Oceanic BioCube HQI
Oceanic Systems, the maker of many of our reef-ready aquariums, has recently introduced an updated version of their BioCube nano aquarium, called the BioCube HQI. This new BioCube will, as the name suggests, have a 150-watt double-ended HQI metal halide as its source of lighting. But Oceanic didn’t just stop at the metal halide addition. They also added a built-in refugium with its very own light. No more ineffective wet-dry systems with bio-balls and ceramic rings. The middle chamber houses a fully functional refugium. The light is mounted to the back of the aquarium and shines in on the macroalgae, as can be seen from the following picutres.
Oceanic BioCube HQI Refugium
In addition to the refugium, Oceanic is introducing a Mini Ultraviolet (UV) Sterilizer and an Oceanic BioCube Circulation Pump, both of which are sold separately. Making a reappearance is the air pump and air stone driven BioCube protein skimmer, which tucks away nicely into the rear chambers of the aquarium.
Oceanic BioCube HQI Metal Halide Light Fixture
The old hood has been completely removed and replaced by a much more open top look. The new top of the aquarium will feature a removable glass canopy with built-in feeding rings. These rings are located at the front of the tank and allow the aquarist to simply insert a turkey baster or other feeding device to provide food to the aquarium. The light itself is attached to a movable, adjustable arm that floats above the aquarium.
Oceanic BioCube HQI Top Down View
Here’s a brief statement from Oceanic about their new BioCube HQI:
Biocube HQI offers an aesthetically appealing design and high quality components that make reef-keeping easier and rewarding. The key component is the HQI metal halide light which provides the high intensity lumen output preferred by reef-keeping enthusiasts. Now you can create a thriving coral reef with a broad variety of organisms including small polyp stony (SPS) corals and Tridacna clams.
Healthy reef-keeping also requires proper filtration and Biocube HQI has everything you need including a protein skimmer for removing harmful organic waste, a refugium chamber for establishing biological filtration and a replaceable filter cartridge to eliminate particulate matter.
Since a thriving coral reef is a beautiful reef, Biocube HQI includes a clear glass canopy for showcasing you aquatic masterpiece. The canopy is easily removed for stocking, water changes, and routine maintenance.
Oceanic BioCube HQI Rear Chamber
