kriswaters

I would be able to help out in the SW area (Newberg, Sherwood, Tualatin or Mac) Kris

I agree with spectra...I started planning November 2006. Built the sump in February. Bought the skimmer and Hydors in March, set up the tank April 8th. Added snails mid-May, bought the lights end of May, and my first fish June 13th. Experience with this set up has taught me some things for sure. Again, let me know if you need anything else. If you don't already have a skimmer...definately look into the Octopus NW or Recircs....they KICK BOOTY! Kris

Is it all gone?

What's the minimum tank size? 100 gallons? Kris

Well, since you asked... Skimmer section-there is now an "elbow" on my skimmer return and I ditched the foam rings. Fuge section-I now have a "T" coming off of the overflow and tossed the sponge Return section (a little hard to see the actual size) The finished product...I did put another baffle between the fuge and return...which cut down on the bubbles in my display...it is not glued in, just wedged and held by a few suction cups (see picture above). I got all of the materials at Multicraft Plastics in Tigard. Their prices were better than anyone elses. If you give them specs, they will cut nice, clean and true edges for you for a little extra. I used 3/8" acrylic and add a few cross braces on the top. It does not bow at all. I thought about using a AGA for the sump, but could not find a tank to fit under my cabinet...thus I went custom. Let me know if you need anything else. Kris

Custom build it...I have a 55 gallon with a narrow width stand. My sump is about 22 gallons and it was not that hard to do. All in all, it cost me about $100.00. Mine is 16 X 10 X 36 and fits just perfect. Kris

My twin spot has done wonders with my sand in my 55 gallon...he is elusive and very shy...but fun to see when he is out. Kris

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I already have trouble going on any kind of vacation with all of the animals I have...now I added a REEF TANK!!! Your tank was beautiful before, hope you stay in it! Kris

So true JeffP....it seems that we all learn from the mistakes of others... Jay I am sorry for your loss, and I can't offer solutions. I do thank you for bringing this to the attention of others. Kris

Soooo, I got a "hair algae" from impur...nothing else or does everyone agree?

3 hermits, 4 zebra turbos snails 5 nassarius 6 margarite snails

I have been searching the web for the last few days, coming through all sorts of links and sights trying to ID this growth to no avail. Perhaps someone here can help. My paramaters are all good. PH 8.1 Alk 4 Nitrites 0 Nitrates 0 Ammonia 0 I used RO water from my LFS for changes and top off. Kris Oh, and here are my two clowns...funny little fish they are!

Well, I added the last of the fish (for awhile)....a Twin Star Goby. He/she went straight to the sand and all I have seen are little clouds of substrate now and then. My husband asks..."So, we spent $25 on a fish we can't see?" LOL... Kris

Rico, I would love to hear more. Kris

What type of material are these "filter socks" made of??? Is there something at home that you could use to DIY??? I was thinking panty-hose. Kris

I guess I will have to ask. My LFS uses the same water and their tanks look great.

Happy b-day!

Its tough being patient! Kris

The clowns are fun fun...I am waiting for my daughter to return home from her DC trip...she has the camera right now. There is a pic of the feather duster and wrasse (Grumpy) on the first page of this thread. I have been diligent about changing the water in my DIY containers...hopefully soon they will stabilize and I can add it to the tank. I really want more ROCK! Kris

Even my husband comments on happy Clown #1 is...before he stayed in the corner and now the two cover the entire tank! It's always good to have a friend to play with.

So, my second true percula clown came in today!!! Luckily he/she has different markings so that I can tell the two apart. It sure sparked the other clown up!!! No fights, and no teritorial issues at all. Even Grumpy the wrasse joins in their "fishie" fun! I picked up 10, very small, Nassarius snails today as well. 5 took off like a bullet, and 5 turned up empty...luckily my LFS will replace! Kris

Hanging on for the ride...congrats, and good luck! Kris

I used a piece of marine grade rubber under the mag seven....Mostly, I hear the cascade of water from the overflows, which isn't bad at all... I built a seven hundred gallon pond last year. I included a waterfall to hear the relaxing sounds of moving water....

Mine goes for the bubbles.

Thanks dsoz for waiting until you had all of the info. Others here knew about my DIY rock...and those in the process of undergoing the same understood. I did re-read my post, and it was confusing...still, I myself try to obtain all info before forming an opinion. I am sure my reply was harsh, but imagine my offense, especially after the great care I have taken to set things up correctly. In all honesty, I some times cringe about posting anything on any forum...you never know how some one else will take it or respond to it. I just want to be part of a group that shares my interests and learn from those who have done it right and who have done it wrong, with out feeling as if I am a total idiot. As for the fish, they are doing great! The clown has found his way around the entire tank, but still sticks close to the overflow box. The wrasse is happy darting in and out of the rock work. Both are eating well. I have a "macro" on the camera...but at 3 MP even the 10x zoom is not that great. The pics of the feather duster turned out ok, but that little clown is wiggly! I will try the tri-pod, as I am sure my hand is not that steady!! I already know what I will be asking Santy Claus for christmas!!! Kris