Left 40 Gallon

Formula

An experimental reef for testing methods and behavior. The long term objective is to determine whether certain non-reef safe species can be conditioned to thrive within a specific reef style while minimizing damage.

Specs

• Role

  Behavior Study & Experimentation

• Age

  2 years 6 months

• Dimensions

  36.25" × 18.25" × 17"

• Light

  2× Radion XR15 G6 Pro

• Flow

  VorTech MP10mQD

• Heater

  EHEIM Jager 125W

• Heater Controller

  Inkbird ITC-306A

• Overflow

  ESHOPPS Eclipse Slim (Medium)

• Plumbing

  Plumbed into Primary Reef

• Focus

  Non-reef safe fish behavior

The Journey

Watch the evolution of the experimental reef from 2023 to today.

Familiars

Observations

The puffer actively interacts with the Acropora, keeping the growth trimmed through natural grazing behavior. This interaction is monitored closely as part of a broader experiment in understanding coral tolerance.

This system is intentionally flexible and may change configuration frequently as behavior is observed and adjustments are made. The primary goal is to keep the puffer engaged, stimulated, and healthy, while naturally managing beak growth.