Show Notes
In this episode of Reefing Radio, we’re back to a classic catch-up after a run of guest episodes — just the three of us talking through what’s been going on in our tanks lately. James shares updates on his soft coral system, including new additions, how it’s starting to fill out, and his approach to keeping things simple with minimal equipment and intervention. We also touch on sourcing more unusual corals and how his tank is evolving visually as it grows in. Gareth talks through his new shallow reef build, including the DIY wavebox that’s been getting a lot of attention, the challenges of modifying the tank, and his plans for a more natural-looking setup with fewer coral types grown out over time. We also get into stocking ideas, from groups of fish to future plans for clowns and anemones. Chris rounds things out with updates across his tanks, including dealing with white spot using tank transfer method, changes to dosing, and setting up a mantis shrimp pico tank. We also reflect on how our tanks are starting to look more alike, and whether that’s just the result of reefing together. 👉 Follow us on Instagram: @reefing_radio 📘 Find us on Facebook: Reefing Radio 💬 Drop us an email at: [email protected] 🎧 Subscribe to hear more reefing chat every week
More from Reefing Radio
In this episode of Reefing Radio, Chris and Gareth strip reef keeping back to basics and ask a simple question: what do you genuinely need to run a successful reef tank? From ATOs, flow and temperature control to test kits, live rock and backup equipment, we work through the gear and practices we think are truly essential. Along the way, we also challenge some of the hobby's biggest assumptions, including whether you really need to dip every coral and if clean-up crews are as important as they're made out to be. Whether you're setting up your very first reef tank or rethinking how you run an established system, this episode is packed with practical advice, personal experiences, and a few opinions that might spark some debate. As always, we'd love to hear what you think is essential... and what you'd happily leave out.
In this episode of Reefing Radio, Chris, James, and Gareth have a catch-up after a run of guest episodes. We chat about what's been happening in our own tanks, the lessons we've learned over the past few months, and how our approach to reefing is starting to change. Gareth shares the plans for his brand new custom-built reef, explaining why he's finally replacing his ageing Red Sea tank, the thinking behind his bespoke wavebox design, and how he's aiming for a simpler, more natural-looking display with fewer coral species and larger groups of fish. Chris talks through the recent heatwave, the challenges it's created for his SPS system, and why he's seriously considering moving away from an SPS-dominated tank in favour of something that's better suited to his lifestyle. James gives an update on his thriving soft coral reef, including how higher temperatures unexpectedly accelerated coral growth, why he's embraced a more relaxed approach to reef keeping, and what happens when you simply let soft corals do their thing.
In this episode of Reefing Radio, we're joined by Mark Bindefeld from MB Aquariums to explore the world of professional aquarium maintenance. Mark has built a successful business maintaining everything from tropical aquariums and reef tanks to large commercial displays, giving us a fascinating insight into a side of the hobby that most reef keepers never see.
In this episode of Reefing Radio, we’re joined by Courtney Keeps — a hobbyist known for his beautifully designed macroalgae reef tanks, natural daylight-style aesthetics, and thoughtful approach to aquarium design.
We recently visited Tropical Marine Centre — the UK’s largest importer of marine fish and coral — for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour with CEO Brian Schaff.In Part 1 of this series, Brian takes us through TMC’s fish systems, quarantine and acclimation processes, animal care philosophy, and the logistics involved in handling thousands of marine fish each year.We also discuss fish health, decompression, captive breeding, UV sterilisation, feeding systems, and how TMC approaches marine livestock care at scale.Huge thanks to Brian and the whole team at TMC for taking the time to show us around.Part 2 coming soon.Don't miss our full sit-down interview with Brian Schaff discussing the reefing industry, supply chains, sustainability, and how the marine trade works.