost nitrates.

Instead, replace sais spongea with filter floss or 100% polyester fiber fill. (You can buy this stuff at craft stores) This will catch waste far more efficiently than sponges, and it takes no more than 2 minutes to just throw it in the trash and replace it.

To break it down further:
Depending on how stocked your tank is, you change out the filter floss once a week. If you have a lot of fish, do it more frequently. Do not bother cleaning the floss, just throw it out and put brand new ones in.

You can adjust how many times a week you replace the floss based on how high your nitrates and how brown the floss gets. Moniter, take notes, and adjust accordingly.

Organize the filter in this order:
Make sure the filter floss is what the incoming water hits first once it enters the canister. Ensure the floss clvers the entire tray area so poop water doesnt just slide through the edges. Dont pack it too tightly to the point where it reduces water flow.

Behind the floss, use ceramic bio rings, then, carbon.

Note: If you can attach a Hang on Back Protein Skimmer, you could probably reduce the ammount of times you change the filter floss.

Again: I have no experience in this: This is just what I have read on this forum. Please correct me if I am giving bad advice. Logically, it makes sense to me.

 

[Stu_Daddy03]

When in doubt, just spend the money. It’s usually the best option. It stinks up front but is worth it in the end.

 

[Mr. Mojo Rising]

You can very easily flip your tank into a reef tank. Don't overthink it, you don't need a sump/new tank/cabinet and no need to spend thousands of $$$. Just add a good light, and start testing your water and understanding your parameters and where they need to be for corals, and then dial them in.

 

[Fish Fan]

A good way to run a canister filter for a reef tank is to load it with rock rubble. This minimizes the cleaning that has to be done with typical setups, and it acts as something of a dark refugium, harboring 'pods, etc.

 

[mcarroll]

I want to upgrade my fish-only tank from 55 gallons to 125 gallons and start a new reef tank. Can I use my 55-gallon tank for the reef tank, given that it uses a Fluval 407 canister filter and is on a cabinet that doesn't have space for a sump? Or do I need to buy a new tank/cabinet/sump system for thousands of dollars?

Thanks in advance,
Rob

You don't need a sump to run a reef any more than you need a canister filter to run a fish tank. Both are optional. My 125 Gallon is an all in one setup running a Tunze in-tank filter and skimmer.

I wouldn't use a canister on a reef though. Remove current filtration and install a protein skimmer in it's place.

Also, a 55 is very skinny for a reef tank. You'll be happy with it until your corals start to grow out and require more room. Still might be a good way to get started tho!

 

[exnisstech]

I prefer a hob filter over a canister. They're easier to maintain and can be used to create a small fuge if wanted and running GFO or carbon in bags is much easier than a canister. A reef tank doesn't have to be complicated or high tech. I run a 40g breeder as a backup tank with an aquaclear 110 hob rigged up with an old hob over flow to act as a surface skimmer that works well.

 

[BilboB]

You don't need a sump to run a reef any more than you need a canister filter to run a fish tank. Both are optional. My 125 Gallon is an all in one setup running a Tunze in-tank filter and skimmer.

I wouldn't use a canister on a reef though. Remove current filtration and install a protein skimmer in it's place.

Also, a 55 is very skinny for a reef tank. You'll be happy with it until your corals start to grow out and require more room. Still might be a good way to get started tho!

I never heard of in-tank filters. Does it have activated carbon and bio media inside? Would the Comline DOC Skimmer 9004 be sufficient for my tank?

 

[mcarroll]

I think so.

This would be the "matching" filter that goes with it:
https://www.tunze.com/en/details/3162.000-comlineR-filter-3162.html
....check it out.

 

[BilboB]

I think so.

This would be the "matching" filter that goes with it:
https://www.tunze.com/en/details/3162.000-comlineR-filter-3162.html
....check it out.

Which filter media do you exchange in the 3162? Do you use the attachable Osmolator and heater? Does it matter how far apart the filter and skimmer are?