Product Review: Maxspect Razor

I posted a "sneak peak" of the Maxspect Razor when it was first released last year which proved to be quite the popular article (Sneak Peak - Maxspect Razor R420R LED!). Months later, I've been toying with the idea of replacing my T5 fixture with an LED fixture. When I was offered the opportunity to put the Maxspect Razor on my aquarium to see if I liked it, I jumped at it.

The box

I've now created a second review after having my hands on this for a while... More pictures after the jump.

IMPORTANT: Our Hobby Needs Us NOW!

Big Money - "Save the reef!"

I try not to simply re-post or direct link to other sites material, but this is too important not to feature.

Several of the species of coral that we keep in our own aquariums could soon be placed on the Endangered Species List. Murray W. Camp, a respected hobbyist and reef expert is helping to lead the fight and get the word out. Please visit the following links for further information on how we can help.

• AI Lighting: 
• We need your help!
• Reefbuilders.com: 
• Reef Hobby needs YOU: call for comments regarding ESA coral listing

Most hobbyists are responsible and eco-conscious individuals. We would often prefer to propogate our own coral and purchase tank raised specimens whenever possible. While intentions to save the reefs are noble, this legislation appears to go too far. This could harm our hobby and the industry that employs so many people.

Hopefully our voice will be heard! Let's keep reefing.

Product Review: AquaMaxx EcoMaxx 100 (EM100) Protein Skimmer

Sometimes being an early adapter of a product can scare some people off, but not this reef nerd. "AquaMaxx has a new skimmer design with a new pump?! Count me in!"

(As you can tell by my video, it's difficult to take good images of anything in my sump. Sorry.)

A handful of my fellow reefing buddies (reef nerds) have been running the AquaMaxx AM series in sump protein skimmers, and we have a HOB-1 (hang on back) on the 28 gallon JBJ Nano Cube. I had heard great things about these AquaMaxx protein skimmers and seen great results from fellow reef nerds. When I was setting up my system and purchasing my first in-sump skimmer, I hit a snag: I only had 23" of height to work with in my tank stand. The coveted AquaMaxx skimmer I wanted would have to wait for another day.

Editorial note: I was reluctant to post my review for this skimmer as I was too excited/lazy to document the assembly and install process. The skimmer has now been in my sump for over 6 months, and I have yet to take any photos of the skimmer for my review. That said, I did imbed a quick YouTube video above so see it after it had been in my system for a month or so, and I'll update this post in the future if I take some photos.

(Follow the link to read more...)

Photos of the Reef

The rock work as of today (3.16.13)

After a water change this morning, I figured I should take a few photos of the reef de Chromie.

I've moved stuff around and removed a couple of corals, but most of the coral are still the same as before. Some coral have grown better than others, but many have not really grown as well as I would like. I have a problem of either breaking the coral before they grow or moving them too much.


(More images after the jump!)

Interesting Reef Finds at PetSmart?!

"Grabber Tool"

I know PetSmart has the reputation of being a "newb" spot... and with reason... However, we all know that any "advanced" hobbyist going to PetSmart for aquarium advice is probably not as "advanced" as they claim to be online (internet trolls), and I've been to plenty of Mom-and-Pop local fish stores (LFS) that dispensed the worst advice possible. I have a general distrust of many LFS as often they have incentives to sell you incompatible livestock and supplies you don't need. That's just me, and I know there are MANY great LFS out there (when you find a good one, stick with them and keep them in business!)... That said, I go to PetSmart primarily for dog supplies. I then tend to drift into my old stomping grounds, the fish department.

There's always a little room for freshwater

Reef tanks are beautiful and challenging, but I've always had a soft spot for freshwater aquaria and fish. While picking up some dog food, I made a trip to the oh so familiar fish section ("pet care") of PetSmart.

The Beta fish has always been one of my favorite fish, and it's been a while since I had a Betta. I was easily persuaded into taking home a new friend...

Jasper the Betta, rocking the 1.2 gallon

And we needed to add some more fish to add to the 18 gallon freshwater aquarium in the family room. I saw some Bolivian Ram Cichlids and had to get a pair. We also got a few Red Wag Platties.

Bolivian Ram Cichlids

Freshwater aquariums can be quite colorful and interesting too. While not a reef tank, freshwater aquariums can still be interesting and fun.

 

Red Wag Platties

Until next time...