Changing tank to LR?

jeepers

jeepers

New Member
I'm not sure if this is the right forum but...I have an established 110, it's been salt water for over 3 years and is FO. Filtration is crushed coral under gravel with an Ocean Clear filter. Plumbing is through a hole in the very center bottom of the tank. I only have dead rock and dead coral, but am considering changing the tank to FOWLR and inverts or possibly reef. The tank is very deep @ 30" so reef is a pipe dream most likely due to lighting requirements. My question is, is it practical to go live rock with this tank? I'd really like to have a healthier environment for the fish and want to see some inverts in there too (shrimp, etc...). What would you do? Current readings are ammonia 0, nitrate 10, pH 8.0. Current lighting is also simple with 2 4' fluorescent, I don't have the W handy.
I figure I'd need a skimmer, but with only pre-drilled center/bottom I'd need either hang on or create a sump/refugium with an overflow box and probably more lighting. Also change to sand and plug the bottom hole. I appreciate any assistance!
 
reefnoob

reefnoob

Member
one thing is, to have inverts, you'll probably need a higher SG than what you have now for just yer fish. At .023 or even .024, my snails are hating life. I keep it at .026 as best I can.. and fish/verts seem to be happy as clams.. hehe, could not resist the pun.
 
ajroc31

ajroc31

Member
I think you can liver rock, and it will greatly benfit your tank. I will suggest that you upgrade your lights. It will be beneficial for algea growth, and it will make your tank look much nicer. I think a skimmer is a must, so that should be your #1 priority.
 
jeepers

jeepers

New Member
OK, that sounds like a solid plan. I would think I should ditch the crushed coral and go sand when I get rid of the UG? If I do that and start adding LR over time, I don't ever touch the sand bed right? Do I need cleaners pretty much right when I add sand or should I wait? I hate to ask all these questions, but I sure appreciate all of your input.:joy:
 
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