Can a built-in trickle filter be turned into a refugium?

[steviewhoru]

Just got a new 125gal Truvu Aquasystem and would like to go fowlr to start. I was going to dump the bio-balls and DLS that comes w the system and use l/r rubble instead but won't this just turn into another nitrate factory? Will have 100lbs l/r, 100lbs l/s and 2 Hydor Slim Skim skimmers but no sump. Can this setup work?

 

[steviewhoru]

OK, thank you.

 

[KathyC]

Welcome to MR

Which one did you get the 48" x24 x 24 one or the 72 x 18 x 20? (just curious )

Either the bio balls or the live rock will trap detritus. You could possibly use that area as a fuge with some live sand and some macro algae if it will receive enough lighting.

What fish are you planning to keep?

 

[steviewhoru]

turning Truvu built in trickle filter into refugium

Thanks for your reply. I bought the 48X24X24 Aquasystem and was told to use rock rubble and add a couple of snails and other detritis eating organisms along with good water flow that this should be much better than the DLS and bio-balls that come with the system. A dsb with macro-algae might work better at nitrate reduction. Thanks for the advice.

 

[steviewhoru]

I have a few fish in my Red Sea Max 36gal that i will be moving to the Truvu. A bi-color angel, bi-color pseudo, sailfin algae blenny, serpent star, bcs, cleaner shrimp and a few snails. Eventually i'd like to add a juvenile blueface or imperator when i get it set up right. Haven't killed any fish in the last 6-8 years due to poor water quality and i'd like to keep it that way.

 

[KathyC]

I have a few fish in my Red Sea Max 36gal that i will be moving to the Truvu. A bi-color angel, bi-color pseudo, sailfin algae blenny, serpent star, bcs, cleaner shrimp and a few snails. Eventually i'd like to add a juvenile blueface or imperator when i get it set up right. Haven't killed any fish in the last 6-8 years due to poor water quality and i'd like to keep it that way.

Sounds good Do post some pics/start a tank thread when you get it set up!

 

[steviewhoru]

Will do, thanks..