Returning Reefer: Fluval Spec V

[AquaFry]

Hello BAR! My name is Brian and I am 3 weeks into cycling a new Fluval Spec V. I'm returning to the hobby after 7 years without a tank. I previously had a 90G mixed reef and a 20G FOWLR along with numerous freshwater tanks. All of my gear was donated when I moved out to CA and I have been itching to get back into the hobby since.

Setup:
- Fluval Spec V AIO
- Upgraded return pump: Aqueon Quietflow 600
- Hydor Koralia Nano 240
- Hydor Submersible 50W Heater: Will be moved to overflow once DIY media basket is complete
- Chinese Black Box LED: Working on a DIY conduit stand atm
- Jebao Auto Dosing Pump: In the process of setting up this weekend

- This will act as my ATO, currently designing an emergency-shut-off float switch to prevent flooding​

- DIY media basket: Bought some egg crate yesterday
- "Real Reef" dry rock
- Live Sand

Livestock:
- None yet...
- Planning on adding a single Goby or small blenny, thoughts?

- First corals will likely be mushrooms/ricordea
- Eventual goal of growing SPS

Test Kits:
- API Salter water master test kit
- Refractometer

Maintenance:
- Not much so far!
- Plan on performing 1-2G water change once a week

 

[MolaMola]

A nice start! And now for the questions... Where are you located? What size is your Fluval Spec V? It looks super bright in there!

 

[AquaFry]

Thanks Maureen! I'm located in North San Jose. The tank display volume is 5G, the overflow adds another ~0.5G. The LED strip that came with the tank is geared towards freshwater, with a 7000K color temperature, which is why I am replacing it with a bluer spectrum LED fixture. I'll post a picture once I complete the stand.