[samsreef]

Im setting up a 65 gallon reef (have been inspired by: http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/20...totm/index.htm)

I want to have my aquascaping like that, like a coral wall.

Should I go with a DSB? I have looked and read loads of information on this matter but I can't come to a decision. can you let me know which below options would be better and make suggestions?

- DSB
Just 3 - 4 " of Carribsea Aragamax sugar sized sand)
Should I use any other sand as well and if so on the top, bottom or just mixed?
Do I need a under-gravel filter or a filter under the sand at all?
Would it be best for the sand to cover the whole of the tank and the LR to sit directly on the sand or for the sand to only go round the live rock?

- No sand bed
- Like before I just use a sprinklin of sand around the outside of rocks, less than 1" high.

- With the aquascaping
Should I put a powerhead behind the wall of live rock. If so what kind of power head would be acceptable?
Should I just stack the rock up on top of each other or should I use a rack of some kind?
How much space should I leave from the back glass panel and the side glass panels?

And one more, once I have a refugium am I right in thinking that I won't need the fluval or uv steralizer any more?

[kevinpo]

I personally like a DSB and use them in my tanks. You should use just one size/type of sand. Aragamax works very well (.2-1.2mm size). Do not use a undergravel filter as it will not function with the grain size media you are considering using.

I place my rock on egg crate, which is placed on 1/2" PVC pipe. This keeps it off the tank bottom and distributes the weight of the rock more evenly. It also keeps the rock from tipping later if you add sand digging animals. Then add the sand around the rocks.

A pump that pushes 700-900 gph should work well behind the rocks. Just make sure you can reach it for cleaning and adjustment. I would leave a 2-3" space behind the liverock for the fish to swim and to clean if needed. If you pick your rock carefully you shouldn't need a rack. Try to find large pieces that are not round but rather, flat, arched, or irregular shaped. I would advise on using less rock and providing space for the corals to grow. They grow much quicker than you expect.

I would keep both the sterilizer and the Fluval. I really don't recommend going out and buying a sterilizer for a reef tank but if you already own one it will help to keep the water clear. The Fluval is great to run carbon, phosphate remover media, etc. Just be sure not to use any sponge in it unless you don't mind cleaning it every few days.

HTH,
Kevin

[samsreef]

Thanks for the great advice kevin!

Should I glue the pvc tubing to the tank & egg crate or just have it resting? If glued, what should I use to glue it?

What is the ideal depth of a dsb? I don't fancy one 8" but one 3-4' would be ok?

[kevinpo]

No glue required The weight of the rock will hold it in place just fine. 4" sand bed depth will be fine.

Cheers,
Kevin

[samsreef]

Originally Posted by kevinpo

No glue required The weight of the rock will hold it in place just fine. 4" sand bed depth will be fine.

Cheers,
Kevin

Cheers, will let you know how it goes