adding a DSP ontop of CC

[aquakid1]

is it acceptable for me to pour some type of sand over the top of my crushed coral substrate to make a DSB..... a little at a time the CC is about 1.5 inches now but without removing it i wanna make it a good 3 or 4 inches of sand......... then remove the canister filters and UG filters and use a skimmer and more LR... thanx
REEF ON!

 

[JohnD]

NO!

Dr. Ron suggests taking out all of the CC and starting fresh. The CC is the wrong size and shape. Its edges can cut the worms you want in the DSB. His booklet, Deep Sandbed Secrets is a great read.

I know it is a lot of work, but I changed out my CC this past summer on my 30 galllon. I've moved a lot of tanks over the years and have plenty of buckets and backup 30 & 10 gallon tanks. It took me about 5 hours from start to finish.

The cloudy water from the SD took less than a day to clear with a BakPak and a Remora both running at the same time.

HTH,

JohnD

 

[JohnD]

After rereading your original post, I think you will need to reevaluate your biologolical filter situation. The UG filters really need to go if you are planning a reef tank. They are OK for a FO, however.

For a reef tank, I suggest about 1 pound of live rock for each gallon of tank. In your case, about 50 to 55 pounds will be fine. I suggest you get cured live rock and add it. Watch your ammonia levels and be prepared to do a water change. With the cured LR, the ammonia spike should be very small, or even non-existant.