55 Gallon Reef Tank 2015
Table of Contents
I set up this tank in Late April of 2015 and started stalking it in late May. The majority of the corals are leathers and large polyp stony. Things are progressing fast and the livestock doing very well. I have taken everything I have learned and set up one small reef system, that I can disassemble when it comes time to move.
I have been pretty aggressive buying coral nearly weekly since June, I’d like to get about 40 more small colonies in the tank, then start filling in the remaining open spots of rock with zoanthids and sps frags. I have been taking photos as I progress but not near enough. I’m still trying to dial in a good technique. Shooting underwater seems far more simple at this point. During my years doing photography of aqua-cultured coral everything was shot from above so white balance was far less of an issue.
I really like the new technology out today, from computers to lights allot has changed since my last tank and it really adds to the overall stability of the set up. To increase my chances of success I added a 100 gallon sump in my basement, then plumbs into the main set up. This is something I learned early on. Sumps are a critical component of your reef tank, far too often they are ignored or something small is added that can fit under the stand. Ideally I’d like to have something five times the display area, but in my case two will have to do.
I have been tweaking the tank for months now, adding hardware modifying levels and settings as well as adding coral. I have lost a few pieces but not many. The tank is really starting to fill out and I only have room for one or two more large colonies, then I will have to reduce additions to coral frags.
I was certain I had more photos of the tank along the way prior to making this post, I’ll have to do more digging around there seems to be a 4 month gap here. I still have allot in comparison to previous set ups. My last tank going about 8 years back; I was only able to find a total of 6 photos. In the early days of my multi zone reef most of my photos are on stock instead of being digital and the ones I do have are very low resolution as these were the first gen of consumer digital cameras. In fact I traded coral frags for my first digital camera.
In August of 2015 I decided to create another row of rock along the top of the tank to fit in a handful of sps colonies that I needed a bit of distance between them and the leathers. So far doing well, I have a bit of stinging and tissue lost but that is to be expected with such close proximity.
One problem I encountered over the past few months (since 9/15) was an increase in phosphate. My levels were about .5+ and that really impacts corals utilizing calcium. About 3 weeks back I turned my Bio pellet reactor into a GFO reactor and two things happened. First my phosphate levels have now dropped to about .05 and that is since around Jan 16th 2015 when i has a hair below .5. Secondly my redox shot from an average of 360’s to 440+ and that happened over 48 hours.
Looking at the photos I notice a few of the leathers actually shrunk in size, and the sps really stopped growing. I think the carbon dosing works my problem was I went with a very cheap set up. I believe to really make the reactor effective you need a unit that has independent controls for the tumble rate & output. Once I get growth back on track I’m going to buy a new reactor and begin again.
Dive into the World of 55 Gallon Reef Tanks
Reef tanks have always been a captivating portal to the vibrant and diverse underwater world, right in the comfort of our homes. Among them, the 55 gallon reef tank stands out as a popular choice for both novice and seasoned aquarists. This size offers a splendid balance between manageability and the potential for a stunning aquatic display, teeming with life. It’s large enough to host a variety of marine species, yet small enough for a personal touch and detailed care. Embarking on the 55 gallon reef tank journey promises an engaging adventure into marine biology, aquascaping, and the delicate art of ecosystem management.
Building Your Reef Tank Oasis
Choosing the Right Equipment
When setting up a 55 gallon reef tank, the equipment you choose lays the foundation for a thriving marine habitat. The selection of a high-quality filtration system, such as a protein skimmer or a canister filter, is crucial for maintaining optimal water quality. Lighting is another critical component, with LED options offering a spectrum conducive to coral photosynthesis and growth. Advanced reef keepers might delve into the specifics of PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) levels to optimize coral health and coloration.
Aquascaping: Crafting Your Underwater Landscape
Aquascaping in a 55 gallon reef tank is both an art and a science. The arrangement of live rock and coral placement is pivotal, not just for aesthetic appeal, but for the biological health of the tank. Live rocks serve as the backbone of your tank’s ecosystem, providing both a physical structure for corals and a biological filtration base through beneficial bacteria. Strategic placement can create hiding spots for fish and invertebrates, promoting a natural and stress-free environment.
The Inhabitants of Your Marine World
Selecting Compatible Marine Life
The bioload capacity of a 55 gallon tank guides the selection of its inhabitants. When stocking your tank, consider the symbiotic relationships and territorial needs of your chosen species. For example, a pair of clownfish (Amphiprioninae) can coexist peacefully with a variety of peaceful wrasses and gobies. However, it’s essential to research each species’ compatibility to prevent territorial disputes and ensure a harmonious aquatic community.
Coral Diversity and Placement
Corals are the jewels of reef tanks, and in a 55 gallon setup, you have the opportunity to showcase a variety of species. Soft corals like Zoanthids and Mushroom Corals (Actinodiscidae and Discosomatidae) are excellent for beginners, while more experienced reef keepers might venture into the realm of SPS (Small Polyp Stony) corals, which demand more precise water conditions. The placement of corals is influenced by their lighting and flow requirements, with higher flow areas suited to LPS (Large Polyp Stony) corals and calmer areas for soft corals.
Maintenance and Care: Ensuring a Thriving Ecosystem
Routine Water Changes and Parameter Monitoring
Regular maintenance is the linchpin of a healthy reef tank. Bi-weekly water changes, typically 10-20% of the tank volume, help to remove toxins and replenish trace elements. Consistent monitoring of water parameters like salinity, pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates is imperative to avoid fluctuations that can stress or harm the tank’s inhabitants. Advanced aquarists might also track alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium levels to support coral skeletal growth.
Algae Control and Nutrient Management
Algae control is a perennial challenge in reef tanks. A 55 gallon setup benefits from a clean-up crew consisting of snails, hermit crabs, and possibly algae-eating fish, which help manage algae growth. Nutrient management, through careful feeding practices and the use of equipment like protein skimmers, ensures that excess nutrients don’t fuel unwanted algae blooms, maintaining the tank’s aesthetic appeal and ecological balance.
Conclusion
Embarking on the journey of setting up and maintaining a 55 gallon reef tank is a rewarding endeavor that brings a slice of the ocean’s majesty into your home. It requires a blend of scientific understanding, artistic touch, and dedicated care, but the result is a vibrant, thriving ecosystem that’s a testament to the beauty and complexity of marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned aquarist, the 55 gallon reef tank offers endless possibilities for exploration and enjoyment.
FAQs
What is the ideal lighting schedule for a 55 gallon reef tank? The ideal lighting schedule for a 55 gallon reef tank typically mimics natural daylight cycles, with 8-10 hours of light per day. It’s important to have a period of darkness to simulate the natural day/night cycle, which is beneficial for both corals and fish.
How often should I test the water parameters in my reef tank? Water parameters in a reef tank should be tested at least once a week to monitor for any fluctuations in salinity, pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. More frequent testing may be necessary if you’re adjusting something in the tank or addressing a specific issue.
Can I mix different types of corals in my 55 gallon reef tank? Yes, you can mix different types of corals in a 55 gallon reef tank, but it’s important to consider their individual needs for light and water flow, as well as their potential growth patterns and chemical interactions. Some corals may release toxins that can affect other species, so research and careful planning are essential.
What is the best way to acclimate new fish to my 55 gallon reef tank? The best way to acclimate new fish to your reef tank is by using the drip acclimation method. This involves slowly introducing tank water to the bag or container holding the new fish, gradually adjusting them to the tank’s water parameters over the course of an hour or more, to minimize stress.
How can I reduce aggression among fish in my reef tank? Reducing aggression among fish in a reef tank involves careful selection of compatible species, providing ample hiding spaces and territories through aquascaping, and ensuring the tank isn’t overstocked. Observing fish behavior and making adjustments as needed can help maintain a peaceful environment.
