Conversion to marine

[ehlim]

I have a 422 tank with glass of 10mm thickness, and is used for plants. Lightings are from 4 x T5 54watts. I am using pressurized CO2 and filtration is through a 2028.

a. If I were to convert to marine (LR + SPS + few fishes) , can I re-use the aforementioned equipment?

b. I understand a sump is highly desireable. Will fitting a Tunze Retrofit outlet (1074/2) sufficed to support the sump?

c. What is the recommended pump size to return the water to the tank?

d. The bigger compartment in the cabinet measures 29" (w) x 23" (d) x 22" (h). Is it sufficient to hold a sump and a reputable protein skimmer?

Thanks

[zephyros]

Sorry, I am not familar with this "422" tank (I'm new to planted). But for marine,
3ft to 4ft should go for 12mm and above 4ft should go for 15mm. Again, some will
tell you that they had tried with certain thinkness and its OK. I guess its up to you
to take the "risk".

As for pump, about 6-10 turn-over-rate of the total volume of your tank. eg if your
tank volumn is 100L, then go for a 600L pump, or a couple of smaller pumps that
makes up to the desired turn-over-rate. Normally, we had 1 major return pump
and several smaller powerheads in the tank for water circulation.

[solonavi]

Depends on the amount of euro-bracing u have on the tank. 10mm is quite at the limit of a 4x2x2 tank.

4 x T5HO is fine for LPS and Soft Coral.

You can re-use the CO2 tank for ur Calcium reactor in future. As for the pump, as zephyros mentioned, go for > 10 times the main tank turnover rate. Plan to have an external pump to reduce heat also.

Cheers
JC