sump/refugium

[mm16]

What would make me change from a sump to a refugium?

Thanks

 

[Smitty]

Cheato and a clamp on light.

 

[Waddi]

I really don't understand the question... Is it just me? :?

 

[mm16]

Is there a reason why I would need to change from a sump to a refugium? Is one better to have with what is in your tank. I started adding some corals and want to add more, and would there be a benefit of changing from a sump to a refugium.

Thanks

 

[emmett0122]

well you can put you refug in your sump if you partition it i have a 10 gal sump/refug that im putting on my 55gal tank so i don have a bunch of stuff hanging on the back of the tank

 

[Bifferwine]

Most people use both -- the refugium is usually just a section of the sump.

 

[cudamon]

I think what he means is what is there any benefits of changing or adding a refugium. I'm no expert but from my reading on the subject, here is what I have found:

The refugium is an area within the sump that also has sand and potentially plants. The sand will provide an extra area with the added beneficial bacteria. Also, you can introduce live plants in this section.....that will have to have a light. The plants add oxygen to the tank and help stabilize CO2 levels. The plants will also pull phosphate from the tank if you have periodic problems with it. The plants will need to be trimmed as it grows. The phosphates are a nutrient to the plants and will absorb the phosphate. Once the plant is trimmed and the portion is removed.....the phosphate is removed. I'm sure there is a lot more information on the subject. This is just an overview.

 

[Bifferwine]

I think what he means is what is there any benefits of changing or adding a refugium.

Oh yes. I wouldn't run a tank without a refugium. They are a huge help. They keep nitrates and phosphates low naturally, and also provide a breeding ground for pods that can provide your fish and corals with a constant supply of live food.