195gallon Freshwater setup

[Mikiblu30]

You've got great ideas, Tomeiko, and I'm really excited to see this tank unfold. It's fun to plan and take your time doing things right, isn't it? I'm subscribing to this thread.

Thanks Natalie, I love what you've got going on in your thread too I will be keeping an eye on your build I am excited to see how your tank comes out. I followed your lead and decided to way understock this tank probably no more than 5 fish

I really want to do this tank like I see it in my head. I'm excited about all of the feedback from MFK and I know you all will help me along the way to make my vision a reality. MFK Rocks!!!

 

[Mikiblu30]

I purchased x2 JBJ 4 Stage Reaction Canister Filters with Built in UV Sterlizer from DR Fosters and Smith. (EFU-45) the largest size.

I read the reviews on this filter, and most were very good. Does anyone have experience with these filters? I mostly see people using the FX5 and Eheim Canisters. I got these for a really good price even though I know most times you get what you pay for.

The hose that came with this canister is very small 5/8" and the spray bar attachment is IMO cheap looking. It has massive media storage and I love the built in UV(one of the main deciding factors when I purchased). I think the two of these filters will do a great job keeping my water crystal clear...any thoughts or opinion on these filters greatly appreciated....thanks!

 

[soulpatch]

They are pretty much identical to the SunSun filters that seem to rate pretty well. I had looked into them as well but got a deal on an FX5 that I could not pass up...though if I dont fix this micro bubble issue after replumbing it I might have wished I passed on the deal...


What are your plans for stock? Will you be adding any other filters/sumps? I would skip the spray bar and instead plumb it up to a jet recessed in the background or hidden in the shadows of your lighting.

 

[Mikiblu30]

They are pretty much identical to the SunSun filters that seem to rate pretty well. I had looked into them as well but got a deal on an FX5 that I could not pass up...though if I dont fix this micro bubble issue after replumbing it I might have wished I passed on the deal...


What are your plans for stock? Will you be adding any other filters/sumps? I would skip the spray bar and instead plumb it up to a jet recessed in the background or hidden in the shadows of your lighting.

I planning on moving my fire eel to this tank and I plan on adding 3-4 BGK's and the star of the tank i'm desperately searching for is a Tigrinus. I don't want to get the Tig before the tank is setup and cycled, which is going to be tricky. Once a Tig comes up for sale they are sold simutaneoulsy...but none the less, this tank will home a Tig one day!

I dont plan on adding any additional filtration, and I plan on using Locline (thanks Justin) for my returns. I'm also thinking about using a spray bar on the top of the water (similar to how "Joecoulson" has his set up) not the one included with the filter BTW, because Tig's enjoy a lot of water movement.

 

[BichirAddict]

Awesome, we need pics asap. I'm getting a tank with the exact dimension or a 180 gallon 72"x24"x24". Leaning towards a 180 but, your tank will be great anyway.

 

[Mikiblu30]

Well It doesn't look like I'm gonna get my tank before Thanksgiving (the stand still isn't completed) , which might be for the best. I would most likely neglect my turkey in the fryer trying to work on the tank .

I will post pictures as soon as I pick up the tank. Hopefully no later than Saturday, I will have some new pics for ya..

Happy Thanksgiving MFK!!!

 

[mike_sema]

hey I feel your pain I ordered a 48x36x18 tank weeks ago and i am still waiting

 

[Cookie*]

Looks like a fun project. Congrats on finding a good deal on a new tank, especially one with those dimensions, I like that a lot. You have a pretty good idea for the tank too, I will be watching. I was wondering how to get that shimmer effect myself, I get it with my blue led moonlights, but wasn't sure how to recreate it with other lighting. I like the stock you're planning, too, knifes are not my thing but I certainly enjoy them. And you certainly cannot go wrong with a Tigrinus as far as beauty goes. Have a great Thanksgiving and good luck with the project.

 

[Mikiblu30]

I think I've changed my mind on which BG I will use. After clockwork suggested DBN I went back to their site and came across the "Bulge" background. I still like the look of the Pangea BG a little more, but the cost of DBN's BG is very convincing. I'd like to know what you all think, should I spend the extra $100 or so for the Pangea or does the DBN look just as good if not better for a more loveable price?

The first pic is the DBN BG.

 

[Mikiblu30]

After visiting another thread on filtration I began to wonder if I will have enough filtration for my tank. I revisited the specs on my JBJ filters and they say each filter is for a tank up to 175 gallons, with two of these filters that would be up to 350 gallons (under ideal circumstances). Will this realistically be enough for my 195 gallon. If not what are my options outside of using a sump, (really trying to avoid a sump) to increase the filtration on my tank?

I've considered upgrading my canisters but cant really afford to do so at this point. Any creative (affordable) ideas appreciated..

Thanks-