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live rock arrangement for flow
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 8:42 am
by reelmaster
I'm setting up a new 75-gallon tank and trying to figure out the best live rock arrangement for flow. I've got two MP40s on opposite sides, but I'm worried about dead spots. Any tips on how to stack the rock to maximize flow without blocking too much light?
Re: live rock arrangement for flow
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 10:00 am
by thart
For a 75-gallon with MP40s, I'd recommend an open scape with arches or pillars. Keep the rockwork off the back glass to let the flow circulate behind it. I've had success with a central pillar and two smaller islands, leaving plenty of gaps for water movement. What's your substrate depth?
Re: live rock arrangement for flow
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 11:40 am
by rustix
I've got a similar setup but with cheaper pumps. Does the rock arrangement really make that much difference? My flow seems fine, but my corals aren't growing as fast as I'd like.
Re: live rock arrangement for flow
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 12:03 pm
by reeIzer
thart wrote: ↑Thu Jun 19, 2025 10:00 am
For a 75-gallon with MP40s, I'd recommend an open scape with arches or pillars. Keep the rockwork off the back glass to let the flow circulate behind it. I've had success with a central pillar and two smaller islands, leaving plenty of gaps for water movement. What's your substrate depth?
Yep, arches are the way to go. I've got a 60-gallon with a similar layout, and my Acros are thriving. Just make sure you're not piling rock too high, or you'll get shadowed areas.
Re: live rock arrangement for flow
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 12:51 pm
by honeybuzz
Don't stress too much about it, reelmaster. Flow is important, but corals are pretty adaptable. I've seen tanks with messy rockwork where everything still grows fine. Just keep an eye on detritus buildup and adjust as needed.
Re: live rock arrangement for flow
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 2:46 pm
by taybay
I agree with thart's approach. I've got a 90-gallon with MP40s and a central pillar, and the flow is perfect. My only suggestion is to test the arrangement with a powerhead before gluing anything down. It's easier to tweak it early on.
Re: live rock arrangement for flow
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 4:09 pm
by oaknut
If you're worried about dead spots, try using a turkey baster to blow water around the rockwork after you've set it up. You'll see where the flow isn't reaching. It's a quick way to spot problems before adding corals.
Re: live rock arrangement for flow
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 6:05 pm
by Violeta7
rustix wrote: ↑Thu Jun 19, 2025 11:40 am
I've got a similar setup but with cheaper pumps. Does the rock arrangement really make that much difference? My flow seems fine, but my corals aren't growing as fast as I'd like.
It's not just about flow, rustix. Lighting and water quality play a huge role too. What's your PAR like at the coral level?
Re: live rock arrangement for flow
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 7:48 pm
by dawnix
I'm new to this, but I've heard that heavier flow helps keep algae down. Is that true? My tank's only been up for a few months, and I'm already battling hair algae.
Re: live rock arrangement for flow
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 9:07 pm
by reelmaster
Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try the pillar and island approach and test it with the pumps before finalizing. Appreciate the help!