Refugium vs FR

[pitto]

hey guys need some advice here.

i have 2 FR right now ready to go- will be running rowa and biopellets

at the same time i'm thinking of setting up refugium with LR, chaeto & micro algae only(can't have DSB) in my sump.

so im wavering between these 2 on which would be more effective in both cost and maintenance in a long run.

main objective is to control no3/po4 level.

[Harlequinmania]

Running Refugium = Low running cost since you do not need to replace any filter media. However, it take time for the refugium to settle and take effect, and it might not be as effective as running FR to remove P04 and N03. If possible. I will have have both running if i have the space for it.

Happy reefing..

[JeffL]

Just my personal experience, please dont flame me

For my sump, I opted for a refugium to put in chaeto but my skimmer space is sacrificed. Today if you ask me, I would prefer the biggest skimmer possible and use biopellet and rowa or po4x4 thats all...

[tropic]

I am using refugium chaeto. Running same compartment with my skimmer , are the Biopellet & carbon. Though I would like to start back on rowaphos, I am having reservations as need to be careful in the quantity.

[pitto]

thanks for advice!

yeah to run both at the same time is quite a challenge due to space..

[ryanlio]

My previous biopellet setup starved my macroalgaes. I guess the fr approach will provide a more controlled environment. But I don't like my setup being too clean.. hahha

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[clownfish_forever]

Honestly my chaeto refugium is slow. I don't really observe steady decline in NO3. Look like I will have to install a FR very soon.

[pitto]

is it ok to use coral chip/gravel as substrate instead of DSB?

or better off without any substrate?..just rocks and chaeto/macroalgae/kelps

[yellowtang]

pitto,

if you are gunning for sps, bio pallets/rowa phos are highly effective. If you prefer refug, then go for dsb. I have a good read on this, if you want can lend it to you.

cheers

[bubblefish000]

anyone hv sucess with miracle mud

[pitto]

pitto,

if you are gunning for sps, bio pallets/rowa phos are highly effective. If you prefer refug, then go for dsb. I have a good read on this, if you want can lend it to you.

cheers

thanks uncle mike, but due to my sump design i can't do DSB..

[RCA]

Sorry may I know what is a DSB? I just started and I have both refugium and biopellet but im not sure what plants is that in my refugium.

[Clement Chen]

DSB is deep sand bed

[RCA]

DSB is deep sand bed

Oh okay thanks.

[ramonc]

i use DIY refugium without skimmer.......0 nitrate.......using fluval canister.......

[spgohjc]

Sorry may I know what is a DSB? I just started and I have both refugium and biopellet but im not sure what plants is that in my refugium.

Deep means at least 4 to 6 inches best. The idea is to cultivate and starve the bacteria of oxygen etc. 1 to 2 inches not good enough.

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[RCA]

Ok but does it matter if my refugium is small?

[spgohjc]

Ok but does it matter if my refugium is small?

[RCA]

So should I go for DSB?

[kanegan]

Dsb must not be disturbed once set up and matured. Toxic buildup may kill everything so need to be careful. Many years ago I had a little sandstorm accident that poisoned my fish and the sand was not even 6 inches....

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[kanegan]

What I mean is can use dsb but with care..

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[RCA]

Ok but quite dangerous after hearing what u say. Haha.

[james72]

Noticable stability in tank and cynobacteria/algae controlled when use miracle mud. You guys should try it.

[moonwater]

Noticable stability in tank and cynobacteria/algae controlled when use miracle mud. You guys should try it.

Hi can i ask if i have about 2-3 inches of sand in my sump, is it still possible to add miracle mud to it??

[james72]

Y not? Just slowly pour over it.