Crypt Space in Sump?

[chowberg]

About to install an ATS and I’m converting my existing refugium to a crypt space. It is oriented inline in my sump, after my filter socks/skimmer and right before my return. Size is approx 24x18inch footprint, height is adjustable.

Never had one in any of my systems and only know what I read on the Googles. Anybody have application experience with any tips? Looking specifically for what worked and what didn’t.

Even though I’m pretty committed to using this as a crypt space, I’d like to hear if there would be adverse effects.

Also, by definition it might not entirely be crypt space. There is a little bit of light spill from the grow lights but nothing direct.

 

[pledosophy]

I tried one. Even seeded it with "crypt critters". I ran it for about 2 years. Mine was a 65g on a 125g system.

Honestly, it did not one bit of good from what I could tell. When I took it offline I noticed no difference at all. I was also running a 75g refugium on that tank, so maybe the fuge compensated for the crypt being taken down, but in hindsight it is not something I will do again.

All it seems to be is a place for pods and extra biological filtration.

 

[chowberg]

I tried one. Even seeded it with "crypt critters". I ran it for about 2 years. Mine was a 65g on a 125g system.

Honestly, it did not one bit of good from what I could tell. When I took it offline I noticed no difference at all. I was also running a 75g refugium on that tank, so maybe the fuge compensated for the crypt being taken down, but in hindsight it is not something I will do again.

All it seems to be is a place for pods and extra biological filtration.

I actually didn’t even think about seeding it with crypt critters, but maybe not worth looking into lol.

Thanks for the feedback, it sounds like it might be a huge pod hotel!

 

[pledosophy]

I actually didn’t even think about seeding it with crypt critters, but maybe not worth looking into lol.

Thanks for the feedback, it sounds like it might be a huge pod hotel!

The idea behind a cryptic sump is that it grows certain micro fauna. You do have to seed it for it to become effective. Sourcing the creatures was a bit of a challenge. If I remember right I got them from Julian Sprung but this was back in 2009 so maybe my memory is off.