Living Rock

[Pukka_man]

Hello to everyone in this forum.

It has been a long time since I last dipped into keeping a mini reef setup about 12 years ago and so much have changed. My question is about filtration.

I am re-locating to Viet Nam in the next 3 years, and I have the chance to have the tank setup that I always dream of 186 gallon(uk) tank + sump. The sump would contain skimmer, calcium reactor (both DIY), macro algae growth area and heaters.

I have sourced a dealer of fish and many inverts (they are so cheap out here Six line Wrasse $1.7, Zoanthus $3.00 and Cleaner Shrimps $0.30each), but no living rock maybe a break down in communication!. Is it possible to do most of the filtration by skimmers and a trickle filter and also macro algae until I have enough bits of rock containing Zoanthus and other soft corals to act like living rock?.

Just one more question, When I in Viet Nam I will be about 20km away from the sea is it possible to use sand that I have collected as live sand or not?.

Cheer PM

 

[J-Money]

I would be careful about using sand anywhere near shore. I don't know how polluted the area is but I've heard the areas near shore are the most polluted for using natural seawater so obviously you'd expect the sand to be contaminated as well... Good luck

 

[Navarre]

I use natural sea water and have no problems but i would not use the sand as it harbours untold nasties.

Its possible to run a tank withj skimmers, macro algea and trickle filters. Liverock is better IMO and this should be easily available anywhere in the world. If its impossible to get any then its cheap to make your own man made liverock. Does the same filtration without any coral life growing on it. When its in the tank for long enough though you will find life will take a hold on it.