More fuge ?'s

[abbeyspal]

Would a 20 gallon refugium provide enough filtration for a 50 gallon tank? Would it be advantageous to split the twenty into a sump/fuge? I really like the Idea of using the refugium with macro as my only filtration, but I have to worry about my critters too. :?

 

[jandree22]

well in your 50 are you planning to use Live rock? Live rock will be your primary biological filtration, a general rule of thumb is at least 1lb/gallon, 1.5lb/gal is ideal. refugiums are definately meant for supplimental filtration, the macro algae helps reduce Nitrates.... I don't have time to explain the Nitrogen cycle here, but trust me, you'll def either need a biological filter or Live Rock to take care of it.... Live rock is the better choice in the end.

 

[abbeyspal]

Thanks for the info I am going to use live rock hopefully around 70 lbs. I also understand the nitrogen cycle. I just want to run my tank with all natural filtration. I am trying to avoid using a skimmer.

 

[Anonymous]

If that's really your goal then the money spent on "The Natural Marine Aquarium-Reef Invertebrates" by Anthony Calfo and Bob Fenner is money well spent.

 

[abbeyspal]

Do you know where I can pick that book up?

 

[WannaBeReefer]

I believe this is it.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/de ... ce&s=books

 

[Meloco14]

if you want to go all natural you don't really need a sump, since you won't be using a skimmer, carbon, or bio balls. Just set up the 20 as a refugium, and throw the heater in there to get it out of the display tank, and you're set. I would personally use deep sand, live rock, and lots of marcoalgae in the refugium, and make sure there is a lot of life in there i.e. detrivitore kits, copepods, amphipods, etc. Since you're not using any other filtration I would try to go overboard on the natural stuff, just in case. Better to err on the side of more natural filtration then less...just my opinion anyway. Ask around and get other peoples ideas before deciding. Let us know how it works out for you