Algae/Seagrass Refugiums

For those interested in the actual whys and hows of such systems and want to bring their aquarium a bit closer to being an ecosystem, please see this article series. Thanks.

A Philippine Fringing Reef & The Reef Aquarium - Part One

Chuck

 

Very nice read

 

Thanks, I just figured that since I study such habitats on my own, why not put it all together, which in doing so, forces me to learn of the finer details of such things while making some info available to others.
I think what I found the most "enlightening" was how the various alga divisions cope with environmental factors, which leads to clues as to how to take advantage of various algae within an aquarium setting while at the same time explaining why some types are such a pain in the hiney...lol

Chuck

 

Thanks, I really enjoyed reading this.

 

it's a good explanation on turf scrubbers, I understand how they work but I still refuse to try one to much work I like my refugium and skimmer to much

 

Very interesting read!

 

An ATS is just a part of the equation as I believe multiple aquariums are required when trying to emulate a fringing reef's ecosystem. Call them refguiums but they are more of a display aquarium in their own right.

Not to offend anyone, but in my opinion, trying to keep a "reef" within a single tank with a sump for pumps is extremely frustrating as natural processes are going to happen regardless (ie, algae growth, nutrient buildup), which leads many of us turning to some pretty crazy methods/products in order to fight or go against nature. Just as in nature, there are set boundaries/habitats, each with their own set of "players" and trying to force all of it into one little glass box just doesn't work over the long term.

Setting up multiple "refugiums" does take an initial effort and an understanding of the algae species to be kept/encouraged along with an understanding of what critters are found in such areas and are suited to an enclosed glass box. All of which (IMO) should be of great interest to us and an enrichment of our hobby as I assume we are in the hobby due to our interest in marine biology, at least I hope so...

Oh, and I linked to the first in article series hoping that it would lead you to the others which get into seagrass and macroalgae "refugiums". Again, an ATS is just one of other possibilities. Hope everyone had a good turkey day and enjoyed their time with friend and family.

Chuck