fuge/DSB in what order?

[cr500_af]

My new build is incorporating a 22.5g fuge (chaeto and rubble) and a RDSB of the same size. These tanks will be run "in series" with each other (there is a reason for this, but it is plumbing related and isn't relevant here).
One will be slightly higher than the other, and the pump will supply water to tank 1, the overflow out of tank 1 will be the feed for tank 2, which will overflow back into the sump.

I can't think of any reason why it should matter if the fuge comes before the RDSB in the order or vice versa, but I thought I'd throw it out there in case there was something I'm missing.

Any specific reason why the fuge or the RDSB should come before the other?

 

[smoothie]

Sand only and macro only?
I would do sand and rubble first and then rubble and macro.
Are you using filter socks or anything for large debris?

 

[acroholic]

Barry,
Pardon my question because I have never used one but what is the reason you are going to use a DSB, deep sand bed, right? Is this for nitrates? I have not used one, but I do use a Sulfur Denitrator.

 

[cr500_af]

Dave, yes that is my reason. I have several "extra" tanks and would like to build as "broad" a system as possible. Even if I don't have a nitrate issue, the sand will house bacteria that can only help with my bioload.

My plans were to make the DSB tank (which is about 22x26x12) purely a DSB.... no rubble, just full within 2" of the top with sand.

The macro tank will have chaeto, 4x24w T5 lights (yes, overkill, but I already have them and the PAR sucks even with new bulbs), and possibly a layer of rubble on the bottom. I'll probably use 2x Koralia 1's in it to keep the chaeto moving (and to keep waste from settling in the rubble as much). If I elect to use no rubble in it, then my buckets of rubble will go in the first chamber of the sump.
I am open to other macros in it, but I planned to keep it with the old faithful chaeto.

I had considered a sulphur denitrator, but decided to go this way, primarily because there is nothing to buy and no risk of equipment malfunction.

 

[weaglereefer]

Barry, I would use a spray bar near the bottom of the tank for the fuge as opposed to the Koralias (they will clog with chaeto, ask me how I know...). With it low, the chaeto should keep tumbling and no detrius would be allowed to settle with sufficient flow.

Let the flow from the fuge run over the RDSB (you said it was a tank, will you be able to make it completely dark and covered?) and then have that return to the tank.

 

[misu]

I was reading about RDSB and I remember it's best to put it in the area with the cleanest water to prevent deposits