How to Turn a 30 Gallon Aquarium Into a Refugium
Creating an ecosystem in an aquarium can be as complicated and varied as the ocean itself. In the quest to reproduce a natural environment, it may be necessary to create micro-environments for delicate or timid species. For a saltwater aquarium, a refugium is the ideal solution. A refugium is an auxiliary aquarium that is attached to a main aquarium sharing its water source and ecosystem. Most refugiums are considerably smaller than the main aquarium, and 10 gallons is a common size. When building a 30-gallon refugium, additional support and equipment is needed.
Things You'll Need
- Existing larger aquarium Aquarium sump pump Cover and light for a 30-gallon tank Sand Rocks Stable stand for 30-gallon tank (optional) Silicone sealer
Instructions
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1
Prepare the area for the refugium. You may have to extend the size of the existing aquarium stand to accommodate both the main aquarium and refugium. Another option is to provide a separate stand for the refugium to sit next to the larger aquarium. Don't forget that the combined weight of the two full aquariums will be hundreds of pounds and they will need adequate support.
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2
Place the 30-gallon aquarium next to the main aquarium. The tops of the two aquariums should be even with one another to provide optimal filtration.
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3
Permanently attach the 30-gallon refugium to the larger tank with silicon sealer if you feel that it is too unstable without it. However, consider problems in maintenance and moving the set up before you bond the two together.
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4
Install the sump pump taking by hanging it on the inside lip of the main tank and placing the tubing into the refugium. The water should be pumped from below the surface to ensure maximum oxygen content and that the same water quality. This water will have a more desirable temperature as well.
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5
Place the sand and rocks in the refugium. Create plenty of hiding places and other amenities for the species you'll include.
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Fill the tank with a mixture of 1 part new water and 2 parts water from the larger tank. Wait a few days to establish the water quality before adding the inhabitants.
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7
Make sure any gaps in the cover are smaller than the fish and invertebrates in the refugium to keep them from jumping out.
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Tips & Warnings
Add live sand and rocks to the refugium for a more natural environment.
Since different sump pumps have different features, refer to the instructions for details on installation.
