The inside is now complete!
I drained 1/2" of water out, and the filter kept it's prime with no issues. I think the internal pump just needed to relieve an air pocket. I actually drained it down about an inch just to check what would happen after a little evaporation, and it still ran just fine.
Next I added the coconut fiber. I have a little over 1inch. I was surprised when I used an entire 7 quart block of it. I thought I would only need about half.
Next I added river rock to the top. This is intended to prevent the toads from picking up the coco fiber and spreading it into the water. When I add plants I will allow the stem to go in between the spaces between rocks.
As you can see, the water has turned into tea right now. The filter is empty at the moment. I just wanted to circulate water with it. I am hoping that once a cartridge is added, the water will clear up. If not, I am sure a few water changes and time for the coco to release everything will make things better.
Next, plants and the canopy!