OK, all you have seen these threads ten times more that I have. But still, this one is mine. Over the next month or so I am building up a 9-gal nano reef. I am using this thread to archive and solicit help during the process as needed. I have a couple of conflicting advice right off the bat from the LFS and the threads that I have seen before. I will pose those in a bit. First off my set up:
I bought a 9 gal nano cube with in-tank filter box.
Included with my $60 tank was the hood, powerhead and filter material.
I am switching out the powerhead that was with the tank to a slightly larger one. Unfortunately, that is going require that I rework the filter box. And that brings my first question. LFS says keep the sponge filter; however, I have read in past threads that if I am keeping only a reef - no fish - that I should lose the sponge. Replacing the sponge would be LRR. Thoughts? What should I pass the water through?
For a substrate my LFS suggested a medium size rubble over live sand. I am curious about this. Should I change out the rubble for an inch or so of live sand?
I will save the rest of the questions as they come up. I appreaciate everyone's help.
I bought a 9 gal nano cube with in-tank filter box.
Included with my $60 tank was the hood, powerhead and filter material.
I am switching out the powerhead that was with the tank to a slightly larger one. Unfortunately, that is going require that I rework the filter box. And that brings my first question. LFS says keep the sponge filter; however, I have read in past threads that if I am keeping only a reef - no fish - that I should lose the sponge. Replacing the sponge would be LRR. Thoughts? What should I pass the water through?
For a substrate my LFS suggested a medium size rubble over live sand. I am curious about this. Should I change out the rubble for an inch or so of live sand?
I will save the rest of the questions as they come up. I appreaciate everyone's help.
