Question bout FOWLR

[pinglett27]

I've got a 120g tank and I know I will need to get 180lbs of live rock if I do a live rock tank. If I do a FOWLR tank do I still need to get 180lbs of live rock or I just need to get less because it going to be a fish only tank as well. Keep in mind I'm new to the salty tanks but already have a freshwater tank so it's why I ask.

 

[1guydude]

Theirs soemthing called dry rock which is just dead LR but u can seed it with some LR to save money! Ive bought nothing but LR and with it comes hitchikers so prob best to get the dry rock. Hopefully TeresaQ or someone can chime in for some more info!

 

[mr. limpid]

If you are planing a FOWLR the rock is there for 2 reasons, helps with filtration and provides hiding places for fish. As for how much with FOWLR there are no set poundage, depends on what type of filtration you are doing. I have 135 with 100lbs of LR and wet dry filtration, plain on adding a skimmer or algae scrubber or even a refugium, when fish get larger to help out on filtration.

 

[jetedawg]

Also, the amount of live rock "needed" varies with the bio-load of the tank.
More livestock = more ammonia = more surface area needed for bacteria to grow = more live rock needed! =)

 

[saxman]

I typically aquascape until I'm happy with the setup for whatever is in the tank. I've never known "how much" LR I've had in ANY tank in the 20+ years I've been keeping SW. Sometimes I do add a bit more to the sump if there's room and the bioload warrants it. One thing we do find is that live macro algae works wonders on your water quality, and it looks nice too.