NUVO Int-100 Mixed Reef Build

[jastudee]

After about a 2 year break from the hobby, I have decided to start up a new build. This build is going to be focused really on two things:

1. Patience! It is very easy to want to rush to acquire every bit of livestock needed to get the tank to what you have envisioned to be the end goal. Really plan to be meticulous and take my time along the way.

2. No corner cutting. This applies in both equipment investments and husbandry/tank management. Taking the time to do it all right: quarantine, water testing, general cleanings/water changes, etc.

Below are the details of the equipment.

-NUVO Int-100 complete reef setup. Aquarium, APS Stand, RFS Sump, Return Pump and Plumbing
-Neptune APEX Pro Controller
-(2) Neptune Sky LED lights
-(2) Gyre XF330 Pump

Still need to decide on protein skimmer. There will be other ancillary pieces of equipment I am sure but will add those as necessary as I build.

The tank will be delivered sometime mid to end of January.

Appreciate any opinions/feedback as I go!

Thanks for reading.

 

[jastudee]

Since I am in a bit of a holding pattern until the aquarium arrives, I have begun the aquascaping process. I really like a more minimalistic/nsa/island type of look and believe I have achieved something close to that. Overall pretty happy with the result but open to feedback.

One thing I am wrestling with is if I should rinse the rock and get it curing in a container while I wait for the aquarium to be delivered.

 

[jastudee]

It is starting to get more real! Got notice that the tank has shipped! Should be here likely the middle of next week.

 

[Gumbies R Us]

Since I am in a bit of a holding pattern until the aquarium arrives, I have begun the aquascaping process. I really like a more minimalistic/nsa/island type of look and believe I have achieved something close to that. Overall pretty happy with the result but open to feedback.

One thing I am wrestling with is if I should rinse the rock and get it curing in a container while I wait for the aquarium to be delivered.

I think the aquascape ideas you have look really good!

 

[jastudee]

I think the aquascape ideas you have look really good!

Thanks!

 

[jastudee]

I took some time today to set up my water mixing station. Stayed super basic and simple. Two 35 gallon storage containers. RODI on top, with a T so I can either divert to mix saltwater below or direct into a bucket for ATO. Gravity feed out of saltwater mixing also. I will have a power head in the bottom container to mix. RODI mounted beside the station. Just need to tap in the RODI and I should be ready.

Tank should be arriving by Tuesday of this week. Getting excited!!

 

[jastudee]

Exciting things are happening! Tank, stand and dump have arrived. As well as gyre pumps, and radios lights.

Have to say I was incredibly impressed at the packaging and quality of everything from innovative marine. Seems like it would be nearly impossible to damage anything from them. Zero bubbles in the seams. Directions and quality for stand were spot on as well as the online instructional videos if you get stuck. Highly recommend.

 

[X-37B]

Another IM build nice. Keep the pics comming.

 

[jastudee]

Made some more progress. Rock/sand in, water in, cycle started! Now need to deal with the wiring rats nest.