Combine FOWLR & Reef tank

[mling]

I am toying with the idea of combining my 50G FOWLR and 50G Reef tank into a 120 Gal or so tank that will have a barrier to keep the FOWLR away from the Reef side of the tank. I am thinking of using LR to create this barrier.

Has anyone done this before ? What are the pro’s and con’s ?

I currently have 2 AuqaC Remora, rated up to 75G. Would using both of them suffice in a tank no larger than 150G ?

I have also been able to keep both tanks for 4 years with only a skimmer and no refugium or slump. Is this because both tanks are small and I can no longer get away it this in a 100G + tank ?

 

[Anonymous]

If you create a barrier w/ LR you will effectivly stop flow across the tank too. So you will have to make flow considerations for both sides of the tank.

I think too that you should get one higher rated skimmer as the FOWLER side water will tend to have effect on the water quality. Fish tend to be less sensitive to this than reef inverts.

 

[Len]

You should be able to combine the two just fine. The main concern I would have is if your FOWLR has a high fish stocking and consequently a higher nutrient level. If the nutrient levels are low, then I say go for it.

Your two skimmers will probably work fine. Ideally, one larger skimmer will work better.

 

[mr_X]

how will you completely block half of the tank with live rock? it's so porous and "holy", that i fear snails, shrimp and such will sneak through to be someone's dinner. also, jumping fish might be jumping in the "shark pool" too. i'd like to see this aquascaping!