The Reef Aquarium: Science, Art, and Technology, Vol. 3

  Author:    Julian Sprung, J. Charles Delbeek
  ISBN:    1883693144
  Sales Rank:    84098
  Published:    2005-11-25
  Publisher:    Two Little Fishies, Inc., d.b.a. Ricordea Publishing
  # Pages:    680
  Binding:    Hardcover
  Avg. Rating:    5.0 based on 26 reviews
  Used Offers:    8 from $56.67
  Amazon Price:    $56.67
  (Data above last updated:  2008-09-26 03:25:53 EST)
  
  
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The Reef Aquarium: Science, Art, and Technology, Vol. 3
  
The Reef Aquarium Volume Three: Science, Art, and Technology

Reefkeeping science involves the interplay of biology, chemistry, and physics. However, a reef aquarium is not simply a product of scientific knowledge. The application of engineering and its product technology, makes it possible to duplicate the specific biological, chemical, and physical requirements of a coral reef in a relatively small volume of water. This third volume in The Reef Aquarium series, provides the most thorough description of the science behind the creation of a captive reef, and critically reviews and explains the different philosophical approaches to reef aquarium design. It also describes and illustrates the existing as well as emerging technology for building reef aquariums, to help guide the selection of equipment, its proper use, and installation.

While science and technology afford the blank canvas and tools to build a suitable life support system, the plants, animals, and of course the aquarist provide the final ingredient that we call art. This art also involves the system design as it relates to the living space, the aesthetic appearance of the display, and its ease of maintenance, safety, and functionality. To this end, this book provides a wealth of information regarding aquascaping techniques, which combine art, biology, and physics; and invaluable information regarding plumbing, electrical, and other aspects of the aquarium design that combine art and engineering. Lastly, this book discusses the benefits and potential environmental impacts of the marine aquarium hobby, the challenges for its future, and possible new directions.

The Reef Aquarium volume three is the essential manual for all reef aquarium hobbyists, professional aquarists, and coral reef researchers who study, create, and enjoy coral reef ecosystems in the confines of an aquarium.

Book Design: Daniel N. Ramirez

© 2005 Two Little Fishies, Inc., d.b.a. Ricordea Publishing

Distributed by: Two Little Fishies, Inc. 4016 El Prado Blvd. Coconut Grove, FL 33133 USA twolittlefishies.com

                  Reader Reviews 1 - 29 of 29                 
  
  
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08-15-08 5 2\2
(Hide Review...)  Superb! :)
Reviewer Permalink
This book is very good for the saltwater hobby. I know English language not so well, but I read this book with pleasure and to me almost all was clear without the dictionary.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-26 03:29:00 EST)
05-31-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  The Reef Aquarium : Science, Art and Technology, Vol 3
Reviewer Permalink
Great read with all the information you would need to create, maintain, and sustain a reef tank. However, the book can be overwhelming with information about every theroy out there about filtration, etc., with out really recommending the best approach/technology to maintaining reef systems. For a beginner, it was a lot of reading to get what I needed. Overall, I would buy it again.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-09-18 04:23:46 EST)
05-23-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  The Reef Aquarium: Science, Art, and Technology, Vol. 3
Reviewer Permalink
very informative and comprehensive, would strongly recomend it for beginner and experienced reefer. Well worth the money
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-06-01 02:34:34 EST)
03-31-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  The reef Aquarium
Reviewer Permalink
This is a book that every one should own, that want's or has a reef Aquarium. This book go's into great details.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-05-24 02:33:37 EST)
02-15-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Absolutely FABOLOUS!!
Reviewer Permalink
I can't say much on this book except IT is a MUST HAVE FOR EVERY REEF AQUARIUM KEEPER! A very2 good book to have, it's worth the price I tell you.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-04-01 02:51:05 EST)
01-21-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  The Reef Aquarium: Science, Art, and Technology, Vol. 3
Reviewer Permalink
I've kept marine and reef aquaria for over a decade now, have a small tropical and marine fish shop downtown, and have bought and read probably a couple dozen books on keeping marine fish and reef tanks, including Volumes 1 and 2 by the same authors. If I could have just one of all the books I've read on the topic, to read and refer back to whenever necessary, it would be this volume. It's not a beginner's book, but it's wonderfully comprehensive and understandable for one who's already a little familiar with the subject matter. For one who understands most of the "whats" of keeping a reef aquarium, but is confused about many of the "whys," this book answers those questions with very clear and readable explanations.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-02-16 02:37:51 EST)
11-29-07 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Worth every penny and then some
Reviewer Permalink
I am a beginning reefkeeper and have purchased a number of books on the hobby, including this one. In my opinion this is easily the best book on what it takes to actually assemble a functioning, thriving reef tank. The chapter on plumbing (parts, layouts, pumps, etc) alone is worth the price of the book and that's just one chapter!

Contrary to other reviews on here I don't think the material is daunting...I think it's relevant. Why jump into a hobby that is recreating an ecosystem if you don't have the knowledge to do so? It's not difficult to understand, and what I've found is that in many places when something is explained, that in text could be hard to understand, there is usually an illustration, chart, or picture to make it clear. Kudos!

I would easily pay double for this book now that I've read it, and this will serve as my main reference on tank issues moving forward.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-01-22 02:46:07 EST)
10-29-07 4 0\3
(Hide Review...)  The Reef Aquarium goes deep!
Reviewer Permalink
An excellent reference, with rationale, pros and cons of just about every facet of reef keeping. If your new to reef aquariums this book could be overwhelming, but could also keep you from making mistakes. A bit deep and technical, but worth plowing through it. Keep it handy.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-11-29 03:22:38 EST)
10-02-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Good Stuff
Reviewer Permalink
This book is packed full of tons of information. It is great for newbies and even has stuff for veterans; definitely a book for the library.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-10-30 02:37:10 EST)
07-13-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Well worth the money
Reviewer Permalink
This is a very complete reference. It covers all the nuts and bolts of a reef tank set-up. It does not cover any fish or inverts, but the first two books took care of that. This book is the first place to go for tank set-up and care. It is good for reference or just to read. Very well done!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-10-14 02:43:26 EST)
06-28-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  1st and Last book you may ever need
Reviewer Permalink
I have all three volumes. Each volume is more dedicated to a certain area. If all you ever buy is the 3 volumes you will do very well in reef aquariums. These books cover the scientific as well as the beginner basics. Each book on its own has enough information to make your reef aquarium thrive. I would recommend getting all three if you feel you need more information.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-10-14 02:43:26 EST)
01-28-07 5 3\3
(Hide Review...)  Comprehensive Reefkeeping Information
Reviewer Permalink
Excellent book. There is quite a bit of information for the reefkeeper from novice to advanced. Covers water quality , aquascaping, plumbing, equipment, lighting, water movement, feeding and more in depth. I wish I had read this volume before starting my first tank. It would have saved me a lot of money, time and frustration.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-10-14 02:43:26 EST)
01-18-07 5 2\2
(Hide Review...)  Best value for money!
Reviewer Permalink
I own over 20 books on reef keeping and related topics. I must say that this book is one of the most comprehensive books on the subject I have read to date. I am planning to buy 2 more books from the series.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-10-14 02:43:26 EST)
01-04-07 5 2\2
(Hide Review...)  Great update!
Reviewer Permalink
This latest book is a review of the changes made in reef keeping since their original series came out. They updated the tried and true methods with all the latest equipment and methods. While some areas go into a little too much detail, the information presented is needed to understand the latest methods. If you don't understand the information presented within, you might consider not entering the saltwater hobby and stick with fresh water, you'll save a lot of money. For saltwater is not for the faint of wallet.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-10-14 02:43:26 EST)
01-03-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great update!
Reviewer Permalink
This latest book is a review of the changes made in reef keeping since their original series came out. They updated the tried and true methods with all the latest equipment and methods. While some areas go into a little too much detail, the information presented is needed to understand the latest methods. If you don't understand the information presented within, you might consider not entering the saltwater hobby and stick with fresh water, you'll save a lot of money. For saltwater is not for the faint of wallet.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-01-19 02:55:00 EST)
09-04-06 5 8\9
(Hide Review...)  The Aquarist's Modern Day Holy Grail
Reviewer Permalink
The price of this book is daunting. As such, I borrowed it from my local Aquarium Club. After I had to return it a month later, I odered a copy. Pound per pound--and it's a hefty book--it is the best value on this subject matter out there.
There are three types of Aquarists in general: those that have their tanks serviced, those that by and large get by maintaining their tanks themselves with a little professional help and not much real interest in the matter and finally those that are fully immersed, do-it-yourself, somewhat obsessed hobbyists, Most likely if you are reading this, you fall into the later category. As the authors write on page 205, " For the techno-type reefers...if you are reading this book that probably means you are". Well, this book is a fully comprehensive and well written guide and review of the hobby dealing with every imaginable aspect from fitting bulkheads to the importance of iron to reviews of the latest equipment to photos of various surge systems--it's all in here.
This is a contemporary book which makes it a great book. Hydor Flo rotating devices, Ocean Motions, T6 & T8 flourescent lights & ACLS Ballasts--all of the cutting edge of technology are mentioned and commented upn. It is a thorough compilation and as such the culmination of Modern Reef Keeping from the most simple basics to quite complex issues.
If you are interested in reef keeping, do yourself a treat and buy this book. Even the most advaced aqaurist will find it well worth it: for the average aqaurist with a real interest, it's a must.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-06-25 02:39:48 EST)
09-03-06 5 3\3
(Hide Review...)  The Aquarist's Modern Day Holy Grail
Reviewer Permalink
The price of this book is daunting. As such, I borrowed it from my local Aquarium Club. After I had to return it a month later, I odered a copy. Pound per pound--and it's a hefty book--it is the best value on this subject matter out there.
There are three types of Aquarists in general: those that have their tanks serviced, those that by and large get by maintaining their tanks themselves with a little professional help and not much real interest in the matter and finally those that are fully immersed, do-it-yourself, somewhat obsessed hobbyists, Most likely if you are reading this, you fall into the later category. As the authors write on page 205, " For the techno-type reefers...if you are reading this book that probably means you are". Well, this book is a fully comprehensive and well written guide and review of the hobby dealing with every imaginable aspect from fitting bulkheads to the importance of iron to reviews of the latest equipment to photos of various surge systems--it's all in here.
This is a contemporary book which makes it a great book. Hydor Flo rotating devices, Ocean Motions, T6 & T8 flourescent lights & ACLS Ballasts--all of the cutting edge of technology are mentioned and commented upn. It is a thorough compilation and as such the culmination of Modern Reef Keeping from the most simple basics to quite complex issues.
If you are interested in reef keeping, do yourself a treat and buy this book. Even the most advaced aqaurist will find it well worth it: for the average aqaurist with a real interest, it's a must.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-01-04 03:10:28 EST)
07-05-06 5 9\10
(Hide Review...)  Comprehensive source for grwoing SPS dominated reefs
Reviewer Permalink
I have used this text as a reference and read selected chapters of interest to me as needed since first released. The text is well written and easy to follow. I have been keeping reef aquariums for 8 years and have developed a method that has been succesful in large part to this series of books. It is not essential to have either of the prior volumes to benefit from this book.

Many reef aquarium hobbyists will read many sources including commercial ads looking for help. This will lead to inconsistent husbandry and mixed results. I agree with probably 90% of the advice provided here which is far higher rate than I could find elsewhere.

I found a few of the later chapters a bit sparse on specific issues. Old tank syndrome was treated as a curiosity. I would have rather seen suggestions like mild monthly ozone treatment and reducing nutrients due to neglected care.

Another emmerging area that was not mentioned much was the dedicated care of macro algae and sea grass displays. Most of this type of displays are being produced from aquarists with a strong background in freshwater planted tanks through nutrient additions.

I think this book is essential to any serious reef aquarists and is much more worthwhile than the inconsistent banter found on bulletin boards.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-06-28 02:38:04 EST)
07-05-06 5 2\7
(Hide Review...)  great book
Reviewer Permalink
This book is fantastic and covers everything you need to know and more!!!!My son could not put it down....once he started reading it.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-06-28 02:38:04 EST)
06-26-06 1 0\1
(Hide Review...)  How can I review if i don't receive the BOOK ?
Reviewer Permalink
I ask to amazon.com many times where is my stuff, and no answer ...
Sorry but idon't want to buy anything more from amazon.com

Udo Luiz Altenburg
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-07-05 07:54:52 EST)
03-21-06 5 4\4
(Hide Review...)  Get over the sticker shock.
Reviewer Permalink
The price made me think about waiting for a soft cover to come out. I eventually decided to buy it and am glad of my decision. This book will save me time, money, frustration, and possibly the lives of a fish or coral. (This will easily offset the $90).
One way that this book differs from other great reef books by naming specific products and detailed specifications in its answers to aquarium issues. The authors more fully explain answers provided by other authors in other books and give you greater incite into all the factors that are involved in a solution. Since answers are not always "one size fits all", I can now make better decisions.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-23 11:00:13 EST)
03-13-06 5 1\4
(Hide Review...)  The Best.
Reviewer Permalink
This book is the better one that have read it clearly explains the new and recent technologies.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-23 11:00:13 EST)
03-11-06 4 0\5
(Hide Review...)  Just what I Needed!
Reviewer Permalink
This book has everything I needed to advance my reef tank knowledge. Very informative.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-23 11:00:13 EST)
03-11-06 4 3\7
(Hide Review...)  Hard to read
Reviewer Permalink
I have all 3 Vol. of Julian Sprung's The Reef Aquarium. I find a wealth of information and great pictures, but it's hard to read, too much technical details that can make your head spin. I don't think the information in the books simplify things for the hobbiest, instead it compicates everything. If you are new to the reef hobby this book is not for you, if you've been a successful hobbiest and want to learn even more, this is your book.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-23 11:00:13 EST)
03-10-06 4 2\2
(Hide Review...)  The Reef Aquarium: Science, Art, and Technology, Vol. 3
Reviewer Permalink
I have found the volume 3 very interesting because even if it treats many matters as the precedents books it is done in a better way. Especially it clearly explains the new and recent technologies.
For this reason I am very happy to possess this book.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-23 11:00:13 EST)
02-28-06 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  The Reef Aquarium, Vol. 3
Reviewer Permalink
I have been waiting for this book for years. I own volumes 1 and 2 and this is the best one so far. It might seem a bit pricy but it's worth every penny.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-23 11:00:13 EST)
01-26-06 5 6\8
(Hide Review...)  Excellent Book For Setting Up Marine Tanks.
Reviewer Permalink
I have read a few dozen books on Marine Aquariums and this one by far has the most detailed information on all the various systems that are available to the hobbiest. It also shows how to implement them properly and sometimes even how to build them. From the simple to the most advanced aquarium systems, this book covers them all.
Don't expect much info on Corals or Fish, that what volumes 1 and 2 cover.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-23 11:00:13 EST)
12-16-05 5 16\18
(Hide Review...)  Previous review
Reviewer Permalink
I want to add my two cents regarding the review by Anthony Calfo. For those of you not familiar with him he is an author himself in the same field as Charles Delbeek and Julian Sprung. Therefore the comments he has made are nothing less than a glowing review by a peer who himself has produced quality work, which I happen to own as well. It would be diffiuclt for me, just a hobbiest, to have a better perspective.

I own and have enjoyed the first two volumes of this series. They were two of my first books purchased in my research going into the hobby. This being said I would agree with Anthony that it provides a great amount of knowledge. That and it looks great on my shelf next to the other two volumes. Some people may shy away due to the price but I have been pleased with the purchase and would do it again.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-23 11:00:13 EST)
12-07-05 5 36\38
(Hide Review...)  An outstanding quality and value reference for reef-keepers.
Reviewer Permalink
I've just finished my first of several, if not many, reads of this fine book. Through bleary eyes, I'm inspired to pen my first review of any Amazon product because of it :)

No doubt, numerous other hobbyists will praise this work for a number of reasons. I'll add my kudos here just the same for a fabulous book that would stand easily on its own merit, regardless.

My first impression on seeing this third volume was that aesthetically it builds on the great reputation of the two benchmark volumes that preceded it. But after a good read, the quality of content even exceeds my high hopes and expectations as an aquarist for what I expected the book to be. In a word, "value."

This book is a tome of current, useful and comprehensive information that pound for pound - literally, on this beefy text - and, most importantly, with regard for quality of content, is an incredible value.

Considering that most hobbyists cannot afford to buy all new works in print, we must make consumer decisions on "best value" for our purchases.

Take my advice... a thorough read (and rereads) of this work will pay dividends on time saved, quality of live(stock) improved, and enjoyment above all on the science and pleasure of keeping reef aquarium life. With kind regards, Anthony Calfo
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-06-23 11:00:13 EST)
  
                  Reader Reviews 1 - 29 of 29                 
  
  
  
  
  
  

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