Quick question on lighting. Do i have any color options?

How about an Eheim, Danner Nag Drive, or Taam Rio pump for the Reef Octopus skimmer?

 

Actually...the skimmer you're looking at is rated for 125 gallons. Is there any reason you chose such a big skimmer? would look for something within the range of 1.5x volume (75-90 gallons). How about an Eshopps?

 

Dude, why even bother. Just get a hang on skimmer.
Reef Octopus, BTH 1000
Reef Octopus Hang-on-the-Back 1000 OCT-BH1000 - English

 

...so many ways to go...but you have such a nice big counter top to use...and its not in a "home" setting...but like Fatbastad stated, if you don't mind a pump in/on your tank..that opens up your options a bunch....as a scientific type display..imo, it would be so cool to have a nice skimmer sitting next to it..not only for the ease and functionality , but also for the demonstrative/observational purpose.
..agree, don't "need" such a big one....but a bit over rated will not hurt a bit...per seans advice..80/90 is most likely preferred, but ime 100 range seem to be most common for a solid free standing....this will be a cool build...love'n it !! wish I was there !! LOL

that hob oct bh1000 is bad azz....

 

So, as an update.. I installed the RO system into the faucet.

I also washed the sand and the rocks and did a DEMO aquascape.. I kinda liked it so maybe Ill keep it the way it is.
Pics coming soon

 

This is the DEMO Aquascape




I tried putting one koralia under the rocks to eliminate a dead spot but Im not sure if its a good idea.. Thoughts? ( its under the rock on the bottom left side.. )

 

That is awesome... love'n this build. : )

 

word of advice: leave room for corals to grow. Right now, and vertical growth, that tanks flow will be impacted.

I try to only use 1/3 of my vertical space for my main "scape" with a couple pinnacles that go up to 2/3rd.

 

thanks still trying to get the aquascape right. will try again tomorrow and see what I come up with;D