thinking about getting an sps

Polishpower · Feb 16, 2014

Hello
I wanted some options from this site. I don't see many people with sps with smaller tanks. I have a biocube14. I know I will have to pay more attention to my parameters but will this work. I'm getting retrofit LEDs from rapid led this week with two dimmable drivers. What would you suggest to put the lights at to get everything use to the new LEDs. Any other tips or tricks that might help would be great. Thanks for the help

cmaxwell39 · Feb 16, 2014

The biggest challenge with keeping SPS corals in smaller tanks is the issue of keeping all of your parameters stable. I won't say that it can't be done, but it is a real challenge.

I would say go for it if you want to try it, but start with something "easy" like a monti or birdsnest, and keep a close eye on your parameters (especially salinity, nitrate, phosphate, alk, calcium and temperature.) Good luck and keep us updated on how it is going.

EW_Fish · Feb 16, 2014

I had a 20 gallon with no problems keeping sps. Just keep up water changes and watch alk cal mag phosphates nitrates and temp. Keep the temp within 1 degree - or +

Daniel@R2R · Feb 16, 2014

cmaxwell39 said:
The biggest challenge with keeping SPS corals in smaller tanks is the issue of keeping all of your parameters stable. I won't say that it can't be done, but it is a real challenge.

I would say go for it if you want to try it, but start with something "easy" like a monti or birdsnest, and keep a close eye on your parameters (especially salinity, nitrate, phosphate, alk, calcium and temperature.) Good luck and keep us updated on how it is going.

+1 very solid advice.

Polishpower · Feb 16, 2014

Thanks for the help I will give it a shot.

Genesis Corals · Feb 16, 2014

In regards to your question, I would start the LEDs out at 40 to 50% power and up it by 10% every 3 or 4 days until you get it where you want it. For any new corals just start them at the bottom of your tank for a few days, unless they come from an LED tank, and then place them where you want them. Keep an eye for bleaching or browning and move the coral accordingly or reduce/increase your lighting.