Reef Keeping Using The Berlin System

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Actually, the Berlin System does not have sand (or live sand, if you wish). It is dependent of Live Rock for its biological filtration and is also equipped with a good functioning protein skimmer. Debris has to be suctioned regularly. There is no refugium, but a sump may be utilized as an area where to place the skimmer. If properly done, this is a successful means of keeping a reef aquarium. Nowadays, a "modified" Berlin with live sand is also in fashion, the addition of sand increases areas where nitrifying bacteria can thrive but suctioning of debris may be more tricky.