Use Coupon Code: Hero10 during checkout and receive 10% off on all items. 

Sale excludes:

• Aqua Illumination
• Coral Vue
• Ecotech Marine
• MaxSpect
• Neptune Systems
• Vertex
• Zeovit

If you purchase a product from one of the above manufactures from Aquarium Specialty then you will receive 5 x the normal Aquarium Specialty Reward Points.

Sale is NOW through May 28th 2013.

We hope everyone has a happy and safe Memorial Holiday.

Yesterday we ran another T5 vs. LED comparison but this time we put the T5 lighting up against another Orphek product.  This time we compared the existing T5 lighting to that of the Orphek PR72.  This exhibit is about 200 gallons at the same public aquarium.  Below is a short video that was shot with an iphone 4.  After the break we will post another video clip of the 55,000 gallon display with the Orphek DIF-100 pendant.

ABOUT THE ORPHEK PR72 LED PENDANT:

The Orphek PR72 Reef LED Pendant is a member of the new PR72 family of LED Pendants.  Its design goal was to aid hobbyists in growing beautiful corals in medium sized  aquariums or larger systems when multiple units are used,  and coral fragment tanks without relying on energy wasting metal halide or low PAR florescent tubes.

The LEDs were selected from the same LED bins used for the PR156XP fixture to duplicate the PUR lighting spectrum which is beneficial and necessary for growing corals, clams, and marine plants.  The highly efficient Mean Well LED Drivers use on the PR156XP and DIF series pendants are used here as well, no shortcuts were taken. The PR72 Reef LED Pendant will produce High PAR/PUR levels. The pendents offer plenty of PAR/PUR for growing all types of corals because the light energy is concentrated on the needed and desirable PUR spectrum while eliminating LEDs that emit non-essential wavelengths.

The PR72 Reef LED Pendant is a plug and play and the dimmable Mean Well LED Driver allows us to configure the PR72 to interface with most digital controllers currently on the market.  The pendant includes a cable with an RJ45 connector for direct hook up to an Apex Variable Speed/Dimming Module (VDM).  The RJ45 plug can also be removed allowing connection to interface boards with + and – terminals.

The LED make up chart above closely duplicates the ratio of LEDs in our PR156XP Pendant.

The one piece fin shaped combination aluminum housing and heat sink rapidly dissipates heat from the LEDs while eliminating excessive heat into your aquarium.  The Mean Well LED Driver is remotely located to further minimize heat in the LED housing which helps ensure the LEDs will have a long life span.

Highlights

•  Highest PAR per watt.
• 36 high power LEDs tuned to the PUR spectrum to provide excellent coral and clam growth.
• Maximizes natural colors of corals and clams.
• Mean Well dimmable driver for improved efficiency and longevity.
• UV and wide spectrum red, white and blue LEDs duplicate the PUR spectrum and giving an 16,000K -18,000K appearance.
• Replaces energy wasting incandescent, florescent, and metal halide lighting.
• Low energy use, typically 30% – 50% less than other lighting technology
• Aluminum finned heat sink effectively dissipates heat from the LEDs ensuring long life of the electronics.

Specifications:

LED Housing

•  Length: 14.9”(380mm)
• Diameter: 6.7”(170mm)
• Weight: 2.2 pounds(1 kilogram)

Cable

• Power cable: 70.8 inches(1.8m)

Electrical

• Input voltage:  80-264 volts AC
• Frequency:  50/60 Hz
• Power consumption:  66-70 watts
• Power factor: .97
• Power supply:  Mean Well LED  Driver
• Dimming capability:  Yes, with Apex, Reefkeeper, and other digital controllers.

Watch as the 5' black tip reef shark passes from left to right and how the color changes as the shark passes from Orphek DIF-100 16,000 K LED light to the existing T5 lighting setup.  We will be doing another demo next week and I hope to have some better camera equipment when I visit them again.

Click here to see the video:

Orphek DIF-100 vs. 8 x 54 Watt T5

Nick Klase, the owner and technical knowhow behind the Build My LED brand have struck a distribution agreement with Aquarium Specialty.  Here's what Nick and Company had to say obout their new partnership with Aquarium Specialty.

“Build My LED is pleased to announce an online sales agreement with Aquarium Specialty.  The agreement with Aquarium Specialty will expand our online retail sales presence in the aquarium market, and it will enable our customers to enjoy one-stop-shopping on the Internet.  By coupling Aquarium Supply’s extensive reef aquarium knowledge with our proprietary LED lighting systems, our customers will be able to enjoy healthier and happier reefs.”

About Build My LED:  Specialized LED Lighting Solutions

We are the industry leader in customized, commercial-grade LED lighting systems for both residential and commercial applications. Our high quality U.S. made products give you more light for less money and we routinely exceed our customer’s expectations when it comes to service. Over the last decade, our team has worked with LEDs as they have evolved into an economical and flexible replacement for outdated and expensive lighting systems.

We can help design a customized lighting system that meets your goals; our lighting engineers can show you how to save money on energy bills, select combinations of LEDs that supply the color balance you need and enjoy the 50,000 hour plus life span of industrial grade LEDs.

We make it easy to enjoy the benefits of upgrading to LED lights, and our stress-free design process has quickly generated a long list of happy customers including universities, corporations and numerous hobbyists from around the world.

Sleek, Space-Saving Design

Our fixtures are efficiently designed and will save you space. In profile, they are just 2" wide and 1" tall—not much bigger than a single fluorescent bulb—which is pretty extraordinary considering the amount of light they deliver.

Built Texas Tough

These sleek fixtures will compliment any environment, but we also build them “Texas-Tough” from a highly-engineered section of extruded aluminum. In addition to the robust metal design, the aluminum doubles as an extremely efficient heat sink to remove the heat from the LEDs without requiring the use of noisy and unreliable cooling fans. The LEDs are protected by a rugged, water resistant polycarbonate cover that protects them from splashes and allows you to easily wipe them clean.

Energy Efficient

Compared to traditional lighting systems, our powerful LEDs will typically allow you to decrease your energy consumption by 55% to 75%. In fact, most of our customers are able to pay for their new LED lights by using the savings associated with the reduced energy bills and lamp replacement costs. Every day, customers are learning that LED lighting systems have the lowest total cost of ownership compared to any other lighting system. Watt for watt, dollar for dollar, our breakthrough lighting system delivers more light. Period.

Unlimited Customization Options

By building every fixture to order in Austin, Texas, Build My LED is the ONLY company to offer more than 565 million custom LED color combinations. With our Design It Yourself configurator, we give you real-time charts and metrics for your customized lighting system. In addition to our unmatched color options, all of our LED lights are available in 12”, 18”, 24”, 30”, 36”, 48”, 60” and 72” lengths, and we also offer you the choice of five precision beam angles to deliver the light exactly where you need it.

Yesterday I had the pleasure if speaking with Dr. Craig Downs, Executive Director of the Global Coral Repository in Clifford, VA.  Craig and I discussed numerous topics from coral husbantry to climate change, ocean acidification and much more.  We are very interested in the various endevors and research that Craig and the Global Coral Reef Repository are involved with and we hope you may consider visiting their website.  They are a non-profit organization so keep that in mind if you are interested in making a contribution to their efforts.

Below is an article that Dr. Downs sent to us.  At a later date we will post more articles on the Aquarium Specialty Blog.

In Norway there is a massive vault that contains millions of seeds. The goal is to gather duplicate samples from seed banks of contributing nations. This is the world’s seed safety net.

It’s in the northernmost town in the world, Svalbard, Norway, where there are more reindeer than people. The vault is a chilly -18 C (that’s about 0 degrees F). Stocking caps are required.

Their website says that loss of biological diversity is one of the greatest challenges we face. Increasing pressure on food crops from wars, weather and people are taking a toll on the production of food.

The intent is to build the capacity to refurbish lost seed stocks when needed. Their website is very interesting: Google Svalbard Global Seed Vault to take look at the facility. Make sure your garbanzo beans are safely tucked away here: http://www.croptrust.org/

That’s wonderful for the land, but what about the ocean? That is being addressed as we speak. If you think the frozen seed vault in Norway is cool (no pun intended), you ain’t seen nothin’ yet! The Global Coral Repository (TGCR) is designed to catalog and store coral samples, in much the same way as the seed vault stockpiles duplicate seeds.

I had the opportunity to talk with Dr. Craig Downs, the leading organizer of TGCR, and a prolific researcher on reef ecology, from the Keys to Micronesia. Dr. Downs’ Haereticus Environmental Laboratory, in Virginia, is the keystone organization that developed TGCR in partnership with the Zoological Society of London and the University of Oxford. See www.coralrepository.org.

The repository consists of multiple locations: Virginia, Oxford and regional locations all will house samples, cryogenically stored. Redundant storage ensures the safety of the coral samples.

One of the most interesting, and quite frankly, disturbing, images on the TGCR website is a set of two images from Carysfort reef. The 1975 shot shows a healthy elkhorn reef. The 2004 shot demonstrates what colossal degradation has occurred over time. This is a serious condition. As you may recall, much of this was covered in the Conditions Report from the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

Dr. Downs taught me about the sampling technique and the importance of each individual sample. Not only the sample taken, but the divot created when the sample is extracted. Each sample will have to pass a health test to be included in the repository. This includes monitoring the biopsy site. A healthy coral will quickly fill the divot from the biopsy — at about 1 millimeter of growth per day.

The samples also will document a genetic and geographical map. This has law enforcement implications, since TGCR can tell where a coral originated in a legal dispute to comply with international trade laws.

The process Dr. Downs described in our discussion consists of three phases: Investigation — Mitigation — Restoration.

Taking the sample — Investigation — yields analytical results down to the molecular level of the coral and the zooxanthellae living in the coral. Playing nurse and clinician to the coral tells researchers much more than the current state of health. It shows the sources of weakness or disease and helps isolate causes for the coral’s troubles.

Once the causes are known, TGCR can make recommendations on the next phase — Mitigation. There are so many things affecting coral it would fill the rest of this edition of the paper to list them. I got lost quickly trying to wrap my head around that list. I will be following up in a month or so on a topic generated during our discussion that will be of great interest. As soon as he releases the data, I will report back to you.

In the final phase — Restoration — TGCR’s work looks at the genome of the coral and the water quality, water flow rates and lighting conditions of a potential restoration area. Between the biology of the samples and the quality of the restoration site, TGCR can predict outcomes of the restoration effort and identify specific coral genomes that provide the highest probability of success for restoration. No point in planting coral in an area that does not provide the capacity for growth.

My scientist-for-the-day experience came when my pal Frazier Nivens asked me to shoot the stills while he captured the video for the coral sample extraction process. Our local talent and resident scientists, John and Judy Halas, executed the script wonderfully, fully documenting the scientific procedure for taking coral samples for evaluation. Joe Cianciolo was our first mate and equipment manager for the day.

We began by identifying three stands of coral for sampling. Each biopsy was taken with a new, sterile set of instruments and packaged — gloves and all — in a separate collection bag. In addition to the extraction process, we shot the scientists photographing the extraction site, and then each individual puncture. After the extraction, the site is filled with inert modeling clay to protect the coral from infection.

This is intense work that demands concentration and attention to detail. Fortunately, we had calm waters and decent visibility. For a scientist working on a day with lots of surge or current, this would be a very difficult task. It gave me a new understanding and appreciation for the effort these folks expend on behalf of studying and protecting our submerged resources.

The film and images will be used to train other scientists worldwide on the procedure. It was a long day, and hard work. It was also a great feeling to contribute to a worldwide effort for coral restoration. Once again, the Keys are front and center, demonstrating a leading position for reef preservation.

Tim Grollimund is a freelance photographer and PADI divemaster based in Key Largo. He can be reached at tim@timgimages.com or through his web site at www.timgimages.com. Tim is actively involved with the Coral Restoration Foundation and the Aquarius Foundation.

Maxspect Razor Nano R420R 60 Watt Features and Specifications:

• Only 0.9″ Thick!!
• Enhances Coral Growth & Coloration
• Utilizes the 410/420nm Spectrum (10000k & 16000k Only)
• 2 Programmable Channels / Integrated Dawn to Dusk
• Includes AdjustableTank-top Mounting Solution
• Utilizes Cree XLamp, XT-E & XP-E LED chips
• Aerodynamic Passive Cooling Design
•  Dimensions (L x W x H) - 220mm × 265mm x 25mm (8.6” x 10” x 0.9”)
• Maxspect Razor Nano Weight - 1 kg (2.2 lb)

Power Supply Unit:

• Meanwell NES-75-15 
• Input Voltage / Current - 1.5A/115VAC - 0.9A/230VAC 
• Output Voltage / Current - 15V 5A 
• Weight - 1.5kg (3.3 lb)

About the Maxspect Razor Nano R420R 60 Watt Features:

Reef Lighting with an Edge

Built with a aerodynamic body, the R420R LED Lighting System is designed to seamlessly merge into your living area with elegance and style. The R420R LED system utilize the latest in LED technology, including Cree XT-E and XP-E high intensity LED chips distributed in 2 different channels, offering unmatched performance and versatility.

Enhanced Growth and Coloration 

The R420R Lighting system is designed to provide all ranges of color spectrum required by corals and plants to enhance their growth rate, improve their coloration and at the same time giving your aquarium the most aesthetically pleasing combination of colors. Available in three different models, the M10000 with 10000K color temperature, M16000 with 16000K color temperature and A8000K with 8000K color temperature the R420r will meet the requirements of even the most sophisticated group of marine, reef and freshwater hobbyists.

410nm/420nm Super Actinic 

The R420R Lighting system also utilizes the 410/420nm Super Actinic LED chips, the spectrum that's crucial for the success of any reef and water plant aquariums as it is required by Chlorophyll A for photosynthesis, where absorption peaks at 412nm.

Cooling

The R420R Lighting system deploys an ingenious aerodynamic design which draws cool air from underneath the fixture, through its body which also serves as a large heat sink, to dissipate heat passively. Equipped with fans to regulate fixture temperatures in enclosed environments.

Hesham's Journey...

I returned recently from an incredible snorkeling trip to Sumilon, Philippines.

Getting to Sumilon is quite easy from Manila. A one hour plane ride to Dumaguete followed by a 45 minute pump boat trip to the Island of Oslob followed by another 20 minute pump boat trip to Sumilon. Sumilon is a small island with only one resort - Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort - and so is quite and peaceful.

Weather and seas were rough and visibility low at times but it was still amazing. I swam in three areas around Sumilon - a lagoon reef, a turbulent reef flat, and a marine sanctuary consisting of rolling fields of stony and soft corals. The variety, size, and color of the corals were fantastic and there was an enormous diversity of fish species.

Photos and videos are taken with an Olympus TG-1iHS underwater camera. This is a 12 MP underwater camera with an F2.0 aperture and can take 1080p videos. This relatively inexpensive underwater camera was purchased for its low light performance  and continuous focus modes and is highly recommended.

The next few photos and video are of something really special ... visibility was poor and it was hard to get more than about 3 or 4 meters of this fish in the frame at a time but this fish should be unmistakable for those who love the sea ...

Sacramento, CA (April 17, 2013) – Hydor USA the makers Koralia Circulation Pumps, SmartWave Pump Controllers, Theo submersible heaters and several additional innovative aquarium products today has announced they have extended their distribution network through an agreement with Aquarium Specialty, Inc. of Columbia, SC.

"Aquarium Specialty’s location and web presence will provide us with additional market penetration for the specialty reef and aquatic specialist stores. Aquarium Specialty’s team has an exceptional reputation in the industry for brand building and service and we believe the Hydor brand will increase Hydor's position in the aquarium supply marketplace and we are pleased to have Aquarium Specialty as a business partner".

About Hydor USA-

Continuous innovation for 30 years means that Hydor is constantly researching and developing unique solutions for the aquatics market, even for the most demanding niche. We create and manufacture new exclusive lines such as the Koralia Circulation Pumps; Koralia SmartWave, three function wave timer; Professional Marine Equipment, Wavemaker products to mimic ocean currents in a marine aquarium; Performer, a complete range of protein skimmers and calcium reactors; Professional Canister filters for premium water filtration; H2shOw, the creative and artistic line of decorations specially designed to create wonderful effects with Bubble Makers and LED Spotlights. Hydor also manufacturer’s traditional product lines such as the PTC heaters (Theo, ETH & Slim) and all-purpose water pumps (Seltz & Pico). Hydor USA is a division of Hydor S.R.L. based Italy.

For more information about Hydor products please vist www.aquariumspecialty.com or www.hydor.com.

Yesterday Aquarium Specialty received the new Orphek DIF-100 100 Watt 16,0000 K LED Pendant and a new shipment of Orphek Atlantik LED Fixtures.  

The DIF-100 is a sample LED that we will be taking to a Zoo for an evaluation.  The Zoo is looking at replacing the T5 lighting over their 50,000 gallon aquarium with LED pendents and we thought this would be the perfect choice for their particular application.  Below are some images with PAR readings from an Apogee PAR meter and some images of the new Orphek DIF-100 pendant.   Please note these are estimated distances from Lens to PAR sensor.  Also, keep in mind that the Orphek DIF-100 pendant comes with 4 different crystal/glass lens options from narrow to wide and in between.  The new pendents are lighter weight, more compact and feature a solid aluminum housing and heat sink along with an adjustable removable swivel arm.

The new Orphek DIF-100 pendent also features a controller connection (Neptune Apex or other) for dimming capability just like the PR72 pendent.

The PAR measurements below were done in our warehouse.

Approx Distance from Lens to Apogee MQ200 Sensor: about 8 inches (pegged out at 3000+)

Approx Distance from Lens to Apogee MQ200 Sensor: 15 inches

Approx Distance from Lens to Apogee MQ200 Sensor: About 40 inches

Aqua Illumination is continuing to launch new products along with a few upgrades to existing products.  The Nano Sol has been around for a while now but now it's available with a black case.  In the past the Aqua Illumination Nano Sol was only available in white but now it's available in black to match your nano aquarium.  Also, Aqua Illumination decided to remove the mounting arm from the package and reduce the price of the fixture for anyone that doesn't need the mounting arm.  Going forward the mounting arm will be sold as an optional accessory.

Aqua Illumination is now offering the new customizable LED PowerPucks with 11 possible color choices.  The Aqua Illumination PowerPucks are selling for $49.99 each on the Aqua Illumination website and they are only available as an upgrade through Aqua Illumination at this time.  If you are buying an Aqua Illumination Vega fixture then you will need to purchase it through your retailer or distributor (Aquarium Specialty is who we would recommend :) and then contact Aqua Illumination if you wish to add a custom PowerPuck to your existing Aqua Illumination Vega fixture.  The latest firmware will recognize each new LED color so it's possible to control the new colors independently as you would expect.  Please visit the link to see the Aqua Illumination PowerPuck Color Configurator in action.

Ok now for Brandon's review...

Sometimes our product reviews take a little time to fully complete. We strive to test the equipment under both normal and abnormal operating conditions for an extended period of time in an attempt to really gague how the equipment responds. Such is the case for a RLSS R6-i protein skimmer we received last year. We put the DC controllable skimmer on our 80-gallon frag setup and let her run, and we were more than pleased with the tiny skimmer’s performance.

When we first received the skimmer, it came all boxed up in a heavy wood container. The packaging was more than overkill, and despite it taking some effort to get into, we had the skimmer unboxed in a mere matter of minutes. We pieced the skimmer together a little at a time, inspecting every item along the way. The instructions were very detailed, though all of the assembly was pretty intuitive and didn’t really require them.

After assembly and a brief photo session, we yanked the old behemoth skimmer from our sump and tossed in the much smaller R6-i. Comparatively, the R6-i was significantly smaller at just a little over 20″ tall. We were quite happy to have some sump space back, but given the skimmer’s teeny tiny size, we didn’t know if it would be able to handle the volume of the aquarium. It is rated for roughly 100-150 gallons, which was obviously way more than the volume of the frag tank at just 80-gallons, so we put our short-lived concerns aside and pressed on. We fired the skimmer up and waited to see how it would fare.

The immediate noticeable difference between our old workhorse and this new RLSS skimmer was the noise. Our old skimmer was really loud and always had a gurgling noise as it sucked in air and water. The R6-i, on the other hand, was dead silent, and I’m not even exagerrating. Sitting right next to the open stand, I could not hear it at all.

Happy with our initial setting up of the skimmer, we walked away and let it do its thing. We checked back the following morning and noticed a nice buildup of skimmate already. Most skimmers go through a 24-48 hour break-in period to remove oils and other substances from the manufacturing process, but we started getting tea colored skimmate from the R6-i within a matter of hours. It wasn’t a lot, and we still had to dial in the water level and adjust the pump speed to find the sweet spot, but it wasn’t a bad start to what would eventually become a solid performing protein skimmer.

Within a couple of days we had to dump and clean the collection cup, and the consistency of the skimmate was quite dark and plenty of muck built up on the inside of the skimmer’s neck. After cleaning, we put the collection cup back onto the skimmer, turned off the feeding timer, and the protein skimmer was back at making tiny little bubbles. The skimmer performed consistently over the span of our review, needing to be dumped every few days despite a very light bioload and minimal feeding.

In comparison to the skimmer it replaced, the R6-i collected far more dissolved organic waste from the aquarium. Our previous skimmer would fill a cup after approximately two weeks, but the RLSS cone needed to be emptied at least weekly, and that was pushing it.

As far as the controllable pump goes, we enjoyed tinkering with this feature, but once it was set, there was really no need to tinker with it. That said, when we made any changes to the aquarium (e.g. adding a filter sock), turning down the pump speed proved to be really handy. This feature was also really nice when we wanted to quickly change from drier skimmate to wetter skimmate production, though that could have also been accomplished by changing the standpipe. The feeding timer was also great, especially during those quick collection cup cleanings, so we were constantly hitting that button. During our repeated use and abuse, the controller always responded immediately to whatever alterations we made.

Overall, we were quite pleased with the production and consistency of the RLSS R6-i protein skimmer. We still have it in use on our frag tank to this day, cranking out bubbles as usual. For the scant retail price of $350, it really can’t be beat in our opinion.

BioGro 123 is a new 3 part probiotic aquarium system that contains several strains of probiotic bacteria that will help reduce nitrates, phosphates and eat away detritus buildup in the aquarium.  BioGro 1 (BioGro Balance) contains 12 strains of bacteria that produce enzymes which are needed for stabile biological balance.  BioGro 2 (Nitrification) contains 14 strains of probiotic bacteria which enhance the nitrification process.  BioGro 2 contains Nitrosomonas, Nitrobacter, and Nitrospira strains.  To optimize this process, DVH has also added bacillus strains.  These bacillus strains work closely with nitrifying bacteria to help reduce nitrates in the aquarium.  BioGro 3 contains 9 strains of bacteria.  These bacteria remove the slow decaying sludge (detritus).  These bacteria remove the slowly decaying detritus that is a breeding place for pathogen organisms.  Decaying/Rotting detritus can release toxic gasses which can harm your fish and corals and can emanate bad smells from your aquarium.  All BioGro 123 bacteria are pathogen free and naturally cultivated.

Directions for Use:

Shake well before dosing!  Please turn off UV and/or Ozone for 1 day when adding BioGro.  You can dose all 3 steps at one time.  Dosage is based on a average aquarium but dosage can be higher or lower without any negative effects.  Keep away from children, do not ingest.  Please use within 6 months after opening.  Refrigeration after opening is recommended but not necessary. 

• Start Dosage: 30ml per 50 gallons
• Weekly Dosage/Maintenance: 10ml per 50 gallons

The long awaited and much anticipated Aqua Illumination wireless adapters are coming to Aquarium Specialty next week and Aquarium Specialty should be one of the 1st companies in the US to get it's hands on the new adapters.  We will have 50 units (25 black and 25 white) arriving next week and orders will begin shipping the day they arrive.  Pre-Order yours now if you would like to get be get one from the first shipment.  We understand that we are getting the lions share of these since we preordered them early on.

About the Aqua Illumination Wireless Adapter:

Compatibility: 

• AI Sol
• AI Sol Nano

Benefits: 

Eliminate the mini-dim cable from the controller to the fixture.  Improved controllability and functionality between the wireless controller and wireless adapter.  If you have multiple fixtures then you may want to consider using one wireless adapter for each module.  By doing so you will also eliminate the need to daisy chain the modules together and you will have the added benefit of controlling each fixture independently from one another.

Other Benefits:

• Left to right or right to left sunset (multiple fixtures)
• Cloud and storm effects left to right or right to left (multiple fixtures)

Note: You will need the above independently Illumination wireless controller for the wireless adapter to work.  The old (push button) AI controller is not compatible with the wireless adapter.

The Hydor Professional External Filters are a new line of canister filters arriving from Hydor.  The Hydor canister filters feature a rectangular footprint and tight fitting filter baskets that force water through the media and not around it.  Hydor Professional External Canister Filters feature an improved efficient internal motor and added soundproofing features to make the canisters super quiet.

One of the most attractive aspects of the Hydor Professional Canister besides the design, features and thought that went into building the pro series is the price.  Typically higher end canister filters cost much more and many of them don't offer any media to get started.  That is not the case with the Hydor Pro Canisters.  The canisters come with ceramic rings and filter pads but you will need to add your own carbon. The Hydor Pro Series come in 5 sizes.  Below are the specifications for each model.

Parts and replacement media pricing will be listed soon and we are waiting on that to come in from Hydor.

About Aqua-Crobes:

Aqua-Crobes is a biological product of natural occurring bacteria and enzymes that reduce the threat to fish caused by pathogenic bacteria. Through years of field and laboratory research the folks at DVH have developed a line of specifically formulated microbes for maintaining water quality, increasing growth rates and ensuring the health of your aquatic animals. Aqua-Crobes is a competitive excluder of pathogenic microbial diseases such as Vibrio, Pseudomonas, Aeromonas, Streptococcus, Allococcus, Myxobacterium, Columnaris and other gram negative bacteria. The way it works is by creating competition with negative bacteria by introducing bacteria to the water that is beneficial to the fish that live in it. This is a process known as competitive exclusion.  Aqua-Crobes competes with these pathogenic bacteria for the nutrients in the water that they depend on for their survival while waiting to attack your fish.  At the same time little peptides are produced that are toxic to finfish and shellfish pathogens.

When used as directed, Aqua-Crobes will reduce the bacterial count of the pathogens to such low levels that they will not be a threat to the health of your fish. It is impossible to completely remove all the pathogenic bacteria from the aquarium, but Aqua-Crobes, when used on a regular basis, will keep the pathogens levels so low they will not affect your fish.  Aqua-Crobes is not a medication or chemo-therapeutic product and is safe for all your aquatic animals.

Aqua-Crobes  does not compete with other bacteria supplements such as BioGro (more on that in another article) due to the fact that the two products are removing different nutrients from the water.  While BioGro removes nutrients which normally feed algae (ammonia, nitrogen, etc), Aqua-Crobes removes the nutrients which e.g. Aeromonas and Vibrio require to survive in your aquarium (fish waste materials).  Because they work to remove different nutrients, BioGro and Aqua-Crobes can both be used at the same time.  It is also highly effective in many temperatures of water and at different ranges of pH levels.  Whether you have fresh, brackish or salt water environments to care for, you are set with Aqua-Crobes!

Aqua-Crobes is one of the best kept secrets in the commercial fish and shrimp breeding industry. It promotes healthy hatchery of many species of fish and shrimp and decreases the rate of mortality.  Aqua-Crobes effectively fights off pathogenic microbial diseases. It improves hatchery water conditions and  increases survivability and growth. Aqua-Crobes also improves artemia, copepods and brachionus survival by improving water quality for culture. It is used in hatcheries, grow out and holding systems, recirculating systems, ponds and any water body to improve water quality and reduce disease.

Maintaining good water quality is one of the most important factors in aquarium keeping, raising shellfish, finfish and other aquatic organisms. Aqua-Crobes helps you to reach the goal of providing a healthy environment for all your aquatic species.

Dosage:

• Start application:  1ml per 160 liter once every 3 days for a 9 days period.
• Second application: 1ml per 160 liter once a week for a 2 week period.
• Maintenance application: 0,25ml per 160 liter once per week. 

Turn off your U.V. Light when treating with Aqua-Crobes for the first five initial treatments only.  Do not use liquid antibiotics during the first five initial treatments.

• ·         If you have an existing bacterial problem, a double dosage rate may be used safely.
• ·         After handling, wash hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water. Avoid inhalation and eye contact.
• ·         Aquariums with low oxygen conditions should be monitored during application or aerated if oxygen           depletion is expected.
• ·         Refrigeration after opening is recommend.
  
  

Aqua-Crobes contains only Biosafety Level Class 1 bacteria which are completely non-toxic, naturally occurring organisms/enzymes, and confirmed to be non-genetically manipulated organisms.  

Facts:

Q: Can I use my U.V. Light when treating with Aqua-Crobes ?

A: You should turn off your U.V. Light when treating with Aqua-Crobes for the first five initial treatments only. You can turn the U.V. Light back on once you get into the "Maintenance" treatment.

Q: How long do I treat with Aqua-Crobes?
A: You can start treating with Aqua-Crobes if you have a bacterial problem or as prevention. Once your bacterial problem is cured you can stop the treatment. We strongly suggest to keep adding Aqua-Crobes to keep the bacterial count of the pathogens to such low levels that they will not be a threat to the health of your fish.

Q: Can I use Aqua-Crobes in a reeftank?
 A: Yes. Aqua-Crobes  works equally well in fresh or salt water and is reef safe.

Q: Can I use Aqua-Crobes while treating with other products?
A: Aqua-Crobes can be used while treating your aquarium with most other products. Other "probiotics" such as BioGro are ok to use at the same time. This is because no other "probiotic" (bacterial based product) consumes the same "nutrients" as Aqua-Crobes, therefore they do not compete with each other.

If you are going to treat your aquarium with a chemical product such as a parasite product, wait until you have completed the first 5 initial treatment of Aqua-Crobes. Most chemical based products will kill the Aqua-Crobes bacteria, but once you are into the "maintenance program" this isn’t a problem. This is due to the fact that Aqua-Crobes only lives in your aquarium for 4-7 days (it has gone through it complete life cycle at that point). In the "maintenance program" you are simply keeping the bad "nutrient" level low, keeping the pathogenic bacteria levels also low so they will not affect your fish.  Simply continue on with the "maintenance program" after treating with your chemical product.

Do not use liquid antibiotics during the "initial treatment" period with Aqua-Crobes.

Q: I have a Aeromonas problem, should I increase the Aqua-Crobes dosage and is that safe to do?
A: We strongly recommend that you double the dosage rate if you have an existing Aeromonas problem. By doubling the dosage rate, you will speed up the rate that the Aqua-Crobes will consume the bad "nutrients" in the aquarium, thus starving out the Aeromonas sooner.

It is almost impossible to overdose with Aqua-Crobes. Also, by increasing the dosage rate during an existing Aeromonas problem,Aqua-Crobes bacteria will displace the Aeromonas bacteria off the ulcer or infected area of the fish. You will see the infected area start to "white over" soon after treatment is started. IF the ulcer is in an advanced state (into the "meat" of the fish), you should treat that fish with antibiotics because most likely that Aeromonas bacteria has got into the bloodstream.

Q: Does Aqua-Crobes have any effect on my biofilter?
A: No, not at all. The Aqua-Crobes bacteria do not consume ammonia or nitrites, therefore they do not compete with the bacteria in your filter.

Q: I got told that Total Alkalinity is important to Aqua-Crobes. Is this true? 
A: Yes, very much so. But remember Total Alkalinity is VERY IMPORTANT to all the benificial bacteria in our aquarium. Total Alkalinity is the "backbone" for our aquarium to function. Without a reasonable Total Alkalinity, none of the benificial bacteria will function properly. ALL biological products, such as Aqua-Crobes or BioGro, require T.A. to do their jobs. Also your nitrifying bacteria in your biofilter require T.A. to oxidize ammonia to nitrite and nitrite to nitrate.

Did you know that for every gram of ammonia that is processed in your biofilter, 2,5 grams of calcium carbonate is consumed by the biofilter? If the T.A. is too low in your aquarium, bacteria become sluggish and do not perform properly. A proper T.A. is really needed for the biofilter or probiotics to function.

Q: Can I use Aqua-Crobes also in an outside (koi) pond?
A: Yes, but the water temperature does have an effect on the dosage rate because the Aqua-Crobes bacteria is not as active at the lower water temperatures. dosage rates for the various water temperatures:

10-17°C (50-62F) - Double the label dosage
17-20°C (63-68F) - 1.5 X the label dosage
> 21°C (69F and above) - Normal label dosage

The reef aquarists is almost always on the hunt to find the best and most practical way to create random flow patterns in the reef aquarium.  This article is going to touch on 2 products that help create random flow patters from the sump return pump without adding any additional pumps to the aquarium.  Currently there are several products on the market that create random flow but there only only a handful of products that take the return flow and sweep the water to different spots within the aquarium.  The first product line is from a company called Aquarium Currents, the maker of the various Sea Swirl models.  Aquarium Currents is located about 2 hours to the East in the low country of South Carolina.  They have been around and producing Sea Swirls for 15+ years.  The other company is located in South Korea and they OEM their 2 models to Vertex under the Moceans badge.

Ok, lets start with the Aquarium Currents Sea-Swirl line.  Aquarium Currents offers 5 basic models and the models are setup for 1/2", 3/4", 1" and 1 1/2" diameter return pipes.  Each model can be positioned to sit on top of the aquarium frame it it can be bracketed to fit on all aquariums.

Sea Swirl 1/2":

• * Compact (5" x 7" x 2½")
• * Energy efficient (4W) motor is UL Listed and CSA Certified
• * Max Flow Rate: 550 gph
• * $139.00

Sea Swirl 3/4":

• * Compact (5" x 7" x 2½")
• * Energy efficient (4W) motor is UL Listed and CSA Certified
• * Max Flow Rate: 850 gph
• * $179.00

Sea Swirl 1":

• * Compact (5" x 7" x 2½")
• * Energy efficient (4W) motor is UL Listed and CSA Certified
• * Max. Flow Rate 2000 gph with the new seal design
• * $199.00

Sea Swirl 1 1/2":

• * Very energy efficient motor - only 3 watts
• * Totally NEW Design.....NO internal o-rings or seals. Straight through 1.5'’ pipe.
• * 360 degree adjustable schedule 80 inlet fitting
• * Flow rates from 3000 to 5800gph
• * $390.00

Sea Swirl Multi Swirl:

• * Flow rate’s from 300gph up to 3500gph!
• * x 2-1/2'’ Tall).
• * Economical 3 watt motor
• * No Internal o-rings
• * Threaded outlet Coupler
• * Super Quiet
• * $279.00

Before the Vertex Moceans was first introduced a few years ago, it was proceeded by the short lived WavySea that was distributed from a company on the US West Coast.  The product was pretty much a failure in the fact that the internal mechanism that controlled the sweeper movement would prematurely fail and then they would have to be sent back and forth time and time again for repair.  The distributor aparently got frustrated and he eventually went into hiding and stopped covering warranties and not paying vendors back for inventory that was never shipped but paid for.  Yes, we got burned by WaveySea.  Click the link for more details on the Vertex Mocean.

Fortunately, the guys at Vertex came in shortly after WavySea disappeared and they decided it was a product worth pursuing so they contacted the factory and rebadged it under the Vertex name under the conditions that the factory had to improve the product and reliability.  Vertex offers 2 different Moceans models.  The 1st model is the Moceans 2000 and the latter is the Moceans 3500.  The Moceans 2000 is rated up to 2000 GPH of flow while the Moceans 3500 is rated up to 3500 GPH of flow.  Each unit is covered under a Vertex 1 year warranty.

Moceans 2000 & 3500 technical data:

• Main Body 4½" x 6¾" x 3½" 
• Controller 5½" x 3½" x 1½" 
• AC Main Power Input 90-220v, 50/60 Hz DC
• power Input to unit 5v, 1.2a and 12va 
• Power Consumption @ 5v 0.48< AMP> 0.75 
• Moceans 2000 Rated up to 2000 GPH inline-flow 
• Moceans 3500 Rated up to 3500 GPH inline-flow
• fits glass thickness 1.70 cm (optional thick glass bracket is available)
• Moceans 2000 $288.39 Moceans 3500 $339.89

If you are looking to add additional random flow to your aquarium then adding a For adding a Aquarium Currents Sea Swirl or Vertex Moceans properly sized unit to your aquarium might be the solution you have been looking for.  It's also worth noting that Aquarium Currents was awarded an Editors Choice Award from Reef Builders in 2012.

Innovative Marine Nano NUVO24 Aquarium

The newest Desktop Series Innovative Marine Nuvo24 gallon aquarium is the perfect blend of unique beauty & customizable function.  Innovative Marine has redesigned the "traditional" nano, by offering an impressive 36" of panoramic viewing & providing more valuable real estate to create limitless aquascapes. Enjoy crystal clear water powered by a 476 GPH pump with dual overflow intakes, dual media baskets, dual flare nozzles, and enlarged baffle columns that easily accommodate (2) MiniMax media reactors & (1) SkimMate protein skimmer.

Showcase your new living art on the custom acrylic pedestal to create a focal point wherever it's placed.

Innovative Marine Nuvo Nano 24 Gallon Aquarium Features:

• 24 Gallon Capacity
• 6 mm Bent Glass
• Tempered Glass Lid & Clips
• Acrylic Pedestal
• DIMS (36” x 12.2” x 13”)
• Available in Black or White

• Acrylic Filter Wall w/ Dual Overflows
• (2) Media Baskets
• Mechanical Sponges
• Activated Carbon Sponges
• Phosphate Sponges
• (2) Flare Nozzles
• Designated Expanded Water Column
• Accommodates (1) MiniMax Reactor (Bio Pellets) & (1) SkimMate Protein Skimmer (Sold Separately)
• Designated Water Column (1) MiniMax Reactor (Sold Separately)
• Lighting Sold Separately

OK, here's how the drawing works...

Like the last give away, we are going to need your help. Once Aquarium Specialty gets to 1000 likes then someone (random drawing) will win an Innovative Marine Nuvo Nano 24 Gallon Aquarium (black or white). Tell all your aquarium friends on the forums, blogs or wherever. Just for liking us on Facebook and signing up for our website newsletter you are entered into the drawing.

TO QUALIFY: you must like us on Facebook and create an account on the Aquarium Specialty website (www.aquariumspecialty.com) and signup for the Aquarium Specialty newsletter. To QUALIFY you must do both of these steps.  Good luck and happy reefing!

The Waveline DC3000 DC Controllable pumps can be used as a return pump, reactor or skimmer pump.  Out of the box the DC3000 pump includes the standard return impeller, 6 speed adjustment controller, 10 minute feed timer button and 2 sets of hose barb fittings that can be connected via the included union coupling.  In a relatively short amount of time Waveline DC pumps have revolutionized the way people look at aquarium pumps and many people are switching off their standard AC pumps and going to the super quite, reliable, adjustable and energy saving DC controllable pumps from Waveline.

Waveline DC-3000 Specifications:

• Input: DC24V  (converted by AC100-240V 50/60 Hz)
• Wattage: 30
• Water Flow Rate: 3000 Liters Max (900 gallons per hour)
• Water Flow Height: 6'
• Dimensions:5 1/2" L x 3" W x 4 1/2" H )

For more information about Waveline DC Controllable Pumps and accessories visit the link to Aquarium Specialty.

So what is the RoboSnail and what can it do?  Well, let's start from the beginning.  Milan, the owner of Aqua Genesis and I began discussing his concept of th RoboSnail about 3 years ago.  After speaking to him, I realized it was going to probably take a lot more R&D to have the final production model ready so I kept in touch with Milan for the next few years hoping to one day have a prototype to test. Well, that day finally came about 5 months ago and we have been using the RoboSnail and putting it though it's paces ever since.

As of this week, the production model is now available. Our current inventory is being offered at a special introductory rate of $299.00.  Once the current inventory is gone, the pricing will be $349.00 for the foreseeable future.

About the Aqua Genesis RoboSnail:

The RoboSnail™ was designed by an aquarium keeper for an aquarium keeper. It's a superior quality product that offers simplicity and ease for the aquarium enthusiast. 

The RoboSnail is ideal for home use or in the business place.  Locations such as hotels, offices, and restaurants can each benefit and allow you to focus on the business at hand and not your dirty aquarium. RoboSnail saves you time and money.

The RoboSnail is an automated glass cleaner that prevents algae build up on the aquariums surface. This is accomplished by the RoboSnail's unique ability to clean the aquarium's viewing panel once a day without user intervention. The constant preventative cleaning performed by the RoboSnail stops algae from taking hold on the aquarium surface. At first, it is almost invisible but as it builds up on the aquarium surface.  Over time algae progressively becomes more difficult to remove. Long periods of neglect result in stubborn coralline algae, as found in marine tanks, or a hazy, unsightly build up that can be found in all aquariums. Since more effort is needed to remove it, the result can be a scratching of the aquarium surface and longer, more difficult maintenance sessions.

AquaGenesis International has been founded on the premise that they are here to revolutionize the tedious and time consuming task of maintaining and keeping aquariums.

Aqua Genesis promises that the RoboSnail will change the way you think about aquarium maintenance and dispel the notion that keeping an aquarium as a hobby is too much work.

How it works:

 The RoboSnail is very user friendly and simple to operate. The product is securely held together by magnetic forces such as your regular magnetic cleaner and placed on the aquarium as you would with a typical algae magnet.  

The RoboSnail will activate automatically once a day 24hrs after its last cleaning cycle requiring no input by the operator. Conversely, the user may manually activate the unit if so desired. These functions are made possible due to their advanced custom engineered CPU unit.

Benefits of Using the RoboSnail
Time is the greatest benefit of the RoboSnail. The user will gain hours of enjoyment viewing their aquarium instead of cleaning it.

Manual Labor of scrubbing the surface is not nesessary when using the RoboSnail. You simply install and it does all the work.

Reliability is what the RoboSnail provides for the user. The RoboSnail will never miss its cleaning cycle as it is constructed under the highest standards using high quality materials.

The RoboSnail is more cost effective than any alternative aquarium cleaning solution. The RoboSnail is the only automated cleaner in the world and is patent pending. Products of similar price and function are only as effective as the operator's cleaning routine and are time consuming and cumbersome.

• Glass Thickness: 1/4" to 3/8" (for aquariums up to 150 gallons)
• Warranty: 1 Year
• Sand Beds: Yes, it will work with sand beds via the RoboSail software

The Flipper Mag's patented design creates the only aquarium cleaner that can FLIP from scrubber to scraper simply by rotating the handle. Complete cleaning without ever getting your hands wet! Each Flipper Mag includes two blades, one for glass surfaces (Metal blade) and one for acrylic surfiaces (plastic blade).

Flipping is Easy once you know how, but it does require you to follow the instructions.  It's possible to flip in areas with low water currents and near the top of the tank where you have room to flip away from your rocks.  The Flipper Mag can be used on glass or acrylic tanks up to 12mm (1/2") thickness.

The Metal blades are made with 316 stainless steel which is highly corrosion resistant. You can leave the Flipper Mag in your tank and the blade should last for months depending on your use. Bow-Front aquarium owners will also be pleased to know that the Flipper Mag is also compatible with bow-front aquariums.  The blade attachment is great for removing coraline algae and stubborn algae.  Click the video below to see the Flipper Mag in action but you might want to turn down your sound.  The accompanied music is pretty bad :-).

FAQs from the Flipper Mag website:

1) Is Flipping difficult?

Flipping is Easy once you know how, but it does require you to follow the instructions (better yet, watch our flipping demo on this website.)

Flip in areas with low water currents and near the top of the tank where you have room to flip away from your rocks.

2) What is the maximum tank thickness Flipper can be used on?

Flipper can be used on glass or acrylic tanks up to 12mm (1/2") thickness.

3) Will the metal blades rust and how long do they last?

Metal blades are made with 316 stainless steel which is highly corrosion resistent. You can leave the Flipper in your tank and the blade should last for months depending on your use.

4) Does Flipper work on bowfront tanks?

 Yes!

5) Is Flipper the same as a Mag-Flip?

 No. Mag-Flip was made by another company using our patent license. We were not satisfied with the way that product performed so we did not renew the licensing agreement.

We spent the next 18 months perfecting Flipper with stronger magnets, stainless steel blade and a more efficient scrubbing pad....it was worth the wait!

Neostat Electrical Thermostat Control

The Cobalt Aquatics Neostat can control up to a 500 watt heating element, but it’s a one-way heater controller, and as of now cannot be used to control a chiller. The Neostat has a range of 66F to 96F with highly visible and intuitive indicator LEDs that let you know the set temperature and actual temperature, as well as allowing for programming with the push of a single button.

Even if you already have a heater with electronic temperature control, the Neostat adds an extra level of security should your heater’s built-in thermostat stick “on” and cook your livestocks. As someone who came from the I.T. industry, redundancy is best when it comes to keeping your prized fish and corals happy.  

We expect to see a street price close to $115 and product should begin shipping at the end of March of beginning of April 2013.

Cobalt Aquatics Oxypro Air Pump

The pump is innovative with its electronic adjustment, allowing precise control of airflow to run a variety of air driven devices. An LED inside the adjustment knob of the Cobalt Oxy-Pro brightens as you increase the amount of air output.

The Oxy-Pro also comes with a lot of horse power.  The Oxy-Pro delivers 40gph of air down to 78″ of water depth, while using only 2 watts. These features make the Cobalt OxyPro an ideal candidate for taller air driven skimmers. Cobalt’s new Oxy-Pro air pump is nice and quiet as well with a double chambered body design which really helps to eliminate noise.

Cobalt Aquatics EXT Inline Pump

The Cobalt EXT Inline water pump is an interesting device the likes of which doesn’t exist in the aquarium industry. Similar to the Reeflo Blowhole but designed for smaller aquariums, the Cobalt EXT Inline Pump is better suited for aquariums in the 40 gallon and less arena.  The EXT can be used to power canister style filters or reactors and is completely submersible unlike the Reeflo Blowhole.

The Cobalt Aquatics EXT inline pump can be installed to push or pull water from a source and it will deliver up to 210 GPH of flow. The Cobalt EXT pump has 5/8″ hose barbs with locking rings and suction cups for attataching to a glass or acrylic surface when necessary. The Cobalt EXT inline pump will offers a three year manufacturers warranty and the streer price is expected to come in at a reasonable $38.27.

Cobalt Aquatics MicroUV

The MicroUV from Cobalt Aquatics is a small inline ultraviolet sterilizer can be easily installed inline with your existing aquarium plumbing or incorporated into a new tank setup or hospital/quarantine tank. The Cobalt MicroUV is just big enough to be serviceable with a cord, screw-lock mechanism to hold the three watt halogen UV bulb and inlet and outlets fitted with 5/8th inch barbs and locking rings.  The MicroUV’s higher power of UV and inline placement ought to be a good choice for keeping things cleaner in small aquariums, hospital or quarantine setups. We should start seeing Cobalt Aquatics MicroUV inline sterilizer this summer at an estimated price of $80.

Expected ship dates for the full line of new Cobalt Aquatics products.  Dates are subject to change so consider these target dates.

Shipping week of April 1^st

-         Discus “Hans” Flake

-         Mysis Flake

-         Mysis Spirulina Flake

 

Shipping week of April 8^th 

-         Neo-Therm 150 watt Heater

-         Neo-Therm 200 watt Heater

-         Neo-Stat 300 watt Temperature Controller 

-         MJ1200 Power Heads (Backorders) 

-         Neo-Therm Heater working “POP” 

 

Shipping week of April 29th 

-         Discus “Hans” Pellet

-         Mysis Pellet

-         Mysis Spirulina Pellet

-         Marine Vegi Flake and Pellet Food

-         Marine Omni Flake and Pellet Food

 

Shipping week of June 1st 

-         E-X-T Canister Filter (and media)

-         E-X-T inline Pump

-         Oxy-Pro Air Pump

-         Neo-Flow DC Circulating Pump

-         Duo-Filter LED-UV (and media)

-         Micro-UV 3w

By now, you may have heard about the Waveline DC series controllable pumps.  Waveline is currently manufacturing the very popular DC3000, DC5000 and DC10000 controllable direct current pumps but there is something new in the works that we would like to share with you.

Waveline is currently developing their new series of DC controllable pumps.  These models are similar to the current models but with some upgraded features and specs.  First, lets take a look at the specifications of the current models:

DC-5000 Specifications:

• Input: DC24V 2.5A (converted by AC100-240V 50/60 Hz)
• Wattage: 40 Watts a full speed.
• Water Flow Rate: 5000 Liters Max (1320 gallons per hour)
• Water Flow Height: Max: 3 meters/9.8 feet
• Dimensions: 162mm x 104mm x 128mm

DC-10000 Specifications:

• Input: DC24V 5A (converted by AC100-240V 50/60 Hz)
• Wattage: 85 Watts a full speed.
• Water Flow Rate: 10,000 Liters Max (2640 gallons per hour)
• Water Flow Height: Max: 5 meters/16.4 feet
• Dimensions: 188mm x 104mm x 128mm

DC-3000 Specifications:

• Input: DC24V  (converted by AC100-240V 50/60 Hz)
• Wattage: 30
• Water Flow Rate: 3000 Liters Max (900 gallons per hour)
• Water Flow Height: 6'

Ok, why come out with different options for an already exceptional pump?  Well here are some reason:

1. The Waveline DC6000, 12000 and 20000 (yes 20,000 liters per hour or 5280 GPH max flow) now offer 1-10 volt connectivity to your favorite aquarium controller (for us that's the Neptune Apex) via  2 x RJ45 jacks master and and slave signals.  With 2 signals multiple Waveline pumps can be controlled by one master controller.

2.  The IC chip has been removed from the motor block and integrated into the controller allowing the user to upgrade the pump via software enhancements

3. The impeller design has gone from an open stye design to a closed design that will increase water flow and head pressure for higher head pressure applications.

4. More narrow body design for a smaller overall footprint.

5.  Heat dissipation fins to keep the pump running as cool as possible.

6. Better volute seal for external applications ( the current DC5000 and DC10000 models can run externally with the use of the free external gasket).

7. Adjustable speed dial for fine tuning the pump speed.

8. USB connectivity for other devices such as float switches, or a photo sensor for night time water flow adjustment.

9. Imperial output fittings for hard pipe plumbing or standard hose barb fittings like the current models.

10. And last but not least, it's really cool and probably the best pump value on the market.

DC6000:

• 151mm(L)x91mm(W)x127mm(H);
• Input: DC24V 3A (Converted by AC 100-240V 50/60Hz);
• Water inlet: External D: 40mm, Internal D: 32mm (1.25″)
• Water outlet: External D: 32mm, Internal D: 24mm (1″)
• Input Wattage: 50W max.;
• Flow rate: 0-6000L/Hour;
• Water height max.: 3.5m
• Estimated street price $239.00

DC12000:

• 180mm(L)x106mm(W)x147mm(H);
•  Input: DC24V 3A (Converted by AC 100-240V 50/60Hz);
• Water inlet: External D: 50mm, Internal D: 1.5″
• Water outlet: External D: 40mm, Internal D: 1.25″
• Input Wattage: 180W max.;
• Flow rate: 0-12000L/Hour;
• Water height max.: 7m
• Estimated street price: $349.00

DC20000:

• Flow Rate: 0-20000L/Hour
• More to come later...

Meet the new PR72 Dimmable Reef LED Pendant from Orphek.  The Orphek PR72 family of LED Pendants was developed with the goal of growing beautiful corals in smaller aquariums, refugiums, and coral frag tanks without relying on energy wasting metal halide or low PAR florescent tubes all the while having a small form factor.

Orphek decided to select the same LEDs used for their PR156XP and Nilus Pendants, thus duplicating the PUR lighting spectrum beneficial and necessary for growing many species of corals, clams, and anemones.  The highly efficient and reliable Mean Well LED Drivers used on their PR156XP and DIF series pendants are being utilized on the PR72 Pendant. The Orphek PR72 Pendant will produce Higher PAR/PUR levels and plenty of PAR/PUR for growing all types of corals because the light energy is concentrated on the needed and desirable PUR spectrum while eliminating LEDs that emit non essential wavelengths.

Through Orphek’s endless experimentation with LEDs and corals, they have created an affordable LED Pendant for smaller systems or larger shallow systems where multiple LED units are used.

Orphek is utilizing diffused LED lenses which spreads light coverage while keeping high PAR/PUR levels for coral health and growth.

One of the nicest features of the Orphek PR72 pendant is the plug and play connectivity to your favorite aquarium controller.  The dimmable Mean Well LED Driver will allow the user to configure the PR72 to work with most digital controllers currently on the market like the Neptune Apex controller.  The pendant includes a cable with an RJ45 connector for direct hook up to an Neptune Apex Variable Speed/Dimming Module (VDM).  The RJ45 plug can also be removed allowing connection to interface boards with + and – terminals.

Heat Transfer: The Orphek PR72 one piece heat sink housing and heat sink rapidly dissipate heat away from the LEDs and upward away from the aquarium.  To further minimize heating of the aquarium water Orphek has positioned the driver outside the pendant housing which has the further benefit of helping the Pendant LEDs to stay cooler thus extending the overall useable life of the LEDs.

Highlights

•  Highest PAR per watt.
• 36 high power LEDs tuned to the PUR spectrum to provide excellent coral and clam growth.
• Maximizes natural colors of corals and clams.
• Mean Well dimmable driver for improved efficiency and longevity.
• UV and wide spectrum red, white and blue LEDs duplicate the PUR spectrum and giving an 16,000K -18,000K appearance.
• Replaces energy wasting incandescent, florescent, and metal halide lighting.
• Low energy use, typically 30% – 50% less than other lighting technology
• Aluminum finned heat sink effectively dissipates heat from the LEDs ensuring long life of the electronics.
• Light weight design

 LED Housing

•  Length: 14.9”(380mm)
• Diameter: 6.7”(170mm)
• Weight: 2.2 pounds(1 kilogram)

 Cable

• Power cable: 70.8 inches(1.8m)

 Electrical

• Input voltage:  80-264 volts AC
• Frequency:  50/60 Hz
• Power consumption:  66-70 watts
• Power factor: .97
• Power supply:  Mean Well LED  Driver
• Dimming capability:  Yes, with Apex, Reefkeeper, and other digital controllers.

 Lens

• Orphek 60 degree lens

 LEDs

• 36 x 3 watt LEDs at ~2watt

LED Make up

• 18 – White 14,000K- 16,000K
• 14 – Blue 450nm – 460nm
• 2 –   UV/Violet 410-430nm
• 2 –   Orphek Wide spectrum red

Aquarium Specialty is happy to announce that we have partnered up with Reef Pest Solutions (RPS) to distribute their new All Out Complete dip Solution.  

About RPS: RPS is dedicated to reef safe solutions for the most common and devastating pests hobbyists face.  Together Jessica and Matthew have focused their efforts on eradicating aquarium pests that can sometimes plague our aquariums.  For the past 2 years Jessica and Matthew have been researching, developing and perfecting a comprehensive coral dip that not only destroys adults but eggs with a special penetrating agent.  Combined with their oxidizing agent and walla, you have what might be the perfect reef dip.  Their 2 year effort perfecting RPS All Out has paid off and now they have launched the most comprehensive (lightning in a bottle, if you will) pest treatment available to the home aquarists.

Aquarium Specialty will be giving away one free bottle of ALL OUT for you to try.  Post a comment here in our blog and if we select your name then we will be in touch to send you a free bottle for a review.  All we ask is that you try it right away and then send us your feedback.

Reef Pest Solutions ALL OUT will eradicate unwanted pests such as Acropora Red Bugs, Red Planeria Flatworms, Acro Eating Flatworms, Montipora Eating Nudibranches, Zoanthid Eating Nudibranches, Zoanthid  Eating Spiders, Asterina Starfish, Rapid Tissue Necrosis (RTN) and Slow Tissue Necrosis (STN), Bristle Worms, Algae, EGGS and Invertebrates.

When Matthew and I were discussing RPS All Out the other day we discussed how to treat algae removal and how RPS All Out can kill off unwanted algae before you introduce it into your aquarium. Here's an example of how it works and what Matthew had to say. Let's say you get in some new corals or live rock and you want to kill off the Valonia (bubble algae) on your coral colonies, frags or rocks.  The 1st step is to pick off the valonia (preferably without breaking open the bubbles).  Once the valonia bubbles have been throughly removed then follow the instructions below.  As you probably know by now, removing the bubble doesn't remove the root very often and the bubble algae returns.  RPS All Out kills the root with the oxidizing agent and therefore preventing the bubble algae from coming back when treated correctly.

RPS All Out  is tough on parasites but safe on corals.  RPS All Out also contains Aloe Vera that will destroy any unwanted hitchhikers while providing a protective shield to the coral skin while it works.  ​Unlike some other products on the market, RPS All Out does not contain iodine.

​Instructions for use:

Remove effected corals to a quarantine tank; the quarantine tank should have good light and water flow. Setup your quarantine tank, then take your coral out of the main tank and dip it in RPS All Out. (DO NOT ADD RPS ALL OUT TO YOUR QT TANK) While the coral is in All Out take a pipette, and blast the coral with the dip. Make sure to get in between the polyps and the underside of the coral. Do this for approximately 10-15 minutes. After 10-15 minutes, remove coral and discard the coral dip.  Do not reuse the coral dip as some parasites may release toxins.  Thoroughly rinse coral with clean saltwater and return to quarantine tank. Make sure to run carbon in your QT tank to absorb any possible residue.

New Arrivals: follow the same steps as above and then add the coral(s) to the display tank once the above steps are completed.

Do Not:  Do not use on fish, shrimp, crabs, snails, clams or other invertebrates.

The 4 side viewable starfire glass aquarium was manufactured by Miracles Aquariums out of Canada.  The 6' x 250 Watt T5 Giesemann Spectra fixture and other equipment provided by Aquarium Specialty.

• Skimmer: Reef Octopus XP3000I
• Circulation: 2 X Reeflo Snapper Pumps with 2 Oceans Motions 4-Ways on a closed loop, 1 x Tarpon Return pump (located in the basement sump room below the main level).

Pictures below with 1 metal halide and T5 lamps on...

If you would like to submit photos and some details about your setup then send them on to us and we might feature them on our blog.  A big thanks to Lisa P. for sending photos to us and allowing us to feature her elegant 220 Gallon Reef Aquarium.

Maxspect has leaked the new images of the forthcoming MaxSpect Razor Nano R420R LED fixture.

The Maxspect Razor Nano R420R LED is coming in with a single LED cluster found on the original razors.  We expect the same color options as the 120 watt and 160 watt versions but no word on that just yet.  The Razor Nano LED will have the identical built in controller that mama and pappa bear razor fixtures have.

The overall dimentions of the actual fixture are 10.5" x 8.5". and the fixture comes in at 60 watts.  The Nano Razor light spread hasn't been published yet but based on the data we have for the 160 and 120 watt Razor and it looks as though this fixture will cover a nano cube perfectly or 2 side by side units over a longer aquarium.

The Maxspect Razor Nano R420R doesn't require active cooling and it will rely on is passive cooling from the built in "wing heat sink" design shared by the 120 and 160 watt fixtures.  Maxspect has decided they are not going to distinguish the fixtures as 10K, or 16K on the Nano Razor since the name is really a misnomer to begin with.  There will be one model and the adjustability of the light channels will allow you to program the Kelvin temperatures between 6000 K and 16,000 K throughtout the days photo period.

The Maxspect Razor Nano comes with a built-in adjustable tank mount arm that clamps directly to the aquarium glass.  The tank adjustable mount is included with the razor but the retractable mounting arm is removable in the event that you would rather hang the fixture over the aquarium instead of using the rimless tank mount.

Aquarium Specialty is taking $25.00 deposits if you wish to pre-order this fixture for your aquarium.  Final pricing on the fixture hasn't been determined by the manufacturer yet but expect MAP pricing from the manufacturer on the Razor Nano.

Specifications:

• Wattage 60 Watts
• Dimensions 10.5" x 8.6"
• Adjustability: 6000K - 16000K
• Control: Built in Control (same as the R420)
• Suitability: Fresh and Marine/Reef 
• Dimentions: 10.5" x 8.6"

Here’s some exciting news from Aqua Illumination regarding their new wireless controller.  After listening to customer feedback and suggestions, Aqua Illumination recently announced the release of a major revision to their New Controller firmware that I happened to install yesterday over our new Vega reef tank. This new update offers a long list of new options, including support for the custom AI PowerPucks (coming out in the near future - more on that in a later article), wireless operation for SOL and Nano modules using the wireless adapter, a global regional timer to mimic sunrise/sunset times of major coral reefs, and much more. This firmware update is, of course, free to everyone who owns the New Controller and it is currently available to download from the AquaIllumination website.

One of the slickest features we like are the fail safe Vega dim down and the global region timers that simulate the light schedule of major reefs around the world.  Although the reef sunlight schedule is not a must have for healthy coral growth it has been show that spawning can occur under lighting conditions that more closely mimic the suns patterns.

The fail safe dim down of the AI Vega is particularly important to prevent coral burning if the modules lose wireless communications.  The other really cool feature, which AI calls Global Region Timers, is useful for aquarists looking to recreate natural lighting as close to nature as possible.  The firmware upgrade mimics lighting conditions in the following 9 regions and a custom option with a touch of a button:

• 1 - Bahamas
• 2- Caribbean
• 3- Fiji
• 4- Florida Keys
• 5- Great Barrier Reef
• 6- Hawaii
• 7- Maldives
• 8- New Caledonia
• 9- Philippines
• 10- Custom

As for the full laundry list of features, here they as presented on the Aqua Illumination Website:

New ControllerFirmware 2.0

We're pleased to announce the release of a major revision to the New Controller firmware. We've listened to our users feedback and are sure we've created the best firmware yet.

All the new features:

• Support for PowerPuck™ custom pucks.
• Adds wireless operation for Sol White, Sol Blue, and Nano when used with Wireless Adapter (sold separately - coming soon).
• Supports full sunrise/sunset/cloud sweeps and weather effects for all Sol and Nano models.
• Supports both Sol and Vega models simultaneously (wireless mode) with one controller.
• Fail-safe Vega dim down prevents coral burning if wireless communications fail for an extended period of time.
• Global Region Timers simulates actual sunrise/sunset times of major coral reefs around the world.
• GPS coordinate Timers for automatic local sunrise/sunset tracking.
• Fully automatic sweep speed for up to 30 Vega lighting modules.
• Revamped user interface for easier setup and control.

If you are an AI LED lighting fixture owner or you are considering AI then Aquarium Specialty is here to help.  If you are thinking of purchasing a new LED fixture then consider the AI line of aquarium lighting products.  We are very pleased with our 3+ years of experience in using the AI products and these new software features make the product line even better than before.

The MiniMax Desktop All-In-One Media Reactor is designed to fit into the Innovative Marine Nuvo Pico 4 and Nuvo Nano 8 aquarium filtration compartment and the MiniMax Mid Size All-In-One is designed for the Nano 16, Micro 30 and Mini 38 Innovative Marine Aquariums but it can also be used in other brands of aquariums and sumps as well.  Coupled with the Innovative Marine Skimmate series protein skimmers is going to close the chain link for desktop and mini aquarium filtration.

Here's a short video that will show you how easy this design is to operate and change out media.

The MiniMax is the All-In-One reactor for All-In-One Aquariums:

• 1. Responsive Flow Control – Unique dual chamber design, allows for quick and responsive flow control within seconds with a simple turn of knob without the need for ball valves and inlet/outlet pipes
• 2. Efficiency – Utilizes upward flow pattern that requires less flow and lower energy consumption (Desktop Model – requires a mere 2.5 watts)
• 3. Eliminate Messy Maintenance– Internal chamber acts as a removable cartridge that simply slides out of outer chamber and automatically drains water out without the need for tools and time consuming thumb screws to unfasten.
• 4. Nano Size – We produced the smallest Nano Reactor (2” x 2.3” x 11.4”)

With the integrated features right out the box Features:

• • All-In-One Design – for use with Bio Pellets, GFO, & Carbon
• • Made from quality cell cast acrylic – Bracket Included
• • Smallest Form Factor • Responsive Flow Control
• • Low Power Consumption • Double O-Ring Seal for Lid
• • Offered in Desktop (150ml Max Volume Capacity) & Midsize (350ml Max Volume Capacity)
• • Pump Included
• • Just add one of our favorite media choices from Reef Interest (NP Biopellets, NP Biopellets XL or PO4x4) or you may choose to use carbon media.

The other day we featured an article about the Vertex Vectra Self Cleaning Head.  Now it's time to mention a new product from Avast Marine that will work with their Swabbie protein skimmer self cleaning head (or other brands).  Since you can increase your skimmate production by 70% or more, it's time to discuss the new Digital Davy Jones' Skimmate Locker and why it's a perfect compliment to any self cleaning head.  So I digress and the question arrises; what good is increased skimmate production if you have to empty your skimmer collection cup twice as often?  If skimmate production increases then that means more trips to the toilet, sink or wherever you typically dump your aquarium poo.  Wouldn't it be nice not to have to empty your smelly collection cups as often, or even better, worry about messy skimmate overflows?

Well no worries now because Avast Marine has developed a device that "sinks two boats with one cannonball".  The DIgital Davy Jones Locker (AKA - DDJL) will isolate skimmate while purifying stinky exhaust air, as well as provide a failsafe mechanism to shut off overflowing skimmers.

The new Digital Davy Jones' Skimmate Locker, comes in three sizes to most efficiently fit next to your sump, where space is always premium.  Rather than a traditional ping-pong ball (which only works with downdraft skimmers) or a magnetic float switch that travels on a central rod and is prone to sticking (especially in a vat full of sticky fish poo), Avast Marine opted to use a pressure-sensitive switch triggered by rising fluid level. As the fluid level reaches the sensor tube, air is trapped and pressurized, causing the switch to open and cutting power to the skimmer pump(s). While the skimmate level rises, stinky air is forced out the top of the Locker, through a carbon filter that scrubs the foulness from the air before it stings the nostrils like sex panther cologne.

Now, rather than reaching to pull off a skimmer cup that may only have a few centimeters of clearance, or dealing with a hose in a flimsy milk jug, simply disconnect the two pieces of tubing and dump. Combined with a Swabbie, and depending on your skimmer's production volume, you could safely go weeks or even months without touching the skimmer and know that it is running at peak efficiency, with the peace of mind that it will shut off when full. A pretty green LED light indicates a working outlet; i.e., when the switch is not activated.

Installation is very straightforward. Simply fill the Locker's cap with carbon, connect a tube from your skimmer cup drain to the Locker, and plug in the relay box between your skimmer pump and its outlet and you are done.

Maintenance is also quick and easy.  Rather than pulling hard and rocking the tubing side to side to remove it from the barb fitting, the fitting slips into a custom fit collar installed in the lid.  It is snug enough to prevent air leakage but loose enough to remove without wiggling.  The pressure switch has a similar attachment; the entire sensor cylinder lifts out of the lid rather than having to remove the blue tubing from the barb fitting.  Finally, the lid is held on by two short thumbscrews.  Avast Marine chose to use two thumbscrews and a special thin sealing material rather than a traditional keyhole flange and 4 or 6 thumbscrews.  In testing, Avast Marine has found it faster and easier to remove the two screws completely rather than loosen additional screws commonly found in the keyhole flange.  Finally, the carbon cap is held on by a plastic nut so you can safely move the lid around without fear of spilling carbon.

Digital Out version is now available for aquarium controllers.  Need a email notification or text message when it is time to empty your skimmer?  Then the Digital Davy Jones' is a great choice.  Connections are 2 wire non-polarized 18 AWG shielded wire, simply plug into your breakout box or use the float switch adapter wire that came with your controller.

The Vertex Omega 150 is designed to work with aquariums up to 150 gallons and as small as 40 gallons.  The modified Sicce impeller pump includes a highly efficient design that draws an impressive 850 LPH of air at 19 watts of power or almost 4 times less energy draw than a typical 75 watt incandescent bulb.  The overall footprint is a reasonable 11" x 11" and it will fit in most standard sized aquarium sumps such as the Trigger Systems, NextReef or My Reef Creations lines of sumps. Like the Bubble King Red Dragon pump, the Omega powered Sicce pinwheel pump is nearly silent. An added bonus is that the replacement pumps and/or impellers are much more affordable in the event that something goes awry.

While many of the SCHs out there command a large upfront cost, this is not true of the Vertex Vectra Self Cleaning Head (SCH). The Vectra SCH system offers top shelf quality at a price point that won’t break the bank. For less than $220.00, you can increase your skimmer performance by 70% or more, not to mention cut down on your skimmer cleanup time and the mess it can make in your sink and everwhere else the splatter goes.

As with all of the Vertex product line, every detail has been well though out. In addition to the Vectra being a very attractive looking SCH, Vertex took it a step further and also packaged it beautifully. In fact, the packaging is reminiscent of the clean white boxes used for Apple products.

The components for the Vertex Vectra SCH are sold separately. Each Vectra engine will need to be paired with the proper sized Vectra lid for proper fit on your specific protein skimmer.  For example, the Bubble King Mini 200 and Vertex Alpha Cone 200 would require the Vectra 200 mm lid coupled with the Vectra Engine.

Some other examples of pairings are listed below. Please note these are just examples and these lids will fit several brands and models of protein skimmers currently on the market.  In the near future Aquarium Specialty will have a more comprehensive SCH to Skimmer compatibility guide.

 Lid Sizes:

• 150 mm - Vertex Omega 150
• 180 mm - Bubble King Mini 180
• 200 mm - Vertex Alpha 200, Bubble King Mini 200
• 250 mm - Vertex Alpha 250, Bubble King Deluxe 250 & Supermarin 250
• 300 mm - Vertex Alpha 300, Bubble King Deluxe 300 & Supermarin 300

 Pros:  So why should you consider a SCH for your marine aquarium?

• Reduces frequency and time spent cleaning aquarium glass
• Increases skimmate production by 70% and some have reported by as much as 100%
• Helps reduce PO4 levels by improving skimmer efficiency and reducing water contact with the sludge that builds up in the skimmer neck
• Easier and less messy skimmer cleaning
• Reduces water pollutants and helps improve overall aquarium water clarity

Cons:

• Cost - adds cost but increases perfomance by 70% or more - so is that really a negative?
• Added overall skimmer height - 3" of clearence required

In summary if you have a reef aquarium system with a protein skimmer, it’s a great idea to consider using a self cleaning head. We feel that the Vectra price/value propisition is winning choice among the SCH brands currently on the market today. Let's face it, there are more enjoyable things to do then cleaning the muck and poo out of your skimmer neck.  Happy reefing!

Construction:

Cast Acrylic

Titanium Screws

Warranty: 1 year

Recommended Operation time: 1-3 starts per day at 1 minute intervals.

For a video of the Vertex Vectra Self Cleaning head in operation please click the link.

Orphek is proud to announce their new flagship LED pendant, the Atlantik. The Atlantik LED Pendant design goals were:

• Provide a model for aquariums less than 36 inches and over 36 inches in depth (narrow lens optics).
• 
  
• Provide wider coverage than the PR156, previous flagship model. Two more rows of LEDs were added to increase coverage. Light output is 50% more than the PR156.
• 
  
• Modular in design so all components can be easily replaced by the user.
• 
  
• High PAR/PUR for deep aquariums.
• 
  
• High efficiency LED drivers.
• 
  
• To be continually improved with new software and user will be able to download newer versions from our web site.
• 
  
• No Atlantik will ever be obsolete.
• 
  
• Sunrise to sunset, dawn/dusk simulator.
• 
  
• Full dimming capabilities.
• 
  
• Ability to store three different lighting programs.
• 
  
• Four independent channels of lighting with unlimited control for each channel.
• 
  
• Full color control over all LED channels.
• 
  
• Mimic metal halide and T5 lighting or a combination of both.
• 
  
• High performance enhancement and longevity.
• 
  
• Eliminate the need for digital lighting controllers.

The Atlantik’s LED make-up includes four high range UV and four of our new wide spectrum red LEDs for improved color and fluorescence of your corals.  Their newly developed Orphek proprietary white high Kelvin LEDs are used exclusively. A two part mix of blue provides a moonlight effect for night time viewing as well as providing the needed 400-460nm spectrum. Moonlight is a reflection of the sun’s rays off the moon and is a natural occurrence over the reefs.  A total of 78, three watt LEDs are used and all run at 700mA to extend the life of the diodes. Four whisper quiet cooling fans are mounted in the chassis which keep all electronics at safe operating temperatures.

The Atlantik is a four channel, six driver system whereby each channel controls a particular color range of LEDs. The channels are labeled as Illumination 1, 2, 3, and 4. Each channel can be independently controlled by both time and intensity allowing unlimited programming possibilities. Incorrect color spectrums can have adverse effects on corals so Orphek ensured that each channel’s color spectrum would not adversely affect corals should an improper color combination be chosen.

Illumination 1 - 24 blue LEDs (460nm) dimmable from 1% to 100% simulating T5 actinic lamps.

Illumination 2 - 28 full spectrum high Kelvin white LEDs dimmable from 1% to 100%. Metal halide can be simulated by mixing channel 1 and 2. Kelvin temperature appearance can be set by increasing or decreasing the blue LEDs in channel 1.

Illumination 3 - 8 blue (460nm) and 4 UV leds (410nm) are dimmable from 1% to 100% and act as moonlights. Orphek’s UV LEDs (410nm) are safe for both the eyes and skin in humans.

Illumination 4 - 10 white (17,500 Kelvin) and 4 red LEDs dimmable from 1% to 100%, this adds more warmth to the color of the aquarium.

With the combination of moonlights this can simulate a red or harvest moon.

Orphek can provide custom LEDs for each channel of lighting if desired. Green LEDs are not used in the Atlantik as this spectrum (525-620nm) can increase Cyanobacteria growth. Our red LEDs are kept to a minimum as this spectrum (665-680nm) can increase nuisance algae growth if enough intensity is present.

An automatic timing feature is available as well. The programming is performed with the included controller and once programmed, can be uploaded to the Atlantik Pendant via USB cable which plugs into a USB port located on top of the pendant. A PC can also be used to perform this task and software is included. If multiple pendants are used, only one controller is needed. Each channel is independently powered by its own LED driver. Any new software updates are available for downloading on our web site to ensure that your Atlantik is never outdated.

An example of a typical program is shown below.

• 0700 - Turn on moonlights at 10%
• 0700-0800 - Ramp up intensity of moonlights from 10% to 100%
• 0800 - Turn on white, red, and UV LEDs at 10% intensity
• 0800-0900 - Ramp up white, red, and UV LEDs from 10% to 80%
• 0900-1800 - All LEDs on at 80% (or whatever intensity you desire)
• 1800-1900 - Ramp down white, red, and UV LEDs from 80% to 0%
• 1900-2000 - Ramp down moonlights from 100% to 0% (or whatever night time intensity is desired).

Individual channels can all have different intensity levels as well as program times.

The chassis is constructed of all aluminum and acrylic, much like our PR156 but larger in length and width. All hardware used is of high grade stainless steel and will not rust and a suspension kit is included with each unit.

The Atlantik is available in two models. Our standard model is designed for aquariums over 36 inches deep while the wide model provides more coverage for shallower tanks and/or frag tanks 36 inches or less in depth. The LED make-up is identical for both models.

Highlights

• Designed specifically for the needs of photosynthetic marine invertebrates.
• High PAR/PUR for deep aquariums.
• Easily replaces energy wasting 250-400 watt metal halide or HQI lamps.
• Advanced optical technology to reduce water surface refraction and reflection.
• Plug and play technology allows replacement of components very easily with no stress or damage to the unit.
• The spectrum of our LEDs helps control nuisance algae.
• Controller is included, no need to buy a digital controller. The controller can store up to three different programs to simulate sunrise to sunset effects.
• Can be programmed from a PC or MAC computer.
• Software included.
• USB port allows direct uploading of programs.
• Full dimming capabilities on all four channels.
• Sleek modern design is offered in a black housing.
• Moisture proof design protects electronics.
• Reduces up to 50% of energy consumption.
• Low noise fans run at 2000 rpm with a -20db A-weighting noise level.
• Environmentally friendly.
• Highest PAR per watt available.

Specifications

LED Housing

• Length: 24.21” (615mm)
• Width: 9.37” (238mm)
• Height: 2.11” (53.6mm). Atlantik Wide housing is 1.77” (45.1mm)
• Weight (Standard model): 15.9 lbs (7.6 kg)
• Weight (Wide model): 10.12 lbs (4.9 kg)

Controller

• Weight: 3.97 lbs (1.02 kg)

Cables

• USB cable:
• Power cable: 70.86 (1.8 m)
• Extension cables available at an additional cost.

Suspension Kit

•  2 steel cables: 9.84” (250 mm)
• 1 steel cable: 70.86” (1.8 m)

Electrical

• Input voltage: 90~132 VAC / 180~264 VAC  ( Selectable by switch)
  
• Frequency: 47/63 Hz
• Power consumption: 180-186 watts (Standard model)
• Electrical outlet: Region appropriate

LEDs

•  78 LEDs per unit
• Wattage of each LED: 3 watts but driven at 2 watts (700mA)

Lenses

•  Standard Model: For aquarium deeper than 36" 
• Wide model: For aquariums less than 36" in depth

LED Make up

• 28 – 75,500K white
• 10 – 12,000K white
• 24 – 460nm blue
• 8 – 450 nm blue
• 4 – Orphek special High Range Red
• 4 – High range 380-430nm UV

We all know how important it is to use only high quality water in our aquariums.  Many of us use reverse osmosis filters or reverse osmosis filters with a final deionizing stage to provide us with the highest quality water possible.  Unfortunately, we may be doing this all for naught if we aren't using our RO and RODI filters properly.

Most RO / RODI filter owners know what TDS is - and know that it is something they want to keep as low as possible.  What some may not realize is that while the RO filter is working properly, the water they are adding to their aquariums on a daily basis may be little better than the tap water coming in from the municipal supply.  How could this possibly be happening???

Every time an RO filter starts producing water after being shut off for any period of time, the initial output is of very low quality.  Luckily it's likely devoid of chlorine thanks to the carbon filters, but it is very high in total dissolved solids (yep, "TDS") for the first couple minutes.  After a few minutes the product water is as pure as it can be - but if the filter doesn't run for several minutes at a time the water quality is never as high as it could be.  That's where the problem lies.

Many aquarists have the output of their RO filter hooked directly up to their sump with a mechanical float valve.  Whenever the water level drops just a tiny bit due to evaporation, the RO filter dutifully produces just a little water and then shuts off.  Often it produces water for just a few seconds at a time - a few seconds during which only high TDS water is added to the aquarium.  That ultra-pure water the RO filter is capable of producing never makes it into the aquarium!  RODI filters can generally rely on the DI stage to mop up all the high TDS water that makes it through the RO membrane, but then the expensive DI resin is very quickly exhausted, making the RODI filter costly to use.

Fortunately the solution is simple!  The addition of a relatively small (10 to 15 gallon) top off bin greatly reduces the TDS creep, or the buildup of TDS in your top off and makeup water over time, by limiting the number of times your RO filter is cycled for a given volume of water.  The best possible scenario is to wait until the top off bin is nearly empty and then turn the RO or RODI filter on and refill the entire bin all at once. Yet this creates still another problem - production of water through an RO or RODI filter is slow!  And it's definitely no fun to start to top off your sump, only to realize that you don't have enough water in your top off bin to do the job.

Aquarium Specialty has you covered.  The Genesis Reef Systems STORM™ Specialized Top-Off & Replenishment Module not only monitors the water level in your sump and automatically tops off for evaporation, but also monitors the water level in your top off bin and controls the production of water through an RO / RODI filter to automatically refill the top off bin whenever it is nearing depletion!  This extends the life of your DI resin and makes sure that only the highest quality water is added to your aquarium.

The STORM™ Specialized Top-Off & Replenishment Module clearly isn't your standard top off device.  It can be run in three different top off modes, tailored to your choosing.  One mode will monitor the water level in your sump and frequently adds small volumes of water frequently to keep the salinity (and water level) as stable as possible.  A second mode monitors the water level in your sump and adds a slightly larger volume of water than necessary as you instruct it, resulting in fewer top off cycles.  And a third mode allows you to top off from a calcium reactor using a very low flow rate pump.  There are numerous layers of redundancy built into the STORM™ so you don't have to worry about overfilling your sump or top off bin.  Since the STORM™ automatically refills your top off bin you never have to worry about having enough water on hand - in fact, you'll never need to lift another finger to keep your aquarium perfectly topped off with ultra-pure water!

As an added benefit, the STORM™ integrates seamlessly with the RENEW™ Automatic Water Change System, also designed and manufactured by Genesis Reef Systems right here in the USA.  Whenever the RENEW™ removes water from you sump for a water change, the STORM™ recognizes that the water removal was intentional (not evaporation), and it won't accidentally add fresh water while the RENEW™ is doing its job.

There are two STORM™ models to choose from.  The STORM™ Basic will monitor your sump and top off whenever needed, and the STORM™ Pro will monitor your sump and top off bin, topping off and refilling as necessary.  If you have any questions about the STORM™ please get in touch with us here at Aquarium Specialty.  We'll be happy to help you choose what is best for you!