Help....many questions.

cgbosun

cgbosun

New Member
I am brand new to saltwater(or fresh for that matter) aquariums and would like to start a 10gal micro-reef with a couple of clowns in it.
Can someone give me a rundown on what to buy (ie: filters, lights, etc.....can you give me namebrands and models?)
I have seen great pics of micro reefs as small as 6 gallons (which I would be interested in), so been know that I won't go over 10g.
What is everyone's thoughts and opinions on this?
Thanks,
 
bang guy

bang guy

Moderator
My opinion is that it's best to leave the nano-reef tanks (<30 gal) to experienced reef keepers.
I hope you try a saltwater tank but please read a LOT before spending any of your hard-earned cash. A 10 gallon may sound simple but it's not. Things go wrong in a 10 five times faster than they do in a 55. That's the difference between a day and a morning.
I think you're better off not having a tank than to try a nano reef tank as your first Saltwater experience.
 
P

pa reef pig

Guest
Everybody has to start somewhere! My first reef was a 10 gallon. Over 2 years ago. I have now moved up to a 75 gallon, and my next will be a 180 gallon. Its an evolution of experience.
I can suggest an inexpensive lighting setup that worked good for me. I got 4 of the undercounter light strips (by Lights of America I think) at Walmart. They are small enough that you can fit all 4 in a custom made canopy. I would suggest getting 2-15watt Tritons and 2-15watt Blue Moons. The buls will cost about $50 total. Ill try to get some pics of my custom hood for you.
Just remember to keep it simple, go SLOW, and you will be amazed by what you can accomplish. And when you deside to get a bigger tank (beleive me, you will) you can use the 10 gallon as your quarintine tank or a refugium.
 
finland

finland

Member
I agree with BangGuy. Reef inhabitants are very succeptible to poor water quality and changing water conditions. A nano tank is more prone to rapid swings in ph, salinity changes, temp changes, etc., then a larger tank. Unless you are confident in your abilities due to research and/or experience, I would suggest a larger tank. JMO
 
a&m aggie 04'

a&m aggie 04'

Active Member
Alot of people dont have the funds to get a large tank. If you want to start a 10 gallon its your own decision. It will be harder to maintain quality water, but if you can keep a 10 gallon you wouldnt have any problem with a larger tank. Just do alot of reading, understand what to expect, and go slow. If you have any questions there is always someone here that can help. Best of Luck to you!!
Mark
 
j21kickster

j21kickster

Active Member
One thing i will suggest it to buy the book The New Marine Aquarium by Michael S. Paletta it is a great way to start off. there are may articles on the web to read. just read anything you can get your hands on. a small tank is by no means difficult. you just need to make sure of a few things
1. Know basics of SW care.
2. Dont overstock the tank
3. The key is the Live Rock and Live Sand.
4. Replace evoporated water with RO/DI. Chek daily to every other day.
5. water change 2X amonth
Other than that there isnt much else to do. Now after this post i might get some objection but i know from personal exp. I maintain 5 diff tanks under 20gallons. i dont dose with any additives just what is replenished through the water changes. But like i said earlier know what you are doing and you will be fine. these tanks require far less care than my 47 gal and 300. good luck to you and before you leave read my signature.
 
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