Q&A Video Series #5: How Do I Dose Kalkwasser?

Seachem Reef Kalkwasser

In this MarineDepot.com video, we'll answer a question that came from Marcus on our Facebook page. Marcus asked, "How do I dose Kalkwasser in my reef aquarium?"

For those of you who don't know, Kalkwasser is simply Calcium Hydroxide powder and is intended to maintain calcium and alkalinity levels in reef aquariums.

Kalkwasser is great for hobbyists who do not have a calcium reactor and it is less expensive when compared to two part solutions. In fact, you can even pick this stuff up at your local grocery store and is often labeled "Pickeling Lime."

In order to dose Kalkwasser you will first need to mix the powder with freshwater and let it dissolve. You will end up with a clear solution and a white sediment on the bottom of your container. You will want to dose the clear solution into your aquarium and simply rinse out the sediment when you have finished dosing the solution.

The typical starting dosage is one teaspoon of kalkwasser per one gallon of freshwater. You can then adjust the concentration as needed based on your aquariums' demands for calcium and alkalinity. It will be important to test your pH, Calcium and Alkalinity levels frequently in order to adjust the dosage correctly.

Now, it is very crucial to understand that Kalkwasser must be added very slowly to your aquarium. If dosed too quickly, pH will rise and lead to a disaster in your tank. This is why most hobbyists will utilize an auto-top off, electronic doser, or gravity drip system in order to slowly add Kalkwasser solution and minimize effects on pH levels. The most common and easiest of these methods is to utilize your auto-top off system and just add the kalkwasser powder directly to your freshwater reservoir. If using an electronic dosing system, you might consider dosing only at night as you will run less risk of spiking pH to dangerous levels.

Two Little Fishies KW
Reactor 300 w/ Kalkwasser

When shopping for Kalkwasser you will notice a piece of equipment commonly called a Kalkwasser Reactor or "Kalk-Stirrer." A kalkwasser reactor is not absolutely necessary in order to dose Kalkwasser but does help increase concentration in your solution and get the most for your money. A Kalkwasser reactor is simply an inline chamber that stirs the Kalkwasser solution automatically ensuring maximum concentration. You can easily connect these reactors inline with your automatic top-off or electronic dosing system.

Click here to read reviews and shop Kalkwasser on our website. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel to stay up-to-date on the latest aquarium news and technology.

AquaMaxx EcoMaxx In-Sump Protein Skimmer Product Demo

EM200 (up to 240 gallons)

Thanks for tuning in and in this video we are going to look at the AquaMaxx EcoMaxx Protein Skimmers. The EcoMaxx skimmers have been on the market for just over a year now and have proven to be one of the best skimmers for a few different reasons. Today we are going to take a closer look and show you exactly why these skimmers are a notch above the rest.

First, you have the quality construction and components. These skimmers are computer engineered with cell-cast acrylic. The included Sicce brand needle-wheel pumps are among the most efficient and quiet running skimmer pumps available today.

EM300 (up to 340 gallons)

Next, you have the user friendly design and extreme versatility. Being that the pump is located inside the skimmer body this cuts down on the space required to install the skimmers. The unique detachable bottom plate, allows you to easily remove the pump, bubble plate, and venturi for easy cleaning. The included air silencer and rubber feet eliminate noise making the skimmer virtually silent. The four different models available will accommodate most any aquarium with a sump from 75-600 gallons.

Finally, you get top quality performance. The included Sicce needle-wheel pumps create optimum size bubbles for vigorous waste removal. The included bubble plate helps to create maximum contact time in the skimmer and the and the cone shaped neck allows the foam to easily move into the collection cup without resistance.

If you have any questions about AquaMaxx EcoMaxx Protein Skimmers, give us a call at 1-800-566-FISH (3474) or head over to our website to check out the specs, read reviews and purchase one of these powerhouses for your reef aquarium.

Q&A Video Series #4: What are the Benefits of a Refugium?

Welcome to the 4th edition of MarineDepot.com's Q&A video series. We have a great question today which actually came from a few different Facebook fans who are curious about the benefits of a refugium.

A refugium is basically a biological filtration method which will reduce nitrate and phosphate in your aquarium water as well as provide natural food sources for your aquarium inhabitants. The idea of a successful refugium is to provide an isolated chamber where marine macro-algae can grow and thrive and then absorb nitrate and phosphate from your aquarium water. You will also be able to provide a safe haven for micro-organisms, such as copepods, to reproduce which will then act as an excellent food source for your aquarium animals.

Refugiums can vary drastically as far as how they are plumbed into your aquarium. The easiest way is to purchase a sump system with a dedicated refugium area already baffled into the sump. You can also utilize a dedicated remote chamber that is separate from your sump, however, this will require additional plumbing and space.

If you do not have a sump system, you can consider a hang-on or in-tank refugium such as the CPR AquaFuge.

If you have a nano aquarium, many of the nano tanks on the market today will offer a space in the back filtration compartment that can be converted into a refugium fairly easily.

I recommend a fine sand bed of about 2" deep in the bottom of your refugium. You can also utilize refugium mud which will give you the added benefit of slowly releasing trace elements into your aquarium water. By providing a sand bed in your refugium, you will provide a safe haven for those micro-organisms to reproduce, as well, you will provide a suitable substrate for marine macro-algae.

Being that a lot of marine macro-algae do prefer to grow on rocks, you will want to provide small pieces of live rock or "rubble" rock for the macro-algae to grow on.

As you can see, refugiums are very beneficial to reef aquariums.  They ultimately reduce nitrate and phosphate in your aquarium and provide an excellent natural food source for just about any animal in your aquarium.

If you have any questions about refugiums, please give us a call at 1-800-566-FISH (3474) or click here to learn how to setup your own refugium.

What is the best way to encourage coralline algae growth?

Coralline algae is surprisingly easy to grow, and if taken good care of, can grow relatively fast. How? Well, let’s look at the things that really effect coralline algae growth.

In terms of water chemistry, coralline requires only a few things different than your fish do. Like corals, they require calcium, magnesium, and some source of carbonate (alkalinity). So keep your parameters stable and in line using good calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium buffers. Keep your chemical parameters as follows:

Calcium: 380-450 ppm

Alkalinity: 2.8-4.3 meq/L, or 8-12 DKH

pH: 8.1-8.3

Magnesium: 1200-1400 ppm.

Also, keep your nutrient levels relatively low. High levels of phosphate are detrimental to coralline algae growth in two ways. First, there is anecdotal evidence that low levels of phosphate are directly inhibitory to coralline algae growth. Second, phosphate contributes to the growth of competing algae, such as hair algae. That algae competes for space, light, and nutrients with the coralline, and even grows directly on top of it. Other algae, such as diatom algae and cyanobacteria, also compete for space and light, so keep your silicates, nitrates and other problem nutrients low.

Surprisingly, many species of coralline algae actually prefer low to moderate light. In many very dimly lit tanks, coralline algae completely overtakes rocks, pumps, and even the back glass. If you have moderate to low lighting, moderate to low light coralline algae species will dominate your tank.

If it’s still hard for you to grow algae, there are a couple tips and tricks that you can consider. First, try purchasing new liverock from an already established tank. Many fish stores will have older rocks that are completely covered in coralline algae, that they will not mind selling at a premium. Just buy a few pounds, since the algae will spread. Seeding your tank with a variety of coralline algae species will allow you to introduce a species of coralline to your tank that may be better suited for your lighting and water chemistry. 

Second, if you do have some coralline algae, try taking a new, washed, firm toothbrush, and gently scrape the algae until a light dusting of it come off. Supposedly, this encourages the spread and colonization of coralline algae spore. If your tank is currently running ozone or UV sterilization, turn it off for a while, as you may be hindering this spread and colonization of coralline algae spore.

If all else fails, there is anecdotal evidence that some amino acid supplements can help to encourage coralline algae growth. The effects are purely anecdotal, but the idea is promising.

Try any or all of the things above, but don’t expect to see results right away. Coralline algae grows relatively slow compared to nuisance algae. Expect to see results in 2-3 months, rather than 2-3 weeks.

How to Install the AquaC Remora-S Protein Skimmer w/ Pre-Skimmer

AquaC Remora Pro-S w/ Danner Supreme 5

In today's MarineDepot.com video installment, we are going to take a look at the AquaC Remora-S Protein skimmer. Remora skimmers have been around for some time. AquaC has recently released the new "S" version of the skimmers and they have made some really great changes.

We are going to show you the new features of the skimmer, how to properly install the pump and how to install the optional surface pre-skimmer in this video clip.

AquaC is still including all the same great features found on the original Remora protein skimmer but they have made some really cool changes. The most notable change is the addition of the foam silencer, the foam silencer is great because it eliminates the spray noise you would have encountered on the older version of the skimmers. Furthermore, they have a couple different pump options. You can now get the larger Danner Mag-Drive 5 pump on the Pro version and the Cobalt MJ1200 pump on the standard Remora.

The first thing you want to do upon receiving your new Remora-S skimmer is to test fit this onto your aquarium. You want to make sure you have enough room to fit the skimmer and make any necessary adjustments.

Next,  you can go ahead and install the drain fitting or drain plug onto the skimmer. The drain fitting will allow you to attach a piece of tubing to the collection cup. You can then run the tubing into a bucket and it will act as an overflow protection for the skimmer. If you do not wish to install the drain fitting, you can utilize the included drain plug instead.  Just be sure to empty your collection cup frequently.

You can then install the hose-barb and tubing onto the pump. AquaC has everything fitted together right out of the box, you simply need to screw the fitting onto the pump. Be sure your hose clamps are tight as this will prevent the pump from falling off the skimmer.

You will then want to go ahead and attach the pump to the skimmer. The skimmer comes with a hose-barb pre-installed and you can simply connect the tubing on the pump with the hose-barb on the skimmer. Again, ensure your hose-barb is tight.

You can now fit the skimmer onto your aquarium. You will notice the pump is simply suspended in your aquarium from the skimmers inlet. This is why it is important to ensure your hose clamps are tight.

AquaC Remora Pro Pre-Skimmer

Finally you can install the pre-skimmer box. The pre-skimmer is an optional accessory for the Remora skimmers and will allow for surface skimming which results in more efficient protein removal.

You will notice the box has two chambers. The slotted chamber is for the pump and the second chamber is for the return water. You will notice a sponge in the bottom of the second chamber. This sponge will filter out micro-bubbles before the return water enters your aquarium.

In order to install the pre-skimmer, simply slip the box under the pump. It is a tight fit but once the pump is inside the box, simply adjust the box to match the water level in your aquarium and then utilize the four suction cups to hold the pre-skimmer in place.

The skimmer is now installed and ready to go. Be sure to watch the skimmer closely for the first couple of weeks as it will take time to break in. You will also want to make any necessary adjustments to the collection cup depending on the type of skim you wish to collect.

Thanks for tuning in! Remember to keep sending us your questions and if you need immediate assistance, give us a call toll-free at 1-800-566-3474. If you'd like to learn more about AquaC Remora protein skimmers, click here.

Q&A Video Series #3: Can I put a tang in my nano reef aquarium?

Our question this week comes from one of our Facebook fans, Mario. Mario asks, "Can a put a tang in my nano reef aquarium?"

This is a question that raises a lot of debate in the hobby. The reason is many hobbyists feel a juvenile tang will thrive just fine in a nano reef aquarium.

In reality, this is not the case.

We do not recommend that you put a tang in a nano reef aquarium. Typically, tangs can get quite large, anywhere from 10-15 or more inches long. If you purchase a juvenile tang for your nano reef aquarium, they will quickly outgrow the aquarium within a matter of months. Furthermore, a crowded, small aquarium will decrease your chances for success and increase your odds of inviting the dreaded ich parasite.

Inside our August 2012 Featured Tank from Leo Chen

Most responsible hobbyists recommend an aquarium at least 6 feet long. This will ensure the tang has plenty of room to grow and thrive. All that space will provide plenty of room for your tang to naturally graze. Since tangs are herbivores, the more natural food sources you provide, the better.

Well, that wraps it up for this week's Q&A video. Thanks for your question, Mario! If you have a question you would like to see answered in a future MarineDepot.com video, send it to us in an email or call 1-800-566-FISH (3474) to speak with an aquarium expert.

Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube videos to stay up-to-date on the latest hobby news and aquarium technology.

Coral-bots: teams of robots that repair coral reefs

The Ocean Systems Laboratory is a multidisciplinary science and engineering research center that innovates, applies and teaches world class advances in autonomous systems, sensor modelling/processing, and underwater acoustic system theory/design for offshore, marine science, renewable energy and security applications.

The Oceans Systems Laboratory with their advance technology have come up with a variety of robots for specific applications to help rebuilt the coral reef.  The Coral-Bots are a team of robots that intelligently navigate across a damaged coral reef, transplanting pieces of healthy corals along the  way.   

Here is an interesting article you can read up on how the bots are helping our Mother Earth:

Coral-bots: teams of robots that repair coral reefs by Coralbot team — Kickstarter

MarineDepot.com Joins 3rd Annual ‘Frags 4 Food’ Event to Help the Hungry

Proceeds from donations are given to the 501(c)(3) non-profit GAP Food Bank.

The Inland Empire Marine Aquarium Society (IEMAS) is hosting their third annual “Frags 4 Food” event this Saturday, April 13 from 11 am to 6 pm at the Tropical Reef Fish store located at 11940 Foothill Blvd. Ste. 108 in Rancho Cucamonga.

The Southern California aquarium club said there are no donations too big or small—but anyone who donates five or more cans of food will receive a free coral frag. A “frag” is a small piece or colony of coral, often mounted on a small artificial plug, which aquarium owners can place inside their saltwater tank to grow and multiply. The coral frags provided to donors this year are Cherry Charm Zoanthids, which have a striking golden center surrounded by a pretty pink skirt.

“A few years ago our club decided we wanted to give back to the community,” said IEMAS President Cylix Shane. “Originally we decided on a beach cleanup day, but that idea was short-lived because the beach is a two hour drive for most of our members. One thing we all have in common is we enjoy sharing coral frags. As the economy slowed, we learned our community’s local food bank was suffering from dwindling donations. We put the two ideas together and created ‘Frags 4 Food,’ which has been a tremendous success ever since.”

Last year IEMAS ended up with 1,120 cans of food plus many generous cash donations. Proceeds from donations are given to the 501(c)(3) non-profit GAP Food Bank. The GAP Food Bank started in the early 90s to help the working poor, single mothers, recovering addicts, seniors on a fixed income and the under-privileged who struggle to make ends meet. GAP assists families by providing basic food items. By providing food, the families are better able to apply their limited financial resources to housing expenses and other necessities.

Last year IEMAS ended up with 1,120 cans of food plus many generous cash donations.

GAP began distributing food out of a garage to families in the community. Twenty years later, GAP has relocated to a 4,500 square foot warehouse in Rancho Cucamonga, equipped with a truck for large donation pickups, a forklift and walk-in freezer and refrigerator.

When Ben Ros, Director of Operations for aquarium supply store MarineDepot.com, heard about the event, he immediately issued a challenge to his staff.

“I want MarineDepot.com to donate more food than anyone else,” Ros told his team. “In addition to bragging rights, the department that donates the most food will be rewarded with a pizza luncheon from our COO.”

MarineDepot.com will be joining over a dozen aquarium supply stores, aquarium makers, manufacturers, publications and clubs in support of Frags 4 Food. Below is a list of some of the participating organizations and donors for this year’s event.

• MarineDepot.com 
• Seachem 
• Aquatic Life 
• CAD Lights 
• Marineland 
• Ushio 
• Blue Life 
• Hamilton Lighting 
• Fantastic Frags 
• Coral Magazine 
• Advanced Acrylics 
• Tropical Reef Fish Store 
• Southern California Reef Keepers

“A grand prize will be awarded to the person or group that donates the most cans,” said Shane. “This year it will be the winner’s choice: an all-in-one frag tank from Advanced Acrylics or an all-in-one nano tank from CAD Lights. For participants who do not want a coral frag, there will also be raffle tickets available that count toward donated aquarium goods and equipment.”

If you are interested in participating, GAP Food Bank prefers durable plastic, paper or aluminum packaging over glass bottles and jars. Non-perishable, non-refrigerated foods with pull-top cans are ideal because they can be opened by people who may not have access to a can opener. Smaller sized items are also useful because they are easier to store and distribute. The following items are highly recommended:

• Breads and cereals 
• Boxes of crackers 
• Boxes of spaghetti or pasta 
• Boxes or rice 
• Breakfast cereal bars 
• Fruits and vegetables 
• Canned fruits and vegetables 
• Fruit cups 
• Canned soups 
• Canned spaghetti/tomato sauce 
• Canned stew 
• Canned tuna or chicken 
• Canned chili 
• Canned pasta dishes 
• Peanut butter 
• Vienna sausage 
• Bags of dried beans

“Clubs like IEMAS are enormously beneficial to the hobby,” Ros said. “Not only do they share their knowledge and experience to help others become responsible aquarium owners, but the goodwill, teamwork and organization it takes to run a successful club often manifests in activism. Seeing IEMAS mobilize its members to effect change has motivated and inspired us to do the same.”

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Weekend Sale: 20% off AlgaGen ReefPods

WEEKEND SALE: 
AlgaGen ReefPods Tisbe Live Aquacultured Copepods are 20% off until Monday!

I'M INTRIGUED. TELL ME MORE!
Tisbe is an excellent all-purpose aquarium copepod that will consume uneaten food, waste as well as phytoplankton. They are capable of producing many eggs during their adult life that hatch into nauplii which enter the water column as food for your filter feeding reef inhabitants and replenish the adult population vital to tank hygiene. Tisbe adults and juveniles entering the water column can be tasty and nutritious treats for your reef fish, too! Click here to learn more.