Filter question.

[wingnut]

I have a Aqua Clear 70 that I've been using in my 55. When I get my sump/fuge up and running will I still need to run the Aqua Clear filter?

[leebca]

It all depends. Your goal for a FOWLR system is to have in-tank circulation no less than 8 times the total voume of water in the system being pumped through every hour. This is accomplished by outside pumps and inside power heads. Determine the real output in gallons/hour of each pump and add them up. That must exceed the minimum 8x amount of flow.

[wingnut]

K so say I'm circulating 650 gph +/- in a 55 gallon tank, thats nearly 12X (11.8) circulation. Safe to say I'd be good with out it? One more question off subject. Are plastic plants a bad idea in most FO or FOWLR?

Thanks for your help.......... I'm learning, slowly but................

[leebca]

Your circulation is taken care of. Now you have to address the mechanical and chemical filtration to make sure they are adequate.

Artificial decorations are either okay or not okay.

They are okay when they specifically state they are suitable for marine tanks. Buy/use nothing that doesn't say this. Note that for freshwater tanks using lead weights to hold the plants down is common -- these must never be used in a marine artificial plant/decoration product. Just be aware -- they won't remain the color you see them for long. They will fairly quickly get covered with algae then detritus. They will then need removing from the tank on a regular (annual) cleanup maintenance, for cleaning off (scrubbing). So they are not a bad idea, as long as you choose carefully, clean them prior to use, and keep them on a cleanup schedule.

Most marine decorations are made from resins. For the most part, they are okay. But I don't put anything into my aquarium unless I first clean it out. The resin-made decorations often leach some oroganics into the water and mess up water quality. I clean and soak those.

For cleaning guidelines, see here: Marine System Clean Up Recommendations