12 gallon help

[leftyblite]

I was just recently given a 12G nano cube. I want to set it up as a saltwater tank. I've been keeping freshwater tanks for a few years now ranging from a 2.5G up to an 80G tank. I know that a 12g saltwater tank will be a challenge and is probably not recommended. I plan on having approx 15-20lbs of live rock and a 2-4inch live sand bed. I'm planning on only putting in 1-2 clownfish in this tank as I know that is probably the max. I have just started the cycling period so I know it will be a while before any fish are added. I've heard about cleanup crews for a tank but am unsure for a tank this size. Also is this a decent set up for tank this size? Thanks for the help!!!

 

[lion_crazz]

Though you are new at saltwater, I have to hand it to you. It sounds like you at least did your research. Everything you said you were doing was right on the spot, from the live rock, to the sand bed, to the waiting for the cycle to finish, and the ability to only have a few fish. Good job!
As far as the clean-up crew, I would probably do about 5 snails (astrea or black turbo's) and 5-7 hermit crabs (blue legs will be fine).

 

[jdragunas]

could also add a cleaner shrimp if you want... I'd suggest only getting one nemo. In that small of a tank, damsels are agressive anyway, and they'd probably end up fighting to the death. You'd also have to introduce 1 fish at a time, because your tank is so small, and introducing a clownfish to a tank that size with another clown already in it is not such a great idea.
You should start out with one clown, and after about 6 mo. or so, you should be able to add 1 more small fish, but you must make sure they can live in that small of a tank. Firefish come to mind. The rule of thumb is that you're supposed to have 1" of fish per every 4 gallons of water, so that would put you at 3" of fish, which is one clownfish. However, if you get the proper filtration, and enough LR, you can double that (mind you, you MUST keep a close eye on your water parameters...)
Sounds like you did you homework, bravo!!! I'm glad you took the time to research before just delving into it!!! Good luck with the nano. There's a nano forum on this message board, if you have any other questions, they're really good with nano's there!
Jenn

 

[leftyblite]

Thanks for the suggestions!!!

 

[1journeyman]

A clown would be cool to have, but for that size tank you might re-think it.
Firefish, neon goby, small blennies, maybe a Cardinal? Any of those species may work better.
If you have your heart set on a clown, be sure to get one of the small species, like an Occelaris.