A Beautiful Reef Tank and A Stunning LPS Tank
Introduction
Welcome to an underwater world like no other! Today, we’re diving into the stunning reef tanks of Giovanni, also known as Gio, a passionate reef hobbyist based in the Florida Keys. Gio has dedicated years to creating and maintaining two mesmerizing reef aquariums: one dedicated to SPS corals and the other to LPS corals. But his journey has not been without its challenges, including the devastation brought by Hurricane Irma.
Join me as we explore Gio’s tanks, his experiences in the reefing hobby, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
Surviving Hurricane Irma: A Test of Resilience
When Hurricane Irma made landfall in the Florida Keys, Gio did everything he could to prepare. He ran a generator to maintain power for his tanks, but despite his best efforts, he suffered significant losses. The storm left his pH levels dangerously low, affecting the health and color of his corals.
To stabilize his tanks, he implemented a refugium, which helped restore the pH to 8.2. He also installed airline tubing to bring fresh air to his protein skimmer, further improving the water quality. Through dedication and problem-solving, Gio gradually replenished lost corals and brought his reef system back to life.
The Beauty of Two Unique Tanks
Gio originally maintained a mixed reef tank, but over time, he realized the importance of separating corals based on their specific needs. As a result, he now maintains two distinct reef systems:
SPS-Dominated Tank – A Reefer 450 with a total water volume of 160 gallons.
LPS-Dominated Tank – A 60-gallon system (totaling about 75 gallons with the sump).
By separating his corals, he ensures optimal growth and coloration, allowing each tank to thrive independently.
Life in Key West: The Perfect Place for a Reef Enthusiast
Gio has lived in Key West, Florida, for over 23 years, and he loves the small-town feel. Everything is just a short walk, bike ride, or scooter trip away. The ocean is always nearby, fueling his passion for marine life.
While he works as a drywall finisher and painter, his heart truly belongs to his reef tanks. Every morning before leaving for work, he inspects his corals with a flashlight, making sure everything is healthy. And as soon as he gets home, he checks on them again, ensuring his underwater world remains in perfect condition.
Bare Bottom vs. Sand Bed: Finding the Best Setup
Gio’s approach to reef keeping has evolved over time. His SPS tank is bare bottom, meaning it has no sand. He found that a bare-bottom setup significantly reduces issues like cyanobacteria and nuisance algae, which often develop in sand beds.
To keep algae in check, he relies on a refugium, proper filtration, and a strong protein skimmer. Even with minimal water changes, his system remains stable, proving that a well-balanced tank can thrive without frequent intervention.
Patience: The Key to a Thriving Reef Tank
One of the most important lessons Gio has learned over the years is patience. Reef keeping is a slow process—corals take time to grow and color up, but they can lose that beauty overnight if conditions aren’t right.
For beginners, he recommends starting with at least a 75-gallon tank to provide more stability. Cutting corners on equipment like refugiums, skimmers, and powerheads can lead to long-term issues, so setting up a tank correctly from the start is crucial.
The Heart of Gio’s Reef System
Gio’s SPS tank (Reefer 450) is powered by an impressive setup:
Filtration: A large protein skimmer and refugium filled with macroalgae to maintain water quality.
Flow: Two Gyre 250s and two Ecotech MP40s, ensuring strong water movement.
Lighting: A combination of Hybrid LEDs and Radions, providing full-spectrum coverage.
For his LPS tank, he uses a slightly different lighting setup with XR15 Radions, giving him full control over intensity and spread.
Advice for Aspiring Reef Hobbyists
For those new to the hobby, Gio has one simple message: Just do it—but do it right!
Don’t rush into it—take the time to set up your tank properly.
Use quality equipment from the start to avoid future issues.
Be patient—reef keeping is a long-term commitment.
With the right approach, you can create a thriving piece of nature in your own home.
Conclusion
Gio’s reef tanks are a testament to his dedication and love for the hobby. Despite the challenges he faced after Hurricane Irma, his persistence paid off, and today, his tanks are more stunning than ever. His experience serves as a reminder that reef keeping is about learning, adapting, and appreciating the beauty of marine life.
If you’re thinking about starting your own reef tank, take Gio’s advice: be patient, do it right, and enjoy the journey.
