Hi, I recently got a 8 gallon biocube, I found this site through a link on RC and have been reading like crazy.

I have done a few mods based on info from this site, let me know what else I should do to improve my tank/set up.

So far I have widened the overflow between chambers 1 and 2.

Removed the false floor from chamber 1, by the way everyone on here seems to smash it down with something but it is much easier to hook a peice of wore through the grate and simply pull it up.

Removed bio balls and flase floor from chamber 2, I plan on getting the media rack and submersible light so I can run chemipure, cheato, and carbon.

Added filter floss to top of chamber 2.

Upgraded pump to Maxijet 400, I had it laying around and may upsize later.

Blocked lower intake grate.

Added heater to chamber 1.

I plan on getting a hydor flo and some more live rock

Also due to a pricing mistake I was able to get this peice of rock covered in mushrooms for the price of reguler live rock.... I think someone put this in the wrong tank lol.



Click to view attachment



Another pic not quite sure how to use this properly yet any help?

Click to view attachment

and another

Click to view attachment

Click to view attachment

Nice find getting that shroom rock

nice, looks like your off to a good start!
oh and welcome to NR.

Thanks, anyone know how much flow I need in here? I managed to fit a MJ400 in the return area, will a larger MJ fit or am I already good enough with that much flow?? Keep in mind I also want to run the Hydor Flo which does take a bit of the pressure away to turn the device.

Also quick hint that I just learned as the Mod guide does not really elaborate. When I changed the stock pump to the MJ i connected it to the green hose that came with it, to make the pump fit easier you can just remove the large mesh from the bottom of the MJ and turn it sideways then the outlet elbow fits directly onto the MJ and I upped the flow a bit.

Update!!

My tank has been running for about a week and a half now and I am right in the middle of a cycle. Lots of green algae and diatoms.

I added a hermit, two nassarius snails, and two margarita snails which are making a lazy attempt to clean up.

I have also added the Hydor FLO whic works great on my MJ 400 pump, a bit more live rock for an approx. total of 8-9 lbs. I am waiting on my fuge light from Intank so I can get the Cheato in there and I plan on ordering the media basket as soon as StevieT gets them in stock.

Here are a few shots of my green monster.
Click to view attachment

Click to view attachment

Click to view attachment

Click to view attachment

]Here are a few shots of my other tank (50 gallon bowfront, with hanging metal halide/power compact fixture, and closet sump)

I just finished building the sump it is plumbed into a closet directly behind the tank.

[attachment=67980:nov24_006.JPG

Ignore my cloudy water i am working on it... lots of moving stuff around recently

clean your tanks!!

sump, the skimmer seems to be causing a bad smell I empty it daily though...



I clean religously, the BC is cycling and the 50 gallon is going through a mini cycle due to new lights causing lots of algae growth and a large new piece of live rock