Daniel

I actually agree with the above. Dave, if your lighting (bulbs or photo period) has not changed significantly in the past few weeks, it is unlikely the culprit since your coral coloration issues only started recently. To clarify, it could be your lighting, but it's probably not since light bulbs typically lose their output gradually and not in a step-wise fashion-- thus corals will not respond drastically. Fluctuations in the alkalinity and pH are quite often the cause for bleaching incidents, in my experience, especially with the more sensitive acropora sp. Also, bleaching at the tips of corals along with diminished polyp extension are often the result of what I call "alk burn" (due to alk swings). Consistently optimal levels of Ca/Alk/Mg/pH are the best way to ensure proper coral coloration. Right now, your Alk and pH are not optimal and should be addressed. However, I would avoid making any quick corrections. Gradually bring your alk up to 8-10 and your pH down to 8.0-8.3.

I have been using Brightwell's BioFuel and Microbacter7 for several months now with good results, at least in terms of coral coloration. BioFuel is basically a diluted carbon source and is a little easier, in my opinion, to dose safely (as compared to vodka). I am currently dosing 11 drops of BF and 14 drops Microbacter7 each day. I'll probably start to move towards bi-weekly dosing. In a few weeks I'll also begin adding some amino acids. This system is analogous (and a lot cheaper) than using PolypLabs' Reef-Resh. I've never had high nitrites and that's even after using dechlorinated tap water for top-offs and lately, for water changes too. Nonetheless, I do have some green/brown algae issues (I have to clean the glass daily, but that's about it since it doesn't grow significantly anywhere else). Anyway, my phosphates remain undetectable on the Salifert test kits (which, like all phosphate test kits, are pretty inaccurate). My advice would be to use coral coloration and algae growth as a guide on how to adjust dosing. As mentioned already by others, stick with one system and stay consistent. You might want to keep a journal to help keep track of things. Edit: Oh, and, I have also noticed that my skimmate is generally darker than before.

Peristaltic pumps are efficient, but they're expensive....which may negate the relative benefits.

I had 2x250w on my 90g. My chiller ran very minimally, but then again, I kept my temp between 78.5-81.5 w/ 77 degree ambient with two fans blowing across the bulbs.

That last one looks like a Scolymia-- is it not?

The wrasse is out and about and eating everything I put in the tank. Thanks.

Is this the Harley Davidson in Round Rock or is there one in Georgetown?

PM Sent.

And shipping is NOT free, correct?

=/

Okay, since JohnG has left reef keeping, the rest of us have a shot at making claims of the best tank. I know Danny, the Tates, the Mannings and others have great tanks, so share your FTS (full tank shot) with the rest of us noobs! I'll snap a picture of my dinky reef when I get home tonight.

Thanks for setting this up, Mark. Btw, the razors worked amazing well.

Sweet. Yay for Group Orders.

Looks like it's only $8.25 for 2 or 3 bulbs. PM me a price w/ shipping for the following: (1) x 54W-48IN ATI Blue Plus T5 HO Fluorescent Bulb (2) x 54W -48IN 12000K ATI Aquablue Special T5 HO Fluorescent Bulb

Would it be cost prohibitive to get 1 or 2 T5 bulbs?