Tank Profile: Roy Seine’s Alluring 312-Gallon Reef

When I came across a full-tank shot of this large aquarium, I knew I had to learn more about the system and its owner. Great profiles, large coral colonies, showcase-size specimens, and a clean bare-bottom layout all collaborate to catch the eye of many an aquarist, including myself. So let’s dive in…just try not to splash!

The Aquarist

An interesting aspect of profiling aquariums that have drawn my gaze is finding out about the hobbyists behind them. Roy Seine, the aquarist responsible for the previously mentioned acrylic box reef, has been keeping marine aquariums since 1990. It’s not surprising to hear he favors small polyp stony (SPS) corals and giant clams, and that appreciation comes through in this salty display.

During his two-plus decades in the hobby, Roy has maintained a number of aquariums ranging from 1 gallon all the way up to 500 gallons. A look into this past lineup reveals two species-specific tanks, a 120-gallon focused on chalice corals, and another specifically designed for Montipora. In the future, Roy hopes to build a seagrass system that’s home to Fungia corals and pipefish.

Aquarium & System Overview

With an impressive, outside-the-box 5’x5’ footprint, this 20”-tall display tank equates to 312 gallons. The all-acrylic construction features a coast-to-coast internal weir with dual Bean Animal overflows. Also, a 1” drain line is installed in the back panel to expedite evacuating the entire display should the need ever arise. A fish room houses most of the support systems and equipment, including a large sump, dedicated frag tank, and separate refugium.