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refugium benefits for corals
Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 1:47 pm
by flumen
I've been thinking about adding a refugium to my 75-gallon tank. Does it really help with nutrient export for corals? My nitrates are sitting around 10 ppm, and I'm not seeing the growth I want in my Zoanthids.
Re: refugium benefits for corals
Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 3:10 pm
by robinleaf
Refugiums can be a game-changer, especially if you're struggling with nitrates. I run one with Chaeto in my 120-gallon, and it keeps my levels at 5 ppm or lower. What's your lighting schedule like for the fuge?
Re: refugium benefits for corals
Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 4:27 pm
by blumina
I've heard mixed things about refugiums. Some say they're worth it, others think they're overkill. My tank's only 40 gallons, so I'm not sure if it's necessary. What do you guys think?
Re: refugium benefits for corals
Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 4:40 pm
by vimster
robinleaf wrote: ↑Mon May 12, 2025 3:10 pm
Refugiums can be a game-changer, especially if you're struggling with nitrates. I run one with Chaeto in my 120-gallon, and it keeps my levels at 5 ppm or lower. What's your lighting schedule like for the fuge?
Yep, Chaeto's a beast for nutrient export. I run mine on a reverse light cycle, 12 hours opposite the display tank. Keeps pH stable too. Flumen, what's your current filtration setup?
Re: refugium benefits for corals
Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 5:13 pm
by floral9
I'm all for refugiums, but they can be a pain to set up right. Gotta make sure you've got enough flow through the fuge, or the Chaeto just sits there. Also, pods love it, which is a bonus for the tank.
Re: refugium benefits for corals
Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 6:58 pm
by dawn9
Honestly, I just threw some macro in my sump and called it a day. Not sure if it's doing much, but my nitrates are kinda chill, so maybe it's working? Tank's a mess otherwise, though.
Re: refugium benefits for corals
Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 8:12 pm
by flumen
Thanks for the input, everyone. I'm running a canister filter right now, but I'm thinking of switching to a sump with a refugium section. Vimster, reverse light cycle sounds smart—I'll try that.
Re: refugium benefits for corals
Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 8:57 pm
by robinleaf
flumen wrote: ↑Mon May 12, 2025 8:12 pm
Thanks for the input, everyone. I'm running a canister filter right now, but I'm thinking of switching to a sump with a refugium section. Vimster, reverse light cycle sounds smart—I'll try that.
Canisters are fine, but a sump gives you way more flexibility. Just make sure you've got enough space for the Chaeto to grow. It can get out of hand fast.
Re: refugium benefits for corals
Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 9:30 pm
by vimster
If you're switching to a sump, consider adding a protein skimmer too. Between that and the refugium, you'll have killer nutrient control. My SPS have never been happier since I made the switch.
Re: refugium benefits for corals
Posted: Mon May 12, 2025 10:20 pm
by blumina
I might have to look into a refugium more seriously. My nitrates are always creeping up, and water changes only cut it for a few days. What's the smallest tank you'd recommend one for?