A Beginner’s Guide to Setting Up a Refugium in Your Aquarium
Week 2: How to Set Up a Refugium in Your Aquarium
Now that you
understand what a refugium is and why it can benefit your aquarium, it’s time
to move into the practical side of things: setting one up. Whether you’re
running a small nano tank or a larger reef system, a refugium can be tailored
to fit your space and goals. The key is choosing the right style and setting it
up in a way that supports long-term stability.
There isn’t a single
“correct” way to add a refugium, and that flexibility is part of what makes
them so popular. The best option for your system depends on available space,
tank size, and how much equipment you want to incorporate.
One of the most
common approaches is a sump refugium. In this setup, the refugium is housed in
a secondary tank located below or behind the main aquarium. Water flows from
the display into the sump, passes through the refugium section, and then
returns to the tank. This option keeps the refugium completely out of sight and
allows room for additional equipment like protein skimmers. Because it requires
extra plumbing and a return pump, sump refugiums are generally better suited
for larger systems.
For aquariums
without a sump, a hang-on-back refugium can be a great alternative. These units
attach directly to the back of the tank and provide a compact space for
macroalgae and beneficial organisms. They’re easy to install and maintain,
making them a popular choice for beginners or smaller aquariums. The tradeoff
is limited space, which can restrict how much macroalgae or livestock the
refugium can support.
Another option is an
in-tank refugium, which is created inside the display aquarium itself using a
mesh or acrylic divider. This approach keeps everything contained within a
single tank and works well when space is limited. While it’s simple to set up,
it does take away from display space and typically offers less room for
macroalgae growth compared to external refugiums.
Once you’ve chosen
the type of refugium that fits your system, the setup process itself is fairly
straightforward.
Start by selecting
an appropriate size and layout. Larger tanks often benefit from sump refugiums,
while smaller systems may do better with hang-on or in-tank options. The goal
is to create a dedicated space that supports biological processes without overwhelming
the main aquarium.
Lighting is an
essential component. Macroalgae and other organisms in the refugium require
light to grow and function properly. Low-wattage, energy-efficient lighting
with a full spectrum is usually sufficient and helps prevent overheating or
excessive algae growth. Many aquarists run refugium lights on a roughly 12-hour
cycle, often opposite the display tank’s lighting schedule, to promote
stability.
If you’re using a
sump refugium, you’ll also need a pump to move water between the main tank and
the refugium. The flow rate should be gentle, enough to keep water circulating
but not so strong that it disrupts macroalgae growth or displaces small organisms.
Adding substrate and
live rock helps turn the refugium into an effective biological filter. A thin
layer of sand or gravel provides habitat for beneficial bacteria, while live
rock increases surface area for microbial activity. Together, they help break down
waste products like ammonia and nitrates.
Finally, take a
moment to fine-tune water movement. The ideal refugium has steady, gentle flow
that keeps nutrients circulating without creating turbulence. In sump systems,
water should move smoothly through the refugium before returning to the display
tank.
Setting up a
refugium is a rewarding way to improve water quality and support a healthier
aquarium environment. By choosing the right type of refugium, providing
appropriate lighting and flow, and incorporating live rock and substrate, you
create a small but powerful ecosystem that works quietly behind the scenes.
Next time, we’ll
take a closer look at what goes inside a refugium and how those components
contribute to nutrient control and overall tank balance.
Related Articles
Skimming the Surface: The Essential Guide to Aquarium Skimmers
Maintaining a healthy aquarium is no small feat, especially when it comes to saltwater tanks. One of the most vital pieces of equipment for achieving crystal-clear water and a thriving ecosystem is the aquarium skimmer. In this guide, we’ll dive deep ...Do I need a Refugium?
If you are new to the saltwater/reef aquarium hobby, you may or may not have heard the term "refugium". Chances are that you have heard of a refugium since you are here. However, that term can be confusing, especially because it means different ...Chaetomorpha: A Classic Macroalgae Favorite - Function, Care and Troubleshooting
Growing macroalgae in an aquarium refugium has long been recognized as a natural and highly effective way to support water quality and overall system health. Among the different types of macroalgae, Chaetomorpha, commonly known as chaeto, stands out ...Growing Macroalgae in a Refugium – The Role of Macroalgae in a Thriving Refugium
One of the main reasons reef keepers add a refugium is to grow macroalgae, and for good reason. Macroalgae quietly do a lot of heavy lifting behind the scenes, helping manage nutrients while also creating a safe, natural space for beneficial ...What is the Best Sump for a Reef Tank?
Although there are general guidelines to follow, there is no one right way or three right ways to run an aquarium. There is such a large variety of aquariums, lights, pumps, power heads, controllers, dosing pumps, and all other kinds of equipment. ...