Request Tank Conversion Help

[esotic1]

Ok, so I am finally converting my 35gal ecosystem to a filter tank... I have about a 10 gal sump (w/ fresh water float switch) below to main tank w/ lighting. I have live rock and livestock still in the tank so Im atempting to transition slowly. I have removed the mirical mud and clerpa alge substrate from the sump and am currently doing regular water changes. all temps and levels are currently fine. I would like to build some sort of a filter system w/ bio balls, but dont know where to start. Its a little hairy now, but once I get it converted I would like to get back to Reefing only this time w/ LEDs. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated, however this post is primarily in in search for help with the filtration system. I have been using the eco-system for over 10 years now so I am on unfamiliar territory right now as far as what I need and how to maintain it.

 

[acrylic51]

Filtration IMO doesn't appear that your off to a bad start already. I would opt against use of bio balls, but that is an avenue you could pursue. Honestly I'd add a skimmer to your current setup to start with filtration.

 

[esotic1]

Ok, I'm not dead set on the bio-balls, but do I need some plant or organic matter of any kind in my sump? I have lots of water movement down there... I guess I've been so accustomed to the eco-system.. I feel like I need more down there in the sump. but you are right Shawn, I plan on adding a protein skimmer soon. Is it a good place to farm corals or keep extra snails? Thank You

 

[acrylic51]

I'm actually the wrong person to ask about snails....I usually have none.....You can/could put a fuge section in your sump depending on space; which would encompass chaeto or some type of macro on a reverse lighting schedule....You could leave the sump as it is and where the water is dumped into the sump fill that chamber with LR (live rock).....You could also use a filter sock on the dump (drain line) to the sump to catch larger particulates, but that requires constant attention and changing the sock out. There's honestly a multitude of things you could do depending on space and your desires.....HTH

 

[esotic1]

Can anyone tell me what the lighting requirements are for a sump? Wattage? Exposure time? also, should I put sand or some sort of substrate in it? Thanks

 

[acrylic51]

If your planning on running a fuge in your sump you will want to somewhat control the flow through that area.....You can put sand in that area, and you would run your lighting on that section opposite of your tank lights. Meaning if your tank light schedule is 8 hrs, when your tank lighting would go out the fuge light would come on and go off when the tank lights would be coming back on.
Some use the cheapo clip on reflectors you can get at HD or Lowes in the electrical section. Basically a poor mans work/drop light. They have a big silver reflector. I think they actually have 2 different sizes.....I use a cheap CF 6500k bulb. Nothing fancy.

 

[esotic1]

is the reason for mirrored lighting times to control the heat or for the micro-fauna suspended in the water in general needing a break? I currently have the main tank on a 9hrs on/15 hours off schedule. The sump has four chambers and water flow is controlled fairly well. I currently have a 22watt 50/50 white/blue PC in there from the previous set up that runs 24/7, but I do have a timer I can engage if needed. I feel somewhat hesitant to put sand in the sump just b/c I am worried that it may find its way into my pump... Your thoughts??

 

[esotic1]

Please advise, anyone... Thank You

 

[esotic1]

My tank quality is beginning to Delcine.. Appeared to be protein buildup on top of the water and tank clarity is not normal. Clown fish is swimming on its side at the top and starfish legs beginning to curl and he looks like hes searching for a way out. I just did a 15% water change and have not seen much improvement. Need Advise Please