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Then Vs. Now

Modern Reefing vs. 20 Years Ago: Live Rock, LEDs, & Coral Growth Tips | Newbie Tank Build 2.0

How dirty is too dirty for a reef tank? What does "stable water parameters" actually mean? And why does every single reefer give you a different answer to the exact same question?!

In this episode, Jimmy sits down in Hawaii with fellow reefer Mark to discuss how saltwater aquarium keeping has evolved over the last 20 years. Mark shares his experience returning to the hobby with a 60-gallon all-in-one system after a two-decade break, breaking down the major differences in modern LED lighting, cultured live rock versus dry rock, and the shortcut to skipping long ugly phases. They dive deep into practical reefing lessons, covering the secrets to torch coral success, managing water parameters with simple testing routines, avoiding heater disasters, and why changing one variable at a time is critical for stability. Whether you are setting up your first saltwater tank or returning after years away, tune in for real-world advice on equipment choices, maintenance schedules, and making your reef tank thrive.

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  • Tigger Pods Live Copepods (6 oz) - Reef Nutrition

    Tigger Pods Live Copepods (6 oz) - Reef Nutrition

    Reef Nutrition
    $28.00
    Because Tigger-Pods (Tigriopus californicus copepods) swim upwards with a stimulating, jerky motion, they are attractive to a wide range of fish like Mandarin dragonets, Seahorses and Pipefish. They...
  • MarcoRocks Maricultured Live Rock

    MarcoRocks Maricultured Live Rock

    MarcoRocks
    $110.00 - $389.00
    We ONLY Ship Maricultured Live Rock on Tuesdays for Wednesday delivery.  That means if you order Wednesday - Monday, all orders will ship on the following Tuesday. Pricing includes Fedex Priority...
  • ICP Water Analysis - Tropic Marin

    ICP Water Analysis - Tropic Marin

    Tropic Marin
    $37.99
    Professional ICP seawater laboratory analysis - ICP-OES is used to analyze over 35 chemical elements in the seawater sample.After the measurement, the user can call up the detailed analysis report on...