X-mas Rock

March 7, 2009 we added a Christmas Rock. I have counted at least 25 tiny feather dusters popping in and out of this rock.

Reef Tank Overview

The reef tank is continuing to grow. This weekend welcomed the addition of some more crabs and snails for the clean up crew. But, the exciting part is the addition of a very small Rose Goby, a Pearly Jawfish, a Red Mushroom Anemone, Green Brain, Sinularia, and Star Polyps. We have also realized that there is a Basket Star living in the Favia. The marine tank is quickly become the most interesting ecosystem under my care.

Despite perfect test parameters, I also completed a 10% water change. It was not nearly as difficult as I feared saltwater would be. The pictures below showcase the new additions of this weekend.
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Despite the growth of a velvet looking Coraline algae, we were a bit disappointed to learn that the tank was not ready to add additional lifeforms. In addition to being a bit over-salted, there was a substantial reading of ammonia. Therefore, we replaced 4 gallons of the saltwater with RO filtered water and are forced to leave it for a few more days. It is noteworthy to point out; however, that the type of algae in this marine tank is actually attractive and many different colors. This is quite a dramatic change from the plant life we see form in the freshwater tanks.