Refugium? mud vs. cat litter etc.

Thanks to all of your help so far I am getting closer to filling the 210 I have been asking about. It is in the wall and ready to go. The last detail I need to figure out is the refugium. What do I use for substrate? I have read many different things being used i.e. mud, cat litter etc... Why would you choose one over the other? Can algae be planted in all? The refugium will be either a 55g or 75g tank. The main tank will have fish, 200lbs live rock to start, live sand, and some coral eventually.

If it matters here is the other equipment:

3 400w MHD
2 1200 Mag Drive pumps
Extrem reefkeeper 150 RODI unit
2 Hydor Koralia 4
Have not decided about UV light vs.protein skimmer

Thanks Again

 

The only difference between "mud" and cat litter is the price And yes, you should be able to grow plants in either.

Can't wait to see your setup once it's up and running!

 

Have you used it yourself? How deep should it be? How often go you replace it or add more?

 

Yes, I have used cat litter (only 100% unscented clay litter). I like to make a bed of about 3-4". I have never had to replace or add more.

 

the uv will kill all bacteria including some that the corals need, imop i wouldnt use it.
a good protein skimmer is essential

 

Wow, you're on your way! Sounds like you have some big aspirations. Although I can't help you with the mud vs. litter question, sounds like Amcarrig has that sqared away. Just a look at her avatar lets you know she's got the chops (was that a pun?).

Anyway, if you're mentally debating whether to get a UV sterilizer or a skimmer, go with the skimmer.

 

Isn't the size a little bit of overkill??

 

ditto on what they said! ;D

 

recommended size for a refugum is 20% of the main tank, so in his case a 42 gallon fuge is ideal. a 55 gallon isnt that bad, but the 75 would be.

 

I have been taking the advice of the LFS on this. This makes me question the overall design of the refugium. I will take your advice and decrease the size. THANK YOU. How should the refugium itself be designed ie. chamber setup, width of each camber, height of baffles etc. What are the specifics that would give me the ideal setup for the refugium itself.