You might want to check for aluminium since it will leach off those hebels
@australianaquarist11 сағат бұрын
The hebel won’t be in contact with the aquarium water, so I should be ok. Definitely aluminium would be a concern otherwise. Thanks for thinking of me
@nicocrinkleburg12 сағат бұрын
Love your work, mate! You’ve change the way I think about plywood tanks. Keep up the great work!
@australianaquarist11 сағат бұрын
That’s the go. We’re starting a plywood revolution….
@nicocrinkleburg11 сағат бұрын
@@australianaquarist I’ve been planing on building an outdoor pond in “old style” plywood construction, but you’ve definitely opened my eyes to some new techniques! 🍻
@Vroomy198613 сағат бұрын
Good morning, Buddy. I'm sorry that this has happened to you. Fingers crossed for ya. The thing that I love about your work is that you always look for a different way to do things. Keep on keeping on mate.
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
Thanks mate. As we say down here….. onwards and upwards!
@devachapman631513 сағат бұрын
OH NO! I am sure you will figure it out. hopefully you dont have to drain the tank and re build the support for the rock island. fingers cross mate. always nice to see your tank. I thought you where a veterinarian for work? I thought you said that in one of your vids?
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
Yep. Very educated, very in-debt, flower grower. I got out of vet, much quicker than it took to get in!
@agathacathartese704113 сағат бұрын
does it need to be water tight? I mean, if its going to be filled with planting media, can the wood not be removed and replaced with something waterproof to brace the rockwork and allowed to flood. The planting media could then be put into a water proof tub and submerged in the space in behind. Not ideal but it might save you from having to rip everything out and stating again
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
Yeah that’s certainly crossed my mind. Trouble is getting freshwater drainage away from the plants. Still, there’s many ways to tackle a problem. I’ll just have to find the one
@Ravan_Caw14 сағат бұрын
Good luck on sorting out the leak 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
Thanks mate. My fingers are crossed for an easy fix
@jamesbryan128514 сағат бұрын
Big thank you for including all the mishaps in your videos. You are helping all of us.
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
Yeah it crossed my mind to just release a complete video on just the rock islands landscaping, and quietly fix the leak. But this is the lows of plywood aquarium construction, so figured I’d show it
@jules254515 сағат бұрын
Leaks are a real sphincter , especially trying to locate the buggers, I feel your pain!
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
It’s really hard to find out it’s locating at the moment. The leak has dramatically reduced since I swapped out the taller standpipes, but the moisture in the timber remains. It’s winter , so things drying out is sluggish
@jules254513 сағат бұрын
@@australianaquarist Winter wow, whats the average temperature where you live?
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
I’m drinking my morning coffee right now. Suns out , 9am, last month of winter, probably 19 Celsius. Overnight down to 7 Celsius
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
Summer average 30 Celsius day, 19 Celsius night, Winter day 20 Celsius, nights 7 Celsius
@jules254513 сағат бұрын
@@australianaquarist 19 degress C we would be lucky to get that in summer here in the UK. In fact its bloody raining!
@Karebear900117 сағат бұрын
Oh damn man! You were on a roll too. Glad you caught it now at least. Id be thinking the leak originates from further up as well, especially with that stuff not curing properly. I think you've got the right idea, opening that seam. Maybe getting a heat lamp or dehumidifier enclosed in there could help find the origin. That post seems proper soaked which makes me think of a pinhole leak that's been there from the beginning. Idk though, it'll be neat to see what's under there. At least if you've gotta drain the tank for a week or so you've got room in the shop for an above ground pool 😂
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
If it’s a high leak, I could drain the tank down low and leave the fish in there. I’m not loving the idea of trying to dig out all that epoxy, spray foam and rock, which I’ve fixed around the waterline
@lorenzospina317417 сағат бұрын
Amazing work 👏👏👏👏
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
Thanks Lorenzo!
@apolloravindran18 сағат бұрын
read the title and thought OMG the actual tank was leaking...thanks god its inside that section!
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
Yeah, it’s better off being in there than the tank itself. Onwards and upwards!
@nicholaskemp224619 сағат бұрын
Ah sh*t. I'm feeling for ya. But water will find the tiniest place to escape from. You're probably correct in saying that the tidal flow system is at fault. It only takes half a pint of water to do the damage. I hope you get it sorted and don't have to take the whole thing to bits to find it. Keep your chin up, and keep the vids coming. We're all rooting for ya. BTW. The new parrot is awesome, even if he is an a-hole! Lol. 😂
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
It’s tough at the moment with winter not drying things out all that quickly. Still, it’ll be right, where there’s a will , there’s a way! Reggie is my 3.5 year old, Redtailed Black Cockatoo-a beautiful bird, destroyer of furniture and all things plastic, occasionally affectionate, but always an a-hole!
@dazsboxofwater19 сағат бұрын
Good luck, hopefully it’s an easy resolve for you 🙏🏼👍🏻
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
🤞
@addygomez123ify19 сағат бұрын
amazing work brother
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
Thanks mate. Fingers crossed for me
@MoldyBones2719 сағат бұрын
Holy crap! That’s some skill! Fantastic work brotherman!
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
Thanks MoldyBones! That’s a cool KZread handle! Fingers crossed for me🤞
@michaeltmhenderson182319 сағат бұрын
I’m back again
@australianaquarist13 сағат бұрын
Very pleased to see you again! Thanks for the support
@casketman14Күн бұрын
Overall the macquarii is easier to keep but no matter the turtle you still need UVB and basking. I suggest a couple T5 depending on size of aquarium since I find the UVB to be better than the spiral bulbs. Thanks for the video
@australianaquaristКүн бұрын
Absolutely any turtles kept indoors need close proximity to regularly rotated UV tubes. I do believe however, that longterm Australian turtles should be kept outdoors with access to sunlight. Thanks for your comment
@casketman14Күн бұрын
@@australianaquarist oh yeah for sure. But maybe my comment was more intended for those in the United States. More than half our country gets heavy snow so I’m sure many keep indoors.
@australianaquaristКүн бұрын
Ahhh I understand now!
@rittofamily74803 күн бұрын
Hi, would it not be cheaper and easier to use a brick / cement / concrete tank instead of plywood, especially in Australia with so many tradies available? I would assume the base, back and perhaps one side would be made of brick or concrete and the rest in glass. Regards Bill
@executor4853 күн бұрын
I’m sure I missed it. What’s the reason you didn’t go with an acrylic? Just price based on the availability of the ballast rated glass?
@australianaquarist3 күн бұрын
Acrylic isn’t really a thing, in Australia. You can get it, as it’s used for security screens over bank counters etc, however it’s not a common construction material in Australia generally. It is also way more expensive than our already expensive glass!!
@executor4853 күн бұрын
Binge watching this build from the Carlson Surge device video. Hugely impressive! I would love to combine my absurd woodworking/design ideas with your extensive knowledge to create elegant and functionally awesome devices; would be so much fun!!! I love finding ways to make things look more impressive. Your ideas for this tank highlight that same passion. So excellent mate!
@australianaquarist3 күн бұрын
Absolutely! That video shows a very frustrating part of the build process, but I’m happy with the way it turned out.
@jamesbryan12854 күн бұрын
Loved this whole series!
@australianaquarist4 күн бұрын
Thanks James. But keep with me, because there’s a lot more to come
@executor4854 күн бұрын
Legendary work mate! You’re about to become wildly famous. Keep up the amazing content.
@australianaquarist4 күн бұрын
Wildly rich and famous!! Seriously, I’m very happy to have you on board and supporting my channel!
@jamesbryan12854 күн бұрын
Let's recover the community! Can't agree more.
@australianaquarist4 күн бұрын
Things have changed with the communities reliance on social media. I see it in my teenagers. The best part of having a hobby, is just talking, gas bagging, learning and sharing with each other. But really. Not behind a flashy instagram post.
@jamesbryan12855 күн бұрын
Thanks for taking us along with you on this build. It has been pure joy.
@australianaquarist5 күн бұрын
You are very welcome James! I’m pleased to have you along, and hope you get some inspiration and maybe some entertainment from my channel. Feel free to reach out with any questions you have along the way. Adam
@willyvanroy25236 күн бұрын
KZread sucks
@australianaquarist4 күн бұрын
I’m sorry to hear you say that?!?!
@timoluck55647 күн бұрын
I really enjoy this channel, I had just discovered pool and balustrade glass for myself. I have one question regarding siliconing: what gap size do you work with for large tanks like this? for smaller tanks I usually use spacers to achieve a consistent 2mm silicone thickness between the glass panels, what do you use for tanks of this size? There must be more movement so thicker silicone might allow for that but at the same time there would probably also be a 'too thick'? Much appreciated!
@australianaquarist6 күн бұрын
Morning I usually aim for over 3 mm, though in reality it usually ends up being about 5mm. I feel it is a bit less critical with my design, compared to normal glass construction aquariums. It’s the timber recess at the bottom and the exterior aluminium frame that holds the glass together. The silicone thickness is important, but not compared to modern all glass aquariums, especially with minimal seems. Does this make sense?
@timoluck55646 күн бұрын
@@australianaquarist Thanks for taking the time to respond! It does make sense though even with a plywood base you woud still have a fair bit of movement at the glass to glass corners I assume. Thanks, 3mm is what I was hoping to hear :)
@chrisemery91157 күн бұрын
Hi mate why don’t you paint or seal the sub frame?
@australianaquarist7 күн бұрын
There’s no need to. It’s not in contact with water, and it’s treated framing timber. My outdoor turtle tank is framed with H3 treated pine
@devachapman63157 күн бұрын
the question is. why are all your tank not in the house? wife said hell no?? haha I am bit jelly of your nice weather down there, no way we could do that up here in the frozen north. looks like your building is not insulated how do you deal with heat? or does it stay perfect all year long? do you know if there is a formula for size of tank & size of surge volume?
@australianaquarist7 күн бұрын
I always had a 180g in the house. Over the years it went from a Tanganykan , to reef, to cold water marine, to planted rainbows, and finally botanical Blackwater. When we knocked the wall down to install some glass sliding doors, my wife basically said no more! Around that time I was breeding rainbows in one side of the shed, so kept using that space and kept encroaching more and more into the rest of the shed. Now in half way through grinding and polishing the concrete floor, and insulating the walls. I’ll be installing glass sliding doors and air con this spring, and making it the official “Australian Aquarist Studio”!! I live in a subtropical area, which although doesn’t have extremes , it still gets down to 3 Celsius this time of year, and up to 36 Celsius in summer. Hopefully the air con will keep the overall environment favourable for the tanks, and have the heaters and chiller working less
@devachapman63157 күн бұрын
just watched this video for the 3rd time this month. cant belive there is only 433 likes... Adam I have 2 questions for you. 1. how are you dealing with the butt joints on the back wall? where the 2 pieces of ply meet? 2. for your aluminum bracing sounds like you had it made from angle iron? did they weld it together? how tight of a fit was/is it? BTW we need more updates on the tank. enjoyed the surge device video but we want more...haha
@australianaquarist7 күн бұрын
Morning! Where the plywood sheets met, I did the following: - ensured the butt join was over a stud, or in the case of the floor a joist. - plenty of epoxy glue. - after the first two coats of epoxy, I pressed fibreglass tape iinto the still wet epoxy. - continued to build up the coats of epoxy and then polyurethane. The butt joins are easiest on the floor, because the epoxy runs into the crack and fills and seals it. I still used cloth though. The bracing is one piece TIG welded aluminium angle. 50 x 50 x 6mm , with three flat bar cross braces. I stressed a bit about how much extra room to give for the bracing. Especially so because I found the tank to be slightly “un - square “. I didn’t want the bracing to be roomy on one side and then tight up against the glass . I ended up adding 10mm to both the bracing length and width, giving an overall 5 mm all around. It sat down over the tank perfectly, and I just put a few plastic packers in before siliconing, just to make sure the gap was even all the way round.
@devachapman63157 күн бұрын
@@australianaquarist thanks I forgot you freaked out a back wall then added the wood to that. Still the info help I’ll review it when I am ready to build. You’re da man!
@Reaper-sz6tz7 күн бұрын
this just came up and is awesome, I see the vids from the US and realize how lucky we are although I stay is SA the rockpool life is much the same except the fish like the orange shoulder we do get butterflies, and the convict tangs this side. just a shame I live 600Km from the see.
@australianaquarist7 күн бұрын
The baby butterflies are one of my favourites to see when snorkeling . The first tropical fish to “ arrive “ are the Threadfin butterflies ( Chaetodon auriga). Seeing them signifies the start of the new season to me.
@chrisemery91158 күн бұрын
Looks great mate and learning heaps from you, love the native tank with the rainbows and turtles too and going to dive in to a tank like this my self cheers and keep the videos coming 😊
@australianaquarist7 күн бұрын
Hi Chris I’m very pleased that you’re getting value from my videos. The turtle tank is going strong. The turtles are a bit quiet now being winter, but the rainbows are growing well. It’s a very peaceful tank to watch with a morning cup of tea. Appreciate your support!
@saf16718 күн бұрын
Nice job. These used to be popular when I first started in the hobby but since fallen out of favor as you noted due to power head & controller changes. I recall one concern, or con if you will, is related to the pressure the surge can cause on the display wall(s) and risk of seam failure. Todays builds though could accommodate that by using euro brace on top and bottom of display with seam protection on the sides. Over build and safety can easily take care of that. In any case enjoyed the video so thank you for your time. As an aside picking Palau was nice. Two of my favorite acropora colonies are from Palau sourced from Biota. In fact I also have a Gold Lined Rabbitfish from them which is also from Palau! All the best and take care. Keep up the great work.
@australianaquarist5 күн бұрын
I think most modern tanks should hold up okay, though I certainly wouldn’t do a Carlson Surge device with a rimless tank! Out of interest, what species are the Acropora that you have from Palau. I couldn’t sleep last night, so found myself researching coral species common to Palau
@saf16713 күн бұрын
@@australianaquarist The first one I have is a Acropora muricata, common green staghorn. I purchased it from Biota which they call it Palau Mutated Meathball. Thick dark emerald green branch with lighter green tips. The second one I have from them is another Acropora that they likely believe to be Acropora desalwii. This one they name it Palauberry. Smooth skin pastel purple in color. Mine is actually lighter purple on the edges, green polyps, and a green branch. I've found they grow extremely well and tolerate my higher nutrients. Very hardy and while I've not made any frags I have knocked a few small pieces off the tips with careless cleaning I've glued those on rubble and they grow. So I say they are hardy as well. I don't have any other specifics I apologize. Just acropora muricata and acropora desalwii. Hope your day is well.
@australianaquarist3 күн бұрын
@saf1671 lovely thanks. Acropora muricata is on my list , but I’ll have to check out A. desalwii . Corals of the World, here i come!
@jefftougher45939 күн бұрын
After being in the hobby for over 50 years, it's refreshing to see someone who's fairdinkum about what he does. I couldn't agree more about the aquarium family. Anyone who gets into this game for money is in it for all the wrong reasons. I love what you do and what you teach. I built a 8x4x4 plywood tank a few years ago now. I loved it. Only trouble was, everytime the heaters came on...the street light would flicker...hahah. Keep it up mate. Hope Monster appreciates your efforts mate.
@australianaquarist9 күн бұрын
Hey Jeff Thank you so much for your support! Yes , power bills are something I can’t get away from, but I just try and blend it in to the power consumption of the farm. We also installed a big solar system recently, which will invariably help. I hope you keep watching …. You are very welcome here!
@brady44169 күн бұрын
This is awesome, I'm happy you're bringing back the Carlson Surge Device! I worked on building a small prototype about 10 years ago after finding an article by Dr. Carlson from his Waikiki Aquarium days. You mentioned the trouble with bubbles, I was able to reduce bubbles by about 90% by following his guidance and adding an "air vent" to the main line. You do this by adding a PVC T above the water line and plumb it back into the reservoir tank just at the upper water level. I'd love to see you try this, I think it would make you even happier with your CSD!
@australianaquarist9 күн бұрын
Yep, well ahead of you! Both surge devices have siphon breaks installed, though I must admit to liking the bubbles and turbulence that is created. I find it very natural, though I can see how some people might find it a bit much in their living rooms! Thanks for supporting my channel and taking the time to comment.
@mikkostenberg17409 күн бұрын
Awesome! 💪👌😃
@australianaquarist9 күн бұрын
Hey thanks for your support!
@744xLYFE10 күн бұрын
Awesome build!
@australianaquarist10 күн бұрын
Thanks mate!!
@insanity422412 күн бұрын
Very good advice
@australianaquarist12 күн бұрын
Thanks. I’m just trying to get people to think a bit more before they buy. I appreciate your support!
@insanity422411 күн бұрын
@@australianaquarist i personally research a lot before purchasing but have been burned many times by not having access to decent info (care sheets are dog shit) but podcasts have been very good for more realistic info. I like your approach though.
@australianaquarist11 күн бұрын
@insanity4224 thanks. Finding an honest retailer can definitely help. I’m happy to offer my experiences any time. Just reach out.
@algawura212 күн бұрын
Great video. Loved seeing a couple of my old ugly plywood tanks. They were ugly. Great to see new methods being shared for plywood aquariums. The ugly exterior was something I wanted to resolve with my new display aquarium which turned out good. On your exterior bracing I had thought of going stainless at one point but it was way to costly. I will be interested to see how the aluminum does over time with the Epoxy coating.
@australianaquarist12 күн бұрын
Oops!! Hope I didn’t offend!? Yes, the aluminium bracing with saltwater was my biggest pain point. Freshwater, not a problem. I was thinking of stainless steel, but thought it would still tea stain and contaminate the water.
@algawura212 күн бұрын
@@australianaquarist I agree those tanks were ugly. I built them purely for utility and not looks. I shifted gear for the new display and finished the exterior.
@glub907513 күн бұрын
This is really great, have been looking for some more information on this type of flow. I like the wave/surge style effect it gives. Hows the noise and how often do you run yours/how often does the siphon go off? I have made a couple of designs similar to the carlson surge, one with a air cylinder and butterfly valve as seen in the sulawesi beach exhibit at henry doorly zoo and another that uses float switches to control a valve - similar to a carlson surge device but with a mechanically controlled siphon. From my tests the float switch one seems to be the quietest + least bubbles but there are lots of failure points so im not sure what I will add to my tank in the end. How do you think the flow would be on a 40cm deep tank, its around 300cm long but its very shallow, could use one of those flat spray type nozzles that you see on the return lines in alot of tanks that give that gyre type flow. at around 16 minutes you talk about the achilles and clown tang, I would also add blue chromis - they tend to school alot better with this type of flow and also Anampses Lennardi, one of my favourite wrasses that I keep - they are found in similar environments to the tangs you have listed and they need that really pristine water with no spots for debris to settle and pollute. Good video
@australianaquarist13 күн бұрын
Absolutely the blue Chromis and any planktivores react well to the surge devices. Anthias, Chromis, fairy wrasse, genicanthus angels. I haven’t done it yet ( mainly because of the I’m lazy), but have heard of people putting an automatic feeder over the barrel, so that the feed comes down with the surge. I’d like to do it, but I’d need to find a feeder with an obvious barrel so I can see when it’s empty from down in the shed! You mention the bubbles, as most people do. I like it. It’s so natural and exactly what’s it’s like when I’m snorkelling along the subtropical reefs around Coffs. I’m always getting thrown around by the swell and seeing bubbles and swirling water in my face mask !!
@australianaquarist12 күн бұрын
A long and shallow tank would be ideal. You’d have to have the outlets pretty close to the surface, to allow the gyre flow coming back from the opposite end, room to sweep upward. You could even do a manifold of smaller nozzles coming off a larger horizontal pipe ( kind of a spray bar), and feed it with a large discharge pipe from the barrel. You’d need a good amount of back pressure to get the flow coming out evenly from each nozzle, so the nozzles would need to be quite a bit smaller than the supply pipe. Say 50mm down to 4 x 20 mm nozzles
@aarondus13 күн бұрын
Great video mate. What’s your thoughts on the min/max overhead height the bucket could be to be effective? Thx!
@australianaquarist13 күн бұрын
Hey Aaron There’s no real maximum height- only dictated by the head pressure that your pump can handle. I’m using a single Laguna Maxflo 16000 per drum, though one is tee’d off for a uv steriliser. Because of my fish shed situation, I’ve always been able to get the barrels and buckets up pretty high. You’d want to get it up a minimum of 1 metre above the tank, though I’d prefer higher to get the full effect of a surge
@michaelconnolly240313 күн бұрын
Bruce Carlson was the director of the Waikiki Aquarium during the 1990's. Bruce, and his now wife, Marj Awai designed the life support for the new "Edge of the Reef" Exhibit, in the 1980's. EOR was a large outdoor exhibit the had a shallow surge zone. They needed a way to simulate waves breaking over the reef crest. That was the first use of the Carlson Surge Device. The Waikiki Aquarium (where your still images were taken from) used a number of the devices on both exhibit and behind-the-scenes research tanks. As far as simplicity, cost and massive water movement are concerned, you can't beat them.
@australianaquarist13 күн бұрын
Yes it was that exhibit that first got me interested in the surge devices. Then after reading The Reef Aquarium vol3, decided to give them a go. I’ve had them on every tank of mine since. Thanks for your contribution
@Budoodoodle13 күн бұрын
Finally!🔥🔥🔥
@australianaquarist13 күн бұрын
Gday Krish
@claytonpringle122914 күн бұрын
Man this is awesome please please add a sand bed it will add to the natural aesthetic 🙏
@australianaquarist13 күн бұрын
Sand is in!!
@heronaquatics466114 күн бұрын
Love watching your builds and your advice, keep up the great work from a Pom 👍 Have you thought about putting a large nozzle on the end that increases the flow and send the flow in different directions?? Also a small hole in the pipe just above the water level of your tank would help vent a lot of the air and reduce the bubbles, obviously pointing towards your water surface since water would also come out, while it is working, the majority coming down and out normally?? Cheers
@australianaquarist14 күн бұрын
Yeah I’m playing with different pvc nozzles ATM, as well as the difference in how deep I put the discharge in the display tank
@australianaquarist14 күн бұрын
I haven’t drilled a hole in the pipe ) like what you’d do in a return pipe). I’m not sure it would work though, as the air is combined with the water inside the plumbing, rather than at discharge in the tank. Mind you, I really like the air and turbulence created, so don’t really want to minimise it.
@jeffdortch419014 күн бұрын
Very nice how will the eel like it ?
@australianaquarist14 күн бұрын
I’ve located his pipe home around the other side of the island, just near the overflow box. It’ll be a bit calmer for him there! But, I guess we’ll find out soon…. I’ve been thinking it time I catch him out of the estuary tank and transfer him over
@JJGreenEyeZ14 күн бұрын
Excellent video as always..I never knew about this method, thank you for sharing!
@australianaquarist14 күн бұрын
Ahhhh you mustn’t be an old fart like me!
@theamjadjamousable14 күн бұрын
Have to see it with the tank full with thriving corals to believe it sir. Not to mention the amount of noise it makes .
@australianaquarist14 күн бұрын
Yes the noise is something to consider if the tank is in a living room or bedroom. I didn’t think of that. The corals will be coming. You’ll just have to keep watching!!
@theamjadjamousable14 күн бұрын
@@australianaquarist you've got a new subscriber then.
@australianaquarist14 күн бұрын
@theamjadjamousable nice one👍
@broman666214 күн бұрын
Best DIY channel on youtube! Im just waiting until the rest of the fish keepers in the world finds this channel. It will happen!!!!!
@australianaquarist14 күн бұрын
Very kind words. It’s comments like yours that drive me to keep putting video content out. Thank you greatly!!
@Vroomy198615 күн бұрын
Thanks for taking the time to go into detail how it is setup and works. Very informative mate!!! Coming along nicely 👌
@australianaquarist14 күн бұрын
It’s a technique not really talked about anymore, but I really like the aesthetic it brings to the tank. Reminds me of diving, when I’m stuck at home!
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Oh no i hope you can find the problem and quick
Hope so Mark. One step at a time. It’ll be OK.
You might want to check for aluminium since it will leach off those hebels
The hebel won’t be in contact with the aquarium water, so I should be ok. Definitely aluminium would be a concern otherwise. Thanks for thinking of me
Love your work, mate! You’ve change the way I think about plywood tanks. Keep up the great work!
That’s the go. We’re starting a plywood revolution….
@@australianaquarist I’ve been planing on building an outdoor pond in “old style” plywood construction, but you’ve definitely opened my eyes to some new techniques! 🍻
Good morning, Buddy. I'm sorry that this has happened to you. Fingers crossed for ya. The thing that I love about your work is that you always look for a different way to do things. Keep on keeping on mate.
Thanks mate. As we say down here….. onwards and upwards!
OH NO! I am sure you will figure it out. hopefully you dont have to drain the tank and re build the support for the rock island. fingers cross mate. always nice to see your tank. I thought you where a veterinarian for work? I thought you said that in one of your vids?
Yep. Very educated, very in-debt, flower grower. I got out of vet, much quicker than it took to get in!
does it need to be water tight? I mean, if its going to be filled with planting media, can the wood not be removed and replaced with something waterproof to brace the rockwork and allowed to flood. The planting media could then be put into a water proof tub and submerged in the space in behind. Not ideal but it might save you from having to rip everything out and stating again
Yeah that’s certainly crossed my mind. Trouble is getting freshwater drainage away from the plants. Still, there’s many ways to tackle a problem. I’ll just have to find the one
Good luck on sorting out the leak 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks mate. My fingers are crossed for an easy fix
Big thank you for including all the mishaps in your videos. You are helping all of us.
Yeah it crossed my mind to just release a complete video on just the rock islands landscaping, and quietly fix the leak. But this is the lows of plywood aquarium construction, so figured I’d show it
Leaks are a real sphincter , especially trying to locate the buggers, I feel your pain!
It’s really hard to find out it’s locating at the moment. The leak has dramatically reduced since I swapped out the taller standpipes, but the moisture in the timber remains. It’s winter , so things drying out is sluggish
@@australianaquarist Winter wow, whats the average temperature where you live?
I’m drinking my morning coffee right now. Suns out , 9am, last month of winter, probably 19 Celsius. Overnight down to 7 Celsius
Summer average 30 Celsius day, 19 Celsius night, Winter day 20 Celsius, nights 7 Celsius
@@australianaquarist 19 degress C we would be lucky to get that in summer here in the UK. In fact its bloody raining!
Oh damn man! You were on a roll too. Glad you caught it now at least. Id be thinking the leak originates from further up as well, especially with that stuff not curing properly. I think you've got the right idea, opening that seam. Maybe getting a heat lamp or dehumidifier enclosed in there could help find the origin. That post seems proper soaked which makes me think of a pinhole leak that's been there from the beginning. Idk though, it'll be neat to see what's under there. At least if you've gotta drain the tank for a week or so you've got room in the shop for an above ground pool 😂
If it’s a high leak, I could drain the tank down low and leave the fish in there. I’m not loving the idea of trying to dig out all that epoxy, spray foam and rock, which I’ve fixed around the waterline
Amazing work 👏👏👏👏
Thanks Lorenzo!
read the title and thought OMG the actual tank was leaking...thanks god its inside that section!
Yeah, it’s better off being in there than the tank itself. Onwards and upwards!
Ah sh*t. I'm feeling for ya. But water will find the tiniest place to escape from. You're probably correct in saying that the tidal flow system is at fault. It only takes half a pint of water to do the damage. I hope you get it sorted and don't have to take the whole thing to bits to find it. Keep your chin up, and keep the vids coming. We're all rooting for ya. BTW. The new parrot is awesome, even if he is an a-hole! Lol. 😂
It’s tough at the moment with winter not drying things out all that quickly. Still, it’ll be right, where there’s a will , there’s a way! Reggie is my 3.5 year old, Redtailed Black Cockatoo-a beautiful bird, destroyer of furniture and all things plastic, occasionally affectionate, but always an a-hole!
Good luck, hopefully it’s an easy resolve for you 🙏🏼👍🏻
🤞
amazing work brother
Thanks mate. Fingers crossed for me
Holy crap! That’s some skill! Fantastic work brotherman!
Thanks MoldyBones! That’s a cool KZread handle! Fingers crossed for me🤞
I’m back again
Very pleased to see you again! Thanks for the support
Overall the macquarii is easier to keep but no matter the turtle you still need UVB and basking. I suggest a couple T5 depending on size of aquarium since I find the UVB to be better than the spiral bulbs. Thanks for the video
Absolutely any turtles kept indoors need close proximity to regularly rotated UV tubes. I do believe however, that longterm Australian turtles should be kept outdoors with access to sunlight. Thanks for your comment
@@australianaquarist oh yeah for sure. But maybe my comment was more intended for those in the United States. More than half our country gets heavy snow so I’m sure many keep indoors.
Ahhh I understand now!
Hi, would it not be cheaper and easier to use a brick / cement / concrete tank instead of plywood, especially in Australia with so many tradies available? I would assume the base, back and perhaps one side would be made of brick or concrete and the rest in glass. Regards Bill
I’m sure I missed it. What’s the reason you didn’t go with an acrylic? Just price based on the availability of the ballast rated glass?
Acrylic isn’t really a thing, in Australia. You can get it, as it’s used for security screens over bank counters etc, however it’s not a common construction material in Australia generally. It is also way more expensive than our already expensive glass!!
Binge watching this build from the Carlson Surge device video. Hugely impressive! I would love to combine my absurd woodworking/design ideas with your extensive knowledge to create elegant and functionally awesome devices; would be so much fun!!! I love finding ways to make things look more impressive. Your ideas for this tank highlight that same passion. So excellent mate!
Absolutely! That video shows a very frustrating part of the build process, but I’m happy with the way it turned out.
Loved this whole series!
Thanks James. But keep with me, because there’s a lot more to come
Legendary work mate! You’re about to become wildly famous. Keep up the amazing content.
Wildly rich and famous!! Seriously, I’m very happy to have you on board and supporting my channel!
Let's recover the community! Can't agree more.
Things have changed with the communities reliance on social media. I see it in my teenagers. The best part of having a hobby, is just talking, gas bagging, learning and sharing with each other. But really. Not behind a flashy instagram post.
Thanks for taking us along with you on this build. It has been pure joy.
You are very welcome James! I’m pleased to have you along, and hope you get some inspiration and maybe some entertainment from my channel. Feel free to reach out with any questions you have along the way. Adam
KZread sucks
I’m sorry to hear you say that?!?!
I really enjoy this channel, I had just discovered pool and balustrade glass for myself. I have one question regarding siliconing: what gap size do you work with for large tanks like this? for smaller tanks I usually use spacers to achieve a consistent 2mm silicone thickness between the glass panels, what do you use for tanks of this size? There must be more movement so thicker silicone might allow for that but at the same time there would probably also be a 'too thick'? Much appreciated!
Morning I usually aim for over 3 mm, though in reality it usually ends up being about 5mm. I feel it is a bit less critical with my design, compared to normal glass construction aquariums. It’s the timber recess at the bottom and the exterior aluminium frame that holds the glass together. The silicone thickness is important, but not compared to modern all glass aquariums, especially with minimal seems. Does this make sense?
@@australianaquarist Thanks for taking the time to respond! It does make sense though even with a plywood base you woud still have a fair bit of movement at the glass to glass corners I assume. Thanks, 3mm is what I was hoping to hear :)
Hi mate why don’t you paint or seal the sub frame?
There’s no need to. It’s not in contact with water, and it’s treated framing timber. My outdoor turtle tank is framed with H3 treated pine
the question is. why are all your tank not in the house? wife said hell no?? haha I am bit jelly of your nice weather down there, no way we could do that up here in the frozen north. looks like your building is not insulated how do you deal with heat? or does it stay perfect all year long? do you know if there is a formula for size of tank & size of surge volume?
I always had a 180g in the house. Over the years it went from a Tanganykan , to reef, to cold water marine, to planted rainbows, and finally botanical Blackwater. When we knocked the wall down to install some glass sliding doors, my wife basically said no more! Around that time I was breeding rainbows in one side of the shed, so kept using that space and kept encroaching more and more into the rest of the shed. Now in half way through grinding and polishing the concrete floor, and insulating the walls. I’ll be installing glass sliding doors and air con this spring, and making it the official “Australian Aquarist Studio”!! I live in a subtropical area, which although doesn’t have extremes , it still gets down to 3 Celsius this time of year, and up to 36 Celsius in summer. Hopefully the air con will keep the overall environment favourable for the tanks, and have the heaters and chiller working less
just watched this video for the 3rd time this month. cant belive there is only 433 likes... Adam I have 2 questions for you. 1. how are you dealing with the butt joints on the back wall? where the 2 pieces of ply meet? 2. for your aluminum bracing sounds like you had it made from angle iron? did they weld it together? how tight of a fit was/is it? BTW we need more updates on the tank. enjoyed the surge device video but we want more...haha
Morning! Where the plywood sheets met, I did the following: - ensured the butt join was over a stud, or in the case of the floor a joist. - plenty of epoxy glue. - after the first two coats of epoxy, I pressed fibreglass tape iinto the still wet epoxy. - continued to build up the coats of epoxy and then polyurethane. The butt joins are easiest on the floor, because the epoxy runs into the crack and fills and seals it. I still used cloth though. The bracing is one piece TIG welded aluminium angle. 50 x 50 x 6mm , with three flat bar cross braces. I stressed a bit about how much extra room to give for the bracing. Especially so because I found the tank to be slightly “un - square “. I didn’t want the bracing to be roomy on one side and then tight up against the glass . I ended up adding 10mm to both the bracing length and width, giving an overall 5 mm all around. It sat down over the tank perfectly, and I just put a few plastic packers in before siliconing, just to make sure the gap was even all the way round.
@@australianaquarist thanks I forgot you freaked out a back wall then added the wood to that. Still the info help I’ll review it when I am ready to build. You’re da man!
this just came up and is awesome, I see the vids from the US and realize how lucky we are although I stay is SA the rockpool life is much the same except the fish like the orange shoulder we do get butterflies, and the convict tangs this side. just a shame I live 600Km from the see.
The baby butterflies are one of my favourites to see when snorkeling . The first tropical fish to “ arrive “ are the Threadfin butterflies ( Chaetodon auriga). Seeing them signifies the start of the new season to me.
Looks great mate and learning heaps from you, love the native tank with the rainbows and turtles too and going to dive in to a tank like this my self cheers and keep the videos coming 😊
Hi Chris I’m very pleased that you’re getting value from my videos. The turtle tank is going strong. The turtles are a bit quiet now being winter, but the rainbows are growing well. It’s a very peaceful tank to watch with a morning cup of tea. Appreciate your support!
Nice job. These used to be popular when I first started in the hobby but since fallen out of favor as you noted due to power head & controller changes. I recall one concern, or con if you will, is related to the pressure the surge can cause on the display wall(s) and risk of seam failure. Todays builds though could accommodate that by using euro brace on top and bottom of display with seam protection on the sides. Over build and safety can easily take care of that. In any case enjoyed the video so thank you for your time. As an aside picking Palau was nice. Two of my favorite acropora colonies are from Palau sourced from Biota. In fact I also have a Gold Lined Rabbitfish from them which is also from Palau! All the best and take care. Keep up the great work.
I think most modern tanks should hold up okay, though I certainly wouldn’t do a Carlson Surge device with a rimless tank! Out of interest, what species are the Acropora that you have from Palau. I couldn’t sleep last night, so found myself researching coral species common to Palau
@@australianaquarist The first one I have is a Acropora muricata, common green staghorn. I purchased it from Biota which they call it Palau Mutated Meathball. Thick dark emerald green branch with lighter green tips. The second one I have from them is another Acropora that they likely believe to be Acropora desalwii. This one they name it Palauberry. Smooth skin pastel purple in color. Mine is actually lighter purple on the edges, green polyps, and a green branch. I've found they grow extremely well and tolerate my higher nutrients. Very hardy and while I've not made any frags I have knocked a few small pieces off the tips with careless cleaning I've glued those on rubble and they grow. So I say they are hardy as well. I don't have any other specifics I apologize. Just acropora muricata and acropora desalwii. Hope your day is well.
@saf1671 lovely thanks. Acropora muricata is on my list , but I’ll have to check out A. desalwii . Corals of the World, here i come!
After being in the hobby for over 50 years, it's refreshing to see someone who's fairdinkum about what he does. I couldn't agree more about the aquarium family. Anyone who gets into this game for money is in it for all the wrong reasons. I love what you do and what you teach. I built a 8x4x4 plywood tank a few years ago now. I loved it. Only trouble was, everytime the heaters came on...the street light would flicker...hahah. Keep it up mate. Hope Monster appreciates your efforts mate.
Hey Jeff Thank you so much for your support! Yes , power bills are something I can’t get away from, but I just try and blend it in to the power consumption of the farm. We also installed a big solar system recently, which will invariably help. I hope you keep watching …. You are very welcome here!
This is awesome, I'm happy you're bringing back the Carlson Surge Device! I worked on building a small prototype about 10 years ago after finding an article by Dr. Carlson from his Waikiki Aquarium days. You mentioned the trouble with bubbles, I was able to reduce bubbles by about 90% by following his guidance and adding an "air vent" to the main line. You do this by adding a PVC T above the water line and plumb it back into the reservoir tank just at the upper water level. I'd love to see you try this, I think it would make you even happier with your CSD!
Yep, well ahead of you! Both surge devices have siphon breaks installed, though I must admit to liking the bubbles and turbulence that is created. I find it very natural, though I can see how some people might find it a bit much in their living rooms! Thanks for supporting my channel and taking the time to comment.
Awesome! 💪👌😃
Hey thanks for your support!
Awesome build!
Thanks mate!!
Very good advice
Thanks. I’m just trying to get people to think a bit more before they buy. I appreciate your support!
@@australianaquarist i personally research a lot before purchasing but have been burned many times by not having access to decent info (care sheets are dog shit) but podcasts have been very good for more realistic info. I like your approach though.
@insanity4224 thanks. Finding an honest retailer can definitely help. I’m happy to offer my experiences any time. Just reach out.
Great video. Loved seeing a couple of my old ugly plywood tanks. They were ugly. Great to see new methods being shared for plywood aquariums. The ugly exterior was something I wanted to resolve with my new display aquarium which turned out good. On your exterior bracing I had thought of going stainless at one point but it was way to costly. I will be interested to see how the aluminum does over time with the Epoxy coating.
Oops!! Hope I didn’t offend!? Yes, the aluminium bracing with saltwater was my biggest pain point. Freshwater, not a problem. I was thinking of stainless steel, but thought it would still tea stain and contaminate the water.
@@australianaquarist I agree those tanks were ugly. I built them purely for utility and not looks. I shifted gear for the new display and finished the exterior.
This is really great, have been looking for some more information on this type of flow. I like the wave/surge style effect it gives. Hows the noise and how often do you run yours/how often does the siphon go off? I have made a couple of designs similar to the carlson surge, one with a air cylinder and butterfly valve as seen in the sulawesi beach exhibit at henry doorly zoo and another that uses float switches to control a valve - similar to a carlson surge device but with a mechanically controlled siphon. From my tests the float switch one seems to be the quietest + least bubbles but there are lots of failure points so im not sure what I will add to my tank in the end. How do you think the flow would be on a 40cm deep tank, its around 300cm long but its very shallow, could use one of those flat spray type nozzles that you see on the return lines in alot of tanks that give that gyre type flow. at around 16 minutes you talk about the achilles and clown tang, I would also add blue chromis - they tend to school alot better with this type of flow and also Anampses Lennardi, one of my favourite wrasses that I keep - they are found in similar environments to the tangs you have listed and they need that really pristine water with no spots for debris to settle and pollute. Good video
Absolutely the blue Chromis and any planktivores react well to the surge devices. Anthias, Chromis, fairy wrasse, genicanthus angels. I haven’t done it yet ( mainly because of the I’m lazy), but have heard of people putting an automatic feeder over the barrel, so that the feed comes down with the surge. I’d like to do it, but I’d need to find a feeder with an obvious barrel so I can see when it’s empty from down in the shed! You mention the bubbles, as most people do. I like it. It’s so natural and exactly what’s it’s like when I’m snorkelling along the subtropical reefs around Coffs. I’m always getting thrown around by the swell and seeing bubbles and swirling water in my face mask !!
A long and shallow tank would be ideal. You’d have to have the outlets pretty close to the surface, to allow the gyre flow coming back from the opposite end, room to sweep upward. You could even do a manifold of smaller nozzles coming off a larger horizontal pipe ( kind of a spray bar), and feed it with a large discharge pipe from the barrel. You’d need a good amount of back pressure to get the flow coming out evenly from each nozzle, so the nozzles would need to be quite a bit smaller than the supply pipe. Say 50mm down to 4 x 20 mm nozzles
Great video mate. What’s your thoughts on the min/max overhead height the bucket could be to be effective? Thx!
Hey Aaron There’s no real maximum height- only dictated by the head pressure that your pump can handle. I’m using a single Laguna Maxflo 16000 per drum, though one is tee’d off for a uv steriliser. Because of my fish shed situation, I’ve always been able to get the barrels and buckets up pretty high. You’d want to get it up a minimum of 1 metre above the tank, though I’d prefer higher to get the full effect of a surge
Bruce Carlson was the director of the Waikiki Aquarium during the 1990's. Bruce, and his now wife, Marj Awai designed the life support for the new "Edge of the Reef" Exhibit, in the 1980's. EOR was a large outdoor exhibit the had a shallow surge zone. They needed a way to simulate waves breaking over the reef crest. That was the first use of the Carlson Surge Device. The Waikiki Aquarium (where your still images were taken from) used a number of the devices on both exhibit and behind-the-scenes research tanks. As far as simplicity, cost and massive water movement are concerned, you can't beat them.
Yes it was that exhibit that first got me interested in the surge devices. Then after reading The Reef Aquarium vol3, decided to give them a go. I’ve had them on every tank of mine since. Thanks for your contribution
Finally!🔥🔥🔥
Gday Krish
Man this is awesome please please add a sand bed it will add to the natural aesthetic 🙏
Sand is in!!
Love watching your builds and your advice, keep up the great work from a Pom 👍 Have you thought about putting a large nozzle on the end that increases the flow and send the flow in different directions?? Also a small hole in the pipe just above the water level of your tank would help vent a lot of the air and reduce the bubbles, obviously pointing towards your water surface since water would also come out, while it is working, the majority coming down and out normally?? Cheers
Yeah I’m playing with different pvc nozzles ATM, as well as the difference in how deep I put the discharge in the display tank
I haven’t drilled a hole in the pipe ) like what you’d do in a return pipe). I’m not sure it would work though, as the air is combined with the water inside the plumbing, rather than at discharge in the tank. Mind you, I really like the air and turbulence created, so don’t really want to minimise it.
Very nice how will the eel like it ?
I’ve located his pipe home around the other side of the island, just near the overflow box. It’ll be a bit calmer for him there! But, I guess we’ll find out soon…. I’ve been thinking it time I catch him out of the estuary tank and transfer him over
Excellent video as always..I never knew about this method, thank you for sharing!
Ahhhh you mustn’t be an old fart like me!
Have to see it with the tank full with thriving corals to believe it sir. Not to mention the amount of noise it makes .
Yes the noise is something to consider if the tank is in a living room or bedroom. I didn’t think of that. The corals will be coming. You’ll just have to keep watching!!
@@australianaquarist you've got a new subscriber then.
@theamjadjamousable nice one👍
Best DIY channel on youtube! Im just waiting until the rest of the fish keepers in the world finds this channel. It will happen!!!!!
Very kind words. It’s comments like yours that drive me to keep putting video content out. Thank you greatly!!
Thanks for taking the time to go into detail how it is setup and works. Very informative mate!!! Coming along nicely 👌
It’s a technique not really talked about anymore, but I really like the aesthetic it brings to the tank. Reminds me of diving, when I’m stuck at home!