Hard to set up a reef

[-*-MicHAeL-*-]

hi im not that experienced with tropical fish keeping , but was wondering how hard it is to set up and maintain a reef tank and does the tank have to be a large or can u set up small one.

thinkin of starting one up

thanks

 

[parker313]

It's not hard, but it's considerably more expensive. The best advice is to start with a tank as large as you can possibly afford. You can do a small tank, a nano-reef, but they present more challenges than a larger tank b/c any changes to the parameters will happen QUICKLY and you can easily lose everything in your tank overnight.

The best advice I can give to someone looking into saltwater is to read all of the topics pinned to the top of this forum.

 

[-*-MicHAeL-*-]

ok just thinkin about the future

 

[-*-MicHAeL-*-]

also what is a nano reef tank

 

[parker313]

A "nano-reef" is the term used for a saltwater tank that's less than 30 gallons. They are tempting in that b/c they're small, they are less expense than a larger tank, like a 75 gallon tank but as I mentioned in my first post, they shouldn't be considered "beginner saltwater" tanks because of the problems that come from the small body of water.

I love my nano reef and did a TON of research before I got started. I've probably spent more time reading and researching than actually maintenancing my tank If $$ were no object, I would definitely have a 75-100g tank!

 

[-*-MicHAeL-*-]

ok thanks

 

[Chac]

I would say a 20g - 30g is fine for a beginner as log as: -

Loads of reaserch is done
Good quality Equipment
Stick to Proper Bio-Loads
Dont miss out on the maintenence (Water Changes, Top ups, etc.)
Know a small tanks limitations and stick to them

I have a 20g tank and dont really think it is that difficult as long as you
commit the time & cash to the project

Del

 

[-*-MicHAeL-*-]

ok thanks