PLENUM SYSTEM

[jackal]

I guys!

I jz purchased a new 3/2/2 ft tank wz sump and cabinet to replace my leak IOS tank. This time I wanna do a better job in setting it up.

I am going to do a Plenum system and I have been asking around. Question is, do I start the planum works first, then add the salt water in the tank, let all the salt disolved after few days, get the salinity right then put in the sands [grade3, 4inch/ grade1 2inch then grade 0 1inch].

Plse advice. Thank you

[Reefaholic]

Hi there,

plenum system doesnt work from day 1, it takes time for it to stablise. so whatever way it doent matter.

[Melvyn Tan]

Just to add, Plenum will take at least 6 months time frame for it to mature. Before you get started, you need lotsa movement for the space inbetween, when the bacteria thrive (indication from your test measurement) then you can sort of seal the movements and deprive the space inbetween of oxygen (this means low in oxygen) which also means anoxic. There will be some changes to the initial bacteria and these will convert the nitrates into nitrogen. In addition to this lowering of the nitrates there will also be gradual dissolution of the carbonate live sand bed, which produces a constant introduction of calcium, strontium, and trace elements into the tank.

For the plenum to be successful, you will need the correct type of sand (aragonites are the best) and the surface area of the sand bed must not be covered too much by the liverocks ie. there must be sufficient surface area. Critters are also important to the success of the plenum system.

Hope this helps...

[jackal]

Thanks guys. Great to learnt something new. Its quite rare ppl talk abt Plenum System in this forum. Plse add on, especially those ppl have experience doing this.

[butteye]

I'm currently running a 1 footer nano that employs something like plenum. I uses undergarvel filter for the base. still cycling.

[tineng]

Thanks guys. Great to learnt something new. Its quite rare ppl talk abt Plenum System in this forum. Plse add on, especially those ppl have experience doing this.

acutally, its was quite a 'in thing' when i first join the hobby....you can do a search on 'plenum' using the 'any date' setting....you should see a few discussion going on here and maybe you can contact some of those 'old birds' for help....