Algae Turf Scrubbers?...

Discussion in 'Refugium' started by Superpede1, Apr 12, 2006.

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  1. Superpede1

    Superpede1 Astrea Snail

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    Do algae turf scrubbers work very effectively at removing nutrients? I dont like skimmers because I think they remove to much of the things we need in aqauriums like plankton, are these a good candidate for me?
     
    Superpede1, Apr 12, 2006
    Superpede1, Apr 12, 2006
    #1

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  2. Matt Rogers

    Matt Rogers Kingfish

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    Apparently they do. But as the cure all (without skimmer) some would say no. There is some interesting reading out there on Adley's attempt at using them exclusively on a large scale at the Smithsonian I believe if you dig around.

    I always liked the surge aspect of their design and used to marvel at the old videos of the ones at Inland Aquatics.

    If memory serves, Adley put a patent on their design and the ones that were commercially released for hobbyist were insanely expensive.

    I think I still have some links to some info in the 3reef links library.
     
    Matt Rogers, Apr 12, 2006
    Matt Rogers, Apr 12, 2006
    #2
  3. inwall75

    inwall75 Giant Squid

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    I'm not terribly impressed by them. Yes they do work as Doug (Flatlander on RC) can attest. He's the only person I know who still runs them besides Inland Aquatics. Doug does mention that you will go through a LOT more carbon to get rid of the yellow water. I would rather have a skimmer and a Carlson surge device for the turbulent water.

    BTW, Walter Adey's scrubbers failed at the Smithsonian and were supplemented with skimmers for a while...then they were replaced at the Smithsonian with only skimmers. The scrubbers failed at Biosphere II, they failed at a large aquarium in Japan, along with several others that I cannot recall right now.

    Believe it or not, in spite of Adey's 100% failure rate at public aquariums, Puerto Rico hired him as a consultant on their soon to open public aquarium. My question is WHY???

    Here's some pics of the Biosphere. http://www.3reef.com/forums/general-reef-topics/trip-ocean-biosphere2-30576.html?highlight=biosphere
     
    inwall75, Apr 12, 2006
    inwall75, Apr 12, 2006
    #3
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  4. Matt Rogers

    Matt Rogers Kingfish

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    Funny I was going to PM you inwall to see if I can get your help on this one. :)
    Thanks man!
     
    Matt Rogers, Apr 13, 2006
    Matt Rogers, Apr 13, 2006
    #4
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  5. Jerrylepp

    Jerrylepp Plankton

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    Algae turf scrubbers

    I'm Still interested in the Algae turf scrubbers. How can I contact the person you mentioned that is still running one? Doug (flatlander on Rc???? Please help Jerrylepp@aol.com
     
    Jerrylepp, Feb 9, 2010
    Jerrylepp, Feb 9, 2010
    #5
  6. steve wright

    steve wright Super Moderator

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    steve wright, Feb 9, 2010
    steve wright, Feb 9, 2010
    #6