deep sand bed

[mysticgal22]

Im thinking about setting up a sump system. I have a 72 gallon tank, and the sump is going to be 29 gallons. Should I go with a deep sand bed or a plennum? How deep should the sand bed be, or plennum be? And what sor of macro alge should I put in it. I will have lights on the sump. My intent is to try to cycle some nitrates out of my system. Any input would be great. Thank you.

 

[hookedonreefs]

It sounds like you really want a refugium as opposted to a sump. A sump is a place for mechanical filtration, checmical additives etc. A fuge is a place for biological filtration and a refuge for live fish & coral food to reproduce. In that case - IMO, go with a DSB about 4-6 inches, and put chaeto macroalgae in there. That should be all you need. I've heard some people still use plenums, but I have no experience with them and that's why I'd go with a DSB (personally).