Decorating a Miniature Reef Tank
Adding Live Sand and Rock to Build a Reef in a Saltwater Aquarium
Once a miniature reef, also known as a nano reef, has been stabilized, it begins to take shape by introducing living organisms extracted from coral reefs.
Live rock and live sand contain microscope organisms that are beneficial to the health of a salt water aquarium and are added to the exposed areas of your reef.
Foundation Base Rock for Saltwater Tanks
Now that the tank has been set up with the salinity level holding at 1.021 to 1.026 and water temperature at 80F, the reef building process can begin. Start building the reef by using a foundation of base rock. This rock contains no organisms and is much cheaper than live rock. There is no point in using a live rock as a base. The organisms will die due to no direct lighting and are crushed by the rocks on top.
Because the rock is heavy, siphon at least ¼ of the tank water into a bucket. Do not throw this out. Once the base is established, place the live rock on top by trying to have the largest surface area exposed to the light.
Choosing Live Rock and Sand for Saltwater Tanks
At most stores, live rock will cost approximately $4 to $7 per pound. A general rule is to buy 4 pounds of live rock for each gallon of water in order to use it as a natural filter. Less rock can be used with no adverse effects. Be sure to include the weight of the base rock when calculating how much live rock to buy.
Live rock is usually shipped in larger pieces but during shipping and handling, small pieces will fall off. Sometimes stores will sell these pieces at a reduced price. Because nano reefs are small, pieces of live rock are the better choice.
In order for the organisms to survive, live rock must be kept in water at all times. If the rock has an odor, don’t buy it because it still has not been cured. Do not use immature rock. It will upset the natural balance of the tank and will kill all organisms. Stores may order uncured rock because of getting a good deal. The intent is for the store to keep it in holding tanks until the curing process is completed.
Live sand is bought in small quantities according to what you desire. Only place sand on top of your base gravel in the areas that are exposed to light. The sand must be placed in bags of saltwater for transporting home.
Adding Live Rock and Sand to a Saltwater Tank
After the live rock has been situated in the tank, live sand can be added on top of the exposed base sand. Tiny organisms can be found in this type of sand. Like live rock, live sand has to be kept in water at all times. For a 20 gallon aquarium, up to 1 pound of sand is sufficient.
When first purchased, nothing appears on the rocks and sand. But give it time. Tiny plants, mushrooms, and organisms will eventually emerge. Watching the nano reef come to life and is only the beginning of this fascinating hobby.
Related Articles
Setting Up a Miniature Reef Tank: Equipment and Stabilization
Converting an Aquarium from Freshwater to Saltwater
Your Own Freshwater or Salt Underwater World
Reef Aquarium Lighting: The basic rules
