GFO Reactor or drops?

[AmberL]

My phosphates test at 0. However, I have developed a small patch of red slime algae in my tank. I the algae can use up the extra phosphates and cause the tests to come back at 0. However, I don't think I have a big phosphate problem; the red slime patch is only about 1inch by 2inches. Should I invest in a GFO reactor or just buy some phosphate remover drops? Experience?

Thanks!

[IridescentLily]

Quick question first, do you use RO/DI water?

[AmberL]

Yes I use RO/DI water

[James404]

What kind of phosphate test kit are you using? Most test kits do not read low enough or are accurate when measuring PO4 in our tanks, you would want to use something like the Hanna checker for more accurate results. I personally recommend GFO in a reactor, bulkreefsupply is a great place to get them.

[Palting]

My cyano comes and goes, usually little patches under or in between rocks or between the rock and the back wall. I don't sweat it.

Between a reactor and using medications, I'd go with the reactor hands down. Medications may kill the cyanobacteria, but only GFO in a reactor (or water changes) will actually remove the phosphate.

How about macroalgae and a refugium? Natural way to control pjosphates and nitrates, plus grow pods, plus......

[AmberL]

Originally Posted by Palting

How about macroalgae and a refugium? Natural way to control pjosphates and nitrates, plus grow pods, plus......

I don't have room for a refugium in my sump, unfortunately. I ordered a sump with a refugium, but I also ordered an oversized skimmer. When they came in to my LFS, the skimmer would not fit into the sump/refugium combo, so I had to go with the regular sump. Is there a way to add a refugium to the system without it being in the sump?

[Palting]

Originally Posted by AmberL

Is there a way to add a refugium to the system without it being in the sump?

Sure! Easy. There are several ways.

You can get a commercially available in-tank refugium, such as one made by CTR, and spend a few bucks. Or, for next to nothing in cost, you can get a clear plastic bin and drill a whole bunch of holes on the sides and hang it off the side of the tank close to the lights and close to a powerhead or return. Like so, up in the right corner in my noob tank:


Or, you can also get a HOB refugium, like this one:http://www.fosterandsmithaquatics.co...fm?pcatid=3618 . Not worth the money, IMO.

Or, you can do a little DIY and do much better; a remote refugium. You can get a used aquarium, drill for a bulkhead(s), and plumb in into your system. Like so, the 20 gal remote refugium I hide inside the stand to the left in my current system: