New looking to start a SW tank

[black06ss]

I've been reading and researching the SW community, and I'm very interested in starting one. Whats the best nano tank to get to start? I've looked at the JBJ 28g HQI, and a few others just looking to get some insider opinions on the pros and cons of nano tanks. I'm looking to start a nice lil reef with a few clowns/hermits. Mostly coral and LR

 

[rlablan]

The biocubes are nice... but word to the wise...
When (not if) you get addicted to SW, you will want to upgrade and it will cost you. It happens to all of us. Trust me, I am sure someone will chime in and say the same thing. Get the biggest tank you budget will allow, personally, I say get a nice shallow 55 gallon and you'll be very happy with it. The equipment is will priced, pretty common used and there are a lot of things available to you.
the other real big thing about Nanos is that they are finicky. They aren't as forgiving to someone starting out and it will be very frustrating to have a small mistake turn into a big one.
Also, everyone says "oh, I just want corals and some clowns." but when you start to see other really neat things, you'll want them and your tank will be too small, hence the upgrade.
Just some advice...
I would suggest the 29 gal biocube. They are all inclusive and they are pretty inexpensive if you pick them up used and they are easily set up. Alot of people have them here and like them.
Personally, I started with a 10 gal, that upgraded to a 25 gal. then I went to a 45 high, and then I bought a 200 gallon custom tank (used). That was a reef, then thought I would set up a 16 gal reef. then took it down and put up a 55 gallon reef and the 200 gallon is a swim tank. I am finally happy... and it just goes to show you.... get what you can afford, and get the biggest you can fit. (with in reason) lol

good luck with the hobby!!

 

[black06ss]

Yeah i haven't started and its already addictive, only problem i have is two fold first off i rent the house i live in, and trying to convince the landlord to let me have a "huge tank" will be hard the second is I'm currently serving in the U.S Air Force, and moving a lot is the nature of the best, so I'll probably never get to have a 200G tank at least not for the next 10yrs till i retire. Thanks for the insight.

 

[rlablan]

I would definitely suggest the 29 gal bio cube then. It should be relatively easy to move, just be careful. Moving a tank like that, even the smaller tanks, is really hard on them. Sometimes, there will be loses of fish and corals and it is simply a stress thing... Post us a build thread to let us know what you decide

 

[black06ss]

yeah i need to find a lfs around here that'll be will to fish coral etc back, obviously not with a refund, cause if i have to move it wont be down the street it'll across the contient or planet. I need a starter list of stuff i need to start, to get an idea what the start up cost is gonna be.

 

[spanko]

If you are serious about a nano tank I suggest before doing anything go out a purchase the book The Nano Reef Handbook by Chris Brightwell. Read it cover to cover, not a large book, and then come on back and ask any questions you may have. I have a 29 biocube that has been up since January 2007. Take a look here:https://forums.saltwaterfish.com/t/332430/spankos-bio-cube-what-in-posidens-name-is-he-up-to-now/80

 

[black06ss]

Ok so i've read a few books almost done with The Nano Reef Handbook that spanko recomended, they all had a lot of info in them. Also found a LFS around me that has a lot of stuff coral, fish LR etc etc. I dont really have any questions as of yet. ( i havent started mine yet.) What system is better as a whole? the Biocube or the nano cube and why? I found a place online that has modded light systems for all the different nanos, pretty slick stuff. I'd post the site but i'm gonna guess that you cant do that. So what's better and why the Nanocubes or the Biocubes?