180 SPS Modified Triton Method

Randy · Nov 11, 2019

Ok guys. I’ve been following a few threads here recently and thought I would share my set up.

180 bare bottom
3 radion xr30w gen 1
4-48” blue plus t5s
4 vortech mp40
Neptune apex controller
Cici 4200 gal per hour return pump
Vectra calcium reactor
Reef octopus 5000 skimmer
35 gallon crypt tank/frag or quarantine if needed
60 gal sump with ball float top off from ro/di
45 gal refugium chaeto only with $50 eBay led grow light
SPS dominate

Zero water changes

Modified Triton method

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Katchupoy · Nov 16, 2019

Randy. That is a very good setup. Zero water change?

What is a Triton method?

Randy · Nov 16, 2019

I stumbled across this method of reef keeping via YouTube.

The theory simplified is that we are doing more bad than good by performing water changes. Every major, minor trace elements as well as nutrients are subtly shifted with every change. Nutrients are controlled by refugium and trace elements are dosed. They recommend icp test to match your water as close as possible to natural sea water. I do the test but use my own additives.
Bulk Reef supply has a good series on you tube.
I have several friends who have been in the hobby for years who are amazed at the results. My tank is heavily stocked and well fed. Nutrients remain undetectable. However I’m sure they are present, only naturally balanced between coral consumption and refugium uptake. Also you should never remove any chaeto. The die off is also part of the formula for balance.

You can do full on triton method or modify to fit your needs.
I dose Amino Acids and vitamins via aquavitro fuel.
Pick up other trace via calcium reactor.

There was zero swing or algae bloom when I started.

Consequently every few months there is a few gallons changed when siphoning detritus from display. Unless I recycle that water through a sock which is my primary practice.

I would encourage any reefer to at least do some research about this approach.