I've got a spare shelf and 20L tank that I was debating about turning into a frag tank.  While I don't think there would be anything wrong with it I figured I'd ask before getting too frisky!

Anything wrong with plumbing a frag tank into same system as broodstock?  I can't think of anything (unless I'd get some crazy coral that would kill everything chemically, which I won't be).  I'm tempted mostly as a way to a) have something to look at and b) a nice way to get more gallons into the system.

Any tips, thanks!


Brett

While I know people that have done it, I don't think it's the best idea. Granted you will have increased water volume but your broodstock system is going to have a relatively high bio-load from the heavy feeding. Nitrates. Also, broodstock systems are often kept at warmer temps and some corals might not be happy with that. JMHO

Save a Reef... Frag Your Own! Save a Fish... Breed Your Own! www.fishtalpropagations.com

I get the nitrate part - but I plan on running a macro set up in the sump 24/7, so that should help remove the majority.  Water changes weekly should help the rest.  

I didn't think about the temps - although I suppose if I set broodstock at 78-80 it should be ok.  Having said that, I don't think running the risk of a coral die off killing broodstock sounds like a good idea either....

Food for thought!  Thanks Tal.

I would agree with Tal.  Not knowing how many pairs of brood you have and total gallons involved I would still be apprehensive about doing it unless you are just fragging softies.  They may be able to take the changes of the system but I wouldn't feel good about trying sps in it.

Arc,  I run my entire reef and broodstock connected together.  I have not seem anything too detrimental to my reef tank, less a little bit of extra algae.  However, as Tal said, it is not recommended.  I run an extremely large skimmer and dose vodka.

Thanks all for the input - I wouldn't be fragging SPS - I just don't want to invest in the lighting that I'd have to to keep them up and growing.  Softies would be the most likely choice.

Some things to think about - thanks all!