How to setup simple cheap reef tank!

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Steven Drieu - 6 years ago

Sound about right.

Calvin Mack - 6 years ago

I have been thinking for about two years now...you just helped me out alot. I'm going to get a coner tank today

Canada Arrow - 6 years ago

Truth is a nano tank is easy if you go simple. All you need is a good lighting $250 to $300.
Some rock $5/lb
Some sand $34 for 15lb
salt and ro water which could cost $200 for a rodi machine and some coral pro salt.
A tank (Nuvo would be the best option cause it comes with a filter and some flow)
And power head

DUCK STUDIO - 6 years ago

Thanks so much this made me convert my 60 litre freshwater tank into a reef tank and now have a 500 litre mixed reef.
Its so simple if you do your reaserch

Kinzie Lynn Wilson - 7 years ago

Please link stuff in the description ! It would be so helpful :)

Cynthia Smythe - 7 years ago

Im so glad i found this video. Ive been wanting to try a saltwater tank for a long time and every time i hit my local petco they’re so disappointing. They always tell me I shouldn’t do it and I need to spend $600+ , need a minimum 50 gal tank etc. . about to go back there tomorrow and tell them to shut their faces, THANK YOU.

Mike Lemming - 7 years ago

Can you run a small tank like this with sticks/ hard Corals? I’ve been reefing for a while and it seems like anything above pls requires dosing, what do you think? Good video man!

Mike Lemming - 7 years ago

“Reefing for a while” means like 2.5 years.. not too long

smuksir85 - 7 years ago

Love ur tank bro fk the haters

Cool MT - 7 years ago

I'll mention to any beginners reading this who are wondering which fish are easiest to keep in newly cycled tanks. Damselfish. Pros - sturdy little fish, tolerant to ups and downs of beginner tanks. Cons: Many species are aggressive and territorial. Some of the more peaceful ones in my experience are yellowtail Damsel (Blue w/yellow tail), azure damsel (blue body w/yellow underside and tail, blue reef chromis, Talbot's damsel. Some of the meanest damselfish I've kept are the blue devil damselfish, domino damselfish and three-stripe and four-stripe damselfish. Many damsel species are available tank-bred

Ocellaris clownfish ("Nemo" fish) are also pretty hardy fish, and not quite as nasty as damselfish as far as territoriality and behavior towards their tankmates goes. No, they don't have to have an anemone, although they do seem happier w/one in my experience. Also these are some of the easiest if not the easiest marine fish to breed in captivity. Buying tank-bred fish doesn't has as bad an impact on natural ocean reefs.

Hope that helps w/fish selection to whoever was wondering

10. comment for How to setup simple cheap reef tank!

Cool MT - 7 years ago

Thanks for the vid encouraging beginners. I've kept saltwater tanks on and off for 28 years, from 12 to 40, and I wish starting out I had gotten the same advice. But in 1989 I'm sure knowledge of reefkeeping was more limited. No internet back then

Ricardo Durante - 7 years ago

I was dizzy watching the video but beautiful aquarium

Anonymous Anonymous - 7 years ago

Sand is a pain in the ass and blows around. I went bare bottom and its so much better. Can do anything with flow, and more flow so nothing settles. Much cleaner, easier to maintain.

JOGO - 7 years ago

Thanks for the encouragement, I will start a little larger one once I know what the hell I'm doing.. I will research and check out more of your videos.. thanks bro..

Nick William - 7 years ago

Thaaaaaank you so much got mine and it's been easy

Gary Montgomery - 7 years ago

watch this video over and over, very true.

Nic Nolan - 7 years ago

Why are all these videos old

Daymian P - 7 years ago

Hi bro, I want to set up a saltwater 20G tank but people said that I should not use tapwater and use RO water instead. I look up RO unit online and they're expensive. Can I use tapwater?

Gaming Vids - 7 years ago

Can you update this video please ? I mean I want to do this but cant afford to. I want to also know how to get Reef Coral to work with as a starter.

Alice Lewellen - 7 years ago

so I can do this with my 20 gallon with a few fish?

20. comment for How to setup simple cheap reef tank!

Daniel Barrios Romero - 7 years ago

THANK YOU... Small, Simple and Cheap

Gennaro Menafra - 7 years ago

Im going to start my Reef tank !!

Pacific Northwest - 7 years ago

Learn how to hold/set up a camera .... video was making my eyes hurt from all the movement. Couldn't get through the video ... thumbs down

TheLittleGemstone - 7 years ago

I really don't know what the fuss is about. Wtf is this rumour that reef keeping is hard? Mate, I'm 13 years old with my first reef tank and it's easy as keeping a goldfish. Yes it can be expensive but if you research enough, visit your local fish store for water and for advice. You honestly should be fine.
Here's what I use
Innovative marine fusion 10
Kessil a160 tuna blue
Hydor 50w heater
Hydor 240gph/900l powerhead
10lbs Carib sea live sand
10lbs real reef rock
Two 25l Jerry cans for Rodi and saltwater
Api test kit
Hydrometer
Filtration - nuvo caddy 10/20, filter floss, seachem purigen and chemipure

Easy, I could make a video??

David Verdin - 7 years ago

whats a decent light to purchase for a 10g reef tank. i wont do any sps corals.

TheLittleGemstone - 7 years ago

David Verdin I personally use kessil a160 tuna blue for my 10 gallon. Don't get a shit light, it's not worth it and its more likely to brake. Trust me

Nick - 7 years ago

If you can get water from an established tank you can avoid the cycle...
small water changes are key to stable water conditions and success.
Like he said adding all that shit they want to SELL you is unnecessary and can be detrimental... Quality salt has everything you need in it. I prefer internal filters because of salt creep, i just hide them with rocks. Great Video, Nice tank.!

Nick - 7 years ago

LOL, OK, I've done it so many times.... I know exactly what the cycle is, The bacteria you want covers the crushed coral. vacuum siphon the gravel and put that water in you new tank.... Instant cycling.
Works every time.

TheLittleGemstone - 7 years ago

Nick any established water won't do anything. The cycle is just your tank getting enough nitrifying bacteria on your rock/sand so its able to turn ammonia and nitrite into nitrate easily with out hurting fish and hurting coral. Bacteria isnt even in the water

big kahona - 7 years ago

I Like You video I want to start a 5 gallon tank I know you mentioned somebody to look at his name or at his tank can you tell me who it was and how I can get in touch with him or where can I go to see his video I would appreciate it thank you I'm going to give you a like and I'm going to subscribe to your Channel

lioturbo - 7 years ago

Do you think I could do a nan reef tank with the fluval flex 9 gallon? Would the lighting be OK for corals? Thanks love your vid's!

TheLittleGemstone - 7 years ago

lioturbo Definitely not!! You can have a saltwater tank but those lights won't be strong enough for coral. Fish don't need light, it's the coral so you could if you want have just a saltwater tank with no coral

Meagan Snelson - 7 years ago

I am new to the saltwater tank with fish and just started with soft corals recently, this video has been VERY helpful, encouraging and much more friendlier than most. Thanks!!

Tom Mack - 7 years ago

hi I am disabled, I have one kidney left and I have kidney cancer can you send me a 10 pound live rock to get my 29 gal reef tank going , thanks, I and on a big Budget, love your reef tank, yes people tell me I am wasting my time can you help me with seeding????, let me know one way or another don't let me hanging

30. comment for How to setup simple cheap reef tank!

Brian Dimont - 7 years ago

Do you run a hob protein skimmer?

Mariposa Farfan - 7 years ago

u use tap water?? do u still have this tank??

TheLittleGemstone - 7 years ago

Mariposa Farfan Bro, I can tell your freaking out haha For water in a saltwater tank, best to use rodi just because tap water may have I high kh depending on your area and it has silicates which promotes the chance of a algea outbreak. Try and a find a local fish shop which sells marine and ask if you sell water. If yes awesome, go there for salt and rodi water :)

nicolas andrews - 7 years ago

I've used regular tap water in my nano 10 gallon tank that's been up and running for 2 years, lots of extra algae and I was losing my crabs. So I bought an RODI unit and the tank hasn't been better. If your thinking about skipping the RODI water your going to see trouble down the road

TheMacroReef - 7 years ago

This hobby needs more people like you man! Awesome vid!

Lixi Lineas - 7 years ago

Nice video i plan to start one buy the end of the year

Tina Bloomfield - 7 years ago

Thank you!!! I am definitely having issues with folks trying to scare me out of doing a saltwater tank. Ive got a 20 gallon one going right now, and doing just fine. Im ready to get a 75 gallon. All I keep hearing is that "your going to need to drill it, and get a sump" I am NOT doing that. I want something simple like my fresh water tanks with hang on back filtration LOL

sKiLLz 311 - 7 years ago

i have a fluval fx6 and sofar it has been great.

Parker Alwan - 7 years ago

Exactly! You don't need to start a 60 gallon reef to succeed!!! People don't have the money to "try" out a 60 gallon reef.

Phoebe Jones - 7 years ago

Sorry if this seems like a silly question, but I just want to check it's enough before I add any fish.. do you think this set up is okay temporarily for a clown fish? Thanks

Ben S - 7 years ago

Beautiful work!!!

Random dude - 7 years ago

Is it true that it needs 10 weeks for the tank to be ready to add fish?

Ady Wisma Putra Wardana - 7 years ago

Random dude yes

Samuel MCGOVERN - 7 years ago

what is that orange coral coral at the top left?

Muhib Maknojia - 7 years ago

can u tell me some cheap reef light for 20fallon soft and Lps corals

Christian 312124 - 7 years ago

I started out with a simple 20 gallon now im at a 210 haha

Jbueno - 7 years ago

No fish?

Jay Right - 7 years ago

I'm new to the hobby. I have a 65 gallon tank and I want to put corals in it but was always afraid because of the cost of lighting. Do I need expensive lighting to have corals in my tank?

Jay Right - 7 years ago

sKiLLz 311 THANK YOU

sKiLLz 311 - 7 years ago

you need lights that are rated for corals. the cheapest you can go with lights is probably the orbit marine pro's. i have these and my corals are doing great.

Michael Fenner - 7 years ago

this is been very informative. i think im going to go for it man. thanks so much.

Lissa Lenhardt - 7 years ago

Our tank needs help. My brother started with minimal knowledge and minimal funds and seems to be neglecting. I know nothing. Any tips on how to salvage my tank on a budget? I can send pics but idk how to message one here...

Lissa Lenhardt - 7 years ago

Yes, we were but unfortunately, we were unable to save our anemone, and only 2 of the 10 hermits made it through. The fish are fine though. We were able to get our nitrate level down a bit, but they're still higher than they should be.

sKiLLz 311 - 7 years ago

it sucks that noone responded to you. were you able to recover the tank?

Kristopher Nielsen - 7 years ago

Hey mate (I'm Aussie) thanks for this vid! I have been researching, reading forums and watching countless youtube vids about getting into reefing and the whole thing has been so daunting but this vid just puts my mind at ease and tells me to take the plunge! Hell if you can maintain all types of corals in such a small, cheap setup, then why can't I at least give it a go? I'm not going to jump right into SPS corals but this will mean I can see if I really do enjoy it without dropping thousands upon thousands onto a setup that will be like having a second job! AWESOME WORK! Thanks again!

Kristopher Nielsen - 7 years ago

Still planning. Likely going to start with an Aqua One 160.

sKiLLz 311 - 7 years ago

did you take the plunge? i would love to hear about your journey

jlopez9111 - 7 years ago

What fish and how many might you add to this setup in a 60 gallon. Can old reef be revived if mixed in with fresh live reef rock. Thx

Epoxy Plus - 7 years ago

How do you keep the sand so clean and perfect?

Ken Cress - 7 years ago

Epoxy Plus he has no fish or anything. just rock and corals

50. comment for How to setup simple cheap reef tank!

Charles P - 7 years ago

I'm like everybody else on here, this is one of the videos that convinced me to get into reefing. Holler at me on my new channel. I appreciate any tips/advice!

Robert Costello - 7 years ago

nice video. good knowledge

jsfreediver - 7 years ago

how you deal with surface scum with an hang on back filter

inbedf - 7 years ago

is it Fuji reef rocks?

Austin White - 7 years ago

Best advice I can give is if u can't maintain a good maintenance schedule on a freshwater tank and have low ammonia and nitrates ... then don it attempt a reef unless you are deticated or it's over ...reason I say this is I have a ton of friends who have nasty freshwater tanks and see my reefs and say there gunna convert to saltwater lol

jsfreediver - 7 years ago

nive tank wath filter you have on this tank

Noa Spencer - 7 years ago

I really want to start my own reef tank, I have a few freshwater tanks and have had them for a couple years, is there a way I can get my tank to look just like yours?

Noa Spencer - 7 years ago

for under 200$??

Jose Ponciano - 7 years ago

What about lights how long should I leave them on for???

Dani Wornath - 7 years ago

Hi , so would it be possible to set up a simple 200 liter saltwater tank for cca. 1000 euros ? with like max .10 fish and some nice corals ?

Kim Santee - 7 years ago

Can you tell us again what plants to start out with???
I love your tank....I'm doing a 55 gallon soin

Wira Agung Yuwana - 7 years ago

60cm × 30cm?

Eddie Allen - 7 years ago

I am considering converting my freshwater tank into a salt water tank & need to know the basics. This video told me everything but what I actually need to know. The video name is very misleading to say the least. How do you place the corals, just sit them in tank, glue them on the rocks, what do you feed them? How do you mix the salt water, what is a normal temperature for a salt water tank? This guy did everything but walk us through actually sitting up a damn tank for beginners, he was just showing off his aquarium.

Brian Geiser - 7 years ago

I understand. I think I may try to put together something that gives the beginners something. Sorry for your experience. If you ever have questions, please reach out.

Eddie Allen - 7 years ago

Well after suffering through about 30-40 videos & piecing the info together I sorta got it figured out but still looking. I might just restock my fresh water tank for a while so I am in no hurry at the moment. For some one who has been maintaining a Salt water tank its easy but to some one who has never done it there is a big difference between a simple fresh water tank & Salt water. from what I have seen in the videos that much is for certain & why its so important to promote & produce an info or demo video correctly. Thats why its pathetic that I had to actually view that many videos & piece together info that could have been produced in only 1-2 videos. Its frustrating if you know what I mean, thanks for helping..

Brian Geiser - 7 years ago

Hope you got some answers you were looking for. I may be able to help. First off you need to pick your salt. Reef salts work well. Most coral will need to feed. Some will need to be "spot fed" others will filter feed. I run my reef at 78 degrees. Mixing salt is easy (add salt to water not vice versa). Read the instructions on the salt mix. Using a hydrometer can but used but Refractometers are not much more expensive and are much more accurate. Some great vids to watch are BRS TVs as well as Mr. Saltwater Aquarium. Hope this helps.

ANTO BOSS NYC - 7 years ago

I was told that my damsels would be sacrificed to the cycling...I have a 5 Gallon tank. I checked my levels I have zero ammonia, no nitrites, and no nitrates. My phosphate was low so I added a buffer. So far, so good. I also have a 4 lb live rock and 3 inch active sand base.

Christina Rutherford - 7 years ago

I love your tank! I subscribed.

Luis Cruz - 7 years ago

Hi i have a 20gallon tank and was thinking of truing it to a reef . But do i really need a overflow box, protein skimmer, I was just going to get a canister filter

Brian Geiser - 7 years ago

Overflow is not required but is great. Canister is a bad decision. They are best used as reactors. Protein Skimmer is not required but a cheap Oceanic can be picked up for around $20. Happy reefing!!!

badboymarshall - 7 years ago

video was great thanks

jack winter - 7 years ago

how do you do the maintenance for this tank? like feeding corals and water change?

Jonathan Mallet - 7 years ago

question.
can I use regular gravel in a 75gal aquarium?

Mark Known - 7 years ago

Don't let this video fool you. Saltwater tanks are expensive. On average if you want to do it properly, expect to spend $20-50 per gallon of water. That's just the equipment, lights, tank, filters. skimmers, stand, rock, sand, RODI system. Not including the fish or coral. For example a small frag of coral is $10-$15. A blue hippo tang on average for a medium sized is about $65. It is expensive and if you don't do it the right way it's not fair for the fish to suffer. As a 5 year plus saltwater owner.

Mark Known - 7 years ago

IMO- It is easy to set up and it is a lot of fun to watch something you made take life. But it all comes down to the money and the previous knowledge of fish keeping.

MyNameIsBob3389 - 7 years ago

What lights did you have?

MrGerardoMarquez - 7 years ago

Petco has a special on live rocks right now. Buy one get one free.

Julia Bennett - 7 years ago

I am trying to do my first ever salt water tank. I have 6 freshwater planted tanks from a 55 gallon, 20gal, two 5.5gallons and two 10 gallons. even with my experience and success in freshwater, everyone keeps discouraging me from trying to set up a nano tank because with all my tanks I do not have space for something I am not sure I will enjoy. just wanted to say thank you so much for your encouragement and information.

mikey low - 7 years ago

DO IT!!!!!!!! i was in the same position as u, i started with a 5g just to try things out and now have a 33g and love it .. if it wasnt for the cost of live rock and salt i would convert my 150g planted tank lol

.. i loved the 5g but i found a 15g tall tank was a great size for a small cheap reef.. it was what i had before jumping to a 33g when a friend gave me a bunch of goodies when she had to shut hers down.. i had 2 small chromis, peppermint shrimp, some hermits , snails and some basic corals ..mushrooms, hammer .. was a perfect small size i found.. cheap to buy a new tank , same footprint as a 10g but extra height :)
GOOD LUCK AND HAVE FUN!!!

Sliver Trick R1 - 7 years ago

great job putting this video - I started on a 10 gallon. Gald to know someone put the truth out their. I enjoy my 10 gallon better than my 150 gallon tank.

bronco2484 - 7 years ago

Can I fish?

mikey low - 7 years ago

i had a couple tiny chromis and a peppermint shrimp in my 5g

bronco2484 - 7 years ago

*have

icici100 - 7 years ago

Hi

You are very encouraging. Do you use RODI water? What lighting is that? Can u please suggest me some safe beginner corals?

mikey low - 7 years ago

RODI water is an absolute must! when i didnt use it my tank was like a forest of hair algae.. over 2 inches thick sometimes! i finally invested in a RO Buddy and after 4 water changes ( without changing anything else ) its all gone

Michael Andary - 7 years ago

I am also wondering if he is using RODI water, i would assume so if he is keeping SPS corals though it is impossible not to. The lighting is probably T5 because there is no shimmer on the bottom that LED or Halide would give you. Some good corals for you would be: Xenia (spreads a lot so beware), Torch Coral, Hammer Coral, Frogspawn, Zoanthids, and Green Star polyps

hiposho68 - 7 years ago

i think reef tanks are easier to keep than fresh water

galatas81 - 7 years ago

Good Job!!

Che Guevarra - 7 years ago

what brand and model is your overhang filter??

Michael Andary - 7 years ago

looks like mine so it would be an aqua clear.

Martin Oldham - 7 years ago

Simple and cheap. Two words that can't be used for saltwater hobby.

mikey low - 7 years ago

all depends on what you wanna keep in it.. other than live rock u can build up a nice setup for quite cheap

Skippers Menagerie - 7 years ago

I like your attitude,duder. I decided to start a tank a few days ago. Sort of a tribute to my late father. He was a man of the sea. It was his home. Great video.thanks,man.

Posittron - 7 years ago

Eddie Buggz Goodluck!

Tim Sargent - 7 years ago

awesome vid!

Miriam Aguilar - 7 years ago

what's the smallest tank to be a beginner?

Alejandro Jacobo - 7 years ago

Miriam Aguilar I would go with 20 that's what I'm doing

wcdeich4 - 8 years ago

Is there any advantage to black sand vs white sand? I know a lot of people complain black sand sticks to the magnetic algae scraper, and makes the fish poop stand out, and black sand does not reflect light back up to the corals...... but is there any advantage to black sand?

mikey low - 7 years ago

i have black sand in my 130g cichlid tank and lighter tan or white sand in the rest of my tanks.. the black sand i find creates more of a deep water feel , it is a darker tank.. i have used it in planted tanks and the reduced light being reflected didnt affect growth.. never tried it with corals though

SIMPLE AQUATICS - 8 years ago

thanks man i just tared down a 55 gallon wanting to do a saltwater tank and bumped into this video n you just pushed me to do it for sure thanks man lol

gary wright - 8 years ago

hi you keep doing these videos there gggrrreeeaatt bollocks too the others you've made people do marine when they thought it would be expensive keep it BRO

Liam Ackermann - 8 years ago

When starting a new tank is it necessary to boost the ph? I understand reef tanks need a ph around 8.2 and given that RODI and distilled water is closer to 7, how do people combat this problem? Im starting my first system soon and this just came to my attention.

Raman Thind - 8 years ago

Liam Ackermann . The ph gets boosted to 8.2 when you add salt

MinedGames - 8 years ago

Wait i need to clean my HOB filter twice a week? i just clean REAALLY good every friday.. is that okay?

Cole Boi - 8 years ago

MinedGames yep as long as your nitrates are ok

Miguel A Acosta - 8 years ago

thank you!!!

Michael Pachos - 8 years ago

Truth! Keepin' it real. Absolutely true. Thanks for the post.

Luis Rodriguez - 8 years ago

fuck live rock is expensive

Haon C. - 7 years ago

it all depends on where you live, i found a few aquarium places near me that sold rock for $3 canadian

Nikos Ozmorio - 7 years ago

LiveRock/DryRock is expensive...Just gotta find those people that either lost interest or don't have time to care for a reef tank. Best place is Craig's List and Facebook. I found a few people on Cl that were selling their saltwater tanks for really cheap because of both those reasons but they were like 5 hours away.

david boyd42 - 7 years ago

Luis Rodriguez dam right

Capn Sexy - 7 years ago

Luis Rodriguez you just need to know where to look. I got 34 pounds of rock at $0.50 cents a pound. granted I got it from a reef keeping place in the throws of moving.

fazil romero - 7 years ago

dry rock also ok...

noah shaw - 8 years ago

Lighting?

Kaltrina Demiri - 8 years ago

Petco tells me to start off with a 30 gallon and I have freshwater and never had salt water tanks, I really want one but I want to start with something smaller.

mikey low - 7 years ago

petco / petsmart .. none of them know jack lol.. when i got "bored" of freshwater (had 12 tanks) i wanted to try salt but without a big commitment so i started a 5 gallon with a homemade overhead sump filter (just a small pump in the tank pumping up to a small plastic storage container with filter media and an output back to the tank) it worked so well i soon upgraded to a 10g then a 15.. i have settled in with a 33 and love it, still do freshwater too but love both and completely different challenges with both.. do whatever size you can , just remember once you start looking for goodies to put in you will want a bigger one fast!! lol

Turtle's Reef - 7 years ago

With a smaller tank you'll really need to stay on top of water changes. The smaller the tank, the less bad stuff it can handle... nitrates, ammonia, ect... I'm not saying it can't be done. I'm currently getting into reefing and I'm going with a 75g setup. Petco had a $1 per gallon sale and I couldn't turn down a brand new tank for that cheap.

Michigan fan - 7 years ago

u are absolutely right about stability being the key

Big Coon - 7 years ago

The fish nerds at petco once told me to take all the gravel out of my tank, rinse it and throw it back in to prolong filter life. I wouldn't listen to those guys. I had a 10 gallon reef setup. Stability is key.

Michigan fan - 8 years ago

look on Craigslist people are always sell live Rock and you can get some good deals to I got about 60 pounds of great rock for 75 bucks and I got 3 corals to

Lovebetta - 8 years ago

Meekah Watz what do you think about Red Sea 350 73g + 18g sump. I am transferring my fish from my biocube 29. Or I should get the cadlight artisan II 100 but this size i feel it's too big. Can't afford the Red Sea 450 and it's 57" long. Ty

Meekah Watz - 8 years ago

They just want you to succeed and with a larger water capacity there is a better chance of stable water parameters. It's always a good idea to have more water. I think this guy is awesome and it's true you can keep a small tank but you definitely have a much greater chance of a crash from one small mistake. It's just a lot of heartache to put so much money and work into a tank and have it crash from something small.

Kaltrina Demiri - 8 years ago

That's really odd

Keeon Collier - 8 years ago

Thats funny, I went to Petco yesterday. They told me to start with a 55 gallon

likeastarbaby - 8 years ago

i'm not a huge fan of people who make videos like this where they just talk on the same scene for 10 minutes, and its not made better by the fact that you just repeat yourself over and over...

Katrina Odg. - 8 years ago

Thanks but I couldn't watch the video. The in and out was making me seasick

Renee Love - 8 years ago

Thank you are awesome... We are looking into starting a 35 gallon and would love some of suggestions on how to get it started

Edd Washington - 8 years ago

thanks a lot for this started a 20 long 4 day's ago so far one green mushroom came on one of the rock

jack shipley - 8 years ago

Do you have to add salt to your water during water changes?

bernard costa - 8 years ago

if you're doing a water change then yes. if you're just topping off evaporated water then no.

Meghan Orlando - 8 years ago

jack shipley salt does not evaporate. you add the salt initially when filling the tank for the first time, only topping off evaporated water with distilled fresh water

Luis Rodriguez - 8 years ago

no salt doesnt disolve just distiled water not tap water

Edward Lind-Holm - 8 years ago

You add salt to the water you are putting back to the aquarium.
Suck water out of the aquarium, mix saltwater in a bucket and reintroduce it to the aquarium.

wcdeich4 - 8 years ago

How much did all your equipment & supplies cost?

Mitch - 8 years ago

Great video helped me start my reef tank

Kyle Cartier - 8 years ago

When starting this tank did you use live sand? or just live rock

Michigan fan - 8 years ago

mine been up for 4 years yea stuff looks amazing but wait for your tank to mature like I said it slowly release phosphates every piece I have has it and it is just on the man-made

Kyle Cartier - 8 years ago

well I've had my tank setup for about 2 months now with 6 fish, 5 snails, and a shrimp and everything is doing great! and i started with live sand and man made real reef rock, it looks amazing

Michigan fan - 8 years ago

you do not and I repeat do not want to use man made rock the rock has phosphates out the ass in it and you will be fighting a losing battle from the start and have gha I thought the same thing when I first started i bought a bunch and every piece has gotten gha

Fish Freak - 8 years ago

An you want to use a live rock to start

Fish Freak - 8 years ago

It takes about a month to 2 months to cycle

Kyle Cartier - 8 years ago

how long did it take to cycle?

100. comment for How to setup simple cheap reef tank!

liquid-nature - 8 years ago

Great advice

luciano ramos - 8 years ago

Your quality live rock where I live would be 13.99 a pound

noah shaw - 8 years ago

Type in dry rock from brs its like 30.00$ for 11lbs

kelsie taylor - 8 years ago

try online

Fishin Around with Leshjr - 8 years ago

That's a pretty clean looking tank.

Sandra Wiseman - 8 years ago

Thank you so much for your video, LOVE IT!!! I am starting a 20 gl. reef aquarium and tanks to you for all the great tips.

Dio S7E7V7E7N - 8 years ago

top left orange coral looks like a rooster to me lol, nice tank btw.

Alexis Wilson - 8 years ago

hahaha it does

K Jackson - 8 years ago

I was a young kid when I started aquarium keeping, was to paranoid with salt water tanks. I'm now 19 and have mastered freshwater tanks and this has inspired me to try Saltwater, thankyou.

Robert Russell - 8 years ago

Awesome video it has made me change my mind from going with an African Cichlid tank with my 72 gallon bow front to a reef tank. If you have time I would love to chat and just get a little bit of info from you if possible

Ryan James Baliza - 8 years ago

hey, bro, thanks for this one. you're completely honest and appreciate it. i got a 10 gallon, and i'm confident now.

Mmgty - 7 years ago

Jorge A. Sanchez just start by adding one coral and one cheap fish and see how it goes before adding more.

Jorge A. Sanchez - 7 years ago

after a year, how is your tank doing? and how difficult was to run a 10g salt water tank?

Tony Stoops - 8 years ago

Algee hair I can keep a clean bottom just got red slim out

Dean Fochios - 8 years ago

I've got a 40 gallon breeder with two regular clowns. I have a finger leather and some pulsing xania and star poylp and the water stays cloudy. I did a 10 gallon water change yesterday and have a fluval 70 filter and a sea clone 100 protein skimmer. How do I keep water quality good

Donald Williams - 8 years ago

Change your salt if your using instant ocean I went to Red Sea and change your skimmer those skimmers are not good at all use to have one they suck.

AMERICAN BIRD - 8 years ago

What is the light your using

N7801Z - 8 years ago

Nice information. Please, please, please hold the camera still!

Keegan Day - 8 years ago

Awesome video!
Thanks so much for all the useful information!

Sonny Burnett - 8 years ago

what are dead spot? and can you put fish in here?

wildwestherp s - 8 years ago

You can put fish in here. Maybe three small fish like a clown goby, neon goby, and a shrimp goby (with pistol), or two small fish like a clown and a firefish.

Robert Cooper - 8 years ago

they are areas in the tank that are not receiving water circulation.

Jason Garbiso - 8 years ago

What kind of rock is that

Tony Stoops - 8 years ago

Do you help people I'm so lost with my tank

Bobby Boy - 8 years ago

+Jarrod Beaty because I have a 35 gallon tank with live rock and a fluval 306 external filter .been running since sat...I have a bottle of colony and was told I could add fish and coral straight away, so gonna go pet shop this weekend

EliteGamerXx - 8 years ago

+Rob Davies why?

Bobby Boy - 8 years ago

+Jarrod Beaty have you ever used colony

EliteGamerXx - 8 years ago

what do you need help with I can help

Usernam E - 8 years ago

He's right. A lot of the work and cost in this hobby comes from fish. But if you just want to keep corals with zero or one fish (preferably zero fish), then you can avoid a lot of the expense.

You could even skip the hang-on-back filter. That just eliminates ammonia. But where would ammonia come from? There's no fish! Haha.

Usernam E - 8 years ago

+StevenGamet There's basically 3 things you control in the water of a reef tank:
1. Nutrients
2. Calcium
3. Alkalinity

If you can keep those 3 things under control, you're good.

StevenGamet - 8 years ago

Thank you for your reply, i'm just recently getting into this hobby and I'd love to start this, thanks

Usernam E - 8 years ago

+StevenGamet 2 clownfish don't create very much waste. You wouldn't necessarily need any equipment to control nutrients in that case. You could probably control nutrients with simple water changes.

StevenGamet - 8 years ago

How about if I add 2 clownfish (with an anenome) what then?

Andrew Anaruma - 8 years ago

what should i add after my Cycle is done do i need to add calcium or the kent marine reef kits they sell

Andrew Anaruma - 8 years ago

nice tank ! great info

Kenneth Badders - 8 years ago

Sorry meant add new saltwater when doing a water change or just top off without salt sorry for the error and confusion.

StevenGamet - 8 years ago

If your water evaporates, DO NOT ADD SALT WATER.

Mark Chopin - 8 years ago

This guy is correct on almost every aspect. I highly recommend some worker fish. #1 add a cleaner shrimp, #2 add a diamond watchman goby, #3 add lots of crabs and snails! Add more filtration if you can afford it, a protein skimmer is a must, and if you have the time and money add a refugium if possible. The more water volume along with a small amount of reef safe fish, the better! I run a 125gallon reef with a 75gallon refuge and its the perfect ecosystem.

Cole Philpott - 8 years ago

what anemone do you have in the bottom left corner

Ordinaryname - 8 years ago

could i do a canister filter

Ordinaryname - 8 years ago

+AMERICAN BIRD true

AMERICAN BIRD - 8 years ago

+Gamdstarz You could also go the diy way, save money and have the same performance in the filter

Ordinaryname - 8 years ago

+andrew overheul thanks

andrew overheul - 8 years ago

+The Randomizer 25 Yea canister filters are a great yet somewhat more expensive option. They actually will filter better and keep down you evap as well. Just make sure you are checking it twice a month to make sure it is clean. The nice thing about canisters are usually you can add different media to them so if you want to do lps or sps you can add calcium media to it and that takes care of your calcium dosing if done right.

Kenneth Badders - 8 years ago

Awesome tank setup and information. I am getting a 55 setup done with some more hardware then you have there but I very much appreciate what you are doing informing people who are on a budget that they still can have and enjoy saltwater fish and it doesn't have to break the bank. If this information bothers anyone then to bad it's a free country read the freedom of information act it tells you that. Anyway I think down the road some I will include a couple more small tanks and they will be the done this simple way.

Eric Barney - 8 years ago

Some advice for a tank this size. Check your salinity levels DAILY. A hang on back filter is going to cause A LOT of evaporation.

andrew overheul - 8 years ago

+Kenneth Badders Do NOT, again, DO NOT add saltwater for evaporation top off. If you do this you will spike your salinity level. You add RO/DI water without salt to top your tank back off from evap.

Sumera Seraj - 8 years ago

is it OK to put a protien skimmer in this kind of tank

Keston Frizzle - 7 years ago

Sumera Seraj diy protein skimmer it costs like 20 dollars

Kenneth Badders - 8 years ago

+Sumera Seraj why not you can get a small hag on back skimmer for it.

a mac - 8 years ago

yes

Theo31633 - 8 years ago

nice

Danny's Fish - 8 years ago

There is a big misconception out there that you need a sump and a skimmer which is not true. Water changes work great lol. I think allot of people put too many fish in the tank and that's where problems start. With that said its still very expensive and more work compared to freshwater.

Mark Chopin - 8 years ago

+Dan K. Misconception? You are misconceiving this theory incorrectly. Depending on the sensitivity of the organisms within the environment, water parameters can get very intricate and flat out annoying to try to deal with. been there, done that, i will never attempt to hatch shark eggs in a home aquarium again! A sump and skimmer are very much needed for marine life to live to their fullest potential, I'm not saying that you can't get by without it, its just that the fish will be stressed. They will live, and eat , and play, but their colors and overall quality of life will be drastically noticeably better when they are in a clean water and stress fee environment. Fish are just like us, they will live to the fullest potential when the environment around them allows them to be : )

Angel Smyre - 8 years ago

Your video was very helpful!! Thanks A Million!!

James Bryan - 8 years ago

What bulbs are you using please.

Lgndsnvrdie02 - 8 years ago

That is simply amazing!!!!

ShowMeDaCarFax 56 - 8 years ago

How do you go about feeding the coral? Do you add plankton? do you feed brine shrimp? whats your method? i have a 20 gallon with a clownish, cleaner shrimp and a orcid dotty and want to add some color! I have experiences with mushrooms and frog spawns and we added plankton to the tank although some people say its not necessary to feed them. What do you do?

Barrady - 8 years ago

Super easy to do, but please do research as well if you plan on adding fish. The last thing you want to do is add fish that are too big into small tanks or adding too many fish.

Coon - 8 years ago

I want to do a 75 gallon tank but i am having trouble finding the exact lighting for 75 gallons. What watts would you recommend for for 75 gallons.

Coon - 8 years ago

Thank you

andrew overheul - 8 years ago

+Deadisland riptide The lights don't have to be expensive. If your wanting name brand with all the fixins and fancy crap yea it will be but if your main concern is quality lighting that can handle what your looking to do without all the extra stuff you probably wont use anyway then take a look at Rapid led. They have some fixtures that run about half or less the price of the big boy names but their lights are a better build. I have three of their pre built fixtures over my 200 gallon and there are no types of coral I can't keep.

Deez Nuts - 8 years ago

+Deadisland riptide 3-4 watts per gallon so about 225 watts but it is going to be expensive

Jimmy Quinzon - 8 years ago

big help!!!! Im starting 13g today!

Jon Ruby - 8 years ago

Had to get rid of my 40 when I went to college out of state, going start my 10 gal. this week!

cranky monkey - 8 years ago

any lighting information ?

Prithvish Mallikarjun - 8 years ago

+cranky monkey (schloosh) AI PRIME! I have 2 of them for 10 gallon tank and its awsome

Kenneth Badders - 8 years ago

+cranky monkey (schloosh) Get a small reef LED light they are now way under a 100.00 for a 20 or 24 inch one I have seen some for 65.00 and up depending on the size you need.

a mac - 8 years ago

stuart fillingham - 8 years ago

good sound advice from a guy who obviously knows what hes talking about. its so refreshing to hear someone encourage nano reefs rather than tell everyone they should not be doing it!

stuart fillingham - 8 years ago

+Angel Smyre why get rid of bristle worms? they are a useful part of your cleanup crew!

Angel Smyre - 8 years ago

+stuart fillingham Your right!! I found this video very useful!! I use to have one in 2005 and for some reason I had a few Bristle worms and those guy are hard to get rid of even with worm traps. Great Job Yak-N-Bass!!

Brandy Hanks - 8 years ago

If you are adding fish do you still need 10lbs of live rock? I have a 20 gallon so would I need 20lbs of live rock?

ShowMeDaCarFax 56 - 8 years ago

+Brandy Hanks Yup! one pound of rock per gallon. Same with sand generally.

Jon Windle - 8 years ago

+Brandy Hanks yes, the live rock supplies plenty of different habitats. The guideline is in place as a way to ensure you have enough habitat variety in a large tank.

She She - 8 years ago

Did you say what type of lighting you are using? Lights are so expensive. Any suggestions?

Shibe Inu - 8 years ago

I've had a saltwater tank for a little over half a year now and haven't even considered corals until now. This video has assured my decision to start my journey to making it a reef tank. Planning on getting some zoas from my "local" lfs (it's a 1 1/2 hour drive from where I live)

Chinomoto Senju - 8 years ago

So thankful for seeing this vid! I've been wanting to have a saltwater tank. But I have a question though? Does it have to be live rocks? I mean can I use anything else?

Jeanne - 9 years ago

Where did you get your live rock from and what type is it?

John H - 9 years ago

If it's just LPS coral, do you ever have to clean the sand? And if it's just green star polyps or hard coral, do you have to feed them anything other than light?

Chan T - 9 years ago

What light u use for your reef aquarium?

RCMods - 9 years ago

If I am consistent with my weekly water change, do I need a protein skimmer?

andrew overheul - 8 years ago

+MAPAHaus5 No you do not but,... I always recommend it as this will help you with water issues and ensure that your tank is pretty healthy when used with consistant water changes. You can get one that will handle a tank 55 gallon or less for less than $100. Check amazon for a coralife hang on back skimmer. Great skimmer even better price. I have the biggest one they offer on my 200 gallon tank and it does a great job.

Brent DeRidder - 9 years ago

Could you use LED lamps? I got a ton of cheap LED lamps from the dollar store.

Legend Shadow Mystic - 9 years ago

Very good , encouraging people to start the hobby and also I like you zoa garden there

Iamnota Mushroom - 9 years ago

Thanks man. I appreciate the info. I have a BioCube 14 I am starting just a coral reef. I have another that is cycling and is almost ready for coral and fish. This information is helpful.

Missy West - 9 years ago

thanks for the very encouraging video and as you said it can be as easy or hard as we make it....maybe I will start a very basic reef after watching this as I admit I had also put it into the 'too hard' and 'too expensive' category but it doesnt have to be. Thanks again for the positive and encouraging vid! :)

M. Youngdale - 9 years ago

What exact light is that?

Zach Meyer - 9 years ago

i set up a 15 gal reef tank against all the people at the fish stores advice and then i watched this video and i realized im not alone

Austin Schwebel - 9 years ago

+Zachary Meyer Everyone is going to tell you how hard nano reefs are, I setup my 10 gallon nano reef a year and 8 months ago, It hasn't had a water change in probably 8 months which was the last time I moved it. Everything is flourishing and amazed me on how little maintenance a reef tank actually needs. Just gets topped off with water every few days.

Do Viet - 9 years ago

You are truly a crusader for us low budget guys (and working stiffs). I salute you. Informative and professional. What kind of lighting are you running ?

wilca99 - 9 years ago

How much did all of this cost you?

wolandrew - 9 years ago

Oh this 60fps. My eyes cry from joy.

RCMods - 9 years ago

Great vid...very helpful for a novice person like me. Thanks.

Dhiraj Shetty - 9 years ago

Very nice video, looking forward on building one for my self, thank you.

Delgado - 9 years ago

Thank you for this vid, i've been very interested in starting a small saltwater tank. & Yup it's the long time hobbyist hating the most, anyways. My question is do saltwater tanks require coral? I find the coral appeal to be a bit dull & I feel like they rob the attention of the fish, so my questions is to anyone, do reef tanks require coral? and can they be fine with just live rock & right water measurements?

lakshmi narayanan - 9 years ago

+Cuda FX .....this is my mail i will get you through it....devilana95@yahoo.com i have an 200gal tank

Cuda FX - 9 years ago

i only have experience with freshwater, but just like plants in freshwater, corals and anemones are often important parts of the natural habitat of other creatures you keep. (for example, keeping clownfish without anemones is abuse)
the aspiration should be to give your aquatic pets the closest you can get to theyr natural living conditions. the clean, tidy show tanks you propably imagine will be the hardest to maintain, and the least comfortable for your fish.
peace~ =)

Zakri Rahman - 9 years ago

+blah blah lima well, different people have different taste. I think corals dont rob the attention of the fish, but compliment them. In fact, i think a tank without corals are more like prison for fish while a tank with corals are more like a playground to them. Happy saltwatering!

Delgado - 9 years ago

+Zakri Rahman oh okay thanks!! ... actually i'll still keep a Fowlr even with experience I like the fish more than the corals, I feel like corals rob the attention of fish more. but that's my preference.

Zakri Rahman - 9 years ago

+blah blah lima No. Its not necessary. Most newbies just using rocks and fish. But when you become better, you might want to add corals because them corals look very beautiful and colorful. Make your tank livelier also. And also adding corals to your tank mean that youre not a newbie anymore because corals are more dellicate, need more attention and pristine water condition.

Delgado - 9 years ago

+Zakri Rahman sorry I meant to say do saltwater tanks need corals???

Zakri Rahman - 9 years ago

+blah blah lima well without the coral, its not a reef tank. we call it FOWLR tank

Revvizory - 9 years ago

you do not need corals that's optional

ELCHINO4201 - 9 years ago

What type of lights are you using? I'm looking setting up an empty 20 tall I have. I'm a new to saltwater looking @ keeping mostly soft coral and maybe a few inverts. TIA

Cody Harris - 9 years ago

How hard would it be to turn a 60 gallon hexagon into a reef tank I already have the Marineland reef capable led light

Miss Trish - 9 years ago

thank you so much! this vid is really helpful.

aaron scarisbrick - 9 years ago

Hi just a question what is the coral on the top left?

SoftwareDevJason - 9 years ago

Nice video man. I heard those kind of things a lot when setting up my reef. I took my time and got mine setup for a fraction of what I was told it would cost so I completely agree with you. I would like to point out however (1 full year into my budget reef), after a while some things are just easier and more economical to fork out extra money for in the beginning. Enough extra money that it starts to not be cheap. RO/DI system rather than driving to the LFS to get it, pricier lights for better growth and appearance, pricier test kits for more accurate tests, higher quality foods, etc. I agree you can do it cheap, but if you're like me, it will get expensive anyway because you want to keep trying new corals, see more growth or expanding your tank. That, or you start losing interest.

pusc1f3r - 9 years ago

Great video, I have a spare 10G tank sitting around and this might now be a saltwater tank!

Marsel Vitti - 9 years ago

Did I buy my aquarium really cheap? I bought a 50 gallon tank, a cover with a light, a heater, a canister filter, some media, a full half- gallon container of carbon, 2 fish nets ALL for 50$ on craigslist.

joshua burgos - 9 years ago

+Marsel Vitti 50 gallon cheapest 50 bucks hood 20 filter 20 carbon 50 media 10-15 heater 30 nets 25 260 bucks. I was a little high.

Marsel Vitti - 9 years ago

I tought 150$, maybe 200$.

Marsel Vitti - 9 years ago

No way!

joshua burgos - 9 years ago

+Marsel Vitti 350 bucks easy. maybe 450.

Marsel Vitti - 9 years ago

I know right. How much do you think it's worth?

joshua burgos - 9 years ago

+Marsel Vitti Damn.

zakartaz - 9 years ago

Great vid man! I'm just starting my first reef tank...

Reefer Nanoman - 9 years ago

Simple cheap reef tank. This is a very expensive hobby!

Seth B - 8 years ago

+james ramirez yeah because you bought it all set up, what's the fun in that

Eduardo Zuniga - 9 years ago

No it's not bought a 75 gallon ready reef tank whit fish for 200 on craiglist and it's not harder to maintain than my planted tank

SKG1985 - 9 years ago

Beautiful tank man. So can you add fish to a tank like this?

Luis Cruz - 9 years ago

I just got into the hobby and got a 20 gallon tank I'm going to get the filter and light this weekend but having trouble getting live rocks

Jeffrey Romero - 9 years ago

Just corals only tanks are easy. They produce little waste. Its when you add critters in it that it becomes more challenging cause water quality gets used faster fish waste and food are added and you have to stay on top of it you maintenance.

Nic Aiuto - 9 years ago

i would love to know when your next update will be! your channel is one of the best an has straight forward answers to subscribers:)!

nancy xiong - 9 years ago

starting my own reef tank. we bought a 10 gallon but the workers at the petstore keeps telling us to it is better to get 30 gallons or more. we wanted to get the fishes from finding nemo but they told us that would be 100-150 gallon. are u able to even put clownfishes in your 10 gallon? how many can u put? I am interested to get clown fishes, starfish, shrimp, and tango one.we are thinking to upgrade 40 or 55

Bradley Holden - 9 years ago

I'm working on setting up a 20 gallon reef tank :)

RayMondoART - 9 years ago

I love this video!! helpful tips and yes, I think I'm gonna start making a marine tank soon :)

ruben panchito - 9 years ago

Thanks! I have 5weeks with a 60g reef tank with only a protein skimmer and power heads! Corals, fish are doing great!! I was scared at first but it's easy!!!

Marcelo Jerez - 9 years ago

what kind of light for a 10 g easy reef tank?
btw yours looks great!

Landon Meeks - 9 years ago

$60 dollars for live rock nothing much just as much as he tank

nhi tran - 9 years ago

Where did he get the light ?

john yager - 9 years ago

Hey man good video. I was wondering what light you had on the 10gallon? Halide wattage 14k??? Thanks again!

Bronx House Kennels - 9 years ago

Thanks bro I've been dying to do a reef tank for a long time but everybody told me it was really expensive I appreciate the video bro

Monte's Aquatics - 9 years ago

It's totally an awesome hobby. If you have the interest in it then do it! My first tank was a 29 gallon. Didn't run any special lights as it was fish only, and this made the whole setup really cheap! It's a hobby that will frustrate you at times, yet is so rewarding.

Sethalos - 9 years ago

I just picked up a 65 Gallon tank, stand and 20 gallon sump for $175, thinking wow...this is awesome. Then I started pricing what I need to get it working....well holy ** the cost is insane. The lights alone are crazy, then the Skimmer, pump, etc. It all adds up, hehe. However, I'm hooked now, I just need to hide the CC bill from my GF.

Sethalos - 9 years ago

+james ramirez Yeah, problem with the bigger tanks is cost, time investment, etc. Have to get what you can afford both in upkeep and time. 65g right now is perfect for me.

Eduardo Zuniga - 9 years ago

I will go online craiglist and look for people getting rid of their equipment even whole set ups just got one last week everything included 75 gallon tank for $150

Monte's Aquatics - 9 years ago

Let the community know if you have questions! We're always willing to help! Depending on what you're goal is, a skimmer isn't 100% necessary. I don't run one on my 55 gallon. Frequent water changes are the key to success without one. Good luck!

Terrance Kowlessar - 9 years ago

thanks alot man u just inspired me into starting a reef tank

lays 88 - 9 years ago

``he`s glad he fucking started it, so`` lmao

Kenney Wilke - 9 years ago

Do you have a email I can ask you some questions about changing my freshwater to a saltwater tank.

patrick jullian - 9 years ago

beautiful tank man

Ryan Kromplewski - 9 years ago

How much did this cost?

serbusfish - 9 years ago

Can I ask what lights you used in this video? What colours? I want to set up a tank with this sort of light, I hate tanks that are overly blue, but at the same time I want my colours to pop. I have a 4x T5 fixture.

Jeff Watts - 9 years ago

Nice Vid but next time put the camera on a tripod, I have a headache

laura sutton - 9 years ago

I'm getting ready to start up my first salt tank can't wait its going to be 75gal what kind of advice do you have?

Joe Tischer - 9 years ago

You can easily do a nano tank on the cheap. The thing to remember is; the reason why people suggest larger tanks to start is to give more room for error with water conditions. A nano or even pico tank reduce your chance of errors, or spiked Ammonia/Nitrates/Nitrites...Stay on top of the water and the rest is easy.

stopcallingmegothic - 9 years ago

This video made me feel like i was drunk, why are you moving the camera back and forth so much?

cj tele - 9 years ago

great stuff man great attitude Reefs can be real big time complex but You are right You can get into reefs at any level I am sure people will take it as far as they want Big secret I always say is to remember you are not keeping fish or coral you are keeping water Thanks again You are awesome

mitelefonoes - 9 years ago

I have my 10 gallon with mix corals thanks to this video

Mr. Gooch - 9 years ago

You forgot to mention lights. What Would be a good light set up for a 10 gal? Thanks.

Ryan Cork - 9 years ago

Get a quality LED setup. You don't have to spend a ton. Even compact floros still kick ass by todays standards and can keep most any mushrooms, LPS and soft corals in general.

Read, read, read is the best advice anyone could give you bro.

Blessings.

Layla M - 9 years ago

thats very simple and pretty tank one question how many and size of fish can i have for 10 gallon tank like that is it true little tank smaller fish

Dan Bacarra - 9 years ago

Great video I wish I saw this b4 I spent all this money on a huge tank with all the bells and whistles, don't get me wrong I love the thing, sumps reactors refugium led lights high flow aquarium controller auto topoff, but it took me 2 years of slowly buying thing as everything is so expensive. Long story short I could have started it 2 years sooner and I almost hadn't started at all bc I never thought I would ever finish buying everything that was required. Come to find out everything I got wasn't required, or made it easier. It's easy now but not when I started, it just made it more complex. Again keep up the great work

Gareth Davies - 9 years ago

great vid bro! im just starting my 190L reef aquarium after many many years of keeping fresh water aquariums, some good tips here!

Native Fish Keepers - 9 years ago

What kind of lighting do you have on this tank?

john carr - 9 years ago

What kind of heater did you get? What do you recommend?

Beetlesgonefishin - 9 years ago

Great vid Dave, I agree with what you have to say here,I've had marine tanks for about 30 yrs now and I dont go in for sps corals,(small polyp stoney) to much hard work,like you said PATIENCE IS KEY to a successful tank ,regular small water changes,test for ph and nitrates and you should be good ,help is always online at various chat forums,I use them alot when I need help with an issue ,all the best....Beetle

mano cotto - 9 years ago

Sorry 29 g high not long

mano cotto - 9 years ago

Hi i have at 29 g freshwater tank but i want to know if i can use that tank and make it at reef tank all i want is coral at pair of clowns and just 1 dansel can you help me please

SPL - 9 years ago

I watched this video over 10 times a year ago until you convinced me to start a reef tank. I didn't even know what you meant by mechanical filtration and I had no idea what those corals were in your tank. Now I own a beautiful mixed nano tank full of LPS, SPS and zoa's.

so thanks a bunch man!

Shachar Petrushka - 7 years ago

How is that reef tank going?
Care to update?

Corvux IX - 7 years ago

Mayweather.

Nick - 7 years ago

Diaz Bros.

anizato reef - 9 years ago

David props on your ideas bro! BADASS!
THIS was one of the videos that inspired me to keep a 10 gallon nano. If I would have listened to everyone else telling me to get a 75, etc I would have probably hated this hobby. Instead I have had a 10gal for 1 year now, my wife and I got bit by the bug and now have the 10 and a 50. Imagine that!

v2Spyro - 9 years ago

Awesome video my dude! In the process of cycling my 40g tank.

Buddy Sheroka - 9 years ago

Nice tank man it's nice show people that you can do any size reef aquarium it doesn't matter whatever you can afford to spend that's all that matters get a tank within your budget i have a 65 gallon mixed reef aquarium and I'm setting my 10 year old son up a 20 gallon mixed reef aquarium happy reefing

nsboost - 9 years ago

I bought a 16 gallon Aqueon widescreen tank that I planned on planting.. but after seeing this video... im really thinking id like to try a reef tank.

This tank is very wide and tall but very thin (fromt to back). Do you think that would be a problem? And I was tossing around the idea of buying a Satellite reef led light this week. I might do it unless you think the 12 cool white leds in the hood stand a chance at keeping easy corals alive.

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

Great video and nice tank! I have some tips for those on a budget as well, such as DIY rock or dry rock... for the base at least. With patience and the right approach, even tanks up to a 40 Breeder can be done on a tight budget. I've left some comments below if you're down to read them, let me know what you think.... Thanks for the video, keep shining and happy holidays...

Colby M - 10 years ago

Thanks for posting this, I've had cichlids for years, always wanted to do a reef tank but everyone said how hard and expensive it is. This gave me the courage to start off with a 20g long. Thanks!

Tyler powell - 10 years ago

Good video fully agree times have changed you don't need to be rich for a reef

Jayson Saldana - 10 years ago

What kind of lighting are you using?

John James - 10 years ago

I work at a pet store and we are always told to sell the bigger tank as the customer will always buy more pricey products and more of them. I'm a freshwater guy but I feel the same goes for freshwater.

AbstractXD - 9 years ago

Honestly it`s better to get a bigger tank when you're starting the hobby, especially saltwater.

People always say the tank is harder to maintain which is partially true however they're also a lot easier to maintain. The water parameters won't go wonky all of a sudden, you won't have to do water changes as often and you won't have the problem of overstocking as much as people new to the hobby tend to accidentally do.

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

I think this is bad, and will likely end up driving people away from that store or the hobby in general.... the best approach would be to sell them a tank appropriate for their needs, including space, budget, and the fish they wish to keep as pets. Selling somebody a large tank is good, don't get me wrong, but if you find out what you're working with as a customer you'll be better able to sell them what they need, which will keep them coming back for more, and eventually they'll likely be buying more stuff, coming in for more livestock, filter cartridges, pumps, glass lids, more tanks, filters, more tanks, heaters, lighting, more tanks,...... :) Personally, if there is space for it, I think there are a few great options for beginners, such as some of the kits even. I recently picked up a 25G kit, that came with a nice tank, filter, heater, glass top, and 2 bulb T5HO lighting. All that was needed was a power head and rock/sand, then cycling and livestock. This tank would also make a great FW starter tank depending on the intended purpose, not the best for a Mbuna tank, but would have made a great planted community tank for something like a school of neons, some corys, and a pair of rams, or something to that effect. I've also seen some nice setups lately that included one bowfront kit of good intermediate size, a marineland kit, and an "in-store" kit at a local store that included a decent light, heater, glass top, filter, and a 29 gallon tank. 40 Breeder tanks are also awesome if you can pick one up for $40, add a lid, light, etc. and it's a decent sized tank for a decent cost, and the footprint makes for all sorts of goodness. Even when they aren't on sale, the 40B tanks are a great size. You sound like you're on the right path, hope that not pushing the biggest tank they can afford or have space for isn't getting you in trouble with the boss.... Happy Holidays....

Joe Scrivens - 10 years ago

cheap and reef will never go together LOL

Puff Daddy Reef - 10 years ago

This is great advice. I was afraid of doing one because of what people said. Then I hesitated on getting SPS since people said that was hard. What I realized is that if you don't just bite the bullet and try then you will never really know. If you have the passion then it makes the challenges feel easier, and if you do suffer loss, it is a necessary part of the learning process.

Puff Daddy Reef - 10 years ago

+Tom-André Thomsen I'm not sure how them being animals and not plants makes much of a difference. I eat a lot of yogurt, which is an animal colony more similar to a stick of sps than a plant. I don't feel bad when I eat yogurt. If the coral was aqua cultured and not yanked from the ocean, then if it dies on you the only loss is your cost to replace it. What you gain from trying, and hopefully trying again is knowledge to share with others, an appreciation of nature, and improvements to your aquarium to propagate new coral. For each person that doesn't even try, there is one less place for more coral to live and one less mind in the hobby. So do you research, but don't let the unknown discourage you, it IS ok to fail, and perhaps you will be just fine. Now go get some local grown frags and join the community!

Tom-André Thomsen - 10 years ago

Just please remember that corals actually are animals, not plants. I'm not here to discourage you from experimenting in the reef hobby, I'm just saying that it is really important to do ALOT of research (like the maker of the video also stresses). When you have done your research, keeping almost any type of reef tank is easy, but only when you have put in ALOT of work before buying anything.

Efreitor Habibulin - 10 years ago

This tank gonna be a maintenance nightmare in quite a short time... but sure, do it. It is invaluable experience after all. Just keep in mind, cheaping out in the beginning will become twice as expensive if not more, in case you like the hobby and would want to advance.

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

In my little 15G I had xenia, mushroom, nepthea tree, clove polyps, and was on the hunt for a couple nice colors of zoa's and a GSP before we moved. I think there's a happy medium that would be suitable for many folks, somewhere between FOWLR and a full blown, headache inducing reef tank. I was able to empty the skimmate and top off with fresh water a couple times a week, then do a water change and cleaning for about a half hour once weekly, about 10% change, filter maint., wiping stuff down, etc. All in all I didn't find it a headache at all for maintenance or to keep parameters acceptable so that things were growing nicely. I fed the fish sparingly on an almost once daily schedule, and fed filter feeder food supplement once a week or so. For a 15G and on a budget, it ended up being a nice little piece of paradise in the living room. Right now I have two tanks running, one is on it's way to being more of a reef, the other is FOWLR for now, but will be getting some love soon also. Right now the little tank is the isle of misfit fish, and I'm waiting on one more batch of DIY rock to be tank ready... There's a couple pics of the tanks on FB from yesterday, santa creek furrows is the FB account, look it up and tell me what you think.... Merry Christmas and happy reefing...

Efreitor Habibulin - 9 years ago

+Isaiah Furrow fish only tank can be any size, if you want a proper saltwater tank with SPS and it will be a nightmare, question is who wants a fish only saltwater tank...

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

I had a 15G and it was no maintenance chore at all, it was up and running for over 2 years until we moved. I find it no more or less difficult to top off 1 quart or 1 gallon of evap every other day... nor any harder or easier to mix a couple gallons up than to mix the whole bucket full... Stocking it was cheaper... :) Filling it with the appropriate amount of rock was cheaper too... Not that I don't love the tank I have now, but I have a similar shaped 25G that I picked up a while back and it's running nicely for now, as well as a 50G that is 36x18" footprint, so basically a 40 Breeder but taller. I have a 40 Breeder that I will be putting under it soon, picked that up for the $1 a gallon sale. I just don't get how a small tank becomes a maintenance chore, at least not any more a chore than a larger tank. No offense, but if you would elaborate maybe I'd understand what you mean, it's late here and I could have missed something, even without the late hour... :) Happy Holidays....

Esmeralda Flores - 10 years ago

What type of lights you got

Sinan Khan - 10 years ago

What sand do u use

wetwilly420 - 10 years ago

Carib sea is a good live sand.

Jess Oconjr - 10 years ago

I've been wanting to start one, however all the ones I've seen so far has been high end (out of my budget) reef tanks. Thank you for your information.

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

DIY or dry rock seeded with a small bit of nice established rock can save big $, I have a 36" T5HO light from Odyssea, that I love for the price. It's the one without the timer, with 4 bulbs for under $100. I use no sump or skimmer right now, and so far so good even on our well water, but I have an RO on my list soon, as I'm moving now into corals. If you don't want that you may be able to do without one depending on your water supply, or you can get RO or distilled water at the fish store or some grocery stores. After a while, having your own filter I think would be better, eventually cheaper, and much more handy on Sunday.... I live miles from pavement so our mountain well water is pretty pristine, and going out to get water would be a real pain, and a long drive both ways... I use mostly Whisper 40 and 60 filters on all of my tanks, and in bulk the cartridges can be had for less than a buck... I've had good luck with maxi jet and koralia circulation pumps and they're not high dollar either. Buy salt by the bucket... for $49 my bucket of Reef Crystals has lasted a LONG time ... and to start with, don't buy any really expensive specimens... I have NO fish or corals either in my tanks or on my list, which are over about $30, aside from a few zoanthids that are more like $40-50 for the colors I want, but those will come last. Nothing over $50 a specimen will be in my tanks any time soon.... :) Oh, and Quarantine.... patience, research, and quarantine can save you big $ and headache.... Hope this helps, and feel free to shoot me a message if I might be able to help with anything. Keep shining and happy holidays....

Andreas Chryseliou - 10 years ago

I'm currently using my 10G as a hospital for my Africans..
But nothing's ever going wrong with them (and I'd even go on to say that IF one died, it's easily replicable (don't hate me))

So I'm seriously thinking about just converting that into a small Reef.
Nothing complicated, just a clownfish pair and a cleaner shrimp.

I'll have to think about it...

Andreas Chryseliou - 9 years ago

+Isaiah Furrow Thanks for looking out for me, haha.

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

my problem precisely, I want 2-3 kinds of Zoa's , and see many pictures of beautiful specimens, but never find anything like those at my stores in my area. Hoping to hook up with a club/group so that I might be able to get those prized specimens without spending hundreds of dollars on them, or the trip to where I will get them, such as a bigger city many hours away.... Thanks again for the chat....

Andreas Chryseliou - 9 years ago

+Isaiah Furrow I'm trying to avoid overloading the tank with Softies.
I have limited room as it is.

I definitely want Zoa's but I want good looking Zoa's.

The LFS is packed full of boring old brown Polyps..

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

+Andreas Chryseliou Nice! Get you some zoanthids if they're not super expensive in your area, then I'd look into finding other reefers near you, such as a club/group. That is what I'm hoping to find soon in my area. Nice looking setup you've got started there though.... My wife brought me home a cobalt blue for my cichlid tank, and two green striped mushrooms for the "reef" tank, now I've got a start, now to get me some GSP, Zoanthids, and xenia.... keep shining bro.....

Andreas Chryseliou - 9 years ago

+Isaiah Furrow Just the basic stuff.
This is a lil thread I started about which coral I should pick up.

http://www.nano-reef.com/topic/355085-coral-choice-help/

Feel free to check it out.

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

right on.... best of luck with it... keep up on evap. on the daily or every other day... change a gallon or so once a week, and have fun.... my first SW tank was a 15, basically a taller 10G. It was running successfully for about 2 years before we moved. Let me know what you're running on your 10G, or what you're still working out. What have you put into it so far?

Andreas Chryseliou - 9 years ago

+Isaiah Furrow Well... I've just started up that 10G as a reef :D

So far I've got a single Perc and several Mushrooms.

Loving it so far.

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

I recently picked up a nice kit, that had a heater, filter, glass top, and 25G tank, as well as a twin bulb T5HO. It's a nice little kit. Add a circulation pump, and get going.... kit was $109. My first was a 15G tank, worked out well for about 2 years before we moved. Now I have a 50G (40 Breeder but taller, the 25G, and a 40 Breeder that I will be setting up soon. Lighting on the cheap, I am using a Odyssea 4 bulb T5HO from AquaTraders, the one without the timer. So far I've been very happy with it for the price, it's been going well over a year now, only issue was one LED went out after having been on for months without a break... maybe my fault? Best of luck if you do decide to go into SW, but look into dry rock, and seed it with a little bit of cured LR from a local tank or store, even just buying a "mushroom rock" will get your dry rock started. A lot of my rock I made myself, with cement, coral sand, crushed coral, crushed oyster shell, coarse rock salt.... etc.... Again, best of luck, and if you have any questions, feel free to hit me up, I'd be glad to help if I can.

John Camping - 10 years ago

can you add fish to that, how would the dynamics change it?.. I got a 55 gal.. so 55lbs live rock? I got dead rocks.. just let it cycle?

TodaOne, CC, Dad Mom - 9 years ago

+Isaiah Furrow sine the comment got struck w pick or som bugg.. Lost all my fish.. Since that happened
. got a 29 gal QT tank.. On 50 api filter.. Used power copper and stabilizer as instructed to start tank.. Put 30% original water and rest sea water.. Got some damsels there for fun and now pu a coral beauty and yellow tang.. They doing great so far been on 3 days.. Eating well cause I had pit them in reef tank but got sick again took them out immediately.. So Jan 31 going to put the fish back I'm main tank.. Corals are triviving in main.. Got 4 t5 lights.. 8frags.. Snails shrimp and crabs... No fish need pick to die.. Just installed the wet dry.. Having trouble getting a pump to stop breaking on skimmer

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

you can use dead, or dry rock, or even self-made DIY rock, and seed it with a small amount of established live rock... just make sure that depending on the dry/dead rock, that you clean and cycle it if necessary. I can't imagine a tank without at least one fish. I would not go by a certain pound number as a goal, make the scape you want and that's how much rock you need. Depending on the rock, 55 lbs. could be a small amount, or hard to fit into that tank with any room left over. Let me know if you've started your tank, and how it's coming along.... also, let me know what you're working with and any troubles you run into and I'll be glad to help where I can... keep shining, best of luck, and happy holidays...

Agustin Ortiz - 10 years ago

Hey David I got a 20 gallon thats going to be used for my reef would you recommend a protein skimmer? The pump is 530 gph, thats close to 30x turnover per hour would that be ok for soft corals? Im going to have 4.8 watts per gallon as well, is the protein skimmer necessary? I get yes and no for this question. If it's better for the tank Ill go on ahead and purchase it but would like to know your opinion.

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

From my experience, a skimmer isn't "necessary" depending on the application and what you're hoping to keep in the tank... my current setup has no sump or skimmer, and I use well water.... Soon I hope to add an RO filter to my utility room, and also I may eventually get a skimmer, but for now I just do water changes.... I'm just getting into keeping corals like mushrooms, zoanthids, and xenia again, so that makes a difference, but so far so good on our nice clean mountain well water... best of luck to you....

A London - 10 years ago

can you put hermit crabs in there

grandmasterd4645 - 10 years ago

Yer nice vid mang!

schaapje666 - 10 years ago

how much did this cost you? i can get the tank, with lighting, skimmer, heater for about 120 dollars. about the same size as yours.

Ramtin Kazemi - 10 years ago

i have a 110 gallon african cichlid tank ... been having freshwater tank all my life pretty much but i wanna change it now to reef. would you say it's a good size for a beginner reef tank? also i have two 2217 EHIM filters.

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

Keep that cichlid tank for cichlids if you haven't already swapped it out.... I'd suggest you start with something like a 40 Breeder, big enough to keep the drastic parameter swings in check, but small enough to not cost a fortune in live rock, salt mix, etc.... and they can be had at a price of $40 for the tank if you have patience, which you will need in this hobby. Working on a starter setup, with a budget, I'd suggest something like a 40B, glass top, HOB filter of your choice, or two, powerhead or two, again of your preference, lighting ( I currently use an Odyssea fixture, and for the price I'm more than happy almost 2 years later), some substrate of your choice, dry rock, and a piece of live rock that is from a running system, such as a "mushroom rock" or just a piece from the local pet store. This will seed the dry rock and get it started, eventually it will all be purple and pink with patience and good care, and the right lighting. I made a lot of my rock, and it's hard to tell some of it from the stuff that came from the ocean a year later. Patience and lots of reading and videos will be key, I love the book "The New Marine Aquarium" by Michael Palletta, I loaned it out and will buy a new copy I loved it that much. Anybody who showed any interest got sent home with that book, and one time it didn't come back... I must not be the only one who liked it... :) Keep shining and best of luck to ya when you do get into SW tanks, patience is key, slow is better, and research first.... Also, QUARANTINE.... especially when making later livestock additions to a running, stocked tank.... but it's just a good idea to get into.... nothing complicated, tank, heater, PVC fittings for hiding in, and some filtration and water changes are all that are needed, and well worth the piece of mind.... now, where'd I put that 10G at after I used it last anyhow...? :)

grandmasterd4645 - 10 years ago

Everywhere I read says the bigger the tank the easier Ramtin - due to changes in your water not happening as quickly; you may have to outlay more for more powerheads, higher capacity protein skimmers etc

David has tried to show here that it's still easy with only a 10gallon tank

deathfromabove592 - 10 years ago

Cool little tank.

M Thiede - 10 years ago

what do you suggest for a 30 gallon hexagon tank? i have an internal filter ( top fin with bubbler) on it at the moment. am getting salt and sand tomorrow.

Andrew Salinas - 10 years ago

u have encouraged me to start my reef tank lol i hope it goes good

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

best of luck.... patience is key, and if you're thrifty you can do quite a bit on little cash, that is if you're not "needing" that high dollar fish or coral ... there are many fish that can be had for cheap, the most expensive fish on my list is $29 or so, and the most I'll pay for a coral specimen is like $45 tops. DIY rocks or dry base rock, seeded with a small amount of nice, cured rock from and established system, can get you going on the cheap. Again patience is key, as dry rock isn't live right away, and DIY rock can take months before it's ready to put into your tank... But, this can definitely save you a lot of $ in the long run with patience, where I live, crappy rock is $4-8 a pound wet, and good rock is hard to find at all, and at the high end of that range. I am using a single reflector T5HO light by Odyssea and so far I'm very happy for the price paid. Not something people wanting corals with high light requirements would want to use, but for the kinds of stuff I want to keep in my tank it's great, and was under $100 with 4 bulbs. I replaced one daylight tube with a Zoo Med actinic and was loving it, until I did a cleaning session and broke the Zoo Med bulb being careless. Let me know if you've started a tank yet and how it's going if you did. Keep shining and happy holidays....

J Garrett - 10 years ago

Look on craigslist I got 110 gallon with stand and canopy led lights for the main rand led for the refugium skimmer heater fish sand live rock corals ext already sold 500 dollars with of rbtas and coral out of it with tons left. I picked it up for 500. Look on reef forums and craigslist and it won't be that expensive buying used. So yes buying a new 10 gallon setup and all the stuff will run you 500. Buying used turnkey system which I probably see 3 a day of will cost you the same or less.

your fellow reefer - 9 years ago

+Isaiah Furrow hey man i just got a 135 gallon tank, its really nice freshwater but i want ot get ready for saltwater. I have a sump and overflows, the tank is reef ready it said. It has bioballs where the water gets into then obv back into the output. Just curious because im new at this, do i still use the bioballs? Do i buy a protein skimmer ? And if so how much would i be dropping on the lights, skimmer, and rock altogether. Ive been saving up and i have 1,000 dollars to work with right now. Please get back to me thanks man really excited

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

If you're in an area where this can be done, it's a no-brainer... I am in a rural area, and had to make a little bit of a day trip out of it, but I scored a 90, with stand, some equipment, and a hood that needed some work, for $50.... Stoked! Now to get it ready for some Mbuna cichlids.... There are some other great $ saving approaches to SW tanks as well, such as a 40 Breeder for $40 on sale, the Odyssea T5HO light I use on my tank was less than $100 new with 4 bulbs, DIY or dry rock can save you cash if you have patience, etc.... If you must have the high-end gear you can spend big $, but if you're thrifty, you can get a lot of enjoyment out of this hobby on a tight budget.

akhurash - 10 years ago

Great video. Just a thought.... for people who are worried about the price of starting a reef tank (even these small ones), buy used equipment and shop around. I started a 55 gallon reef tank and I bought almost everything used. You can get corals FOR CHEAP on local forums/Craigslist and sometimes you can coral's for free by asking on local forums. Below are some of the stuff I got by looking around and buying used:

1. Dry rock $1-$1.50/lb (dry rock will become live rock with time)
2. Live rock $1.50/lb (I bought few pieces just to get started)
3. 55 gallon (on sale at Petco, $1/gallon)
4. HOB filters, I have two. One Aquaclear 70 (awesome filter) for $15 and Tetra Whisper for $25 (new from Amazon)
5. I bought A LOT of fish for sale at a local fish store that has a anniversary sale. I bought about $200 worth of fish for only $110. One tip for fish if your on a budget, look around. I have seen fish prices vary significantly from one local fish store to another.
6. I bought salt new at Petco. This and the tank was one of my most expensive purchase.
7. Crushed coral mixed with sand, 2 5 gallon buckets for about $20.
8. Bought some LED reef lights from eBay but I am currently making my own LED lighting. You can buy used metal halides and T5HO used for great prices.
9. Free corals from a local reef forum. I will buy corals but I was offered these to start my tank.

I know there is a lot of people out there who will say you absoutely need a protein skimmer but the truth is you don't. Search on YouTube, Reef Central and other reef forums and you can see people with awesome tanks without skimmers. Skimmers are benefical but not absolutely necessary. If you have only HOB filters then you do need to keep your water clean by checking the filter and doing water changes, as mentioned in the video. So far I only have zoa's but I will get more soon.

One major tip when buying dry/live rock... Try to get light weight, porous pieces because they are better for filtration and also cost less when buying in $/lb.

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

Great stuff.... I've used some DIY rock to greatly reduce cost on that front.... takes patience though... I got a 50G tank used, for a good deal, but a 40Breeder has the same footprint and those can be had for $40 at the right time on sale(have one in the shed right now). I love Whisper 40 and 60 filters, and use them on most of my tanks. Cartridges in a 36 pack are less than $1 each, so that helps....also, I have one replacement that can go onto a number of tanks should one decide to give me troubles. Reef Crystals can be had in a bucket for $49 if you know how to shop, and start shopping before your bucket is empty.... a bucket lasts a LONG time too... not buying $50+ fish or corals also, I just don't have the $ to justify purchases like that, and there are plenty of choices that appeal to me in the "under $50" range.... I'm cheap, but I'm loving this hobby and on a small budget, for instance, I love my Odyssea T5HO 4 bulb light, with the bulbs it was less than $100. Not super high end equipment, but works well for my needs and budget. There's better lights, better bulbs, better reflectors, etc.... but this is better than anything else I could have afforded new, and likely better than what I could have picked up used in my area, not mention that it came with 4 new bulbs. I hope to get an RO soon, and some dry rock from BRS, but I don't use a skimmer so far and don't think I'll be getting one any time soon.... I just export nutrients via water changes and that's working so far. Great post you made, happy holidays.....

Zone07 - 10 years ago

A Simple 10 Gallon Reef tank with very few corals will run you about $500 to start.
Afterwards, the cost will be additional corals, salt-water, additives, and routine maintenance.

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

depending on what you stock your tank with, a person could spend well over $500 on a couple corals.... but if a beginner is buying top dollar corals they have too much $ or too little sense.... I would wager that you could get a 40 Breeder going for 500 bones, $40 for the tank, $100 for a light, glass top, two whisper filters, bulk pack of cartridges, heater, a circulation pump... a bucket of salt and hydrometer, some dry rock, sand, a piece of local live rock, and you're ready to start stocking.... I might just be cheap, or cheaper than the average reefer, but I can't justify spending high dollar on a single specimen, so I'm looking to add mushrooms, zoanthids, xenia, GSP, and a few other "beginner" corals. There are plenty of corals that could be had for a decent price, if one is thrifty and has some patience. For another example, I recently picked up a 25G kit, with tank, a filter, glass top, 2 bulb T5HO light, and heater, for $109. To this I added some base rock, substrate, a powerhead, and am now stocking the tank. I think I have between $200 and $225 into the tank, including one small piece of live rock to seed the tank, and a clownfish. That leaves me over $200 for other livestock selections, so that should get me at least a couple kinds of shrooms, a couple kinds of zoos, a xenia, some star polyps, and possibly another specimen or two, along with a second and maybe a third fish. Then I'm only looking at salt mix, filters, bulbs, and upkeep cost... before I buy all that livestock for that tank of my other tank, I'm picking up a new generator, which I think is something any aquarist should have, or anyone in general for that matter.... I guess that puts me over the $500 mark even with a 10 gallon setup though.... :) Happy holidays, and happy reefing.... keep shining folks....

schaapje666 - 10 years ago

+zone07 that doesnt make it expensive. cause you put in corals over a period of time. and they are not that expensive if you know where to look.

Zone07 - 10 years ago

+J2 digital Can you recall how much? Corals alone can cost you over a 1/3 of $500; unless you start out with frags and even then it can get up there.

J2 digital - 10 years ago

I disagree, I started a 10 gallon and did not spend anywhere near $500. It might have felt like $500 but it wasn't haha.

brawler1948 - 10 years ago

Yes, but this little 10 gallon is still anything but cheap to start up!!!! People need to realize how much money it takes to start up a reef tank!!!!!
1. 10lbs live rock = 60$
2. At least 4 head of coral = 160$ (on the cheap end)
3. good light (which you failed to cover in this video) = at least 50-60$
4. protein skimmer = 80-100$
5. pump for the protein skimmer = 50-60$
6. sand = 10$
7. salt = 5-10$

So we are at about 450$ for your little 10 gallon reef tank starter. These prices are conservative too!

Reef Huligan - 10 years ago

Well you r exactly what hes talkin about i dnt know how people from 1948 do it but these days you called a hater in my book. people are actually changin mind with and wanting to try. while your 2 cents i hope people dnt stop to read like I did.ENOUGH ABOUT YOU.. why are you even here..??? the tank IS AWESOME BRO GAVE ME HOPE...!!!! i LOVE IT WAY SICK COLORS AND RESPECT ON EFFORTS TO GIVE PEOPLE A NON HATEROUS INSIGHT...THANXXX

Trevor Busby - 10 years ago

thank you mate it was excellent cheers from Darwin Australia

Jack Garber - 10 years ago

how is your tank doing now in 2014? i would like to start a 10 gall tank myself.. but now sure where to start . i do have a 29 and 40 gall fresh planted tank with discus and angel fish... would any water filter work.. or what kind of water filter would you need sugest

Isaiah Furrow - 9 years ago

Have you started a salt water tank yet? Shoot me a message and let me know what you're working with, or what your goals and budget, and such and I'll see if I can help you out some. I've done a decent bit on little $, for instance, DIY rock is a saver if you have patience. Dry rock as well if you aren't into making it and waiting it out for so long. Lighting, I use Odyssea T5HO, the 4 bulb one without a timer, and plan to buy more Odyssea lights soon. For the price I'm more than happy. Keep shining and happy holidays.....

Jack Garber - 10 years ago

Thank you

tom s - 10 years ago

lol he said he has two fresh tanks not salt. so no protein skimmer. but jack get the 10 set it up rocks then sand then salt water. and watch the things grow on the live rock(one good live rock to seed the rest is what i did.) and get you some corrals and gobys.

wetwilly420 - 10 years ago

You should run a protein skimmer on a 29 or 40 gallon tank.

Murphy Jones - 10 years ago

What is the minimum light the corals need

AnimalLover - 10 years ago

+Murphy Jones
Lol. I get it.

Murphy Jones - 10 years ago

Tanks

MediaTruth - 10 years ago

nice tank

Hermel Rosa - 10 years ago

Good video you are very inspiring and my thank is doing very good

Katie Gander - 10 years ago

I know you posted this a long time ago, but I was wondering... How did you get purple algae? I want to set up a small saltwater tank for my first time, and I really don't know very much about saltwater. I've searched online, but I haven't found anything useful. Thanks.

david estevez - 10 years ago

calcium that's all you need to grow coraline algae

PaigesPets - 10 years ago

The purple algae is the kind that usually grows on live rock

James Murphy - 10 years ago

do you not add calcium? if not how do you have that much coralline algae?

Lauren Levy - 10 years ago

3-4 Watts of LED's is way to much for this 10 gallon tank, if your talking like Metal Hallide that is a different story. This guy is an idiot with no experience. This is still gonna be 500 dollars because those corals are expensive.

Raul Izquierdo - 10 years ago

heater i cant keep my water cool at all water is at 82 f most of the time

KING MALO CICHLIDS - 10 years ago

Wow awsome set up

Molson2889 - 10 years ago

amazing video, I have wanted to start up a reef tank for a while now and people on youtube always make it seem so complicated. they have so much stuff hooked up to their tanks you would think the aquarium is on life support. funny in all the books i've read none of them call for all these gizmos and crap.

ChrisPappasDrums - 10 years ago

Can someone elaborate more on the lighting? That's the only thing I'm missing before starting. I noticed there is no hood. What's a good fixture and bulb to use?

Drew Teumer - 10 years ago

so I think I might set up my first saltwater aquarium! But I haven't had much luck with freshwater so I'm nervous. and I have no clue what I'm doing. Any helpful tips, thinking just a 10 gal. And I don't have a pet store nearby that has saltwater fish or supplies.

Creeping Jesus - 10 years ago

What type of fish would you recommend for this type of tank? Also how many?

42itusman - 10 years ago

What do u think about the bio cube 28/29 gal all in one set ups? I have the opportunity to pick a 28 or 29 both around 350 to 400 with upgraded led lighting

y c - 10 years ago

im going to be starting a little 30 to 35 gallon small reef tank was just wondering. about the hang on filters in the back? do i use the same freshwater hang on filters for saltwater ones or r they different . i was thinking of using a protein skimmer with a really deep sand bed..heard those hang on fileters hold nitrates ??

U Dont Knowme - 10 years ago

Fowlr setup/typo///

U Dont Knowme - 10 years ago

Great video, but i stick with fowl setup
love the great advice...
i used my 12 gallon the same way and it worked just fine and your right too many people over kill with the water changes too big, just a little every week/ so i agree with ya, i have to use skimmer on my big tank now but this is totally possible,and sponges are awesome for nitrate control too/ i think i use more now than ever in my 45 and have 20 nitrates never goes over and only add saltwater to tank.
I tried additives and nothin but troubles, so listen to this guy he is right/
May try corals again but not that fancy,
if im disabled and can do it, the average joe should have no troubles keep it simple...good point
Great Video, beautiful tank dude!
keep em coming
oh i like using a better salt also- i noticed when i used that cheap stuff "parameter problems" ,so i stick with oceanic or kent basically same company i think?plus its not that expensive/dr foster n smith /, great prices#

tonyy33055 - 10 years ago

Hey not bad.. I might want to get one of those 10 gal tanks. Shit looks EZ.

Arod 00 - 10 years ago

Green tree python nice

Vendettaseve2 - 10 years ago

Great video, but get a tripod.

K Dub - 10 years ago

Nice vid bud...Way to keep it simple

fallensynner1 - 10 years ago

in reality if you can give me some details on type of hang on filter and power head and sand as well if you can

fallensynner1 - 10 years ago

what do u mean by cleaning the hang on filter you mean run tap water threw it that has some chlorine in it disassemble the filter and scrub every inch of it i want to get into it and do you know the exact lighting i should use and i will b using the exact 10g or 20g tank

Evildragon - 10 years ago

Thanks

Gerry Clough - 10 years ago

Nice video. I've been too scared to try a reef tank even though I've kept tropicals for ages...
Now I.m going to try it in a 3ft tank - thanks man.

Ali Saeed - 10 years ago

Bro! Love it! can you shed some light on turning tap water to salt?..

Ali Saeed - 10 years ago

Hey thank you.. I ended up just buying 100 gallons of salt water..decided not to risk it.

TheAtlanticbreeze320 - 10 years ago

Ali just buy ocean ready salt then from your tap water you need to buy a PRIME to mix your the tap water then add the salt use Hydro meter to measure the salinity once you got the right reading then you are ready to go.

Tony Hawkins - 10 years ago

Watched a bunch of the top hit videos, this is by far the best. Nicely done DavidsAquariums, pumped to start up my 10gal reef

Tim's Tanks - 10 years ago

Awesome looking tank! Glad to here your views. You can be very successful with reef tanks with minimal hardware and maintenance if you pick your corals and fish wisely. How long has this tank been set up when the vid was made? looks really new or you are super anal about keeping things clean.

Cycnoches2012 - 10 years ago

very cool to hear that info !

Labornager - 10 years ago

Hi David,

as a quiet new tank owner (about 2 years) I am happy every day to learn new stuff. I love your light :) Would you like to share the information which light you use?

ray media - 10 years ago

Good u could do it cheap iam happy u made this vid sorry but not every ones is rich n lives whith there momy

CartoonsZ Channel - 10 years ago

do you have skimer and sump?

Teph ulio - 10 years ago

A tank this size doesn't need a skimmer, esp with regular small water changes. And since he has a HOB for the mech. filter, and all the bio. filter (live rock) is in the tank - no need for a sump.

patrizia johnson - 10 years ago

Tx x all the info. I watched your video first then did lots of research I am starting my first tank......wish me luck.....

Gavyn Smith - 10 years ago

Which the coral will use that calcium the first 5 days you put it in the tank and unless you do a water change every week, the coral will use the calcium to fast

spentfromnz - 10 years ago

cool, but where are the fish?

ajabudda - 10 years ago

Awesome video!!! I have 2 reef tanks (50 gal cube & 70 gallon, both cadlight) & you can either spend a lot or keep it simple. I don't add anything but prefer to do 2 (5 percent each change total of 10 percent)water changes per week. If you add something you have to test for it. Use a high quality salt, my preference is Reef Crystal Pro. Start off small & see if you like the hobby & upgrade from there. I've had reef tanks for 20 years & the key to success is water changes & don't put a lot of fish in the tank. Small tanks are good for most gobies, with the exception being the mandarin species.

Gavyn Smith - 10 years ago

You have to add calcium to your tank if you have corals

Chris Harrison - 10 years ago

Not necessarily. Some locations have high calcium in the water, and sometimes the sand already has calcium added

Jaime Ramirez - 10 years ago

saltwater not hard the only thing that hard about it ITS TIME YOU HAVE TO HAVE PATIENCE

Joshua Tilley - 10 years ago

Thanks dude

Billy Bob - 10 years ago

hi, could you tell me the name of all the corals in this tank? thanks

Eilidh - 10 years ago

Why dont u have any fish yet

Jessen Tanks - 10 years ago

Great video man, thanks a lot!

Joe Perrine - 10 years ago

Great video. I am sick of hearing people and "Pet stores" say you need big expensive products and oversize tanks. 15 years ago I just had a 20g tank but was too afraid to try salt. I found a real Salt water fish store. They told me just to do the same thing I always did with fresh water but add some salt some live rock and thats it. My profile Picture is my 29g running hang on tank filters. I found a used coralife light strip at a pet store paid $25 ( I had to replace the bulbs ) The only thing I have different than this set up in your video is I got a protein skimmer which helps a ton with keeping the tank clean, but I have ran tanks without it just fine.

Joe Imburgia - 10 years ago

Thank you so much I was going to quiet not anymore

davinalex - 10 years ago

hey david. i was wondering if you could help me out w/ my tank. maybe we can Skype sometime, and i could show you my tank and perhaps you can guide me and or trip tips (if i have any). I'm considering going going to a reef. currently i have only regular rocks.. (not even live rocks).. and some shrimp, snails, urchin, tangs and clowns... let me know if your available to Skype. or perhaps iface on iphone

davinalex - 10 years ago

excellent video. loved it. because you broke down for what it is.. SIMPLE cut and dry. straight to the chase. I've always wanted to do reef. i have a 125 saltwater gallon tank that I've been using for 4 years. but never did it. now I'm considering it.

Chosmic - 10 years ago

hey, i am brand new to the hobby, and i have always had a passion for fish, in maybe 2 weeks or so, i am getting a saltwater aquarium, i'm trying to get 20 gallons, but i don't know yet, i have no idea on what to buy yet, but i know the people at the store will help me, i just want an idea of how much i am going to be spending, i plan on having a 20 gallon tank, with a clown fish, a green mandarin, a cleaner shrimp, and a small crab and snail, with all that what do i need to buy, i'm not trying to spend to-to much money, but i do want the best for my fishys.

Chosmic - 10 years ago

+gd6585 okay thank you so much :D

gd6585 - 10 years ago

I suggest not getting the green mandarin....they require special feeding. Flakes, pellets, and even most frozen foods will not work. They require an established tank that has live established copepods to feed on. Trust me, I know they are beautiful fish, but if you do not feed them specific live foods, which can get expensive, it will die! I learned the hard way

Pete Leong - 10 years ago

Thanks for the info!

dvdfrnzwbr - 10 years ago

I have heard that if a protien skimmer isn't used then you might have aglae problems on the corals and rocks? I also read that you can get a cleaning crew of snails and crabs to clean the aglae up. What has your experience with this tank shown?

The Mighty Slim - 10 years ago

Fuck yeah man I have had a tropical tank for ages and wanted a reef tank but every one told me it was too hard. I've done a heap of research only to find that a basic 15- 50 gallon reef tank would require less attention to detail than I show to my little tropical tank. Cheers for putting this up its people like you that make the hobby grow not those who simply say it's too fucking hard. Cudos mate

multisturge - 10 years ago

Is it possible to set up a nano reef tank with just corals and other inverts? Just thinking about the nitrogen cycle but if it is possible then is it easier and cheaper without fish?

Shaun Field - 10 years ago

nice tank bruhh.. fuckin gnarrlyyyy bruhhh

justin beauparlant - 10 years ago

What lighting are you using ?

antonio mag - 10 years ago

Could you add some fish? Say like a clown fish or something?

Athit Xiong - 10 years ago

this video helps alot. its not hard at all.

Ignigknok - 10 years ago

Check out my 10 gallon reef video! It's definitely possible. I had LPS, SPS a clownfish and a blue damsel. I have a 90 cube now. Radion LED's, reef octopus skimmer, bubble magus 3 part doser, tunze auto top off. I'll post a video in the next few days of the sps I just glued in.

Max Cannon - 10 years ago

Where did you purchase your live rock and corals?? Great looking tank by the way!

TheAtlanticbreeze320 - 10 years ago

to save your budget just get the rock straight from the sea or beach even the sand or else buy it at any pets store selling salt water aquarium.

Quinton Lynch - 10 years ago

Nice Tank! I like your attitude! Very positive and motivating. can you give info on lighting and additives you use to maintain your tank?

Myranda Knott - 10 years ago

What kind of lights are you using? The colors look beautiful, and its not quite so harsh as a lot of the reef tank bulbs I see are, including my own. I'd really like to pick up some of whatever you're using.

baseballhunter42 - 10 years ago

For beginners - smaller the tank, the harder it is to keep stable parameters. When dealing with corals stable parameters, good lighting, good flow, and good water quality are needed for your corals to flourish and keep their bright vibrant colors. Add a ATO system and use kalk in your reservoir. This will keep your salinity stable, maintain your calcium and alkalinity levels, and keep your ph from dropping.
Also spend the extra $30 and buy a refractometer instead of hydrometer. Hydrometer's are notorious for being inaccurate, and on a tank this small your going to want to make your weekly water change water has a salinity identical to what your tank is currently at.
Test your tap water for TDS before you start your reef aquarium. In most cases tap water should not be used. Invest in an RO/DI unit before you even start your reef tank. I made the switch to RO/DI about 3 months after I started my reef tank, and after a couple of months saw a big difference is my corals, wish I started with RO/DI from the beginning.
Also don't use a HOB mechanical filter, they require too much maintenance to be effective in a saltwater tank. Instead, for a tank this small, get a HOB protein skimmer. They're relatively the same size and will not create a nitrate factory and keep your water clean in ways a mechanical filter never could.
For beginners soft corals are usually easiest to keep. However these corals release toxins and in a way engage in chemical warfare with other soft corals. Using a high grade carbon will remove these toxins from the water and will prevent stress on your corals.

Jessie Pinkman - 10 years ago

Whilst I agree entirely with what is being said in this video, even buying and running a nano tank can set you back 100's of pounds/dollars. You dont need the best of everything in order to make a tank thrive, but in my opinion, the first rule for people new to reefkeeping is take whatever you think it's going to cost you and TRIPLE IT.

For example, a complete set of Salifert test kits and a refractometer will set you back well into the hundreds. Even in a soft coral aquarium the minimum you need to test for is Nitrates/Phosphates/Ammonia/SG.

Also, consider buying your own RO/DI unit, most local fish shops sell RO water but in my experience they do not change the filters and resin enough, I've tested a variety of LFS water and some of them have a TDS into the hundreds, this is not acceptable and will end up causing you big problems down the line. Accept no water with a TDS higher than 10. YEAH, SCIENCE BITCH

baseballhunter42 - 10 years ago

Definitely +1 on triple the expected cost. I expected to spend around a grand, I'm already 3 grand in and expecting to be adding more.

Bryan Maniotakis - 10 years ago

Would it be safe to have fish in a tank this small?

Laura Holmes - 10 years ago

I also have a 5 gallon reef with 3 mini maxi anemones and 3 sexy shrimp. So small is possible :P

Laura Holmes - 10 years ago

Usually it's safe, but tank maintenance will need to increase of course. The inhabitants that could be in a tank this size could be a clownfish, damselfish, most gobies, and many types of shrimp, etc. I have a 10 gallon reef tank that's been runing without problems for over two years now and I have a clownfish, a banggai cardinalfish, a royal gramma, AND a cleaner shrimp. I also have a 10 gallon sump attached to this tank which is the only way keeping SO many fish has been possible for this long. I hope this helps! :)

Colton Vesterby - 10 years ago

do you have a auto top off for this?

greenmarine2100 - 10 years ago

All it takes is to be genuinely interested in the hobby; the rest will come naturally. A lot of people want a tank because it looks great sitting in their living room. A good hobbyist wants a tank because he/she looks forward to the upkeep, trial and error, and experimentation associated with keeping a little piece of the most diverse ecosystem on Earth.

Jessie Pinkman - 10 years ago

I could not endorse this comment enough. If you want a reef tank for aesthetic reasons, then the chances are your not likely to put enough time and effort into it. You make a commitment to the life of the fish a corals you keep, and people should think long and hard about that commitment before going ahead.

Ranger982nd - 10 years ago

hey what kind of light are you using?

Edward Wade - 10 years ago

Great video hey I just pick up a glass 55 gallon tank from Marineland and was wondering if you or any one can help me get started this will be my first tank / reef... also my tank came with all the lil filters and things....so if you or anyone out there can help in leading me in the right direction..... Greatly appreciated thanks.

nufto - 10 years ago

reef tanks are the best,thx for the vid,might just start one soon because of you.

David Bergeron - 10 years ago

Whats the green bush looking coral to the bottom right

Laura Holmes - 10 years ago

lol yes oops

iSim0641 - 10 years ago

+Laura Holmes LPS you mean

Laura Holmes - 10 years ago

I believe it is some species of Galaxea Coral, an agressive sps liveaquaria.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=597+321+503&pcatid=503

RyanDoesMC - 10 years ago

Totally agree with this video, with soft corals and most LPS for me it doesn't take to much effort to keep a nice reef. Hang ons are just fine for a reef as long as you keep it clean and change the filter every now and then.

Eric McGinn - 10 years ago

Just a comment dont mean to be mean been in this hobby for 10 years

Eric McGinn - 10 years ago

I would not use a hangon filter it will mess up nitrates protein skimmer works better but never start a reef tank if you dont have the cash you dont want tk kill a lot ogf coral and mess up this earth lol and I wkuld recomaned refractommeter so you get more stable watter

Jeffrey Farrow - 10 years ago

Nice video

WHY70122 - 10 years ago

One question: can I keep those corals like yours with 20ppm NitrAtes? I've had my tank running for 4 months but no matter what I do, I can't keep it below that number even with a protein skimmer. It's a FOWLR now but i'm looking to add some corals in the tank.

Pegasus209 - 10 years ago

You wouldn't happen to be using an API test, would you? Those tend to read high, and get wacky with a little age. Kind of like me... lol! Best to use lab-grade test kits for accuracy.

Pegasus209 - 10 years ago

No. Most soft corals and LPS can "survive" 5-10 ppm NO3. SPS? No.

Stefan O'Brien - 10 years ago

got my immediate subscription and im starting my salt water tank in 2 weeks. Thanks

mario donaldson - 10 years ago

Positive is da way if it can last more than a year u going in da right direction

Joe Pomeroy - 10 years ago

This video is very misleading. He makes it sound so easy, right up until the day you get your first red slime algae bloom, and then your hair algae outbreak. We all have them and I will tell you it makes it less appealing. You go cheap with hang on back filters, tap water, cheap lighting, and YOU WILL be very discouraged when the algae attacks etc hit, because THEY will , AND they will happen more often with a cheap setup .. that's just the facts. Not to mention these animals are alive and this guy making it sound like it's some sort of desk top at the office operation is pretty much giving a death sentence to alot of creatures. Know what you are doing first. I did freshwater for 20 years before I started..

RyanDoesMC - 10 years ago

My old reef tank was 5 years old without anything but a hang on filter a glass heater and 2 petco power heads and naever had any algae problems my nitrate and nitrite was always in trace, never had a protein skimmer, kept SPS.

madice40 - 11 years ago

great job

angelia1828 - 11 years ago

sweet bro thanks

FILM JAEGER - 11 years ago

Lps ftw and sps

TSAquariums - 11 years ago

Very informative man, thanks

oOooooooooyeah1 - 11 years ago

How long have you had your 10 gal?

shaggy scooby - 11 years ago

Hello, I am really hoping you can help me out. Your video was already very helpful! My mom has always wanted a salt water tank I'd really like to get one for her this Christmas! I own a heater and filter system already. Apoun getting a new tank, coarl , sand ,saltwater and lights I was wondering how strong the lights for the 10 gallon should be and if you could do a video showing how to check the HP balance and all that. How warm do u keep yr tank and would adding a clown fish be hard?

Slay Child - 11 years ago

First you need to cycle the tank with no coral or fish. The temp is best at 78. 4 watts per gallon for a 10g, so 40 watt light would be good, check Marinedepot.com.

Angelea Anderson - 11 years ago

I love this video. I am barely a new starter to saltwater. I have had a tropical fish aquarium. I am starting on research with a few books. I want to learn much before I start anything. I do have one question acrylic or glass? I want to get a reef tank going.my email is angeleaa23@gmail.

littlemissfunky1 - 11 years ago

Thank you for this video, have been considering it for a while but people have been putting me off saying how super expensive and time consuming it is. This has made my mind up so I'm gonna go for it. cheers!

injaeshiaat - 11 years ago

I dig this video a lot. I would like to set up a 10 gallon tank just like this. Can you recommend a good lighting? I'd prefer LED but am open to other. Thanks!

GoodRedBlackRatio - 11 years ago

I love your relaxed attitude towards this, I 100% agree that anyone could keep a nice soft coral nano tank - hell I started with 10 gallon and everything did great. The only thing I really would change is please, please people splurge and buy a refractometer and NOT a hydrometer. I started with a hydrometer, would do 4 tests in a row, would get 4 different results no matter how careful I was. Found a used refractometer on a local fish forum for $20, so much simpler and way more accurate!

Kelvin M - 11 years ago

Great vid. Really encouraging for those who want to start out with reefs.

Justin Lacobon - 11 years ago

I'm new to saltwater tanks and would like people to tell me what they think about my tank and what they would do if they were me! You can comment and subscribe I will be doing unboxing of a current orbit led light in about 5 days so comment subscribe and tell me what y'all think

Andrew Duval - 11 years ago

Thanks for the advice! Thumbs up!

FishTankArmy - 11 years ago

Fish keeping is easy as long as you do things right from the start and are dedicated to maintain your aquarium.

Mark Ferraioli - 11 years ago

I don't have a lot of money and this looks like the way to go. I'm a first timer at this wish me luck

Bec Palmer - 11 years ago

so lps corals are the go for beginners? :)

josegtx - 11 years ago

nice!!

Hakop Agazaryan - 11 years ago

This video was what finally led me to get my first coral in my 10 gallon tank. I now have a 40 set up, with a bunch of lps, sps and softies. Thanks man!

BIG JAMES - 11 years ago

I totally agree man, not really that hard. I think the real problem is there are so many myths out there perpetuated, and quick fixes. Resulting in tank crashes, which sours people. You nailed it right on: weekly water changes each week and your golden

Denise Warsalla - 11 years ago

thanks

Hammerin Hank - 11 years ago

Don't need a protein skimmer on a none fish tank. His tank is only coral from my understanding.

Adam Taylor - 11 years ago

Dvdfrnz why are you here if your just gonna talk shit?

dvdfrnzwbr - 11 years ago

What are you some kind of super nerd?

DHG BabySatan - 11 years ago

The man is right why you make it look so hard

Victor - 11 years ago

how do i reply to the person who put this video like send him a email.anyone knows

Adam Taylor - 11 years ago

My mistake when i setup a 20 gallon saltwater fish tank was i didnt cycle it all the way, other than that i was 12 years old and it was pretty easy.

DavyD2605 - 11 years ago

great video thank you for the inspiration!!!

marcus hughes - 11 years ago

great vid man! im also looking to start a saltwater reef tank but was scared away because of people telling me how hard it was. now that i see how easy it really is, i cant wait to get started!! thanks again man hell of a vid

Squatchmen Cole - 11 years ago

Great video - I'm going to start off the same exact way, 10gal tank. But I think I'm going to do a high tech 10gal

Jarryd Stander - 11 years ago

such a sick video mate gonna start mine soon thanks for all the help

g - 11 years ago

I love your attitude! :D great motive!

Chunkanese - 11 years ago

$500-$600? Not even close! kijiji and craigslist is your friend! 10 G tank? $10 10 lb live rock? $ 3 /lb online in several ads - $30 Salt - $30 Filter - $10 Power head - $15 Heater - $15 Coral frags $5 - $10 each Just over $100

Mr MaxxuM - 11 years ago

Simple, cheap, & easy are all relative terms. What is easy for one person may be hard for another. I priced out what you have there, on the cheap, and even using eBay for things like the lights, and came up with $500-$600 (ex. You said you $6-$7/lb for rock.). A freshwater tank would only run around $70-$90 for the same size, depending on livestock. Nano's are not for beginners.

Josh R - 11 years ago

People are idiots, I liked your video. I'm thinking of starting one now.

Hayds Cane - 11 years ago

Great encouragement video. I just have a new very simple salt water aquarium in cycle process without skimmer and sump. hope water change weekly might do. I'm planning to put some corals from our near reef ocean. Pls check my video and give some advice. Thanks man.

TheGongShow61 - 11 years ago

How much live rock you got in there

zoofergee - 11 years ago

do u feed it any foods? is there any critters in it ie snails?

osvyE - 11 years ago

Awesome video and advice, i am new at this and have a 12 gallon doing great !! Is not hard at all guys.

Ronald Botelho - 11 years ago

you sir just got a new subsciber

Larry Haynes - 11 years ago

true i had too many people over the years telling me how hard it was. ive wanted a reef tank since i was 10 or 11 im 36 now and finally decided to give it a shot all it took was one lfs owner to encourage me and now i have the most amazing aquarium and love it and its not that hard i wish i would have just went for it a long long time ago...

peetrpeetr - 11 years ago

"Dying reef tanks" are easy and cheap, but yes, done right, lit properly, and water changed regularly it can work

A_Xerpt - 11 years ago

wont work for too long. Saltwater is not cheap unless you know where to get good supplies. lighting is not something you want to go "cheap" on, especially if you have sps corals. saltwater is fun and exciting, and starting to become cheaper for the average aquarist, but it does still require more goods, money and knowledge than fresh water.

Artem Klimov - 11 years ago

Not very informative. Same phrases again and again. "Basic lights"? No way. If you want good looking healthy reef tank, no matter big or small, you need some really good lights and filtration system. The tank in this video looks very new. With such a low current and warm lights it will not look that good after just a couple of months.

magicstix0r - 11 years ago

I'm determined to get people like you sterilized for the good of humanity.

magicstix0r - 11 years ago

That camera work is making me motion sick.

Karl Dulle - 11 years ago

Man.. a liscense.. red tape and beurocratic BULLSHIT.. not to mention MONEY.. LOL You really need to educate yourself on the GOOD side of things here.. One day, an reef tank may have coral that does not exist in nature anymore.. In fact reefkeeping is far easier than many believe.. After all, these creatures see the tougher side of nature in reality. Ever dove on a reef? Ever seen coral heads exposed at low tide to an hour of tropical sun? These are hardy creatures for the most part.

Karl Dulle - 11 years ago

Your'e an idiot.. MOST corals in the USA are maricultured.. Fact.. And just to "educate" yourself how much LOCAL grown there is TYPE " FRAGS in craigslist..

Karl Dulle - 11 years ago

Wow.. So do you wear jack boots and carry an uzi as well?

gottie Line - 11 years ago

What do you put in the hang on filter bro fort the media? Nice vid

Gary Strain - 11 years ago

I am determined to get this hobby licensed the same way keeping wild animals requires a license (with an inspection regarding wether the planned enclosure is suited for the planned live stock, an exam taken to prove wether the person is suited for caring said live stock, and a financial evaluation to find out wether the person will be able to afford taking care of the livestock for their FULL lifespan). If that doesn't work out, I'll consider campaigning for a full ban on the hobby.

Gary Strain - 11 years ago

And lastly, understand that what ever you put into your tank, is taken from nature unless you buy captive bred fish and propagated corals, which are few and far between and tend to be more expensive due to the costs of the breeding and propagating programmes. Again, what ever you put in your tank is more than likely taken from nature, and the resources are not infinite, which is why nobody without a full understanding of the already mentioned things, should not be allowed to get into the hobby.

Gary Strain - 11 years ago

To anyone wanting to get in to this side of the hobby, I would advise to take a few years to read, research, study, then read more, then study more to actually understand what would be going on inside that tank, and don't start setting up unless you know that you're in it for the long haul. Also, do NOT CUT COSTS, reefing is not cheap. Get the right equipment from the get go, which you can easily save for during the years while you're learning about the hobby.

Gary Strain - 11 years ago

a lot of people just end up "packing it in" after a few months, or in the best case scenario years, and no one knows where all the livestock goes. Volitans lion fish in the atlantic anyone?? Seriously, no one should ever even think about getting into this part of the hobby without a full knowledge of the biological processes (and I don't just mean the bloody nitrogen cycle), chemical processes, and husbandry requirements.

Gary Strain - 11 years ago

Also a lot of people don't get the biological processes that take place in a captive environment, which means that eventually most tanks end up crashing. When you set up a saltwater tank, you should definitely not be going for instant gratification. When you make the decision to get into the saltwater hobby, you should be thinking about it in terms of decades, not years. That's why there are so many tanks crashing, and of course because reefing is not about instant gratification,

Gary Strain - 11 years ago

and couple this with the finite resources we have for this hobby until we figure out how to make it completely self sufficient with captive breeding programs and captive propagation of corals, and the results can be devastating.

Gary Strain - 11 years ago

I really do think that promotion of the hobby should not be done that way. The simple reason is that the hobby is not licensed. This means that anybody can get his/her hands on any live stock, and so we end up with fish that grow to immense sizes, and corals that people cant meet the needs of due to wanting to save money, never mind that the wast majority of them are collected in the wild. Certainly a 10 gallon tank can be beautiful, however unfortunately people tend to make impulse purchases

gun81000 - 11 years ago

Hey thanks for the video!! I am just starting my first reef tank a 20 gallon tall! Got my lighting just need to get my water in and start the process!

Dana Jackson - 11 years ago

do you make your own salt water

Craig Booker - 11 years ago

What type of heater are you running here? Is that a sponge in the back?

Feroz Reef - 11 years ago

hi i am in South korea.. can you guys post if i buy ?

613joy - 11 years ago

I don't know where you live but petco has nationwide sales in USA one is going on now a dollar a gallon sale. You might want to consider a 40 gallon breeder tank.

Joann Kern - 11 years ago

You can get tanks for 1$ per gallon at petco....they have this sale about every three months...a 55 gallon would only be 55$ for just the tank.

Boxboymike - 11 years ago

Beautiful tank, great video!

travis holmes - 11 years ago

I need help with my clown tank. does the bed of your tank have anything do with keeping anemones alive? i went to pet co and they told me marine gravel is the best choice for the bed of my tank but idk if live rock and coral will stay alive tankd been up for two months with three clowns for now but i want my tank more colorful and different. and do corals need a huge pump system? help please i dont have the money to go buy a sump at the moment.

UkFisherman81lb - 11 years ago

Thanks for this video mate.

Reid Smith - 11 years ago

aint nothing cheap about a reef tank but this looks pretty cool

Becky smith - 11 years ago

Love this video, thank you, helped so much!

Tom F - 11 years ago

Ok thanks for the info ;)

Jordan Duffield - 11 years ago

something that creates flow in the aquarium. for corals ect. Anemones are harder to keep and are quit sensitive to changes in your tank. bubble tip anemone is a good host for clowns and easier to keep.

flap donaldson - 11 years ago

i have a 50 gall and i wunt to make it a reef tank its already set up for sat water

Tom F - 11 years ago

Oh and whats a powerhead?

Tom F - 11 years ago

Are anenomeas easy to keep, im thinking of switching from tropical to a marine tank and I want to try and get a clownfish to host an anenomea, so are they easy to take care of? And sorry for my spelling with anenomea

bluekeet - 11 years ago

How much did this reef tank cost without corals and anemones?

bskdopeboy - 11 years ago

I think a lot of people wanting saltwater tanks want fish in there too. That's when issues can start in small aquariums as waste causes harmful chemicals. Having a small tank (mine is 55l) can be really hard at times, and need cleaning really often. I just bought a 260l with a 100l sump because I was sick of the issues I had to deal with.

Adam Howatt - 11 years ago

This is a great video and great advice. Don't be deterred by marine/reef tanks, I personally find them easier to maintain than planted freshwater tanks. A reef tank will also give you so much more enjoyment than a FW tank and you'll be far more willing to spend time on the tank.

rusk1y1 - 11 years ago

This video caught my attention, i've been in the saltwater hobby for about 10 years now and i definitely agree with you. If you want a saltwater aquarium you can have a decent set up with only spending the money you would on a freshwater aquarium. I currently set up a 90 gallon predator tank, i spent less money setting that up than my planted 55 gallon Discus freshwater aquarium. It all depends on WHAT you get and WHERE you get it.

MUJ1BAR - 11 years ago

beautiful tank dude

Menon M - 11 years ago

I love reef tanks as much as I love to hear - "it doesn't have to be expensive, it doesn't have to be hard" I have tried something before and I vibe with you! I am sure there are people who cannot afford to go scuba diving and snorkeling every alternate day even though they'd wish they could watch the fantastic marine life every day of their lives. My 2 thumbs up to you - DavidsAquariums.

Lucas C - 11 years ago

You need a good amount of flow or you will have dead spots.

kizzofire - 11 years ago

Can i start a reef tank with out a power head?

multisturge - 11 years ago

I would love a marine tank, just a simple, cheap tank with just inverts and maybe a few damsels and clownfish pair will do me. Marine tanks do look simple but its the case of money but if it can be cheap maybe I'll look into it one day, ask the experts at the shop that does marines. I got a brackish tank atm which is the closest i can get to a marine tank

Nick Nelson - 11 years ago

How long have you had this tank?

morgan franks - 11 years ago

what lighting do you use? what do you recommend for corals?

heather cole - 11 years ago

The same goes for LR. All the little buggies would create a large die off, and foul your water. If you want to collect rocks from the ocean, my advice would be to turn them into base rock (void of any life), and start from scratch. The benefits of that are no hitchhikers, and you get complete control over what enters your tank.

Liam Brusoski - 11 years ago

Is it compatible with other fish?

Pure4Kicks - 11 years ago

Might have gave me the push shhhhhhh....

51seluj - 11 years ago

areas in the tank where the water flow is really slow or non moving.

Jonathan D. R. Hall-Neal-Bayne - 11 years ago

What exactly is "dead spots" that you refer to?

wrmaldonado - 11 years ago

Where's the fish?

Jason tran - 11 years ago

I have been using tap water for 9months now and my tank seems to be doing good i use water conditioner tho.

Thomas O'Brien - 11 years ago

thanks

Josh fil-am - 11 years ago

Hey got a question. I debated running my little 10 gallon tank as a salt water tank with some reef just because I like the way they look better than fresh water. In the 10 gallon tank could I run anywhere from .5-1 inch of sand 5 pounds of live rock a couple of them easier maintained reefs and a clown fish? Would it all function smoothly in your opinion, if I keep the water levels all good and keep on the maintanence?

Jon Taylor - 11 years ago

i have a ? i live on the Oregon beach like 2 min walk can i use rock from the ocean and ether thing like star fish what can i use to save a buck

Serene SeaBear - 11 years ago

thanks pal, you have inspired me to make a reef tank. awesome video! thank you very much!

Anthony Etnoyer - 11 years ago

More then likely you are using tap water which contains phosphate's which can spawn the growth of black algae. Or just having too many nitrates can also cause an outbreak only way to fix this problem is to do tons of water changes and keep the lights off. Although black algae can survive with very little light so its really hard to get rid of. A UV-C light may also help the situation.

tdawg656 - 11 years ago

What can cause black algae growin everywhere? My tank been running for a year.

yardygalkeepitreal - 11 years ago

Good video man... Motivated me

tsartele - 11 years ago

Reef tanks are not hard to keep but they are definitely not cheap. Smaller systems are far more fragile and susceptible to changes with your chemistry. I like your set up it looks really good. Your lighting, protein skimmer, and equipment is pretty expensive. but I have found that craigslist and your local reef club are your best place to find good inexpensive equipment.

danny gonzalez - 11 years ago

Thanks for the information u r awesome

hypergamer - 11 years ago

wheres the fish>??

Ando Commando - 11 years ago

You the man

Cheryl Morrison - 11 years ago

Oops ... Encouragement of local fish store owner who had standard Biocube set up with amazing coral I would have never taken the plunge, so to speak. Thank You

Cheryl Morrison - 11 years ago

I agree your a really good guy! Iv'e just set up my Coralife Biocube 29 and if it wouldn't of been for the encourage,ment

Armando Amor - 11 years ago

You're a good guy. need more like you... just put alittle more detail in the videos. set up on step-by-step, to show everyone. Start with a shopping trip video getting all the items. then put it together. This is to show cost, items, and setup, to finish.. and do a maintainace/ upkeep diolog too. Keep doin what you do bro. Thanks!!!!!

Marin Bandalo - 11 years ago

If I did the diy live rock would it be ok?

Toney Jones - 11 years ago

thanks . think imm gonna try it now.

OctoReef - 11 years ago

People like you are annoying where is your tank Mr?

Ron K - 11 years ago

That's the way to go good job, guys do what u gotta do spend lil by lil and you got your self a reef tank, I started only with 200 dollars look at me now..

Steve fish keeping - 11 years ago

Great video, love it.

zach steele - 11 years ago

Doesn't the salt make the whole thing pricy? That's all I'm worried about is cost

Casey Gore - 11 years ago

Thanks so much ive listened to bitchy pet store people and up tight saltwater people way to long!! You have inspired me alot im will be starting my 30 gallon reef tank with no worries at all you are a saltwater hero thanks a ton!!!

mkzee4 - 11 years ago

Great video , takes some of the scariness out for the beginner

AmphiprionOscellaris - 11 years ago

Really nice tank. Do you use a skimmer?

shechshire - 11 years ago

Wattage, hertz, volts, etc etc etc doesn't matter. What is important is the PAR(photosynthetic active radiation) & kelvin temperature produced by the light not the power needed to produce it. The old wattage rule really only applies to metal halides when they were first used back in the 80's & 90's.

VTV SD - 11 years ago

Seeing is believing. I'm going to convert my 55 gallon tank into a saltwater reef tank. I'm thinking about a canister filter and live rock. Maybe use the HOB filter for morer carbon or bio-balls or something. Any advice?

Jim C - 11 years ago

Nice looking tank. Thanks for taking the time to put this up. I am new to the hobby and it's great to hear about all the different options.

720Skyliner - 11 years ago

like McDonald's

anthnony stoppel - 11 years ago

im starting a 10 gallon. low budget tank. ima be lovin it! i will keep u updated

Jonathan A. - 11 years ago

Tank looks good bro, keep up the work. Can you supply the link for the 5 gallon you was talking about that brian built?

Jonathan A. - 11 years ago

I heard you specifically say you where going to get haters on this video but damn ^ Nick about to blow a fuse

Cesar Obsuna - 11 years ago

My ten gallon was good enough to host 1-3 clowns, 3-4 types of corals and an emerald crab. But it was a fun tank that I never had to worry about, I honestly put the tank together with water from my other tank and let it sit for two days before i dropped my first clown in it. It ran for almost a year without a spike. So great job on your tank, it looks amazing bro. Bump the haters you know salt water tanks then most.

Cesar Obsuna - 11 years ago

This is probably my first comment I have left on youtube in a year or two, but I really hate people talking trash on other peoples videos. First off you are correct, salt water tanks are pretty freaking easy. I had this same setup as a quarantine tank, I actually bought the whole kit off craigslist for $15. I cleaned out the filter, put some reef lights, a powerhead and called it a day. I can say I put a slightly bigger power head to have a better flow to reduce the risk of a spike.

Adam Glen - 11 years ago

Wow. Nice tank!!. I've just started. Thank you very much for the infomation.

Miguel Carneiro - 11 years ago

ha ha ha ha ... LOVE IT !! When you research stuff and ask advice from stores when starting , they tell you so much crap .. " oh, you need LED lighting and mega expensive power heads and reef octopus skimmers and bla bla .." I have a 200 gallon tank , 6xT5 globes , a normal skimmer and 2 filter sock and a 4 cheap flow pumps... and BAM !!! works like a BOSS !! corals and fish are growing fast , clowns have bred ( but I wasn't successful in keeping most of the babies, was a noob in that regard)

Corey Miller - 11 years ago

he did say to use RO DI water...

JD Wells - 11 years ago

It depends on what kind of lighting (spectrum) and how deep the tank is.

JD Wells - 11 years ago

My salt tank is almost exactly the same except with a couple more fish and it's a 20 gallon. It's doing awesome. I think maybe you had some bad experiences and because of that you're making it seem more complicated than it is.

JD Wells - 11 years ago

He said that...

JD Wells - 11 years ago

No tap water! Trust me, you'll want to either buy RO/DI water or get your own unit. You'll end up with macro algae out of control.

JD Wells - 11 years ago

That's the biggest investment for sure. The guy at my LFS said tap water with prime would be fine. I ended up with a seaweed garden. Switched to RO/DI and that cured pretty quick.

info201 - 11 years ago

Great video! What type of lighting are you using and is that tap water?

CoughE - 11 years ago

Theres one thing you didn't include there. The Tap water that you will mix has unsafe chemicals that shorten coral life and add phosphates ans sillicates. If you do consider getting in to this hobby after watching this video. PLEASE consider an RO/DI unit to the list. Keep in mind to never forget about clean water safe for your aquarium if you decide to mix your own water. Thanks new hobby-ist :)

TheBSideDJ - 11 years ago

okey nice video... everything is said 3 times, so very clear indeed... on the other hand, the video could have been 2 minutes instead of 8 minutes... but then again, repeating makes thinks clearer..; anyway don't bother this stupid comment... I really think this video is interesting !! cheers.

Nick Pol - 11 years ago

Certainly I am not and if you able to do what you say, good luck and I wish you best

shechshire - 11 years ago

Who says? you? It's not like you're the authority on Aquaria. Simply put, just as long as you can provide the organisms living inside with their biological needs, they'll live & thrive.

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

this tank is mature if u would watch other videos u will see that the rock in it is almost 2 years old,And thats what tanks are based off when talking mature,Thats where your bacteria is,Once again pleas dont comment unless u know lol and thanks for watching!

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

thanks man!,what kind of lighting is it?

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

well your wrong buddy theres a yellow watchmen goby in this tank and 2 peppermint shrimp that i fed lol.U cant put many fish in a 10 gal anyway.Keepin a simple reef isnt rocket science,Many many people have started 10 gal even smaller tanks since watching this video and there doing great.So pleas do not make comments like that if u have no clue whats goin.And thanks for watching!

Nick Pol - 11 years ago

I can tell from this video you put this two days ago I can bet on it show us with fish, show us what you going to do with ally outbreaks , show us when the tank start mature and will hold significant bio load You will star changing water every day good think its only 10 g but it is not right set up

Nick Pol - 11 years ago

I still would tell anybody that reef tank is not a simple set up and it will require a lot of attention this particular tan does not has fish in it so yes without fish it is little bit easier but wait until you add fish there and start feeding them tell us then about your nitrate level and god forbid some fish or snail die in 10 gallon aquarium and you will be not aware of it right the way see what will happen next 10 gallon Is Not a right set up for reef aquarium do not confuse people please

Dan Harper - 11 years ago

awesome video, tottally agree with what you say. just a quick question, just wondering if 7 watts per gallon would be to much for lps softies and zoas? many thanks

RocketCityReefs - 11 years ago

I forgot to say my tank is a 20 gal long.

RocketCityReefs - 11 years ago

Another tip is to use a filter that is rated for a tank 2-3 times larger than yours. I started cycling my tank with a fluval U2, and at about 5 months into the cycling process I switched to a marineland penguin 200 and it finished cycling about 2 weeks after that.

Israel Arevalo - 11 years ago

Thanks a lot for the tips man - your help is much appreciated by newbie SW community!

Money - 11 years ago

good vid man , tank looks great

Money - 11 years ago

lol i do that in my vids

Geoffrey Higham - 11 years ago

Watch out for temperature changes!

Bissadin - 11 years ago

What kind of lighting do you recommend for keeping a few corals, none being SPS.

Robert Huffstutler - 11 years ago

Thanks,

dulcimer16 - 11 years ago

What lighting are you using?

quantumechanick - 11 years ago

Thank you for this. I was a bit scared to try a SW set up, but this gave me hope! What kind of fish or invertebrates might be good for a beginner?

Rich Buckey - 11 years ago

I love it bro,such a sick basic setup,but your right big ones are B.A. but you know with this 10 gallon setup your eyes are still wandering finding new aspects of all the live rocks and corals.Amazing vid bro

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

do u use rodi water?have u ever used tap water at all?even just a little bit of tap water can give a reef tank algea problems for long long time,liverocks and sand soaks of phosphates from the tap water and will slowly release them overtime

lyal stanford - 11 years ago

i have got a 159L salt it is so easy :]

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

thanks mary and glad your intrested in setting up a saltwater tank i can def help ya out as much as possible,Send me a message and we can discuss what ya need or check out our website daretoreef.ning.com im always on there and so are many others that can help ya.got a 24/7 chat

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

was tryin to mimic the ocean?lolol

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

thanks for watching and i totaly agree research and research lol

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

i had about 10 lbs

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

ah why not?lolol its better then not doin any vids at all

Chavy - 11 years ago

Looks good

eV RaTeLo Modz - 11 years ago

by the way amazing corals

eV RaTeLo Modz - 11 years ago

not any more

eV RaTeLo Modz - 11 years ago

I dont go by gallons. only litres and my 3rd new tank is 185 litres im not getting a 275 litre which I think is 75 gal

Christopher Farinella - 11 years ago

5 gallons?! Wow must be cramped but if your trying for more try adding a bit more liverock and smaller mushrooms to cover?

fish head gaming - 11 years ago

why the hell do you keep going back and fourth it's like i am on a damn boat!

pond Dude - 11 years ago

I like how much you started cussing

kevin vilchis - 11 years ago

ok so i started 5 gallon reef tank with the Fluval Spec just to start out to see how it would go and im trying to find the perfect coral for the tank i already have Mushrooms and Zoanthid corals, I also have 4 fish in the tank a clown fish, 2 green/blue chromis, a Rainfordi goby, 4 snails and 3 hermit crabs. The tank is doing fine but as far as the corals go i really want to fill the tank a bit more because i have a lot of room left of the live rocks any suggestions or help?

Hakop Agazaryan - 11 years ago

How many light bulbs you have in the fixture? My fixture only holds 1 bulb, so you think ill be okay getting a 10k bulb?

Henr Gher - 11 years ago

Im starting a ten gallon with two clowns what corals should i add?

Vampire Fairy - 11 years ago

Love the video! It's about time someone says that it's not that hard keeping a saltwater reef tank. I have a 29 gallon saltwater tank and a 30 gallon freshwater tank and its harder keeping the freshwater tank clean then my saltwater tank. Keep up the good work and I hope more people watch your video and venture into the hobby because it is worth it.

brian garvey - 11 years ago

you made me decide to start buying corals

Mary G. - 11 years ago

Hey...love that set up. So I am supper new to SW and have been doing Freshwater for years so I was wondering if you can send me ideas and list of what I need to buy to set up I have a 10 gallon I want to set up to and I.am looking to do the cheap set up with fish, every bit of help would be awesomely appreciated.

Irru27 - 11 years ago

how do u keep algae in check? chemical or do u use cleaners like snails and shrimp

devilfire160 - 11 years ago

Great Vid. Love it. i have a fish only 10 gallon myself, and i don't care about all the haters. i just bought myself a 60gallon and was afraid of going into corals, But thanks to this info im gonna go into simple corals. Thanks!

ferrari4sale - 11 years ago

nice and simple

RAZ CAV - 11 years ago

I'm looking at setting up a 40gal tank.. Would a filter on either end make the water flow well.. And do you HAVE to have a protein skimmer.. I notice you don't have one on this tank!

TheFishTank Doc. - 11 years ago

Your tank looks better than most tanks, where they have spent $, and ended up with a tank full of algae and dead fish. Thay make hang on back filters and skimmers for a reason!! The trubble is sucsessful people like you and me, spend time reading and doing reasurch, other people spend $, do no reading, and end up with crap!!.

Constantino kokkinidis - 11 years ago

I'm starting a 15 gallon with a canister. I'll probably grow some macro algae in the back of the aquascape, can i start with 90% dry rock and about 10%live rock from my existing 90gallon?

cidjero1 - 11 years ago

Thank you very much, wish me luck! :)

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

4 bulb t5ho

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

they can be for sure but dont gotta be if you just do research

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

thanks mang!

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

theres many fish that can go in a 10 gal a rainford goby is a great fit and quite a few other gobys can live there life happy in a 10 gal.And the dori fish needs a bigger tank then a 55 gal they get way way way to huge for a 55 gal tank

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

awesome glad to hear! thanks for watching

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

yes thats all i heard when i started to lol smaller tanks are harder of coarse less water volume but its not impossible simple research and effort u can do it very easily

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

i used aquaclear 20 for the hob filter u can use 2 of them if u want or try an aquaclear 50 i hear they work great on a 10 gal to

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

awesome man glad u got one setup! and thanks for the support!

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

thank u ! and your welcome

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

thanks im glad it helped,Clownfish are some of the hardiest fish out there i would suggest those for starters

Yak-N-Bass - 11 years ago

thanks meagan!