newb question

[sinasster]

I'm in the process of starting up a 90 gallon reef set-up. my tank is currently cycling, with a penguin 300 and a magnum 250 filter (used to be a fresh water tank). I realize that i need to upgrade the filtration. Due to my tank stand having a small cubby (bookshelf) on one side i seem to be limited on what size wet/dry system i can install underneath. my usable dimensions underneath are 14"d/22"w/20+"h Perfect for a 10-15 gal sump set-up. And I have found a perfect wet/dry drip system that fits inside the sump with a pull out filter pad tray.

Ok heres my newb question.. Do reef setups use charcoal in the filters? cause all i seem to see is filter media and bioballs.. could that be it. please help!!

oh and 1 more thing.. do i need a special drilled tank for the sump or can i use a regular glass tank?

[2jz]

charcoal? you're tlaking about carbon? no, you dont. you can use regular tanks, yes.

[on_fire_8]

You may not need a filter upgrade. I have ran tanks with liverock and live sand as the only filtration.

[phistio]

reef tanks don't readily need carbon for filtration, but running a bit of carbon every once in a while is commonplace. and i agree...you might be able to get away with your current penguin and canister. but one thing to keep in mind is the possibility of high nitrate levels. especially when using bioballs, or a biowheel.

[sinasster]

thanks for the quick replys.

LOL at charcoal. i have no idea where that came from..

Based on your advice i think i will put the filter upgrades on hold and focus on my lighting.