How to Build an Aquarium Refugium

A refugium can be a fantastic addition to any aquarium. One of the main uses for refugiums in the aquarium hobby is to have a place for algae to grow, thus cutting down on the algae in the display tank. Refugiums also serve as a breeding ground for many beneficial bacteria that will help keep the tank clean. Though there are several ways to set up a refugium, this article will cover a gravity-feed refugium over a display tank.

Things You'll Need

• 45-quart Rubbermaid container Two 1/2-inch bulkheads Two 1/2-inch barb fittings Small pump 8 feet of half-inch hose 1/2-inch hole saw

Instructions

1. 

   Cut two holes into one side of the Rubbermaid container about 1 inch from the top lip.

2. Install bulkheads into the holes that were drilled.

3. Screw barb fittings into the bulkheads.

4. Cut the 1/2-inch hose into two equal lengths and push onto the barb fittings.

5. Place one hose end into the display tank and affix the output of the pump onto the other. (It should slide over the output easily.)

6. Fill the refugium with water and plug in the pump.

Tips & Warnings

• This refugium works on a gravity system where the pump fills the refugium from the display tank (or sump) and the refugium returns to the display (or sump). This refugium can be built in exactly the same manner as described but with the plumbing running to the sump as opposed to the display. If you want to leave the refugium in view, use longer hose. If you wish to hide it, the refugium can be placed on top of the sump.