what kind of reef tank can I build 20gal

[coyle]

I'd like to continue using my current hood by upgrading the light, is this possible and if so what's one good light and what reef plants will match it?
Also should I have a sump and circulate the water out through all that stuff or can I just use a protein skimmer and my powerheads? I will only be having inverts and ideally if possible I'd like to have a pretty much self cleaning system. Thanks

 

[lil.guppy]

With a tank that size you dont HAVE to have a sump though they are always a good idea. I dont have one in my 46 and I need to with all the equipment I have.
Depending on what kind of hood you have check the wattage limit on it. Some of the reef bulbs are too high for the regular freshwater hoods. You dont want to start a fire or melt it and cause a fire.

 

[coyle]

I think it's a 22w max, and it's a 20 gal high so it's like 20" top to bottom.
So, you think the sump isn't neccessary except for storage? So far everything fits ok, guess I could just get a protein skimmer and some live rock then?

 

[gio28]

i dont think you can have a reef using your current hood. you couldnt keep any corals under that much light i think. you would have to buy new lights or do a DIY project

 

[cedarreef]

+1 You could probably find a cheap light fixture that would be perfect for a reef somewhere online.

 

[coyle]

Then there's the fact that it's a 20 gal high so the light wouldn't reach down.
Would you suggest a refugium or skimmer for bio filtration?