Refugium Sump vs. Mechanical Sump

[jamba]

Hi There

Comparison: Can anyone quicky layout the pros and cons of a refugium vs a mechanical sump.

Thanks
Greg

[motorslave]

Refugium is a low flow area of a sump or a stand alone unit that holds macro algae for nutrient export. A sump is a way to add volume to your system and also provides a place to keep equipment i.e. skimmer, heater, probes etc..

Robert

[Flasheart]

BTW, many people that have a fuge also have sumps.

[jamba]

Yea...thanks. I know the basics of what they are. I am looking for evidence for using a refugium sump vs a mechanical sump. Like ability to process nitrite, nitrate, and other fish toxins. What is the efficiency of each method. Which method keeps the water cleaner and clearer. Which method can support a greater bioload in the tank? Which method reduces fish disease more...etc.

[Lutrah]

So wet/dry vs refug?

[motorslave]

The skimmer removes the disolved solids before they have a chance to turn into food for the macro. Macro takes longer to get the stuff out. As far as bio-load, the better the skimmer the more it will pull out. I would would prefer to get the stuff out quick.
One advantage to the fuge with macro even LR rubble is that it is a good place to house pods for the fish. And of course it will help romove all the stuff that gets missed by regular maint. and the skimmer. Does that help? Of course some of the old salt around here can give a more detailed description of it all.

Robert