Coralogy_
New Member
Hello everyone! I've been an avid fish keeper for a long time, primarily on the freshwater side, but I'm excited to dive into the world of saltwater. I was inspired by a close friend who is in the hobby. Anytime I went to his place, I would stare at his tank the entire time, so I figured it's time to setpu my own. Saltwater tanks have always intrigued me, and now I have the time and resources, so now is as good a time as any.
I've decided to opt for a smaller tank for my first saltwater, contrary to expert advice. But I have a couple of reasons behind this decision.
1. I live in an apartment which limits my available space, and with two existing nano-sized freshwater tanks, a smaller saltwater tank fits seamlessly into my setup.
2. I've always had a soft spot for nano tanks, and I can always consider an upgrade down the line if the need arises.
3. I don't know how true this is, but I am hoping that I am able to save some money by going smaller and then if I choose to go bigger, I can transfer all that stuff over.
I've chosen to pace the initial setup since I'll be moving to a new apartment in mid-February. It doesn't make sense to establish the tank now only to dismantle and transport it in two months. Currently, I'm in the process of gathering equipment and working on the hardscape. The plan is to set up the entire system and start the cycling process after the move. Fortunately, my friend has generously agreed to provide some bio-media from his established tank. This should facilitate a smoother cycling process by introducing beneficial bacteria.
Below, I'll share my equipment list, my stocking choices and coral selections.
Equipment List
Coral List
I've decided to opt for a smaller tank for my first saltwater, contrary to expert advice. But I have a couple of reasons behind this decision.
1. I live in an apartment which limits my available space, and with two existing nano-sized freshwater tanks, a smaller saltwater tank fits seamlessly into my setup.
2. I've always had a soft spot for nano tanks, and I can always consider an upgrade down the line if the need arises.
3. I don't know how true this is, but I am hoping that I am able to save some money by going smaller and then if I choose to go bigger, I can transfer all that stuff over.
I've chosen to pace the initial setup since I'll be moving to a new apartment in mid-February. It doesn't make sense to establish the tank now only to dismantle and transport it in two months. Currently, I'm in the process of gathering equipment and working on the hardscape. The plan is to set up the entire system and start the cycling process after the move. Fortunately, my friend has generously agreed to provide some bio-media from his established tank. This should facilitate a smoother cycling process by introducing beneficial bacteria.
Below, I'll share my equipment list, my stocking choices and coral selections.
Equipment List
- Aquarium: Waterbox 20
- Light: AI Prime 16HD
- Return Pump: Sicce Syncra Silent 1.0
- Heater: Would like to purchase a titanium heater. For now, I have a standard heater with temperature dial on top.
- Wavemaker: AI Nero 3
- ATO: XP Aqua Duetto 2
- Filter Media
- First Chamber: Filter floss instead of filter socks, small ceramic media balls, and activated carbon.
- Second Chamber: Sponges, heater, and larger sticks of ceramic bio filter media.
- Third Chamber: Was planning on leaving it empty, but open to suggestions!
- 2 Mocha Storm Clownfish
- Either a Red-Spotted Dwarf Goby or Neon Goby?
- Pistol & Goby Pair
- Blood Red Fire Shrimp
- A few snails - Astrea, Nassarius, and Cerith snails
Coral List
- GSP
- Zoas - varying types
- Mushrooms - varying types
- Toadstool Leather
- Clove Polyp
- Cany Cane
- Duncan
- Torches
- Hammers
- Frogspawns
- Bubble Coral
- Rock Flower Anemone
