EcoSystem Aquarium MIRACLE MUD PRO Series User manual

Bringing You Closer To Nature
UNITED STATES EUROPE
1011 South Linwood Avenue Postfach 63
Santa Ana, CA 92705 – U.S.A. Hauptstrasse 14
[Tel]: 714-543-4100 D-93354 Biburg-GERMANY
[Fax] 714-543-4800 [Tel]: 09443-918375
[Fax]: 09443-918376
www.ecosystemaquarium.com www.ecosystemaquarium.de
OWNER’S MANUAL
ECOSYSTEM MIRACLE MUD® FILTER
PROSERIES HANG-ON-BACK MODELS
PRO 40 PRO 60

WARRANTY – Pg.26
NOTES
TO THE DURATION OF THIS WARRANTY. No EcoSystem
Aquarium reseller, representative, or employee is authorized to
make any modifications, extension, or addition to the warranty.
Some states and provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation
of incidental or consequential damages or exclusions or limitations
on the duration of implied warranties or conditions, so the above
limitations or exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives
you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that
vary by state or province.
HOW TO OBTAIN WARRANTY REPAIRS/REPLACEMENT
If you purchased the product in the U.S. or Canada, deliver the
product, at your expense, to EcoSystem Aquarium - USA. If you
purchased the product in Europe, deliver the product, at your
expense, to EcoSystem Aquarium – Europe. If you purchased the
product in other countries not mentioned above, deliver at your
expense, to any EcoSystem Aquarium Authorized Dealer in the
country where you purchased the product.
U.S.A. /CANADA EUROPE
1011 South Linwood Avenue Postfach 63 / Hauptstrasse 14
Santa Ana, CA 92705 - U.S.A D-93354 Biburg - GERMANY
Tel: [phone] Tel: [phone]
Fax [phone] Fax: [phone]
Please use the original container, or pack the unit(s) in a sturdy
carton with sufficient packing to prevent damage. Include the
following information:
1. A proof-of-purchase (receipt) indicating model number and
date of purchase.
2. Bill – to Address.
3. Ship – to Address.
4. Number and description of units shipped.
5. Name and telephone of person to call, should contact be
necessary.
6. Reason for return and description of the problem.
Damage occurring during shipment is deemed the responsibility of the
carrier, as claims should be made directly with the carrier.
The name EcoSystem Aquarium and the EcoSystem Aquarium logo are
trademarks of EcoSystem Aquarium, Inc. register in the U.S.

WARRANTY
–
P
g
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i.
EcoSystem Aquarium (1) Year Limited Warranty
LIMITED WARRANTY COVERAGE
EcoSystem Aquarium warrants to the original purchaser that, except for
limitations and exclusions set forth below, this EcoSystem Aquarium
manufactured product shall be free from defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of original retail
purchase (“Warranty Period”). The obligation of EcoSystem Aquarium
under this Limited Warranty shall be limited to repair or replacement, at
EcoSystem Aquarium option, without charge, of any part or unit that
proves to be defective in material or workmanship during the Warranty
Period.
EXCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONS
This Limited Warranty applies only to product manufactured by
EcoSystem Aquarium. The Limited Warranty does not apply to any
non-EcoSystem Aquarium manufactured products, even if packaged or
sold with EcoSystem Aquarium products. Non-EcoSystem Aquarium
manufacturers, suppliers, or publishers may provide their own warranties.
Please contact an EcoSystem Aquarium representative for more
information on non-EcoSystem Aquarium manufacturers.
This Limited Warranty applies only to defects in factory materials and
factory workmanship. This Limited Warranty does not apply: (a) any
conditions or damage caused by an accident, abuse, misuse, destruction,
alteration, improper operation or violation of instructions furnished by
EcoSystem Aquarium; (b) any conditions or damage caused by improper
electrical voltages or currents; or (c) any conditions or damage caused by
repair or maintenance attempted by anyone other than the EcoSystem
Aquarium.
THIS WARRANTY AND REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE
EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES,
REMEDIES AND CONDITIONS, WHETHER ORAL, WRITTEN,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. ECOSYSTEM AQUARIUM SPECIFICALLY
DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING,
WITHOUT LIMITATION, WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTIBILITY AND
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IF ECOSYSTEM
AQUARIUM CANNOT LAWFULLY DISCLAIM IMPLIED
WARRANTIES UNDER THIS LIMITED WARRANTY, ALL SUCH
WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY
AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE LIMITED
Dear Aquarium Enthusiast-
Congratulations on purchasing a ProSeries
Hang-On-Back EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter.
This revolutionary product is part of the
EcoSystem Method – an innovative approach to
aquarium keeping that is based on sound
principles of ecology. Utilizing time tested and
proven products, the EcoSystem Method
simulates the aquatic environments found in
nature. In these ideal conditions your fish, corals
and plants will thrive and flourish with minimal
maintenance.
So enjoy creating your ultimate marine aquarium!

ii.
PRODUCT LINE - Pg. 24
ECOSYSTEM REEFUGIUM
(For Marine only – used as refugium, NOT filter)
Reefugium 100 (for up to 120 gallons aquarium)
(for up to 454.20 liters aquarium)
Reefugium 200 (for up to 200 gallons aquarium)
(for up to 757.00 liters aquarium)
MEDIA SUBSTRATE
Miracle Mud - Media for marine aquarium
Miracle Mud II - Media for freshwater aquarium
Miracle Mud III - Media for koi pond
HEALTH MAINTENANCE
Garlic ElixirTM - Food additive that acts as an
antibacterial and antifungal health
supplement that repels parasites.
SUPPLEMENTS
Fish SolutionTM - All natural / all in one additive for
marine fish aquarium.
Fresh SolutionTM - All natural / all in one additive for
freshwateraquarium.
Koi SolutionTM - All natural / all in one additive for
koi pond.
Reef SolutionTM - All natural / all in one additive for
reef aquarium.
PHOSPHATE REMOVER
ECO PhosTM - Phosphate and silicate remover
For Customer Service and
Technical Assistance:
Contact an EcoSystem Aquarium
technician at:
- 714-543-4100 (Monday-Friday)
(9 A.M. - 5 P.M. PST)
- [email protected]
Retain this OWNER’S MANUEL with
your sales receipt as a record of your
purchase, in the event of a warranty
service.

TABLE OF CONTENTS – iii.
PRODUCT LINE – Pg. 23
ECOSYSTEM MIRACLE MUD® FILTER
(Available as Marine and Freshwater setups)
Hang On The Back
o40 (for 10 - 40 gallons aquarium)
(for 37.85 – 151.42 liters aquarium)
o60 (for 40 – 60 gallons aquarium)
(for 151.42 – 227.10 liters aquarium)
Sump Models
o2410 (for 40 – 65 gallons aquarium)
(for 151.42 – 246.05 liters aquarium)
o3012 (for 75 – 100 gallons aquarium)
(for 283.91 – 378.54 liters aquarium)
o3612 (for 120 – 135 gallons aquarium)
(for 454.25 – 511.30 liters aquarium)
o3616 (for 150 – 500 gallons aquarium)
(for 567.81 – 908.50 liters aquarium)
o4822 (for 300 – 500 gallons aquarium)
(for 1135.62 – 1892.70 liters aquarium)
o7222 (for 500 – 1000 gallons aquarium)
(for 1982.70 – 3785.40 liters aquarium)
3 Class Categories:
1. SYS – Regular EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter
2. DEL – Deluxe EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter
(with prefilter 200 micron bag in first chamber)
3. PRO – ProSeries EcoSystem Miracle Mud® filter
(with Protein Skimmer in first chamber)
ProSeries available as Marine Setup Only.
Hang-on-back models are available as regular and proseries.
Sump models are available as all 3 class categories.
PAGE
I. Safety Instructions 1
II. Introduction
A. The EcoSystem Methodology 3
B. ProSeries EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter 4
III. ProSeries Hang-On-Back Models – Description 5
IV. List of Components 6
V. Set up Procedures
A. Mounting to aquarium 7
B. Plumbing 9
C. ProSeries EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter 11
D. Livestock 14
VI. Maintenance 17
VII. Questions and Answers (Q & A) 19
VIII. EcoSystem Aquarium Product Line 23
IX. Warranty Information 25

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS – Pg. 1 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS – Pg. 22
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS – To avoid injury, basic safety
precautions should be observed. PLEASE READ AND
FOLLOW ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE
PROCEEDING.
DANGER – To avoid possible electric shock, special care
should be taken in the use of aquarium equipment. For each
of the following situations, DO NOT attempt any repairs
yourself; return the appliance to an authorized service facility.
1. READ AND OBSERVE ALL THE IMPORTANT NOTICES ON ALL
ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES.
2. Do not use an electrical appliance for other than intended use.
The use of attachments not recommended or not sold by the
appliance manufacturer may cause an unsafe condition.
3. Do not operate any appliance if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it
is malfunctioning, if it is dropped or damaged in any manner.
4. Make sure an appliance mounted on a tank is securely installed
before operating it. Do not install or store the appliance where it
will be exposed to the weather or to temperatures below freezing.
5. To avoid the possibility of the appliance plug or receptacle getting
wet, position the aquarium stand and tank to one side of a wall
mounted receptacle to prevent water from dripping onto the
receptacle or plug. A “drip loop”, should be arranged by the user
for each cord connecting an aquarium appliance to the receptacle.
The “drip loop” is that part of the cord
below the level of the receptacle. If the
plug or receptacle does get wet, DO
NOT unplug the cord. Disconnect the
fuse or circuit breaker that supplies
power to the appliance. Then unplug and
examine for presence of water in the
receptacle.
Diagram 1– Drip
Loop
9. Do I need to add any supplements to the tank?
Not necessarily. Miracle Mud® is formulated to include
minerals and essential elements that are released into the
water – enriching the water column. With an EcoSystem
Miracle Mud® Filter, your setup will have sufficient levels
of iodine, strontium, magnesium, calcium and other
elements without adding any supplements. However in
an aquarium with more calcium /magnesium demanding
animals (clams, small polyp stony corals, coralline
algae…) you may need to supplement for calcium,
magnesium and/or buffer.*
*Please test the water first before adding any
supplements. Only add what is needed by the tank to
reach an ideal range.
10. Are there any other product that I should use with
an EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter?
For an exceptionally successful setup, aside from having
an EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter, we recommended the
following regimen:
1. Use daily one of the following solutions:
a. Reef SolutionTM
b. Fish SolutionTM
2. Feed animals with food marinated in Garlic ElixirTM
3. Add calcium and buffer only if and when needed.
4. Use ECO PhosTM on regular basis to control phosphate
level – monitor dKH level in marine tanks.
11. Are there any chemicals that should NOT be used?
Never use copper in an EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter –
this will irreversible damage the system. Do not use harsh
chemicals (medicine, treatment, metals).
If your question(s) has not been addressed in this section,
please contact your local fish store, an EcoSystem
Aquarium technician or visit our FAQ site at:
www.ecosystemaquarium.com

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS – Pg. 21 SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS – Pg. 2
6. Is the 24 hr. lighting an important aspect of the EcoSystem
Miracle Mud® Filter?
Yes - the unique 24 hour lighting period is important to the
EcoSystem methodology as it prevents caulerpa from
undergoing sexual reproduction that leads to its disintegrate as
well as from producing gelvin which makes the water yellow.
The 24 hour lighting also helps to keep the pH stable.
7. What about red slime algae (cyanobacteria)?
During the initial set up of your aquarium tank, it is normal to
have red slime algae and perhaps other nuisance algae due to
excess nutrients in the water. However as your aquarium
stabilizes, the nuisance algae should disappear. To help
facilitate this process, siphon out the nuisance algae or remove
with your hand.* In the case that this problem persists – make
sure that there is enough current flow in the EcoSystem Miracle
Mud® Filter as recommended. To increase current flow – a
powerhead may be placed in Chamber 2 directed so that it is
blowing over and across the Miracle Mud® bed in order not to
disturb it.
* Please note that it is NOT recommended to use harsh
chemicals as it can harm coral or fish so please take
precautions when using chemical solutions.
8. Do I need to get a different refugium with my setup?
No – you do not need to purchase and set up another refugium
for your aquarium. The EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter
functions as a refugium as well as an advance filter and water
enrichment system. This means that you do not need to add any
phytoplankton or zooplankton for your filter-feeding corals as
enough of these natural food sources will be produced in your
EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter. You will however need to still
feed your fish as there will not be enough copepods, amphipods
or other live food for your fish.
6. Carefully examine the appliance after installation. It should not be
plugged in if there is water on parts not intended to be wet.
7. If the appliance shows any signs of abnormal water leakage,
immediately unplug form power source.
8. If the appliance falls into the water, DO NOT reach in for it. First,
unplug it from the power source, then retrieve it.
9. The light fixture has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the
other). As a safety feature, this plug will fit in a polarized outlet
only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the
plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician. Never use
with an extension cord unless the plug can be fully inserted. DO
NOT attempt to defeat this safety feature. – USA units only
10. If an extension cord is necessary, a cord with a proper rating
should be used. A cord rated for fewer amperes or watts than the
appliance rating may overheat. Care should be taken to arrange
the cord so that it will not be tripped over or pulled.
11. Always unplug from outlet when not in use, before putting on or
taking off parts, and before cleaning. Never yank the cord to pull
the plug out form the outlet. Grasp the plug and pull to disconnect.
12. To avoid injury, do not make contact with moving parts or hot
parts such as heaters, reflectors, light bulbs, light fixtures, etc.
13. Close supervision is necessary when any electrical appliances
are used by or near children.
Save these instructions. EcoSystem Aquarium®
will not be held responsible or liable for damage
to persons, appliances, animals and/or aquariums
that result from negligent care and failure to
follow safety precautions and instructions on the
part of the consumer.

INTRODUCTION – Pg. 3 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS – Pg. 20
THE ECOSYSTEM METHODOLOGY
The EcoSystem Method is an innovative approach to
aquarium keeping based upon the ecological principles of
microbiology and photosynthesis. Utilizing time tested and
proven products, the EcoSystem Method simulates the
environment found in natural coral reefs and natural
freshwater biotopes. The components of the EcoSystem
Method include:
EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter – a unique biological system
with multiple functions. With this revolutionary system you are
getting several systems in one unit as it functions as:
- an Advance Biological Filtration System
- a Water Enrichment System
- A Refugium
These three processes allow an EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter
to efficiently filter the water of organics and toxin while enriching
the water column with essential trace elements, minerals,
phytoplankton and other food source.
EcoSystem Aquarium’s Solutions: Reef SolutionTM , Fish
SolutionTM , Fresh SolutionTM, Koi SolutionTM – all natural
additives that are ideal for your aquarium as they contain a
variety of elements, vitamins and minerals that are vital to the
well-being of your aquarium. They help maintain vibrant colors of
your animals, prevent diseases (i.e. Head and Lateral Line
Erosion Disease – H.L.L.E.) and promote the exceptional health
of your fish, corals and plants.
Garlic ElixirTM – a water soluble, natural food supplement made
of pure garlic, vitamins and minerals. Utilizing the medicinal
properties of garlic, it helps repel ICH and parasites in your fish
as it acts as an anti-fungal and anti-bacterial agent. When used
on a daily basis, mixed into the food, it boosts up the immune
system of the fish making them less susceptible to diseases.
(Please see pg.23-24 for information on complete product line)
3. Will the protein skimmer affect the Miracle Mud®?
If used properly the protein skimmer will not counteract with
the EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter. (During initial setup
stage or cycling period – first 6-8 weeks, protein skimmer
should be allowed to run at maximum capacity – set it so
that it sits high up on the filter (band should be positioned
low towards the foot of the skimmer).
With time, the aquarium will become more balanced and
less skimming will be needed. To prevent the protein
skimmer from potentially over skimming phytoplankton,
minerals and essential elements from the water – you
should adjust the band on the body of the skimmer cup so
that it is high up towards the top of the skimmer cup. This
will make it sit deep into Chamber 1 of the filter so that it will
skim out less.
4. How do you get caulerpa (macro algae) / plants to
grow?
It may take couple of attempts to get the caulerpa (macro
algae) / plant to grow. In the case that you find yourself
unsuccessful after several attempts-
1. make sure that it is properly planted (refer to pg. 13)
2. make sure that it is under 24 hours lighting
3. in the case that the caulerpa / plant may not have
enough nutrient to live off of –place a peeled, raw, dead
shrimp within Chamber 3 / Miracle Mud® bed.
4. in the case that the caulerpa / plant is not getting
enough CO2– cover the top of Chamber 2 to trap CO2
5. Is it necessary to have caulerpa (macro algae) / plants
in an EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter?
NO it is not necessary to have vegetation in the filter
as the Miracle Mud® is responsible for the filtering and
water enrichment aspect of this methodology. However
caulerpa (macro algae) / plant offers many benefit to an
EcoSystem including: pH stabilization, control against
nuisance algae, helps filter water of nitrate and phosphate
and is part of the food web cycle.

INTRODUCTION – Pg. 4QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS-Pg. 19
CHAMBERS 1 2 3 4 5
1. Can I have substrate ( live sand, aragonite, crush coral) in
my tank?
With an EcoSystem setup, substrate in the main tank is purely
for aesthetic purposes and also to provide a home for sand-
dwellers. Therefore if you plan to have substrate in your main
tank we suggest to keep it LESS THAN 1” (2.54CM) DEEP
(the less the better).
There are disadvantages to having substrate in your tank:
(1) A substrate bed is a source of nitrate and phosphate. With a
substrate bed, detritus is able to collect within it. This will
then lead to colonization of bacteria that feed off of the
detritus. The bacteria themselves produce bioload therefore
the nitrate/phosphate level will never be at negligible level
within a tank with substrate. This leads to a less ideal
aquatic condition and may limit the types of animals you can
have. If the substrate bed is not kept clean – with time the
bioload produce within the substrate will be uncontrollable
which may result in causing a major imbalance and high
ammonia, nitrate and/or phosphate level in your aquarium.
(2) A substrate bed means more maintenance for you. You will
have to regularly vacuum siphon your substrate to remove
all of the accumulated detritus. Siphon routine frequency is
dependent on the substrate.
a. Once a week if the substrate level is 1” (2.54cm)
b. Once every 2 week if the substrate level is 1/2”
(1.75cm) or less.
REMEMBER HAVING MORE THAN 1” (2.54 CM) DEEP
SUBSTRATE BED WILL NEGATIVELY AFFECT YOUR TANK.
2. Should the Miracle Mud be inoculated with animals?
No. Once your aquarium stabilizes, many small animals will be
introduced into the filter sump by the live rocks in your aquarium
tank. It may take 4-6 months before you can see a large enough
population of copepod, amphipods and other small organisms.
PROSERIES ECOSYSTEM MIRACLE MUD® FILTER
The Hang-On-Back ProSeries EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter
begins with water from the aquarium tank entering at the bottom
of Chamber 1, where the protein skimmer will take out organics
from the water. The water flows through the bioballs in Chamber
2 which break down large particles of waste and dissipate any air
bubbles. The water continues to flow through the outlet slot into
Chamber 3, the main filtration chamber. In this chamber a bed of
vegetation (refer to recommended vegetation, pg. 13) is grown in
the Miracle Mud® substrate under 24hrs. lighting. Within the
Miracle Mud® bed, nitrogen fixation and denitrification occurs,
reducing nitrate into harmless by-products. Vegetation grown in
the Miracle Mud® bed aid the toxin removal process by lowering
the level of phosphate and nitrate in the water through the
conversion of nitrogenous waste products into plant biomass and
by providing oxygen through photosynthesis. The Miracle Mud®
bed also enriches the water column through the constant release
of trace elements, essential minerals, phytoplankton and
organisms. These biological processes contribute to the high
quality of water that is produced which is essential for the ideal
aquatic conditions needed by your fish, corals and plant. The
enriched water then flows into Chamber 4 where the filter pad
prevents the macro algae / plant form entering into the pump
chamber. The enriched water is then gravity fed back into the
aquarium via Chamber 5.
Diagram 2: Hang-On-Back EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter
-Filter Pad ProteinSkimmer
24 HRS. LIGHTING
-Bioballs
-Vegetation
-Miracle Mud®

MAINTENANCE – Pg. 18
PROSERIES SUMP MODELS
DESCRIPTION - Pg. 5
ProSeries Hang-On-Back EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filters
are available in the following models:
Table 1 : ProSeries Hang-On-Back Model, Designations &
Dimensions
L = Length W = Width H = Height
PROSERIES ARE AVAILABLE AS MARINE ONLY
AS REQUIRED: (continues)
2. Trimming marco algae / plant
This process promotes new macro algae or plant growth
that will help purify the water and control nuisance algae
outbreaks.
a. The macro algae / plant in your EcoSystem Miracle
Mud® Filter should be trimmed 1 to 2 inches or 2.54
to 5 centimeters below the water surface with a pair
of scissors. DO NOT cut too much off as this will
delay the re-growth period allowing nuisance algae to
grow in the main tank.
b. It is NOT recommended to feed macro algae/plant
trimmings to fish – as vegetation may contain high
level of toxins.
After some time (1-2 years) your macro algae/plant
may start to thin out, at this time we suggest replacing
with new strands of macro algae/plants.
3. Clean filter pad when water level of Chamber 5 is about 1
inch lower than that of Chamber 3. Remove filter pad,
rinse with filter water and place back into Chamber 4.
4. Replacing 50% of Miracle Mud
The Miracle Mud® * bed needs to be replaced in order to
replenish it with the essential elements and minerals that it
releases with time and that is used up by the fish, corals
and plants in the aquarium. Details on performing this 50%
Miracle Mud® change can be found on:
www.ecosystemaquarium.com
a. EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter needs to have 50%
of its Miracle Mud® be replaced for the first time after
2 years from setup.
b. After this initial replacement – 50% Miracle Mud®
needs to replaced every year afterwards.
* You can purchase Miracle Mud® from your local
fish store.
MODELS DESCRIPTION
PRO 40
For aquarium tank : 10 – 40 gallons
37.85 - 151.42 liters
Dimensions : 21” L x 4” W x 13” H
53.34cm L x 10.16cm W x 33.02cm H
PRO 60
For aquarium tank : 40 – 60 gallons
151.42 – 227.10 liters
Dimensions : 30” L x 4” W x 13” H
76.20cm L x 10.16cm W x 33.02cm H

LIST OF COMPONENTS – Pg. 6MAINTENANCE – Pg. 17
DAILY:
1. Replace evaporated water by adding fresh filtered water into
the main tank. (Reverse Osmosis [RO] water may be used)
Recommended height : ~1” above 2nd and 3rd chamber divider.
2. Additives
-add appropriate EcoSystem Solutions into your tank (Reef
SolutionTM or Fish SolutionTM)
-add Garlic Elixir TM
-add calcium and buffer if needed – test water first
3. Feed fish.
DO NOT feed filter-feeding corals (especially in new aquarium
setup) as EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter produces enough
phytoplankton & zooplankton.
AS NECESSARY:
1. Vacuum siphon aquarium floor + water change
Keeping the aquarium floor as clean as possible is pertinent to
ensure the health of the tank – this task is easier with less
substrate in the main tank. The frequency of this cleaning
process depends on your tank, livestock and substrate level.
a. Carefully unplug your aquarium pump form the power
source before you begin any cleaning / water changes.
(Refer to safety instructions – Pg. 1-2)
b. Vacuum siphon any detritus from your live rock and
from the bottom of your aquarium tank. Make sure to
clean the substrate bed thoroughly. Try NOT to move
live rocks around and DO NOT disturb any of the
substrate bed directly underneath live rocks.
c. Add pre-mixed* salt water to your marine aquarium
tank. The amount should be appropriate to your
aquarium tank volume.
* It is recommended that you mix your salt water and
allow it to stand for 24 hours before using it.
PRO 40 and PRO 60 are sold as complete systems.
The following table indicates all of the components that
are included in the EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filters
(PROSERIES HANG-ON-BACK MODELS).
Table 2 – Components of an EcoSystem Miracle Mud®
Filter (ProSeries Hang-On-Back Models)
MODEL COMPONENTS
PRO 40
Acrylic filter box with attached plumbing, 3.5 lbs
(1.588 kg) of Miracle Mud, (1) 13w P.C. Light, (1)
modified CPR protein skimmer, (2) L-brackets, (4)
short plastic screws, (1) filter pad, (1) Rio 600 PT
pump with air hose and bioballs
PRO 60
Acrylic filter box with attached plumbing , 7 lbs
(3.175 kg). of Miracle Mud, (1) 18w P.C. Light, (1)
modified CPR protein skimmer, (2) L-brackets, (5)
short plastic screws, (1) filter pad, (1) air line, (1) Rio
600 PT pump with air hose and bioballs
P.C. Light = Power Compact Light

SET UP PROCEDURES
Livestock – Pg. 16
SET UP PROCEDURES
Mounting to Aquarium – Pg. 7
PRO 40
1. Insert plastic screws into the two cube anchors at the bottom of
the PRO 40 Filter box so that the heads of the screws are
aligned with the black-back side of the PRO 40.
2. Place PRO 40 Filter box’s hang bar on upper rim of the
aquarium so that filter sits outside the aquarium with black-back
side up against aquarium. Plumbing attachments (intake and
return pipes) will be inside the aquarium.
3. Mount PRO 40 filter box to aquarium by placing 2 L-brackets at
the two different sites on the hang bar – each with 2 predrilled
holes (4 predrilled holes total on hang bar). Which end of the
L-bracket and which of the two holes of each site of the hang
bar that you will use will be determined by the width of your
aquarium’s rim. Try to fit as close as possible and align
L-bracket with one of the pre-drilled holes. Secure with plastic
screws. (One end of L-bracket will be inside aquarium while
other end will be on top of filter hang bar).
PRO 60
1. Insert plastic screws into the three cube anchors at the bottom
of the PRO 60 Filter box so that the heads of the screws are
aligned with the black-back side of the PRO 60.
2. Place PRO 60 Filter box’s hang bar on upper rim of the
aquarium so that filter sits outside the aquarium with black-back
side up against aquarium. Plumbing attachments (intake and
return pipes) will be inside the aquarium.
3. Mount PRO 60 filter box to aquarium by placing 2 L-brackets at
the two different sites on the hang bar – each with 2 predrilled
holes (4 predrilled holes total on hang bar). Which end of the
L-bracket and which of the two holes of each site of the hang
bar that you will use will be determined by the width of your
aquarium’s rim. Try to fit as close as possible and align
L-bracket with one of the pre-drilled holes. Secure with plastic
screws. (One end of L-bracket will be inside aquarium while
other end will be on top of filter hang bar).
REEF TANK (continue)
4. After 4 weeks of cycling your ProSeries Hang-On-
Back EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter, check your
aquarium tank water quality. If it is within the specified
range (refer to Table 4 on pg. 14), you can gradually
introduce corals that are recommended by your
dealer.** Please do not add more than two corals each
time, allow the current corals to acclimate in your
aquarium tank before adding more corals.
5. After 6 weeks, check the water quality (refer to
Table 4 on pg. 14) of your aquarium tank before
adding any fish.
6. Gradually introduce quarantined* fish, placing one
fish at time into your aquarium tank. Test your
aquarium tank for ammonia daily, the level should be
zero before you add more compatible fish into your
aquarium tank.**
* Fish should be quarantined in a separate tank for at
least 2 weeks. This is a preventive measure.
**Your local dealer will be able to recommend the
appropriate amount and type of fish/ corals/ plants
for your aquarium.
Recommended Additional Reference / Guide Book:
Michael S. Paletta – The New Marine Aquarium
(MicrocosmPublications)

SET UP PROCEDURES
Livestock – Pg. 15
Return pipe
L-Bracket
FISH ONLY TANK (Marine)
1. After 6 weeks of cycling your ProSeries Hang-On-Back
EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter, check the water quality
(refer to Table 4 on pg. 14) of your aquarium tank before
adding any fish.
2. Gradually introduce quarantined* fish, placing one
fish at time into your aquarium tank. Test your
aquarium tank for ammonia daily, the level should be zero
before you add more compatible fish into your aquarium
tank.**
*Fish should be quarantined in a separate tank for at
least 2 weeks. This is a preventive measure.
** Your local dealer will also be able to recommend the
appropriate amount and types of fish for your aquarium.
REEF TANK
1. After 2-3 weeks of initially cycling your ProSeries Hang-
On-Back EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter, check the water
quality (refer to Table 4 on pg. 14) of your aquarium tank.
2. You can introduce sea urchins, astrea snails and
herbivorous fish into your aquarium tank at this
stage of cycling your aquarium tank.
3. Set up high intensity lighting above your aquarium tank.
This lighting should be used for 10 – 12 hours per day for
your aquarium. Consult your local dealer for aquarium
lighting requirements appropriate for your corals. DO NOT
turn on until there are corals in your tank.
SET UP PROCEDURES
Mounting to Aquarium – Pg. 8
Adjustment to any screws (on L-brackets to secure) or
(on cube anchors to align) PRO 40 or PRO 60 to
aquarium should be made prior to continuing set up.
Diagram 3 – Mounting attachments for PRO 40 & 60
PRO 40 / 60
FRONTAL VIEW of aquarium with
ProSeries Hang-On-Back EcoSystem in back
AQUARIUM
L-Bracket
Intake Pipe
with
attached
Rio 600 PT
pump.

SET UP PROCEDURES
Plumbing – Pg. 9 SET UP PROCEDURES
Livestock – Pg. 14
PLUMBING SETUP
1. Pump set up
(Pump is preassembled – however in case that the parts
are disconnected during transportation, please refer to
the following directions to assemble the pump.)
Insert gray pump connector to top spout of Rio 600 PT
pump so that “T-spout” found in the middle of the pump
connector is facing towards the pump impeller (opposite
side of power cord).
Connect “T-spout” to one of the protruding impeller spout
on the side of the Rio 600 PT pump with the 2” (5.08cm)
gray plastic hose. Attach the air hose to the other
protruding impeller spout – make sure to NOT submerge
air hose intake, instead drape over the acrylic filter box.
(Refer to diagram 4 – Pump attachment to intake pipe)
2. Pump attachment to Intake Pipe
Attach assembled Rio 600 PT pump to intake pipe –
make sure that attachment is firmly secure. (Note that
Rio 600 PT will be suspended in the aquarium via the
intake pipe – suction cup footings will not be used)
Drape power cord over filter however leave pump OFF
for now.
3. Place filter pad into Chamber 4.
4. Place bioballs into Chamber 2.
ALWAYS CHECK WATER QUALITY before adding
fish, coral, plant or any animals to your tank – making
sure that the water condition is within the following
parameters.
Table 4 – Water Quality Chart
° F = degrees Fahrenheit
° C = degrees Celsius
PPM = Parts Per Million
You can test your water with test kits or have your local
dealers test a sample of your tank water.
FISH ONLY
TANK REEF TANK
pH
8.0 – 8.5 8.0 – 8.5
Specific
Gravity
1.015 – 1.023 1.020 – 1.023
Temperature
78 – 82 ° F
25.5 – 27.7°C
74 – 78 ° F
23.3 – 25.5°C
Ammonia
~ 0 PPM ~ 0 PPM
Nitrite
~ 0 PPM ~ 0 PPM
Nitrate
~ 0 PPM ~ 0 PPM
Phosphate
0.01 – 0.03 PPM 0.01 – 0.03 PPM

SET UP PROCEDURES
Plumbing – Pg. 10
SETUPPROCEDURES
EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter – Pg. 13
9. After 2 weeks of cycling your tank, obtain 5-10 strands of
macro algae plants/plant (please see local fish store)
Table 3 – Recommended Vegetation
SETUP VEGETATION
Marine / Saltwater
Caulerpa (any species), Sea
Grass, any type of hardy
marine vegetation
Tie root strands to small pieces of rock with fishing line.
Gently push the rock with the macro algae/plants into the
Miracle Mud® bed in Chamber 3 making sure to plant the
vegetation into the Miracle Mud® bed. Distribute the
macro algae/plant evenly throughout the Miracle Mud®
bed to ensure a higher probability of survival. (Refer to
Q&A Section, pg. 20 for help).
* Vegetation may need to be fed.
Switch on the Power Compact light fixture for Chamber 3
and leave it on permanently for 24 hours.
10. Maintain this cycling period for a period of at least
4 – 6 weeks before introducing any livestock.
During cycling period protein skimmer should be allowed
to run at maximum capacity – set it so that it sits high up
on the filter (band should be positioned low towards the
foot of the skimmer).
The more time that the EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter is
allowed to mature – the better it is for the Miracle Mud®.
5. Return Pipe
Return pipe is ready to use. However the return
pipe is limited in current flow. It is highly
recommended to incorporate a power head in the
aquarium to increase the circulation within the tank.
Diagram 4 – Pump attachment to Intake Pipe
RIO 600 PT
PUMP
Intake Pipe
Air Hose Intake
(keep outside tank)
Pump
Connector
Pump
Impeller
Spouts
Power Cord
“T-spout” of
pump connector

SET UP PROCEDURES
EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter – Pg. 11 SET UP PROCEDURES
EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter – Pg. 12
The following directions are to CYCLE & MATURE the Miracle
Mud® - allowing the proper bacteria to colonize the Miracle Mud®
bed and enabling it to be an efficient filter. This process takes 4-6
weeks, during which the protein skimmer functions as the primary
filter of the aquarium. Instructions for both new and existing tanks.
1. Pour the Miracle Mud® substrate into Chamber 3 and
level it evenly to create a 1 inch (2.54 cm) thick layer.
2. In order to prevent the Miracle Mud® from being stirred
up, place the Miracle Mud® BAG on top of the Miracle
Mud® bed. Gently pour pre-mixed* salt water onto the
Miracle Mud® bag. Continue filling up Chamber 3 with
the appropriate water until it begins to flow into
Chambers 1, 2, 4 and 5. Stop filling with water when the
height of the water level in Chambers 2 and 3 are the
same as the height of the divider in Chamber 3.
(More water may be added –if needed when pump(s) are
turn on.) Remove the Miracle Mud® bag.
* Never add salt directly into tank – always premix
saltwater and allow to stand for 24 hrs. before use.
3. Allow the Miracle Mud® bed and all particulates to settle
and water to clear before proceeding any further (~ 1
hour but may take longer in certain cases). Remove any
floating debris in the water with a net or paper towel.
During this waiting period, fill main tank with pre-mixed
saltwater for new setups.
4. Place protein skimmer cup into top of Chamber 1 –
adjust rubber band around body of skimmer cup to
determine how far in the protein skimmer sits in the filter.
(The deeper the protein skimmer cup sits in the filter the
less it skims). Initially skimmer should be adjusted so
that it will sit high on the filter and not so deep in
Chamber 1. Later on, lower the skimmer more into the
filter to reduce skimming in order to avoid overskimming.
5. Securely place the Power Compact light fixture over
Chamber 3 into the built in light stand on top of the
EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter. Do not turn the light on
– leave the light OFF for the time being.
Safety Note: DO NOT allow Power Compact light
fixture to come into contact with any water.
6. Turn on the pump of the protein skimmer. New setup -
allow the EcoSystem Miracle Mud® Filter to run
continuously for 3 days WITHOUT any fish, corals, or
plants in your aquarium tank. After this initial 3 days set
up, you can start to cycle your tank by adding some
hardy fish into your aquarium (i.e. yellow tang,
damsels). Consult your local fish store for possible
suggestions.
7. New setup - after 1 week of cycling your tank, place
cured live rocks into aquarium. DO NOT switch on the
aquarium lights during this period of filter preparation.
•Cured live rocks are live rocks that have been
cycling in your dealer’s tanks for a minimum period
of 6 weeks. Using uncured live rock is NOT
recommended as it will cause persistent nuisance
algae and phosphate problem.
8. If you plan to have substrate (live sand, crush corals,
aragonite) in your main tank – please place cured live
rock directly onto the aquarium bottom and distribute
substrate bed around live rock.
•Substrate bed must be only 1” (2.54cm) OR LESS
in depth (refer to Q&A section on substrate, pg. 19
for details)
•If you have an existing tank that has much more
substrate – you will need to get rid of excess
amount. Contact EcoSystem for instructions.