Starting a 450 gallon saltwater tank soon. So far I have the tank on a stand, a 110 gallon tank to use as a sump, and a "model 12" pump. The guy said it's supposed to push around 1200gph (planning to be used as a return pump). The tank also has two holes drilled in the bottom (one toward each end) but they're currently sealed. I wanted to reopen them to create a circular flow (something like that?) I read it was good to get all the nastiness from the bottom flowing to the top. I also was considering a pm external skimmer from someone selling here on the forum. I'm not really sure how that'll work so I need a lot of help. I was originally planning to have a skimmer inside the sump but if the external one will work easily then I'll just do that. All comments, suggestions, help is welcome! Thanks. I'll hopefully get some pictures up soon!
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450 gallon setup. HELP NEEDED!!
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First out the skimmer in the sump. If it goes nuts like skimmers can do from time to time you're protected. Also what type of powerheads are you planning on using? What are your planns fowlr or reefCustom Aquarium Cabinets Justin Henry 281-739-8723
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Alright for that tank,
2x vortech mp60 es
1x reef devil skimmer, I can't remember the model of their really big one.
Upgrade that pump to a reeflo dart, nasty flow.
I would use a mag 12 on maybe a 125g, but it lacks substantially in flow for a 450g.
The mag 12 I would use on the skimmer.
Definatly would do dual intakes at each end on the sump with a filter sock on all of them.
For lighting, either led cannons or a few 400watt metal halides, or a combination of both.
Hope this helps.Last edited by TaTeR ToT; 06-30-2011, 08:42 AM.FRENCH FRY!!!
55g - Vieja Synspilum 'Biotope'
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You really dont need to return pump to have a lot of flow. I run a Iwaki 40 on my 330G, which is barely 2.5x turnover per hour. You want it to actually go slow so it can properly do the Nitrogen cycle, especially if you put cheato or other plants. If you are going to open the bottom holes, you can not let it drain into the sump. It can only be done through a closed loop system otherwise if the power goes out and if it drains into the sump then 400G will drain down there. A lot of skimmers can either be in or out of the sump. If the skimmer is the one I am selling as much as I would like to sell my stuff the Bullet 2 is not big enough for your tank unless you keep the bio-load low and dont keep a lot of fish. Its rated for a 250G tank. Lighting will depend on what you want to keep in the tank. If you want you can come take a look at my set-up to get some ideas and how I plumbed my tank.
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wow, lots of replies pretty quick! thanks guys. let's see if i can do this replying correctly. lol.
Originally posted by jhenry View PostFirst out the skimmer in the sump. If it goes nuts like skimmers can do from time to time you're protected. Also what type of powerheads are you planning on using? What are your planns fowlr or reef
Originally posted by jhenry View PostAnother thing how long have you been keeping a saltwater tank for?Originally posted by jhenry View PostYeah it would be a helluva way to start into saltwater huh. Go big or go home huh lol
Originally posted by semper View PostIf first time doing salt would not dare go that big
Lots of $$$ to throw down the drain
Unless its fish only and even then some fish can get up there in price
Originally posted by sunkenmetal View Post450 gallons man I am jealous....
Originally posted by TaTeR ToT View PostAlright for that tank,
2x vortech mp60 es
1x reef devil skimmer, I can't remember the model of their really big one.
Upgrade that pump to a reeflo dart, nasty flow.
I would use a mag 12 on maybe a 125g, but it lacks substantially in flow for a 450g.
The mag 12 I would use on the skimmer.
Definatly would do dual intakes at each end on the sump with a filter sock on all of them.
For lighting, either led cannons or a few 400watt metal halides, or a combination of both.
Hope this helps.
Originally posted by mgarrido View PostBack to the real world... What is your budget? That's the main question before start pointing what you need.
Originally posted by Darbex View PostYou really dont need to return pump to have a lot of flow. I run a Iwaki 40 on my 330G, which is barely 2.5x turnover per hour. You want it to actually go slow so it can properly do the Nitrogen cycle, especially if you put cheato or other plants. If you are going to open the bottom holes, you can not let it drain into the sump. It can only be done through a closed loop system otherwise if the power goes out and if it drains into the sump then 400G will drain down there. A lot of skimmers can either be in or out of the sump. If the skimmer is the one I am selling as much as I would like to sell my stuff the Bullet 2 is not big enough for your tank unless you keep the bio-load low and dont keep a lot of fish. Its rated for a 250G tank. Lighting will depend on what you want to keep in the tank. If you want you can come take a look at my set-up to get some ideas and how I plumbed my tank.
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I think the most important piece of advice is to go slow. If you rush it, it'll crash twice as fast. Do a shi+ ton of research and ask lots of questions. Side note, me personally, I would never cycle with fish...20g mixed reef
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Well I'd add a fresh uncooked table shrimp and buy a test kit. Then just test every so often. Watch for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate spikes. When all have spiked and all have returned to 0, then and only then are you ready to SLOWLY add livestock. Are you gonna start with base rock or live rock?20g mixed reef
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