Refugium and remote DSB
A compartment of the sump dedicated to natural filtration with macroalgae, deep sand and microfauna. Separate the process from the display for added security.
Detailed explanation
The remote refugium is a separate compartment (in the sump or in a dedicated aquarium) where ideal conditions are created for natural biological filtration without interfering with the aesthetics of the display.
The classic configuration includes: a deep layer of sand (DSB, 10-15 cm), macroalgae (Chaetomorpha or Caulerpa), a dedicated light with inverse photoperiod to the display, moderate water flow.
The advantages of the remote refugium compared to putting it all on the display are: no aesthetic impact, possibility of managing the DSB without touching the main aquarium, easier to thin out macroalgae, optimizable lighting.
The reverse photoperiod (light in the refugium when the display is off) stabilises the pH over 24 hours. At night, corals breathe, producing CO2 which lowers the pH. The illuminated macroalgae in the refugium consume CO2 and produce oxygen, compensating.
The microfauna that develops in the refugium (copepods, amphipods, worms) is transported by the flow into the main aquarium where it serves as food for corals and small fish.
The refugium volume should be at least 15-20% of the total system volume to have a significant impact on nutrients.
A remote DSB offers the benefits of denitrification without the risk of a DSB in the display. If the remote DSB has problems, it can be removed without disturbing the corals.
The refugium + DSB + macroalgae + reverse photoperiod combination is one of the most natural and effective methods for managing a marine aquarium without excessively depending on chemical additives and resins.
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