This detailed review dives into the Fluval Evo 13.5 gallon nano reef aquarium, showcasing a recent revamp that dramatically improved both its aesthetics and functionality. We'll explore the innovative rockwork rescape, providing crucial habitat for a watchman goby and pistol shrimp pair, and allowing flourishing growth of corals and invertebrates. The review highlights the significant impact of even small adjustments on the overall tank environment, demonstrating the adaptability of the Fluval Evo.Beyond the rescape, we'll examine the thriving coral community, including a remarkable fire mushroom recovery, and the thoughtful placement of zoanthids, a branching montipora, and a pair of clownfish. The review also covers the custom-made lids, improving light penetration and ease of access, as well as the meticulous maintenance contributing to the tank’s pristine condition. Finally, we'll assess the Fluval Evo 13.5's overall suitability for both beginner and experienced reef keepers.
Pros And Cons
- Comes with prefabricated lids (locally made)
- Integrated feeding door
Read more: Top 5 Green Aquarium Corals
Tank Setup and Rockwork Adjustments
The Fluval Evo 13.5 gallon aquarium featured in this review underwent a recent revamp. Key changes involved repositioning the rockwork to create more space for inhabitants. A significant adjustment focused on elevating the rocks on the right side, providing increased room for a watchman goby and pistol shrimp pair.
This seemingly small change dramatically impacted the overall tank aesthetic and provided much-needed habitat for the shy inhabitants. The added space also allowed the mushrooms to expand, improving their growth and overall visual appeal.
Careful placement of flat rocks provided a stable lift for the larger rock formation. While additional fine-tuning might be needed, the current setup is aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Coral and Invertebrate Inhabitants
A variety of corals and invertebrates call this Fluval Evo home. A striking fire mushroom, previously near death, has thrived in its new environment, showcasing remarkable resilience.
Other inhabitants include a pair of clownfish (one of which is described as “special”), various zoanthids, and a branching montipora coral. The placement of these organisms has been thoughtfully considered to maximize growth and visual impact.
The diverse coral population is a testament to Tia’s commitment to creating a vibrant and flourishing reef environment. The addition of new corals shows the ongoing development of this nano reef.
Tank Maintenance and Aesthetics
Maintaining a clean tank is crucial for overall health and aesthetics. Tia’s efforts are evident in the pristine condition of the back glass, showcasing her attention to detail. This cleanliness contributes to the overall visual appeal of the nano reef.
The placement of corals is thoughtfully arranged to create depth and visual interest. The arrangement of hammers and blastos in the rear ensures they don’t overcrowd the tank’s space.
The strategically placed rocks create visual islands within the tank, providing a sense of spaciousness and highlighting the diverse coral population.
Customizable Lids and Accessories
The Fluval Evo featured in this review utilizes custom-made lids. Unlike other commercially available lids, these are locally fabricated, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing integration. The custom-made lids also incorporate a convenient feeding door for ease of access.
The design incorporates different mesh sizes for optimal light penetration, suggesting an attention to detail in optimizing the reef environment. These upgrades showcase the potential for customizing and enhancing the Fluval Evo experience.
The use of prefabricated lids simplifies the setup process for aquarists, saving time and effort. This integration showcases a commitment to providing user-friendly and high-quality reef keeping solutions.
Conclusion
The Fluval Evo 13.5, as showcased in Tia's nano reef, proves to be a versatile and visually stunning aquarium. The recent revamp highlights its adaptability, allowing for customized layouts to cater to specific inhabitant needs and aesthetic preferences.
The incorporation of custom-made lids further enhances the overall user experience, combining convenience with aesthetics. The thoughtful placement of corals and the overall cleanliness demonstrate a high level of reef-keeping expertise.
Overall, the Fluval Evo 13.5 is a strong contender in the nano reef market, offering a balance of aesthetics, functionality, and customization options. Its suitability for beginners and advanced aquarists alike makes it a highly recommended choice.