Plenum?

[Scotty]

I want to build a small plenum for an eclipse 12 'almost reef' tank I'm setting up. I've never used a plenum. Is it a practical idea in a small tank with fish and hearty corals and polyps? I'd like to build it myelf, any design ideas would be a great help. Thanks.

[RWD]

Hi Scotty,
This may help:
http://www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/Hangar/6279/ArticleHandy.html
BUT, In my opinion, a deep sand bed is eaiser and more effective.

[Scotty]

How deep is deep? Are you saying deep sand bed will eat nitrates? Right now I have about 3inches of live sand.

[RWD]

Scotty,
Yes a deep sand bed of at least 3-4" will convert nitrates to harmless nitrogen gas. As long as the tank is not overloaded a 3-4" minimum sand bed plus enough live rock will work fine. If you like to read, here is more info about sand beds:
http://sites.netscape.net/douglxyzzy/sandbed.html
Pay close attention to what Biogeek (Rob Toonen) has to say.
Good luck,
Bob

[Scotty]

Thanks alot. Just the info I wanted. And your reef is stunning.