bubbles bubbles everywhere whats up with that

[jumpincactus]

Well finally got the tank fired up filled up and ready to pick up live rock and begin the curing process. The skimmer that the LFS sold me was too large to go into the first section being the main tank drain section. This is where I thought the skimmer should go. Well as they did not have any other sumps at this time I said to heck with it and installed my Euroreef 135 in the middle section of my sump. I got up this morning and all the plumbing held tight no leaks and it would appear I have all the flow dialed in correctly. But what is up with all these bubbles? Microbubbles are everywhere. They are coating all four sides of the tank and even the bottom. I have a feeling it is from the skimmer being too close to the sumps tank return. Any guesses if this may be the problem??

Now the question is, what can I do about it since everything is in place and rocking. I certainly cant have a nice view with all these bubbles and I have been told that this will bother any livestock I will have namely corals. My LFS wanted to sell me some bio balls to stick in between the last baffle and said this would alleviate the problem. Is this true?

But bottom line is I do not want bio balls any how. They are a nutrient trap and it would be another chore along with everything else. Any input on what to do with the bubbles is appreciated.

 

[slapshot16]

Add some live rock to the return chamber. You may also want to consider some filter media between the skimmer chamber and return chamber.

 

[jumpincactus]

Will adding live rock help. I am not sure I understand the principle. Will the bubbles cling to the rock rather than be returned to the tank???

I good also use more details on adding filter media. I thought in a reef tank I really want to stay away from filter media as if I forget to clean it regularly it will become a nutrient trap.

Anyone else have this happen and what did you do to rectify the issue.

I will see if the LR helps. Are you suggesting rubble so to speak???

 

[LA-Lawman]

do you have a pic of the setup....

that would help us give a better answer

 

[Anonymous]

A pic would be nice as LA-lawman said. Usually in a compartmented sump there is a baffle arrangement with a sponge block that traps bubbles from the skimmer before the water goes through the return pump into the main tank. If you don't have that on yours, maybe with a pic someone can suggest something that might work.