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I'm planning a mixed reef tank, gonna start with some Zoanthids and a couple Acros. What's the best way to balance lighting and flow for both? My tank's a 40-gallon breeder, running two AI Primes and a Nero 3.

You'll wanna keep the Acros higher up with strong flow, maybe 80% power on the Nero. Zoanthids can chill lower down with less direct flow. What's your PAR reading at the top and bottom?

Acros are picky, but if you dial in the flow right, they'll thrive. I'd start with moderate lighting and ramp it up slowly. Have you tested your alkalinity and calcium levels yet? Stability is key for SPS.

Lachlan wrote: ↑Wed Apr 23, 2025 7:25 pm You'll wanna keep the Acros higher up with strong flow, maybe 80% power on the Nero. Zoanthids can chill lower down with less direct flow. What's your PAR reading at the top and bottom?

Yep, that's the move. I'd also throw in a wave mode on the Nero to keep detritus from settling. What salt mix are you using?

I've had luck with Red Sea Coral Pro for mixed reefs. It's got the extra calcium and alk buffered in. How often are you planning to do water changes? With SPS, I'd aim for weekly 10% changes.

Agree with the weekly changes. Also, keep an eye on your magnesium levels. I've seen Acros bleach out when Mg drops below 1250. What's your dosing schedule look like?

I'm just starting too, gonna follow this thread. My tank's smaller, 20 gallons, but I'm running similar gear. Any tips for keeping nitrates in check with a mixed reef?

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll test PAR this weekend and report back. Also, gonna start with weekly water changes and monitor Mg like Marky suggested.

reelpro wrote: ↑Thu Apr 24, 2025 1:28 am I'm just starting too, gonna follow this thread. My tank's smaller, 20 gallons, but I'm running similar gear. Any tips for keeping nitrates in check with a mixed reef?

For a nano, skip the heavy feeding and add some chaeto in the sump if you've got one. Also, a good skimmer helps a ton.

If nitrates creep up, consider adding a refugium or dosing NoPox. Just go slow with carbon dosing, it can crash your tank if you overdo it. What's your current nitrate reading?